<![CDATA[The Musician's Loupe]]>f370df6a-4863-59d4-b7e6-fefd8c9dc628Tue, 14 Apr 2026 14:00:32 +0000Captivate.fmElaine Chao and Trist Curlesshttps://artwork.captivate.fm/ec4b4eed-2908-465b-bfab-20b0288e9b1e/Musician-s-Loupe-2-Thumbnail-large.jpegThe Musician's LoupeElaine Chao and Trist CurlessElaine Chao and Trist CurlessA discussion about music and musicianship by Trist Curless (jazz singer, educator, sound engineer, and recording engineer, formerly of m-pact and The Manhattan Transfer) and Elaine Chao, M.Ed (multi-instrumentalist, vocalist, beatboxer, singer-songwriter, author, and former educator). Each week, we listen to a song together and discuss the music we love through the lens of decades in the music industry. Topics include analysis of songwriting, chord progression, instrumentation, recording technology, and arrangement.https://themusiciansloupe.comfalseepisodicnopodcastBONUS: The value of analog creation in a digital worldBONUS: The value of analog creation in a digital worldThis special bonus episode is the full discussion in response to a Mailbag quote about AI in music, which turned into a deeper conversation about analog creation, live music, and community.

Key takeaways

  • Trist and Elaine dig into the growing presence of AI in music production and its potential to create "perfect" music. ​They point out that AI lacks the emotional depth, innovation, and human connection that make music truly meaningful, and encourage musicians to continue creating, as human artistry and imperfection are irreplaceable.
  • Elaine and Trist explore the unique experience of live music, emphasizing its ability to foster community and emotional connection. ​They discuss how live performances, whether by orchestras, street musicians, or bands, offer a sense of shared humanity that cannot be replicated by digital or AI-generated music
  • This mailbag segment delves into the significance of individual interpretation in music, particularly in classical and piano performances. ​Trist and Elaine compare the nuances of human interpretation to the uniformity of AI-generated music, underscoring the value of personal craftsmanship and the emotional resonance it brings to the art form

About us

Trist Curless is a Los Angeles-based vocalist, educator, and sound engineer. As a performer, Trist has toured worldwide as a co-founder of the pop-jazz vocal group m-pact and a 10 year member of the Grammy-award winning The Manhattan Transfer. In addition to these two vocal powerhouse groups, he’s also performed with Take 6, Bobby McFerrin, New York Voices, Vox Audio, Naturally 7, and The Swingle Singers. His latest venture, The LHR Project, is a new vocal group collective celebrating legendary jazz vocal group Lambert, Hendricks, and Ross.

As an audio engineer, Trist has toured nationally with several vocal groups and bands in a large variety of venues, working for Grammy award winners Pentatonix and Take 6, as well as prominent a cappella vocal groups Straight No Chaser, VoicePlay, and Accent.

Elaine Chao, M.Ed is a San Francisco Bay Area-based vocalist, multi-instrumentalist, vocal percussionist, and songwriter whose career spans a cappella, contemporary worship, and classical music. She has leveraged her training in classical and choral music over the course of her contemporary performance, including in orchestras for musical theatre and in sacred spaces. In addition to music, she also is a martial artist and published author. She currently leads a product management team at a major software company dedicated to creative expression. All statements in this podcast are her own and do not reflect the opinions of her employer.

]]>This special bonus episode is the full discussion in response to a Mailbag quote about AI in music, which turned into a deeper conversation about analog creation, live music, and community.

Key takeaways

  • Trist and Elaine dig into the growing presence of AI in music production and its potential to create "perfect" music. ​They point out that AI lacks the emotional depth, innovation, and human connection that make music truly meaningful, and encourage musicians to continue creating, as human artistry and imperfection are irreplaceable.
  • Elaine and Trist explore the unique experience of live music, emphasizing its ability to foster community and emotional connection. ​They discuss how live performances, whether by orchestras, street musicians, or bands, offer a sense of shared humanity that cannot be replicated by digital or AI-generated music
  • This mailbag segment delves into the significance of individual interpretation in music, particularly in classical and piano performances. ​Trist and Elaine compare the nuances of human interpretation to the uniformity of AI-generated music, underscoring the value of personal craftsmanship and the emotional resonance it brings to the art form

About us

Trist Curless is a Los Angeles-based vocalist, educator, and sound engineer. As a performer, Trist has toured worldwide as a co-founder of the pop-jazz vocal group m-pact and a 10 year member of the Grammy-award winning The Manhattan Transfer. In addition to these two vocal powerhouse groups, he’s also performed with Take 6, Bobby McFerrin, New York Voices, Vox Audio, Naturally 7, and The Swingle Singers. His latest venture, The LHR Project, is a new vocal group collective celebrating legendary jazz vocal group Lambert, Hendricks, and Ross.

As an audio engineer, Trist has toured nationally with several vocal groups and bands in a large variety of venues, working for Grammy award winners Pentatonix and Take 6, as well as prominent a cappella vocal groups Straight No Chaser, VoicePlay, and Accent.

Elaine Chao, M.Ed is a San Francisco Bay Area-based vocalist, multi-instrumentalist, vocal percussionist, and songwriter whose career spans a cappella, contemporary worship, and classical music. She has leveraged her training in classical and choral music over the course of her contemporary performance, including in orchestras for musical theatre and in sacred spaces. In addition to music, she also is a martial artist and published author. She currently leads a product management team at a major software company dedicated to creative expression. All statements in this podcast are her own and do not reflect the opinions of her employer.

]]>be819903-c635-46b5-87f4-4f0ee9edf581Tue, 14 Apr 2026 07:00:00 -070016:15falsefullTraditional Cuban music, the State Department, and a party trick: Montuno Sampling (Vocal Sampling)Traditional Cuban music, the State Department, and a party trick: Montuno Sampling (Vocal Sampling)Listen to the song


Other links


Key takeaways

  • Trist and Elaine discuss “Montuno Sampling,” a 1995 track from Cuban a cappella group Vocal Sampling. This group mimics Latin percussion instruments using only their voices, creating an authentic and rhythmic sound that mirrors traditional Cuban music styles like "son" and salsa
  • Elaine and Trist dig into the vocal blend and rhythmic patterns, which reflect Vocal Sampling’s deep connection to Cuban musical heritage, showcasing the tonal and rhythmic nuances of Latin music that are distinct from North American traditions
  • In the Mailbag segment, Trist and Elaine dig into the rise of AI in the music industry, emphasizing the importance of human creativity and emotional connection in music-making, which cannot be replicated by algorithms
  • Note: this episode also has a special bonus episode, which has the full Mailbag segment for those who are interested in the deeper conversation about our relationship to technology and how technology changes how we value analog experiences

About us

Trist Curless is a Los Angeles-based vocalist, educator, and sound engineer. As a performer, Trist has toured worldwide as a co-founder of the pop-jazz vocal group m-pact and a 10 year member of the Grammy-award winning The Manhattan Transfer. In addition to these two vocal powerhouse groups, he’s also performed with Take 6, Bobby McFerrin, New York Voices, Vox Audio, Naturally 7, and The Swingle Singers. His latest venture, The LHR Project, is a new vocal group collective celebrating legendary jazz vocal group Lambert, Hendricks, and Ross.

As an audio engineer, Trist has toured nationally with several vocal groups and bands in a large variety of venues, working for Grammy award winners Pentatonix and Take 6, as well as prominent a cappella vocal groups Straight No Chaser, VoicePlay, and Accent.

Elaine Chao, M.Ed is a San Francisco Bay Area-based vocalist, multi-instrumentalist, vocal percussionist, and songwriter whose career spans a cappella, contemporary worship, and classical music. She has leveraged her training in classical and choral music over the course of her contemporary performance, including in orchestras for musical theatre and in sacred spaces. In addition to music, she also is a martial artist and published author. She currently leads a product management team at a major software company dedicated to creative expression. All statements in this podcast are her own and do not reflect the opinions of her employer.

]]>Listen to the song


Other links


Key takeaways

  • Trist and Elaine discuss “Montuno Sampling,” a 1995 track from Cuban a cappella group Vocal Sampling. This group mimics Latin percussion instruments using only their voices, creating an authentic and rhythmic sound that mirrors traditional Cuban music styles like "son" and salsa
  • Elaine and Trist dig into the vocal blend and rhythmic patterns, which reflect Vocal Sampling’s deep connection to Cuban musical heritage, showcasing the tonal and rhythmic nuances of Latin music that are distinct from North American traditions
  • In the Mailbag segment, Trist and Elaine dig into the rise of AI in the music industry, emphasizing the importance of human creativity and emotional connection in music-making, which cannot be replicated by algorithms
  • Note: this episode also has a special bonus episode, which has the full Mailbag segment for those who are interested in the deeper conversation about our relationship to technology and how technology changes how we value analog experiences

About us

Trist Curless is a Los Angeles-based vocalist, educator, and sound engineer. As a performer, Trist has toured worldwide as a co-founder of the pop-jazz vocal group m-pact and a 10 year member of the Grammy-award winning The Manhattan Transfer. In addition to these two vocal powerhouse groups, he’s also performed with Take 6, Bobby McFerrin, New York Voices, Vox Audio, Naturally 7, and The Swingle Singers. His latest venture, The LHR Project, is a new vocal group collective celebrating legendary jazz vocal group Lambert, Hendricks, and Ross.

As an audio engineer, Trist has toured nationally with several vocal groups and bands in a large variety of venues, working for Grammy award winners Pentatonix and Take 6, as well as prominent a cappella vocal groups Straight No Chaser, VoicePlay, and Accent.

Elaine Chao, M.Ed is a San Francisco Bay Area-based vocalist, multi-instrumentalist, vocal percussionist, and songwriter whose career spans a cappella, contemporary worship, and classical music. She has leveraged her training in classical and choral music over the course of her contemporary performance, including in orchestras for musical theatre and in sacred spaces. In addition to music, she also is a martial artist and published author. She currently leads a product management team at a major software company dedicated to creative expression. All statements in this podcast are her own and do not reflect the opinions of her employer.

