Established in 1960, Tower Records was once a global billion dollar record retailer with almost two hundred stores, in thirty countries, on five continents. From humble beginnings, Tower became a cornerstone of pop culture history and an international powerhouse in the world of music. Now, much like the music industry as we once knew it, Tower Records is a relic. “All Things Must Pass,” is a feature documentary film examining the trajectory of this iconic company, it’s eccentric founder Russ Solomon and it’s place in forging and becoming music history.
In 1984, the San Francisco Giants finished dead last. But neither the players nor the fans had as nightmarish a season as the team's first mascot. Wayne Doba, a classically-trained actor, dancer and mime, found himself sweating inside a foam suit resembling a hamburger with claws. Instead of cheering for the home team, the "Crazy Crab" rooted against the crowd, taunting players and fans. It was a radical experiment intended to distract from the team's lackluster performance. But as the season went south, so did the gimmick. The crab quickly became a punching bag for fans who pelted the mascot with beer bottles and batteries. 30 years later, the "Anti-Mascot" uncovers the forgotten history of a brilliant marketing scheme that spun wildly out of control.
Leading up to the 1996-97 playoffs, Chicago Bull’s coach Phil Jackson sent an intern trainer Wally Blase to oversee the rehab assignment of superstar forward Dennis Rodman. What ensued was part “Get Him to the Greek”, part “Almost Famous” and ultimately forged a lifelong bond between these two unlikely characters.
The Queens of Code revisits the early days of computing, when software development was helmed by the great Grace Hopper. She dedicated her life to bringing computers to the masses, when most of her colleagues supposed the technology would only be useful for scientists and the military. Through her genius, she taught software English, so that everyone could communicate with computers. This film aims to celebrate Grace’s quirky brilliance, and shine a light on the underrepresented history of computer science.
In 1857, off the Carolina coast, the SS Central America sank in a Category 2 hurricane and with it, thirty thousand pounds of gold valued today at roughly $548 million dollars. Over a century later and after many failed attempts to locate “The Ship of Gold,” a team of explorers led by Tommy Thompson skillfully implemented Bayesian Search theory, statistically limiting the possible locations where the ship went down. Only months later, they ultimately they struck gold. But when the financiers of his expedition came looking for their cut, Tommy Thompson disappeared. “Gold Hunters” investigates this dramatic modern day treasure hunt and the incredible roots of Bayesian Search.
One of hip-hop's best young MCs, A-F-R-O, and one of EDM’s rising new stars, NGHTMRE, collaborated on two original tracks in Los Angeles’ historic Fairfax Recordings studios. Both tracks were recorded direct to aluminum disc. Here's how it went down. Directed by Colin Hanks and produced Company Name and Woven Digital for UPROXX.
The full performance video of "Stronger" as seen on Fairfax Direct to Disc. Featuring lyrics by A-F-R-O, composition NGHTMRE and directed by Colin Hanks.
As Southern California's flagship NPR station, KCRW is a central pillar for music, news and the arts in the Los Angeles area. These short-from documentary pieces give a behind scenes look at the personalities that bring this incredible radio station to life. The series features Warren Olney (News), Jason Bentley (Music), Anne Litt (Music), Henry Rollins (Music) and Elvis Mitchell (Arts).
These short-form documentary pieces feature four diverse Southern California families as we see how KCRW helps elevate their lives to become “Parents Who Rock.” Featuring music by Brett Dennen and produced in conjunction with Hyundai.
