Sandinistas and the Sex Mob

Soundcheck | May 3, 2010

Although the visionary British punk band The Clash broke up in 1985, their politics and energetic style continue to be a major influence. Clash front-man Joe Strummer left us last week, so in homage we hear a feature on Strummer that On the Media co-host Brooke Gladstone put together in 1999. Punk music is only one element of the musical smorgasbord that is Sex Mob. Imagine Tin Pan Alley songs, James Bond themes and Strauss Waltzes all mixed together into a pair of medleys they bring to the live studio. Finally, we talk with pianist Earl Wild about his new transcriptions of Johannes Brahms and hear highlights.
For over 70 years, pianist Earl Wild has dazzled audiences and other musicians with his virtuosity and painstaking transcriptions of difficult compositions. More about Earl Wild

WNYC is funded by sponsors and member donations

WNYC Homepage - Top Stories

Why single domestic violence survivors can't get shelter in NYC despite empty beds

More than half the callers to the city’s domestic violence hotline are single people, but few are getting shelter.

Gothamist |

The History Wars and America at 250, with the Historian Jill Lepore

Three prominent historians discuss a national milestone arriving in the midst of a politically charged conflict over how Americans see the past. It’s a “goat rodeo,” Lepore says.

The New Yorker Radio Hour |

What Péter Magyar's Election in Hungary Says About 'Strongmen' Today

Andrew Marantz talks about the new prime minister of Hungary, and OpenAI's CEO Sam Altman.

The Brian Lehrer Show |

Mayor Mamdani says he's balanced NYC's budget

WNYC News |

How they handle crises in Brownsville, often without police

At least twice a year, nonprofit workers from the neighborhood spend a week calming disputes and responding to most 311 and 911 calls on certain blocks in the neighborhood.