]]>457d4970-70bb-428d-913c-47818f8bfae3Tue, 14 Apr 2026 06:00:00 -070030:27falsefull2222Tempo changes, grief, and a bass trombone: When You Were Lovin’ Me (Neil Sedaka)Tempo changes, grief, and a bass trombone: When You Were Lovin’ Me (Neil Sedaka)Listen to the song


Other links


Key takeaways

  • In this episode, Trist and Elaine dive into Neil Sedaka’s “When You Were Lovin’ Me,” which features distinct tempo and feel changes, transitioning between nostalgic blues-inspired sections and upbeat gospel-like segments, creating a dynamic storytelling experience
  • Elaine and Trist further explore the deep sense of grief and wistfulness in the lyrics, highlighting themes of longing, loss, and the emotional juxtaposition of celebrating happy memories while grieving their absence
  • In the mailbag section, Trist and Elaine discuss the creative value of artists releasing alternate versions of their songs, citing examples like Neil Sedaka and Mariah Carey, and emphasizing the artistic reinvention that can bring new life to familiar tracks

About us

Trist Curless is a Los Angeles-based vocalist, educator, and sound engineer. As a performer, Trist has toured worldwide as a co-founder of the pop-jazz vocal group m-pact and a 10 year member of the Grammy-award winning The Manhattan Transfer. In addition to these two vocal powerhouse groups, he’s also performed with Take 6, Bobby McFerrin, New York Voices, Vox Audio, Naturally 7, and The Swingle Singers. His latest venture, The LHR Project, is a new vocal group collective celebrating legendary jazz vocal group Lambert, Hendricks, and Ross.

As an audio engineer, Trist has toured nationally with several vocal groups and bands in a large variety of venues, working for Grammy award winners Pentatonix and Take 6, as well as prominent a cappella vocal groups Straight No Chaser, VoicePlay, and Accent.

Elaine Chao, M.Ed is a San Francisco Bay Area-based vocalist, multi-instrumentalist, vocal percussionist, and songwriter whose career spans a cappella, contemporary worship, and classical music. She has leveraged her training in classical and choral music over the course of her contemporary performance, including in orchestras for musical theatre and in sacred spaces. In addition to music, she also is a martial artist and published author. She currently leads a product management team at a major software company dedicated to creative expression. All statements in this podcast are her own and do not reflect the opinions of her employer.

]]>Listen to the song


Other links


Key takeaways

  • In this episode, Trist and Elaine dive into Neil Sedaka’s “When You Were Lovin’ Me,” which features distinct tempo and feel changes, transitioning between nostalgic blues-inspired sections and upbeat gospel-like segments, creating a dynamic storytelling experience
  • Elaine and Trist further explore the deep sense of grief and wistfulness in the lyrics, highlighting themes of longing, loss, and the emotional juxtaposition of celebrating happy memories while grieving their absence
  • In the mailbag section, Trist and Elaine discuss the creative value of artists releasing alternate versions of their songs, citing examples like Neil Sedaka and Mariah Carey, and emphasizing the artistic reinvention that can bring new life to familiar tracks

About us

Trist Curless is a Los Angeles-based vocalist, educator, and sound engineer. As a performer, Trist has toured worldwide as a co-founder of the pop-jazz vocal group m-pact and a 10 year member of the Grammy-award winning The Manhattan Transfer. In addition to these two vocal powerhouse groups, he’s also performed with Take 6, Bobby McFerrin, New York Voices, Vox Audio, Naturally 7, and The Swingle Singers. His latest venture, The LHR Project, is a new vocal group collective celebrating legendary jazz vocal group Lambert, Hendricks, and Ross.

As an audio engineer, Trist has toured nationally with several vocal groups and bands in a large variety of venues, working for Grammy award winners Pentatonix and Take 6, as well as prominent a cappella vocal groups Straight No Chaser, VoicePlay, and Accent.

Elaine Chao, M.Ed is a San Francisco Bay Area-based vocalist, multi-instrumentalist, vocal percussionist, and songwriter whose career spans a cappella, contemporary worship, and classical music. She has leveraged her training in classical and choral music over the course of her contemporary performance, including in orchestras for musical theatre and in sacred spaces. In addition to music, she also is a martial artist and published author. She currently leads a product management team at a major software company dedicated to creative expression. All statements in this podcast are her own and do not reflect the opinions of her employer.

]]>5831d280-7e2a-4197-9b5e-073da84c821cTue, 07 Apr 2026 06:00:00 -070025:06falsefull2121Anguish, loss, and a class ring: She’s Got You (Patsy Cline)Anguish, loss, and a class ring: She’s Got You (Patsy Cline)Listen to the song


Key takeaways

  • Trist and Elaine discuss Patsy Cline's distinctive voice, characterized by its clear, mature tone and emotional depth, which made her an ideal choice for songs like "She's Got You." ​They highlight how her voice conveys pain and anguish, making her storytelling relatable and heartfelt
  • Elaine and Trist analyze the song's lyrics, focusing on the tangible objects mentioned: a signed picture, shared records, and a class ring, that symbolize the protagonist's memories of a lost love. ​They emphasize the emotional weight of the refrain, "But she's got you," which encapsulates the song's theme of heartbreak and longing
  • Trist and Elaine dig into the difficulties artists face in promoting their work, including feelings of discomfort, fear of being annoying, and the exhaustion of managing personal branding and marketing strategies in a competitive digital landscape

About us

Trist Curless is a Los Angeles-based vocalist, educator, and sound engineer. As a performer, Trist has toured worldwide as a co-founder of the pop-jazz vocal group m-pact and a 10 year member of the Grammy-award winning The Manhattan Transfer. In addition to these two vocal powerhouse groups, he’s also performed with Take 6, Bobby McFerrin, New York Voices, Vox Audio, Naturally 7, and The Swingle Singers. His latest venture, The LHR Project, is a new vocal group collective celebrating legendary jazz vocal group Lambert, Hendricks, and Ross.

As an audio engineer, Trist has toured nationally with several vocal groups and bands in a large variety of venues, working for Grammy award winners Pentatonix and Take 6, as well as prominent a cappella vocal groups Straight No Chaser, VoicePlay, and Accent.

Elaine Chao, M.Ed is a San Francisco Bay Area-based vocalist, multi-instrumentalist, vocal percussionist, and songwriter whose career spans a cappella, contemporary worship, and classical music. She has leveraged her training in classical and choral music over the course of her contemporary performance, including in orchestras for musical theatre and in sacred spaces. In addition to music, she also is a martial artist and published author. She currently leads a product management team at a major software company dedicated to creative expression. All statements in this podcast are her own and do not reflect the opinions of her employer.

]]>Listen to the song


Key takeaways

  • Trist and Elaine discuss Patsy Cline's distinctive voice, characterized by its clear, mature tone and emotional depth, which made her an ideal choice for songs like "She's Got You." ​They highlight how her voice conveys pain and anguish, making her storytelling relatable and heartfelt
  • Elaine and Trist analyze the song's lyrics, focusing on the tangible objects mentioned: a signed picture, shared records, and a class ring, that symbolize the protagonist's memories of a lost love. ​They emphasize the emotional weight of the refrain, "But she's got you," which encapsulates the song's theme of heartbreak and longing
  • Trist and Elaine dig into the difficulties artists face in promoting their work, including feelings of discomfort, fear of being annoying, and the exhaustion of managing personal branding and marketing strategies in a competitive digital landscape

About us

Trist Curless is a Los Angeles-based vocalist, educator, and sound engineer. As a performer, Trist has toured worldwide as a co-founder of the pop-jazz vocal group m-pact and a 10 year member of the Grammy-award winning The Manhattan Transfer. In addition to these two vocal powerhouse groups, he’s also performed with Take 6, Bobby McFerrin, New York Voices, Vox Audio, Naturally 7, and The Swingle Singers. His latest venture, The LHR Project, is a new vocal group collective celebrating legendary jazz vocal group Lambert, Hendricks, and Ross.

As an audio engineer, Trist has toured nationally with several vocal groups and bands in a large variety of venues, working for Grammy award winners Pentatonix and Take 6, as well as prominent a cappella vocal groups Straight No Chaser, VoicePlay, and Accent.

Elaine Chao, M.Ed is a San Francisco Bay Area-based vocalist, multi-instrumentalist, vocal percussionist, and songwriter whose career spans a cappella, contemporary worship, and classical music. She has leveraged her training in classical and choral music over the course of her contemporary performance, including in orchestras for musical theatre and in sacred spaces. In addition to music, she also is a martial artist and published author. She currently leads a product management team at a major software company dedicated to creative expression. All statements in this podcast are her own and do not reflect the opinions of her employer.

]]>d47994ea-5c50-4f90-8d22-ce13fd78c4efTue, 31 Mar 2026 06:00:00 -070028:24falsefull2020Dissonance, structure, and a personal reinvention: symptom of life (Willow)Dissonance, structure, and a personal reinvention: symptom of life (Willow)Listen to the song

  1. YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8txXdr4kkqQ
  2. Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/track/70nmpLYSyZ58QTUzUiB1VA?si=9f0f8e7f007c4f6c
  3. Apple Music - https://music.apple.com/us/song/symptom-of-life/1737442321
  4. Amazon - https://music.amazon.com/albums/B0CYTK33WX?marketplaceId=ATVPDKIKX0DER&musicTerritory=US&ref=dm_sh_yfvgQ0eYvSPgxaqRb9eqS7AIe&trackAsin=B0CYTKXWL6

Key takeaways

  1. Trist and Elaine review Willow’s 2024 single, “symptom of life,” describing it as "delightfully chaotic" yet surprisingly structured. They explore its use of changing meter, rhythmic complexity, and contrasting vocal textures, including untreated main vocals and lush, stacked harmonies
  2. Elaine and Trist highlight the poetic depth of the song's lyrics, which explore themes like transcendence, transformation, healing, the fragility of life, and the tension between mundane and transcendent experiences
  3. In the Mailbag segment, Trist and Elaine discuss the importance of singers viewing themselves as musicians and learning to speak the language of music. ​ They discuss how understanding musical concepts, such as sight-reading and harmony, can open doors to more opportunities in the music industry

About us

Trist Curless is a Los Angeles-based vocalist, educator, and sound engineer. As a performer, Trist has toured worldwide as a co-founder of the pop-jazz vocal group m-pact and a 10 year member of the Grammy-award winning The Manhattan Transfer. In addition to these two vocal powerhouse groups, he’s also performed with Take 6, Bobby McFerrin, New York Voices, Vox Audio, Naturally 7, and The Swingle Singers. His latest venture, The LHR Project, is a new vocal group collective celebrating legendary jazz vocal group Lambert, Hendricks, and Ross.

As an audio engineer, Trist has toured nationally with several vocal groups and bands in a large variety of venues, working for Grammy award winners Pentatonix and Take 6, as well as prominent a cappella vocal groups Straight No Chaser, VoicePlay, and Accent.

Elaine Chao, M.Ed is a San Francisco Bay Area-based vocalist, multi-instrumentalist, vocal percussionist, and songwriter whose career spans a cappella, contemporary worship, and classical music. She has leveraged her training in classical and choral music over the course of her contemporary performance, including in orchestras for musical theatre and in sacred spaces. In addition to music, she also is a martial artist and published author. She currently leads a product management team at a major software company dedicated to creative expression. All statements in this podcast are her own and do not reflect the opinions of her employer.

]]>Listen to the song

  1. YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8txXdr4kkqQ
  2. Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/track/70nmpLYSyZ58QTUzUiB1VA?si=9f0f8e7f007c4f6c
  3. Apple Music - https://music.apple.com/us/song/symptom-of-life/1737442321
  4. Amazon - https://music.amazon.com/albums/B0CYTK33WX?marketplaceId=ATVPDKIKX0DER&musicTerritory=US&ref=dm_sh_yfvgQ0eYvSPgxaqRb9eqS7AIe&trackAsin=B0CYTKXWL6

Key takeaways

  1. Trist and Elaine review Willow’s 2024 single, “symptom of life,” describing it as "delightfully chaotic" yet surprisingly structured. They explore its use of changing meter, rhythmic complexity, and contrasting vocal textures, including untreated main vocals and lush, stacked harmonies
  2. Elaine and Trist highlight the poetic depth of the song's lyrics, which explore themes like transcendence, transformation, healing, the fragility of life, and the tension between mundane and transcendent experiences
  3. In the Mailbag segment, Trist and Elaine discuss the importance of singers viewing themselves as musicians and learning to speak the language of music. ​ They discuss how understanding musical concepts, such as sight-reading and harmony, can open doors to more opportunities in the music industry

About us

Trist Curless is a Los Angeles-based vocalist, educator, and sound engineer. As a performer, Trist has toured worldwide as a co-founder of the pop-jazz vocal group m-pact and a 10 year member of the Grammy-award winning The Manhattan Transfer. In addition to these two vocal powerhouse groups, he’s also performed with Take 6, Bobby McFerrin, New York Voices, Vox Audio, Naturally 7, and The Swingle Singers. His latest venture, The LHR Project, is a new vocal group collective celebrating legendary jazz vocal group Lambert, Hendricks, and Ross.

As an audio engineer, Trist has toured nationally with several vocal groups and bands in a large variety of venues, working for Grammy award winners Pentatonix and Take 6, as well as prominent a cappella vocal groups Straight No Chaser, VoicePlay, and Accent.

Elaine Chao, M.Ed is a San Francisco Bay Area-based vocalist, multi-instrumentalist, vocal percussionist, and songwriter whose career spans a cappella, contemporary worship, and classical music. She has leveraged her training in classical and choral music over the course of her contemporary performance, including in orchestras for musical theatre and in sacred spaces. In addition to music, she also is a martial artist and published author. She currently leads a product management team at a major software company dedicated to creative expression. All statements in this podcast are her own and do not reflect the opinions of her employer.

]]>44da489e-2169-4c76-aab1-e0c07ed55da3Tue, 24 Mar 2026 06:00:00 -070030:18falsefull1919Memories, mid-tempos, and Friday nights: Reminiscing (Little River Band)Memories, mid-tempos, and Friday nights: Reminiscing (Little River Band)Listen to the song

  1. YouTube - https://youtu.be/hyRbhTUc6aI
  2. Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/track/6qXFNKuKBD6DQljVKrLzsl?si=ebf0e898f6f84eb0
  3. Apple Music - https://music.apple.com/us/song/reminiscing/1645806384
  4. Amazon - https://music.amazon.com/albums/B0BFPKLH4B?marketplaceId=ATVPDKIKX0DER&musicTerritory=US&ref=dm_sh_c3v27s32uwmhUmya7imRWCUSg&trackAsin=B0BFPWJ2Z5

Other links

  1. Recordando (Reminiscing, Spanish language version): youtube.com/watch?v=xdU3wgKL1Gw&feature=youtu.be
  2. The Holderness Family - https://theholdernessfamily.com/

Key takeaways

  1. Trist and Elaine explore the musical elements of the 1978 hit “Reminiscing,” but Little River Band, highlighting its lush strings, flugelhorn solo, and use of 7-9 chords, which evoke a classic 70s sound. They also discuss its unique tempo and blend of ballad and danceable qualities​
  2. Elaine and Trist also delve into the song's lyrics, emphasizing its nostalgic theme and the clever use of tense shifts that reflect the narrator's desire to create lasting memories for future reflection​
  3. In the Mailbag segment, Trist and Elaine discuss how the accessibility of music production and distribution platforms has reduced barriers to entry, allowing musicians of all ages to share their art and build followings, regardless of traditional industry biases

About us

Trist Curless is a Los Angeles-based vocalist, educator, and sound engineer. As a performer, Trist has toured worldwide as a co-founder of the pop-jazz vocal group m-pact and a 10 year member of the Grammy-award winning The Manhattan Transfer. In addition to these two vocal powerhouse groups, he’s also performed with Take 6, Bobby McFerrin, New York Voices, Vox Audio, Naturally 7, and The Swingle Singers. His latest venture, The LHR Project, is a new vocal group collective celebrating legendary jazz vocal group Lambert, Hendricks, and Ross.

As an audio engineer, Trist has toured nationally with several vocal groups and bands in a large variety of venues, working for Grammy award winners Pentatonix and Take 6, as well as prominent a cappella vocal groups Straight No Chaser, VoicePlay, and Accent.

Elaine Chao, M.Ed is a San Francisco Bay Area-based vocalist, multi-instrumentalist, vocal percussionist, and songwriter whose career spans a cappella, contemporary worship, and classical music. She has leveraged her training in classical and choral music over the course of her contemporary performance, including in orchestras for musical theatre and in sacred spaces. In addition to music, she also is a martial artist and published author. She currently leads a product management team at a major software company dedicated to creative expression. All statements in this podcast are her own and do not reflect the opinions of her employer.

]]>Listen to the song

  1. YouTube - https://youtu.be/hyRbhTUc6aI
  2. Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/track/6qXFNKuKBD6DQljVKrLzsl?si=ebf0e898f6f84eb0
  3. Apple Music - https://music.apple.com/us/song/reminiscing/1645806384
  4. Amazon - https://music.amazon.com/albums/B0BFPKLH4B?marketplaceId=ATVPDKIKX0DER&musicTerritory=US&ref=dm_sh_c3v27s32uwmhUmya7imRWCUSg&trackAsin=B0BFPWJ2Z5

Other links

  1. Recordando (Reminiscing, Spanish language version): youtube.com/watch?v=xdU3wgKL1Gw&feature=youtu.be
  2. The Holderness Family - https://theholdernessfamily.com/

Key takeaways

  1. Trist and Elaine explore the musical elements of the 1978 hit “Reminiscing,” but Little River Band, highlighting its lush strings, flugelhorn solo, and use of 7-9 chords, which evoke a classic 70s sound. They also discuss its unique tempo and blend of ballad and danceable qualities​
  2. Elaine and Trist also delve into the song's lyrics, emphasizing its nostalgic theme and the clever use of tense shifts that reflect the narrator's desire to create lasting memories for future reflection​
  3. In the Mailbag segment, Trist and Elaine discuss how the accessibility of music production and distribution platforms has reduced barriers to entry, allowing musicians of all ages to share their art and build followings, regardless of traditional industry biases

About us

Trist Curless is a Los Angeles-based vocalist, educator, and sound engineer. As a performer, Trist has toured worldwide as a co-founder of the pop-jazz vocal group m-pact and a 10 year member of the Grammy-award winning The Manhattan Transfer. In addition to these two vocal powerhouse groups, he’s also performed with Take 6, Bobby McFerrin, New York Voices, Vox Audio, Naturally 7, and The Swingle Singers. His latest venture, The LHR Project, is a new vocal group collective celebrating legendary jazz vocal group Lambert, Hendricks, and Ross.

As an audio engineer, Trist has toured nationally with several vocal groups and bands in a large variety of venues, working for Grammy award winners Pentatonix and Take 6, as well as prominent a cappella vocal groups Straight No Chaser, VoicePlay, and Accent.

Elaine Chao, M.Ed is a San Francisco Bay Area-based vocalist, multi-instrumentalist, vocal percussionist, and songwriter whose career spans a cappella, contemporary worship, and classical music. She has leveraged her training in classical and choral music over the course of her contemporary performance, including in orchestras for musical theatre and in sacred spaces. In addition to music, she also is a martial artist and published author. She currently leads a product management team at a major software company dedicated to creative expression. All statements in this podcast are her own and do not reflect the opinions of her employer.

]]>5aa4868f-9f6b-46e2-8f7e-d0bff125d30aTue, 17 Mar 2026 06:00:00 -070029:10falsefull1818Vocalese, a carrot garden, and a very naughty rabbit: Cottontail (Lambert, Hendricks, and Ross)Vocalese, a carrot garden, and a very naughty rabbit: Cottontail (Lambert, Hendricks, and Ross)Listen to the song

  1. YouTube - https://youtu.be/r55laPFEY0k
  2. Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/track/0lif2WoJ1LOQWmmJ1JV9gY?si=599443ee63cb4524
  3. Apple Music - https://music.apple.com/us/song/cottontail/170501696
  4. Amazon - https://amazon.com/music/player/albums/B00138H29K?marketplaceId=ATVPDKIKX0DER&musicTerritory=US&ref=dm_sh_O64dpDZHgJ98zsvP8EC2LNl4X&trackAsin=B00137VE90

Other links

  1. Duke Ellington’s Cotton Tail

Key takeaways

  1. Trist and Elaine dive into the unique style of vocalese, where lyrics are added to instrumental melodies and solos, highlighting the legendary contributions of Lambert, Hendricks, and Ross, particularly their rendition of Duke Ellington's "Cottontail”
  2. Elaine and Trist discuss how varying tempos in different versions of "Cottontail" influence the song's energy, mood, and storytelling, emphasizing the relationship between tempo and audience perception
  3. In the Mailbag segment, the hosts highlight the similarities between individual and team-based activities in music and sports, emphasizing the role of community and support structures in both fields

About us

Trist Curless is a Los Angeles-based vocalist, educator, and sound engineer. As a performer, Trist has toured worldwide as a co-founder of the pop-jazz vocal group m-pact and a 10 year member of the Grammy-award winning The Manhattan Transfer. In addition to these two vocal powerhouse groups, he’s also performed with Take 6, Bobby McFerrin, New York Voices, Vox Audio, Naturally 7, and The Swingle Singers. His latest venture, The LHR Project, is a new vocal group collective celebrating legendary jazz vocal group Lambert, Hendricks, and Ross.

As an audio engineer, Trist has toured nationally with several vocal groups and bands in a large variety of venues, working for Grammy award winners Pentatonix and Take 6, as well as prominent a cappella vocal groups Straight No Chaser, VoicePlay, and Accent.

Elaine Chao, M.Ed is a San Francisco Bay Area-based vocalist, multi-instrumentalist, vocal percussionist, and songwriter whose career spans a cappella, contemporary worship, and classical music. She has leveraged her training in classical and choral music over the course of her contemporary performance, including in orchestras for musical theatre and in sacred spaces. In addition to music, she also is a martial artist and published author. She currently leads a product management team at a major software company dedicated to creative expression. All statements in this podcast are her own and do not reflect the opinions of her employer.

]]>Listen to the song

  1. YouTube - https://youtu.be/r55laPFEY0k
  2. Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/track/0lif2WoJ1LOQWmmJ1JV9gY?si=599443ee63cb4524
  3. Apple Music - https://music.apple.com/us/song/cottontail/170501696
  4. Amazon - https://amazon.com/music/player/albums/B00138H29K?marketplaceId=ATVPDKIKX0DER&musicTerritory=US&ref=dm_sh_O64dpDZHgJ98zsvP8EC2LNl4X&trackAsin=B00137VE90

Other links

  1. Duke Ellington’s Cotton Tail

Key takeaways

  1. Trist and Elaine dive into the unique style of vocalese, where lyrics are added to instrumental melodies and solos, highlighting the legendary contributions of Lambert, Hendricks, and Ross, particularly their rendition of Duke Ellington's "Cottontail”
  2. Elaine and Trist discuss how varying tempos in different versions of "Cottontail" influence the song's energy, mood, and storytelling, emphasizing the relationship between tempo and audience perception
  3. In the Mailbag segment, the hosts highlight the similarities between individual and team-based activities in music and sports, emphasizing the role of community and support structures in both fields

About us

Trist Curless is a Los Angeles-based vocalist, educator, and sound engineer. As a performer, Trist has toured worldwide as a co-founder of the pop-jazz vocal group m-pact and a 10 year member of the Grammy-award winning The Manhattan Transfer. In addition to these two vocal powerhouse groups, he’s also performed with Take 6, Bobby McFerrin, New York Voices, Vox Audio, Naturally 7, and The Swingle Singers. His latest venture, The LHR Project, is a new vocal group collective celebrating legendary jazz vocal group Lambert, Hendricks, and Ross.

As an audio engineer, Trist has toured nationally with several vocal groups and bands in a large variety of venues, working for Grammy award winners Pentatonix and Take 6, as well as prominent a cappella vocal groups Straight No Chaser, VoicePlay, and Accent.

Elaine Chao, M.Ed is a San Francisco Bay Area-based vocalist, multi-instrumentalist, vocal percussionist, and songwriter whose career spans a cappella, contemporary worship, and classical music. She has leveraged her training in classical and choral music over the course of her contemporary performance, including in orchestras for musical theatre and in sacred spaces. In addition to music, she also is a martial artist and published author. She currently leads a product management team at a major software company dedicated to creative expression. All statements in this podcast are her own and do not reflect the opinions of her employer.

]]>f3a9b9a1-aef0-40fb-8fa5-913ce9855a49Tue, 10 Mar 2026 06:00:00 -070031:49falsefull1717Latin rhythms, song structure, and a superstition - An Olive Tree (Basia)Latin rhythms, song structure, and a superstition - An Olive Tree (Basia)Listen to the song

  1. YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jAgbvUL8Ap4
  2. Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/track/3CiONr7T1221WXvNDCS4jh?si=1dea603406ec4a40
  3. Apple Music - https://music.apple.com/be/song/an-olive-tree/457233483
  4. Amazon - https://music.amazon.com/albums/B00138H6BO?marketplaceId=ATVPDKIKX0DER&musicTerritory=US&ref=dm_sh_MWTDQIz8Ts7CyqmMuiQGflwhR&trackAsin=B00138EFVS

Other links

  1. TED Radio Hour interview with David Byrne - https://www.npr.org/transcripts/894686165

Key takeaways

  1. Trist and Elaine discuss Basia’s jazz-pop sound, her use of Latin-inspired rhythms, and the influence of language in her song “An Olive Tree.”
  2. The song’s unconventional structure, featuring distinct movements and varied rhythms, challenges traditional expectations of musical composition and highlights the flexibility of music
  3. In the Mailbag segment, Elaine and Trist explore how physical spaces, such as churches, jazz clubs, and concert halls, shape the type of music created and performed, citing examples like Gregorian chants and jazz ensembles

About us

Trist Curless is a Los Angeles-based vocalist, educator, and sound engineer. As a performer, Trist has toured worldwide as a co-founder of the pop-jazz vocal group m-pact and a 10 year member of the Grammy-award winning The Manhattan Transfer. In addition to these two vocal powerhouse groups, he’s also performed with Take 6, Bobby McFerrin, New York Voices, Vox Audio, Naturally 7, and The Swingle Singers. His latest venture, The LHR Project, is a new vocal group collective celebrating legendary jazz vocal group Lambert, Hendricks, and Ross.

As an audio engineer, Trist has toured nationally with several vocal groups and bands in a large variety of venues, working for Grammy award winners Pentatonix and Take 6, as well as prominent a cappella vocal groups Straight No Chaser, VoicePlay, and Accent.

Elaine Chao, M.Ed is a San Francisco Bay Area-based vocalist, multi-instrumentalist, vocal percussionist, and songwriter whose career spans a cappella, contemporary worship, and classical music. She has leveraged her training in classical and choral music over the course of her contemporary performance, including in orchestras for musical theatre and in sacred spaces. In addition to music, she also is a martial artist and published author. She currently leads a product management team at a major software company dedicated to creative expression. All statements in this podcast are her own and do not reflect the opinions of her employer.

]]>Listen to the song

  1. YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jAgbvUL8Ap4
  2. Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/track/3CiONr7T1221WXvNDCS4jh?si=1dea603406ec4a40
  3. Apple Music - https://music.apple.com/be/song/an-olive-tree/457233483
  4. Amazon - https://music.amazon.com/albums/B00138H6BO?marketplaceId=ATVPDKIKX0DER&musicTerritory=US&ref=dm_sh_MWTDQIz8Ts7CyqmMuiQGflwhR&trackAsin=B00138EFVS

Other links

  1. TED Radio Hour interview with David Byrne - https://www.npr.org/transcripts/894686165

Key takeaways

  1. Trist and Elaine discuss Basia’s jazz-pop sound, her use of Latin-inspired rhythms, and the influence of language in her song “An Olive Tree.”
  2. The song’s unconventional structure, featuring distinct movements and varied rhythms, challenges traditional expectations of musical composition and highlights the flexibility of music
  3. In the Mailbag segment, Elaine and Trist explore how physical spaces, such as churches, jazz clubs, and concert halls, shape the type of music created and performed, citing examples like Gregorian chants and jazz ensembles

About us

Trist Curless is a Los Angeles-based vocalist, educator, and sound engineer. As a performer, Trist has toured worldwide as a co-founder of the pop-jazz vocal group m-pact and a 10 year member of the Grammy-award winning The Manhattan Transfer. In addition to these two vocal powerhouse groups, he’s also performed with Take 6, Bobby McFerrin, New York Voices, Vox Audio, Naturally 7, and The Swingle Singers. His latest venture, The LHR Project, is a new vocal group collective celebrating legendary jazz vocal group Lambert, Hendricks, and Ross.

As an audio engineer, Trist has toured nationally with several vocal groups and bands in a large variety of venues, working for Grammy award winners Pentatonix and Take 6, as well as prominent a cappella vocal groups Straight No Chaser, VoicePlay, and Accent.

Elaine Chao, M.Ed is a San Francisco Bay Area-based vocalist, multi-instrumentalist, vocal percussionist, and songwriter whose career spans a cappella, contemporary worship, and classical music. She has leveraged her training in classical and choral music over the course of her contemporary performance, including in orchestras for musical theatre and in sacred spaces. In addition to music, she also is a martial artist and published author. She currently leads a product management team at a major software company dedicated to creative expression. All statements in this podcast are her own and do not reflect the opinions of her employer.

]]>158f7162-1bce-4f4f-8b40-cc61e375f9edTue, 03 Mar 2026 06:00:00 -070031:47falsefull1616New wave, gospel, and loud hotel gossip: Badman’s Song (Tears for Fears)New wave, gospel, and loud hotel gossip: Badman’s Song (Tears for Fears)Listen to the song

  1. YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=92FRHjqY-WI
  2. Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/track/10QGEFiAS7ANZ8jLqEkKOE?si=0de83e5028dd4698
  3. Apple Music - https://music.apple.com/us/song/bad-mans-song/1527555433
  4. Amazon - https://music.amazon.com/albums/B08FTDNVPY?marketplaceId=ATVPDKIKX0DER&musicTerritory=US&ref=dm_sh_EkGTvVs5mPjm77WaMZQwNFsl6&trackAsin=B08FTDCT55

Key takeaways

  1. Trist and Elaine discuss the unique stylistic departure of "Badman's Song" from Tears for Fears' typical new wave sound, highlighting its jazz, blues, and gospel influences, as well as its multi-movement structure reminiscent of classical music
  2. Elaine and Trist analyze the song's lyrics, focusing on themes of sinfulness, redemption, and self-reflection, with references to church language and personal experiences, and the lyrics’ relationship to the gospel feel and Oleta Adams’ inclusion as a guest artist
  3. Trist and Elaine dig into the topic live performance versus practicing alone, emphasizing the unique lessons learned on stage that cannot be replicated in a practice setting, while also acknowledging the importance of preparation and discipline during solo practice

About us

Trist Curless is a Los Angeles-based vocalist, educator, and sound engineer. As a performer, Trist has toured worldwide as a co-founder of the pop-jazz vocal group m-pact and a 10 year member of the Grammy-award winning The Manhattan Transfer. In addition to these two vocal powerhouse groups, he’s also performed with Take 6, Bobby McFerrin, New York Voices, Vox Audio, Naturally 7, and The Swingle Singers. His latest venture, The LHR Project, is a new vocal group collective celebrating legendary jazz vocal group Lambert, Hendricks, and Ross.

As an audio engineer, Trist has toured nationally with several vocal groups and bands in a large variety of venues, working for Grammy award winners Pentatonix and Take 6, as well as prominent a cappella vocal groups Straight No Chaser, VoicePlay, and Accent.

Elaine Chao, M.Ed is a San Francisco Bay Area-based vocalist, multi-instrumentalist, vocal percussionist, and songwriter whose career spans a cappella, contemporary worship, and classical music. She has leveraged her training in classical and choral music over the course of her contemporary performance, including in orchestras for musical theatre and in sacred spaces. In addition to music, she also is a martial artist and published author. She currently leads a product management team at a major software company dedicated to creative expression. All statements in this podcast are her own and do not reflect the opinions of her employer.

]]>Listen to the song

  1. YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=92FRHjqY-WI
  2. Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/track/10QGEFiAS7ANZ8jLqEkKOE?si=0de83e5028dd4698
  3. Apple Music - https://music.apple.com/us/song/bad-mans-song/1527555433
  4. Amazon - https://music.amazon.com/albums/B08FTDNVPY?marketplaceId=ATVPDKIKX0DER&musicTerritory=US&ref=dm_sh_EkGTvVs5mPjm77WaMZQwNFsl6&trackAsin=B08FTDCT55

Key takeaways

  1. Trist and Elaine discuss the unique stylistic departure of "Badman's Song" from Tears for Fears' typical new wave sound, highlighting its jazz, blues, and gospel influences, as well as its multi-movement structure reminiscent of classical music
  2. Elaine and Trist analyze the song's lyrics, focusing on themes of sinfulness, redemption, and self-reflection, with references to church language and personal experiences, and the lyrics’ relationship to the gospel feel and Oleta Adams’ inclusion as a guest artist
  3. Trist and Elaine dig into the topic live performance versus practicing alone, emphasizing the unique lessons learned on stage that cannot be replicated in a practice setting, while also acknowledging the importance of preparation and discipline during solo practice

About us

Trist Curless is a Los Angeles-based vocalist, educator, and sound engineer. As a performer, Trist has toured worldwide as a co-founder of the pop-jazz vocal group m-pact and a 10 year member of the Grammy-award winning The Manhattan Transfer. In addition to these two vocal powerhouse groups, he’s also performed with Take 6, Bobby McFerrin, New York Voices, Vox Audio, Naturally 7, and The Swingle Singers. His latest venture, The LHR Project, is a new vocal group collective celebrating legendary jazz vocal group Lambert, Hendricks, and Ross.

As an audio engineer, Trist has toured nationally with several vocal groups and bands in a large variety of venues, working for Grammy award winners Pentatonix and Take 6, as well as prominent a cappella vocal groups Straight No Chaser, VoicePlay, and Accent.

Elaine Chao, M.Ed is a San Francisco Bay Area-based vocalist, multi-instrumentalist, vocal percussionist, and songwriter whose career spans a cappella, contemporary worship, and classical music. She has leveraged her training in classical and choral music over the course of her contemporary performance, including in orchestras for musical theatre and in sacred spaces. In addition to music, she also is a martial artist and published author. She currently leads a product management team at a major software company dedicated to creative expression. All statements in this podcast are her own and do not reflect the opinions of her employer.

]]>b1561c2f-1533-4e06-9fb6-d8a7349e530cTue, 24 Feb 2026 06:00:00 -070030:30falsefull1515The blues, collaborative duets, and a harmonica solo: Everyday (I Have the Blues) (Tony Bennett)The blues, collaborative duets, and a harmonica solo: Everyday (I Have the Blues) (Tony Bennett)Listen to the song

  1. YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1Ethfkbryt0
  2. Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/track/0djVp1dfkHrq6dxnFkjgMi?si=ebab0df0719945fa
  3. Apple Music - https://music.apple.com/us/song/everyday-i-have-the-blues-with-stevie-wonder/572652905
  4. Amazon - https://music.amazon.com/albums/B00A70V8TU?marketplaceId=ATVPDKIKX0DER&musicTerritory=US&ref=dm_sh_7ocbabTtLIkc6aWbBg6IMQ8WB&trackAsin=B00A70V9OO

Other links

  1. Howard Levy on the harmonica - https://youtu.be/9gQgjHTNkmk
  2. Interview with Lady Gaga and Tony Bennett - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E88BMN96hJQ

Key takeaways

  1. Trist and Elaine highlight Stevie Wonder’s soaring harmonica solo in the song, emphasizing his effortless mastery of the instrument and the harmonica’s unique role in blues music
  2. Elaine and Trist talk about Tony Bennett’s career, which spanned decades, and how duets and MTV Unplugged helped him expand his reach into broader audiences over the years
  3. In the Mailbag segment, Trist and Elaine discuss how record stores serve as vital third spaces for fostering community and connecting music enthusiasts, despite the challenges posed by online marketplaces

About us

Trist Curless is a Los Angeles-based vocalist, educator, and sound engineer. As a performer, Trist has toured worldwide as a co-founder of the pop-jazz vocal group m-pact and a 10 year member of the Grammy-award winning The Manhattan Transfer. In addition to these two vocal powerhouse groups, he’s also performed with Take 6, Bobby McFerrin, New York Voices, Vox Audio, Naturally 7, and The Swingle Singers. His latest venture, The LHR Project, is a new vocal group collective celebrating legendary jazz vocal group Lambert, Hendricks, and Ross.

As an audio engineer, Trist has toured nationally with several vocal groups and bands in a large variety of venues, working for Grammy award winners Pentatonix and Take 6, as well as prominent a cappella vocal groups Straight No Chaser, VoicePlay, and Accent.

Elaine Chao, M.Ed is a San Francisco Bay Area-based vocalist, multi-instrumentalist, vocal percussionist, and songwriter whose career spans a cappella, contemporary worship, and classical music. She has leveraged her training in classical and choral music over the course of her contemporary performance, including in orchestras for musical theatre and in sacred spaces. In addition to music, she also is a martial artist and published author. She currently leads a product management team at a major software company dedicated to creative expression. All statements in this podcast are her own and do not reflect the opinions of her employer.

]]>Listen to the song

  1. YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1Ethfkbryt0
  2. Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/track/0djVp1dfkHrq6dxnFkjgMi?si=ebab0df0719945fa
  3. Apple Music - https://music.apple.com/us/song/everyday-i-have-the-blues-with-stevie-wonder/572652905
  4. Amazon - https://music.amazon.com/albums/B00A70V8TU?marketplaceId=ATVPDKIKX0DER&musicTerritory=US&ref=dm_sh_7ocbabTtLIkc6aWbBg6IMQ8WB&trackAsin=B00A70V9OO

Other links

  1. Howard Levy on the harmonica - https://youtu.be/9gQgjHTNkmk
  2. Interview with Lady Gaga and Tony Bennett - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E88BMN96hJQ

Key takeaways

  1. Trist and Elaine highlight Stevie Wonder’s soaring harmonica solo in the song, emphasizing his effortless mastery of the instrument and the harmonica’s unique role in blues music
  2. Elaine and Trist talk about Tony Bennett’s career, which spanned decades, and how duets and MTV Unplugged helped him expand his reach into broader audiences over the years
  3. In the Mailbag segment, Trist and Elaine discuss how record stores serve as vital third spaces for fostering community and connecting music enthusiasts, despite the challenges posed by online marketplaces

About us

Trist Curless is a Los Angeles-based vocalist, educator, and sound engineer. As a performer, Trist has toured worldwide as a co-founder of the pop-jazz vocal group m-pact and a 10 year member of the Grammy-award winning The Manhattan Transfer. In addition to these two vocal powerhouse groups, he’s also performed with Take 6, Bobby McFerrin, New York Voices, Vox Audio, Naturally 7, and The Swingle Singers. His latest venture, The LHR Project, is a new vocal group collective celebrating legendary jazz vocal group Lambert, Hendricks, and Ross.

As an audio engineer, Trist has toured nationally with several vocal groups and bands in a large variety of venues, working for Grammy award winners Pentatonix and Take 6, as well as prominent a cappella vocal groups Straight No Chaser, VoicePlay, and Accent.

Elaine Chao, M.Ed is a San Francisco Bay Area-based vocalist, multi-instrumentalist, vocal percussionist, and songwriter whose career spans a cappella, contemporary worship, and classical music. She has leveraged her training in classical and choral music over the course of her contemporary performance, including in orchestras for musical theatre and in sacred spaces. In addition to music, she also is a martial artist and published author. She currently leads a product management team at a major software company dedicated to creative expression. All statements in this podcast are her own and do not reflect the opinions of her employer.

]]>81259be3-fd4f-4114-b0bb-a3b4c7ed53beTue, 17 Feb 2026 06:00:00 -070029:11falsefull1414Solo voice, multiple registers, and live performance: Blackbird (Bobby McFerrin)Solo voice, multiple registers, and live performance: Blackbird (Bobby McFerrin)Listen to the song

  1. YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7v8uzMFb74M
  2. Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/track/5bNoizZe6YhwPXGt0mu7fX?si=22a02fc363a44d9e
  3. Apple Music - https://music.apple.com/nz/song/blackbird/41228105
  4. Amazon - https://amazon.com/music/player/albums/B0011ZYCU2?marketplaceId=ATVPDKIKX0DER&musicTerritory=US&ref=dm_sh_5PzlbJJBi2oR2UNWbHSRu4VZo&trackAsin=B0011ZP7H4

Key takeaways

  1. Trist and Elaine discuss Bobby McFerrin’s live solo vocal album through the lens of “Blackbird,” a Beatles cover. In the piece, McFerrin uses techniques like switching between vocal registers and singing while breathing in, which showcases his exceptional precision and intonation
  2. Elaine and Trist also emphasize the magic of McFerrin's live performances, where his playful sounds, such as bird flapping noises and whistling, elicit delighted reactions from the audience
  3. In the Mailbag segment, Elaine and Trist talk about both classic and modern ways to get more exposure for a new act, including opening for similar bands, collaborating with local businesses, and networking at music workshops, camps, and conferences

About us

Trist Curless is a Los Angeles-based vocalist, educator, and sound engineer. As a performer, Trist has toured worldwide as a co-founder of the pop-jazz vocal group m-pact and a 10 year member of the Grammy-award winning The Manhattan Transfer. In addition to these two vocal powerhouse groups, he’s also performed with Take 6, Bobby McFerrin, New York Voices, Vox Audio, Naturally 7, and The Swingle Singers. His latest venture, The LHR Project, is a new vocal group collective celebrating legendary jazz vocal group Lambert, Hendricks, and Ross.

As an audio engineer, Trist has toured nationally with several vocal groups and bands in a large variety of venues, working for Grammy award winners Pentatonix and Take 6, as well as prominent a cappella vocal groups Straight No Chaser, VoicePlay, and Accent.

Elaine Chao, M.Ed is a San Francisco Bay Area-based vocalist, multi-instrumentalist, vocal percussionist, and songwriter whose career spans a cappella, contemporary worship, and classical music. She has leveraged her training in classical and choral music over the course of her contemporary performance, including in orchestras for musical theatre and in sacred spaces. In addition to music, she also is a martial artist and published author. She currently leads a product management team at a major software company dedicated to creative expression. All statements in this podcast are her own and do not reflect the opinions of her employer.

]]>Listen to the song

  1. YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7v8uzMFb74M
  2. Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/track/5bNoizZe6YhwPXGt0mu7fX?si=22a02fc363a44d9e
  3. Apple Music - https://music.apple.com/nz/song/blackbird/41228105
  4. Amazon - https://amazon.com/music/player/albums/B0011ZYCU2?marketplaceId=ATVPDKIKX0DER&musicTerritory=US&ref=dm_sh_5PzlbJJBi2oR2UNWbHSRu4VZo&trackAsin=B0011ZP7H4

Key takeaways

  1. Trist and Elaine discuss Bobby McFerrin’s live solo vocal album through the lens of “Blackbird,” a Beatles cover. In the piece, McFerrin uses techniques like switching between vocal registers and singing while breathing in, which showcases his exceptional precision and intonation
  2. Elaine and Trist also emphasize the magic of McFerrin's live performances, where his playful sounds, such as bird flapping noises and whistling, elicit delighted reactions from the audience
  3. In the Mailbag segment, Elaine and Trist talk about both classic and modern ways to get more exposure for a new act, including opening for similar bands, collaborating with local businesses, and networking at music workshops, camps, and conferences

About us

Trist Curless is a Los Angeles-based vocalist, educator, and sound engineer. As a performer, Trist has toured worldwide as a co-founder of the pop-jazz vocal group m-pact and a 10 year member of the Grammy-award winning The Manhattan Transfer. In addition to these two vocal powerhouse groups, he’s also performed with Take 6, Bobby McFerrin, New York Voices, Vox Audio, Naturally 7, and The Swingle Singers. His latest venture, The LHR Project, is a new vocal group collective celebrating legendary jazz vocal group Lambert, Hendricks, and Ross.

As an audio engineer, Trist has toured nationally with several vocal groups and bands in a large variety of venues, working for Grammy award winners Pentatonix and Take 6, as well as prominent a cappella vocal groups Straight No Chaser, VoicePlay, and Accent.

Elaine Chao, M.Ed is a San Francisco Bay Area-based vocalist, multi-instrumentalist, vocal percussionist, and songwriter whose career spans a cappella, contemporary worship, and classical music. She has leveraged her training in classical and choral music over the course of her contemporary performance, including in orchestras for musical theatre and in sacred spaces. In addition to music, she also is a martial artist and published author. She currently leads a product management team at a major software company dedicated to creative expression. All statements in this podcast are her own and do not reflect the opinions of her employer.

]]>03186944-5a42-49b8-b6c2-b91eeb17abd3Tue, 10 Feb 2026 06:00:00 -070028:12falsefull1313Chord progressions, jazz rhythms, and a call for community: The Baker’s Daughter (Laila Biali)Chord progressions, jazz rhythms, and a call for community: The Baker’s Daughter (Laila Biali)Listen to the song


Key takeaways

  • Trist and Elaine discuss Laila Biali’s “The Baker’s Daughter,” which Biali had initially composed as an instrumental piece during her college years and later added lyrics
  • The podcast highlights the song's structure, rhythm, lyrics, mix, and the subtle use of brass and doubled vocals in creating the lush jazz sound
  • In the Mailbag portion, Trist and Elaine discuss the importance of consuming media and engaging in activities with intention rather than by default

About us

Trist Curless is a Los Angeles-based vocalist, educator, and sound engineer. As a performer, Trist has toured worldwide as a co-founder of the pop-jazz vocal group m-pact and a 10 year member of the Grammy-award winning The Manhattan Transfer. In addition to these two vocal powerhouse groups, he’s also performed with Take 6, Bobby McFerrin, New York Voices, Vox Audio, Naturally 7, and The Swingle Singers. His latest venture, The LHR Project, is a new vocal group collective celebrating legendary jazz vocal group Lambert, Hendricks, and Ross.


As an audio engineer, Trist has toured nationally with several vocal groups and bands in a large variety of venues, working for Grammy award winners Pentatonix and Take 6, as well as prominent a cappella vocal groups Straight No Chaser, VoicePlay, and Accent.


Elaine Chao, M.Ed is a San Francisco Bay Area-based vocalist, multi-instrumentalist, vocal percussionist, and songwriter whose career spans a cappella, contemporary worship, and classical music. She has leveraged her training in classical and choral music over the course of her contemporary performance, including in orchestras for musical theatre and in sacred spaces. In addition to music, she also is a martial artist and published author. She currently leads a product management team at a major software company dedicated to creative expression. All statements in this podcast are her own and do not reflect the opinions of her employer.

]]>Listen to the song


Key takeaways

  • Trist and Elaine discuss Laila Biali’s “The Baker’s Daughter,” which Biali had initially composed as an instrumental piece during her college years and later added lyrics
  • The podcast highlights the song's structure, rhythm, lyrics, mix, and the subtle use of brass and doubled vocals in creating the lush jazz sound
  • In the Mailbag portion, Trist and Elaine discuss the importance of consuming media and engaging in activities with intention rather than by default

About us

Trist Curless is a Los Angeles-based vocalist, educator, and sound engineer. As a performer, Trist has toured worldwide as a co-founder of the pop-jazz vocal group m-pact and a 10 year member of the Grammy-award winning The Manhattan Transfer. In addition to these two vocal powerhouse groups, he’s also performed with Take 6, Bobby McFerrin, New York Voices, Vox Audio, Naturally 7, and The Swingle Singers. His latest venture, The LHR Project, is a new vocal group collective celebrating legendary jazz vocal group Lambert, Hendricks, and Ross.


As an audio engineer, Trist has toured nationally with several vocal groups and bands in a large variety of venues, working for Grammy award winners Pentatonix and Take 6, as well as prominent a cappella vocal groups Straight No Chaser, VoicePlay, and Accent.


Elaine Chao, M.Ed is a San Francisco Bay Area-based vocalist, multi-instrumentalist, vocal percussionist, and songwriter whose career spans a cappella, contemporary worship, and classical music. She has leveraged her training in classical and choral music over the course of her contemporary performance, including in orchestras for musical theatre and in sacred spaces. In addition to music, she also is a martial artist and published author. She currently leads a product management team at a major software company dedicated to creative expression. All statements in this podcast are her own and do not reflect the opinions of her employer.

]]>d34ac49b-d397-440b-8f2e-8675a7565f23Tue, 03 Feb 2026 06:00:00 -070031:37falsefull1212Brass, dissonance, and pedal tones: Overture (Björk)Brass, dissonance, and pedal tones: Overture (Björk)Listen to the song

  1. YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6w6apA_LbOE
  2. Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/track/1cgesvTA9wgm2x6a6AEjnn?si=03d52c468f934754
  3. Apple Music - https://music.apple.com/us/song/overture/313221988
  4. Amazon - https://music.amazon.com/albums/B0027OQ2ZY?marketplaceId=ATVPDKIKX0DER&musicTerritory=US&ref=dm_sh_JV1c672eQzcyAHeWfT24LjGtR&trackAsin=B0027OQ3AI

Other links

  1. “New World” by Björk
  2. YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UZt8eic_KNw
  3. Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/track/6tgLIvZaal11lbuSXv48BD?si=3d0ba049609f4695
  4. Apple Music - https://music.apple.com/us/song/new-world/313222042
  5. Amazon - https://music.amazon.com/albums/B0027OQ2ZY?marketplaceId=ATVPDKIKX0DER&musicTerritory=US&ref=dm_sh_TH5hZ5UARlYNOpFbIQiGCRM3g&trackAsin=B0027OM5ZK
  6. “The Carnival of Venice” with Wynton Marsalis - https://youtu.be/q0V4qPEK8jQ

Key takeaways

  1. Trist and Elaine discuss “Overture,” a movie soundtrack composed by Björk, focusing on the arrangement and textural choices she made in this all-brass arrangement
  2. This episode delves into how Björk’s "Overture" uses repeated themes, pedal tones, and layering to build and resolve tension, creating a captivating listening experience
  3. In the Mailbag segment, Trist and Elaine discuss the concept of setting a personal limit on recording takes, balancing perfectionism with practicality, and how technology has changed the approach to music production

About us

Trist Curless is a Los Angeles-based vocalist, educator, and sound engineer. As a performer, Trist has toured worldwide as a co-founder of the pop-jazz vocal group m-pact and a 10 year member of the Grammy-award winning The Manhattan Transfer. In addition to these two vocal powerhouse groups, he’s also performed with Take 6, Bobby McFerrin, New York Voices, Vox Audio, Naturally 7, and The Swingle Singers. His latest venture, The LHR Project, is a new vocal group collective celebrating legendary jazz vocal group Lambert, Hendricks, and Ross.

As an audio engineer, Trist has toured nationally with several vocal groups and bands in a large variety of venues, working for Grammy award winners Pentatonix and Take 6, as well as prominent a cappella vocal groups Straight No Chaser, VoicePlay, and Accent.

Elaine Chao, M.Ed is a San Francisco Bay Area-based vocalist, multi-instrumentalist, vocal percussionist, and songwriter whose career spans a cappella, contemporary worship, and classical music. She has leveraged her training in classical and choral music over the course of her contemporary performance, including in orchestras for musical theatre and in sacred spaces. In addition to music, she also is a martial artist and published author. She currently leads a product management team at a major software company dedicated to creative expression. All statements in this podcast are her own and do not reflect the opinions of her employer.

]]>Listen to the song

  1. YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6w6apA_LbOE
  2. Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/track/1cgesvTA9wgm2x6a6AEjnn?si=03d52c468f934754
  3. Apple Music - https://music.apple.com/us/song/overture/313221988
  4. Amazon - https://music.amazon.com/albums/B0027OQ2ZY?marketplaceId=ATVPDKIKX0DER&musicTerritory=US&ref=dm_sh_JV1c672eQzcyAHeWfT24LjGtR&trackAsin=B0027OQ3AI

Other links

  1. “New World” by Björk
  2. YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UZt8eic_KNw
  3. Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/track/6tgLIvZaal11lbuSXv48BD?si=3d0ba049609f4695
  4. Apple Music - https://music.apple.com/us/song/new-world/313222042
  5. Amazon - https://music.amazon.com/albums/B0027OQ2ZY?marketplaceId=ATVPDKIKX0DER&musicTerritory=US&ref=dm_sh_TH5hZ5UARlYNOpFbIQiGCRM3g&trackAsin=B0027OM5ZK
  6. “The Carnival of Venice” with Wynton Marsalis - https://youtu.be/q0V4qPEK8jQ

Key takeaways

  1. Trist and Elaine discuss “Overture,” a movie soundtrack composed by Björk, focusing on the arrangement and textural choices she made in this all-brass arrangement
  2. This episode delves into how Björk’s "Overture" uses repeated themes, pedal tones, and layering to build and resolve tension, creating a captivating listening experience
  3. In the Mailbag segment, Trist and Elaine discuss the concept of setting a personal limit on recording takes, balancing perfectionism with practicality, and how technology has changed the approach to music production

About us

Trist Curless is a Los Angeles-based vocalist, educator, and sound engineer. As a performer, Trist has toured worldwide as a co-founder of the pop-jazz vocal group m-pact and a 10 year member of the Grammy-award winning The Manhattan Transfer. In addition to these two vocal powerhouse groups, he’s also performed with Take 6, Bobby McFerrin, New York Voices, Vox Audio, Naturally 7, and The Swingle Singers. His latest venture, The LHR Project, is a new vocal group collective celebrating legendary jazz vocal group Lambert, Hendricks, and Ross.

As an audio engineer, Trist has toured nationally with several vocal groups and bands in a large variety of venues, working for Grammy award winners Pentatonix and Take 6, as well as prominent a cappella vocal groups Straight No Chaser, VoicePlay, and Accent.

Elaine Chao, M.Ed is a San Francisco Bay Area-based vocalist, multi-instrumentalist, vocal percussionist, and songwriter whose career spans a cappella, contemporary worship, and classical music. She has leveraged her training in classical and choral music over the course of her contemporary performance, including in orchestras for musical theatre and in sacred spaces. In addition to music, she also is a martial artist and published author. She currently leads a product management team at a major software company dedicated to creative expression. All statements in this podcast are her own and do not reflect the opinions of her employer.

]]>a5b562c9-68b9-4474-9e23-90dd806816b6Tue, 27 Jan 2026 06:00:00 -070031:35falsefull1111South African harmonies, bilingual songwriting, and hailing a taxi: Diamonds on the Soles of Her Shoes (Paul Simon)South African harmonies, bilingual songwriting, and hailing a taxi: Diamonds on the Soles of Her Shoes (Paul Simon)Listen to the song


Key takeaways

  • Trist and Elaine discuss “Diamonds in the Soles of Her Shoes” by Paul Simon in collaboration with the South African vocal group Ladysmith Black Mambazo. This song showcases the rich musical traditions of South Africa and addresses themes of class disparity and cultural integration during the apartheid era
  • The lyrics of the song incorporate South African cultural elements, such as the "sign of a teaspoon" and "sign of a wave," which reference specific taxi signals in South Africa, adding depth and context to the narrative
  • In the Mailbag portion, Trist and Elaine explore the idea that musical ability is not solely dependent on innate talent but can be cultivated through dedication and practice, emphasizing that anyone can achieve a decent level of musical proficiency with effort


About us

Trist Curless is a Los Angeles-based vocalist, educator, and sound engineer. As a performer, Trist has toured worldwide as a co-founder of the pop-jazz vocal group m-pact and a 10 year member of the Grammy-award winning The Manhattan Transfer. In addition to these two vocal powerhouse groups, he’s also performed with Take 6, Bobby McFerrin, New York Voices, Vox Audio, Naturally 7, and The Swingle Singers. His latest venture, The LHR Project, is a new vocal group collective celebrating legendary jazz vocal group Lambert, Hendricks, and Ross.


As an audio engineer, Trist has toured nationally with several vocal groups and bands in a large variety of venues, working for Grammy award winners Pentatonix and Take 6, as well as prominent a cappella vocal groups Straight No Chaser, VoicePlay, and Accent.


Elaine Chao, M.Ed is a San Francisco Bay Area-based vocalist, multi-instrumentalist, vocal percussionist, and songwriter whose career spans a cappella, contemporary worship, and classical music. She has leveraged her training in classical and choral music over the course of her contemporary performance, including in orchestras for musical theatre and in sacred spaces. In addition to music, she also is a martial artist and published author. She currently leads a product management team at a major software company dedicated to creative expression. All statements in this podcast are her own and do not reflect the opinions of her employer.


]]>Listen to the song


Key takeaways

  • Trist and Elaine discuss “Diamonds in the Soles of Her Shoes” by Paul Simon in collaboration with the South African vocal group Ladysmith Black Mambazo. This song showcases the rich musical traditions of South Africa and addresses themes of class disparity and cultural integration during the apartheid era
  • The lyrics of the song incorporate South African cultural elements, such as the "sign of a teaspoon" and "sign of a wave," which reference specific taxi signals in South Africa, adding depth and context to the narrative
  • In the Mailbag portion, Trist and Elaine explore the idea that musical ability is not solely dependent on innate talent but can be cultivated through dedication and practice, emphasizing that anyone can achieve a decent level of musical proficiency with effort


About us

Trist Curless is a Los Angeles-based vocalist, educator, and sound engineer. As a performer, Trist has toured worldwide as a co-founder of the pop-jazz vocal group m-pact and a 10 year member of the Grammy-award winning The Manhattan Transfer. In addition to these two vocal powerhouse groups, he’s also performed with Take 6, Bobby McFerrin, New York Voices, Vox Audio, Naturally 7, and The Swingle Singers. His latest venture, The LHR Project, is a new vocal group collective celebrating legendary jazz vocal group Lambert, Hendricks, and Ross.


As an audio engineer, Trist has toured nationally with several vocal groups and bands in a large variety of venues, working for Grammy award winners Pentatonix and Take 6, as well as prominent a cappella vocal groups Straight No Chaser, VoicePlay, and Accent.


Elaine Chao, M.Ed is a San Francisco Bay Area-based vocalist, multi-instrumentalist, vocal percussionist, and songwriter whose career spans a cappella, contemporary worship, and classical music. She has leveraged her training in classical and choral music over the course of her contemporary performance, including in orchestras for musical theatre and in sacred spaces. In addition to music, she also is a martial artist and published author. She currently leads a product management team at a major software company dedicated to creative expression. All statements in this podcast are her own and do not reflect the opinions of her employer.


]]>76e77ecb-828e-4230-96f7-50347a1042c8Tue, 20 Jan 2026 06:00:00 -070029:37falsefull1010Simplicity, storytelling, and a breakup averted: Never on the Day You Leave (John Mayer)Simplicity, storytelling, and a breakup averted: Never on the Day You Leave (John Mayer)Listen to the song

  1. YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v1d5c1fVxSA
  2. Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/track/3TQbr3G3U5wlwEJejmqC1F
  3. Apple Music - https://music.apple.com/us/song/never-on-the-day-you-leave/1224353385
  4. Amazon - https://music.amazon.com/albums/B06Y3HV2N3?marketplaceId=ATVPDKIKX0DER&musicTerritory=US&ref=dm_sh_gArDR5BzTxFt1Suiqwo03YUHf&trackAsin=B06Y3R6LPH

Other links

  1. “Further Notes on Scenius,” May 2017, Austin Kleon, quoting Brian Eno on the term “Scenius”

Key takeaways

  1. Trist and Elaine discuss the storytelling and lyrical depth of John Mayer’s song “Never on the Day You Leave,” highlighting its emotional journey and impactful outro
  2. The song's minimalistic instrumentation, including acoustic and clean electric elements, creates a sense of intimacy and supports the poignant lyrics, emphasizing the emotional weight of the narrative
  3. In the mailbag segment, Elaine and Trist emphasize the critical role of local music venues and audiences in fostering emerging artists and creating a thriving music community

About us

Trist Curless is a Los Angeles-based vocalist, educator, and sound engineer. As a performer, Trist has toured worldwide as a co-founder of the pop-jazz vocal group m-pact and a 10 year member of the Grammy-award winning The Manhattan Transfer. In addition to these two vocal powerhouse groups, he’s also performed with Take 6, Bobby McFerrin, New York Voices, Vox Audio, Naturally 7, and The Swingle Singers. His latest venture, The LHR Project, is a new vocal group collective celebrating legendary jazz vocal group Lambert, Hendricks, and Ross.

As an audio engineer, Trist has toured nationally with several vocal groups and bands in a large variety of venues, working for Grammy award winners Pentatonix and Take 6, as well as prominent a cappella vocal groups Straight No Chaser, VoicePlay, and Accent.

Elaine Chao, M.Ed is a San Francisco Bay Area-based vocalist, multi-instrumentalist, vocal percussionist, and songwriter whose career spans a cappella, contemporary worship, and classical music. She has leveraged her training in classical and choral music over the course of her contemporary performance, including in orchestras for musical theatre and in sacred spaces. In addition to music, she also is a martial artist and published author. She currently leads a product management team at a major software company dedicated to creative expression. All statements in this podcast are her own and do not reflect the opinions of her employer.

]]>Listen to the song

  1. YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v1d5c1fVxSA
  2. Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/track/3TQbr3G3U5wlwEJejmqC1F
  3. Apple Music - https://music.apple.com/us/song/never-on-the-day-you-leave/1224353385
  4. Amazon - https://music.amazon.com/albums/B06Y3HV2N3?marketplaceId=ATVPDKIKX0DER&musicTerritory=US&ref=dm_sh_gArDR5BzTxFt1Suiqwo03YUHf&trackAsin=B06Y3R6LPH

Other links

  1. “Further Notes on Scenius,” May 2017, Austin Kleon, quoting Brian Eno on the term “Scenius”

Key takeaways

  1. Trist and Elaine discuss the storytelling and lyrical depth of John Mayer’s song “Never on the Day You Leave,” highlighting its emotional journey and impactful outro
  2. The song's minimalistic instrumentation, including acoustic and clean electric elements, creates a sense of intimacy and supports the poignant lyrics, emphasizing the emotional weight of the narrative
  3. In the mailbag segment, Elaine and Trist emphasize the critical role of local music venues and audiences in fostering emerging artists and creating a thriving music community

About us

Trist Curless is a Los Angeles-based vocalist, educator, and sound engineer. As a performer, Trist has toured worldwide as a co-founder of the pop-jazz vocal group m-pact and a 10 year member of the Grammy-award winning The Manhattan Transfer. In addition to these two vocal powerhouse groups, he’s also performed with Take 6, Bobby McFerrin, New York Voices, Vox Audio, Naturally 7, and The Swingle Singers. His latest venture, The LHR Project, is a new vocal group collective celebrating legendary jazz vocal group Lambert, Hendricks, and Ross.

As an audio engineer, Trist has toured nationally with several vocal groups and bands in a large variety of venues, working for Grammy award winners Pentatonix and Take 6, as well as prominent a cappella vocal groups Straight No Chaser, VoicePlay, and Accent.

Elaine Chao, M.Ed is a San Francisco Bay Area-based vocalist, multi-instrumentalist, vocal percussionist, and songwriter whose career spans a cappella, contemporary worship, and classical music. She has leveraged her training in classical and choral music over the course of her contemporary performance, including in orchestras for musical theatre and in sacred spaces. In addition to music, she also is a martial artist and published author. She currently leads a product management team at a major software company dedicated to creative expression. All statements in this podcast are her own and do not reflect the opinions of her employer.

]]>3165ace5-4a61-4584-9b08-04159a71dbafTue, 13 Jan 2026 06:00:00 -070030:54falsefull99Hocket, pocket, and a surprise brass breakdown: Workin' Day and Night (Michael Jackson)Hocket, pocket, and a surprise brass breakdown: Workin' Day and Night (Michael Jackson)Listen to the song

  1. YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MWnyCxva6bA
  2. Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/track/6BdiFsPMPkSEEO4fFXFVWX
  3. Apple Music - https://music.apple.com/us/song/workin-day-and-night/186166410
  4. Amazon - https://amazon.com/music/player/albums/B00138KJY0?marketplaceId=ATVPDKIKX0DER&musicTerritory=US&ref=dm_sh_n0DKAlMsv9XvZL5bSVgX5cY0z&trackAsin=B00137QO0O

Other links

  1. Hocket in horns breakdown
  2. Jackson family demo of Workin’ Day and Night
  3. Horns in the NY subway station (Lucky Chops)

Key takeaways

  1. In this episode, Trist and Elaine explore how Michael Jackson incorporates the ancient musical technique of hocket, originating from 13th-14th century choral music, into his song "Workin' Day and Night," creating a seamless melody from alternating instrumental parts
  2. The discussion highlights the rich, human elements of the "Off the Wall" album, including live brass sections, hand drums, and vocal percussive sounds, contrasting it with later albums that relied more heavily on synthesizers and programmed sounds
  3. Elaine and Trist discuss how musicians with corporate jobs can play a vital role in the music industry by using their income to fund projects, pay fellow musicians, and sustain their passion for music while maintaining financial stability

About us

Trist Curless is a Los Angeles-based vocalist, educator, and sound engineer. As a performer, Trist has toured worldwide as a co-founder of the pop-jazz vocal group m-pact and a 10 year member of the Grammy-award winning The Manhattan Transfer. In addition to these two vocal powerhouse groups, he’s also performed with Take 6, Bobby McFerrin, New York Voices, Vox Audio, Naturally 7, and The Swingle Singers. His latest venture, The LHR Project, is a new vocal group collective celebrating legendary jazz vocal group Lambert, Hendricks, and Ross.


As an audio engineer, Trist has toured nationally with several vocal groups and bands in a large variety of venues, working for Grammy award winners Pentatonix and Take 6, as well as prominent a cappella vocal groups Straight No Chaser, VoicePlay, and Accent.


Elaine Chao, M.Ed is a San Francisco Bay Area-based vocalist, multi-instrumentalist, vocal percussionist, and songwriter whose career spans a cappella, contemporary worship, and classical music. She has leveraged her training in classical and choral music over the course of her contemporary performance, including in orchestras for musical theatre and in sacred spaces. In addition to music, she also is a martial artist and published author. She currently leads a product management team at a major software company dedicated to creative expression. All statements in this podcast are her own and do not reflect the opinions of her employer.

]]>Listen to the song

  1. YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MWnyCxva6bA
  2. Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/track/6BdiFsPMPkSEEO4fFXFVWX
  3. Apple Music - https://music.apple.com/us/song/workin-day-and-night/186166410
  4. Amazon - https://amazon.com/music/player/albums/B00138KJY0?marketplaceId=ATVPDKIKX0DER&musicTerritory=US&ref=dm_sh_n0DKAlMsv9XvZL5bSVgX5cY0z&trackAsin=B00137QO0O

Other links

  1. Hocket in horns breakdown
  2. Jackson family demo of Workin’ Day and Night
  3. Horns in the NY subway station (Lucky Chops)

Key takeaways

  1. In this episode, Trist and Elaine explore how Michael Jackson incorporates the ancient musical technique of hocket, originating from 13th-14th century choral music, into his song "Workin' Day and Night," creating a seamless melody from alternating instrumental parts
  2. The discussion highlights the rich, human elements of the "Off the Wall" album, including live brass sections, hand drums, and vocal percussive sounds, contrasting it with later albums that relied more heavily on synthesizers and programmed sounds
  3. Elaine and Trist discuss how musicians with corporate jobs can play a vital role in the music industry by using their income to fund projects, pay fellow musicians, and sustain their passion for music while maintaining financial stability

About us

Trist Curless is a Los Angeles-based vocalist, educator, and sound engineer. As a performer, Trist has toured worldwide as a co-founder of the pop-jazz vocal group m-pact and a 10 year member of the Grammy-award winning The Manhattan Transfer. In addition to these two vocal powerhouse groups, he’s also performed with Take 6, Bobby McFerrin, New York Voices, Vox Audio, Naturally 7, and The Swingle Singers. His latest venture, The LHR Project, is a new vocal group collective celebrating legendary jazz vocal group Lambert, Hendricks, and Ross.


As an audio engineer, Trist has toured nationally with several vocal groups and bands in a large variety of venues, working for Grammy award winners Pentatonix and Take 6, as well as prominent a cappella vocal groups Straight No Chaser, VoicePlay, and Accent.


Elaine Chao, M.Ed is a San Francisco Bay Area-based vocalist, multi-instrumentalist, vocal percussionist, and songwriter whose career spans a cappella, contemporary worship, and classical music. She has leveraged her training in classical and choral music over the course of her contemporary performance, including in orchestras for musical theatre and in sacred spaces. In addition to music, she also is a martial artist and published author. She currently leads a product management team at a major software company dedicated to creative expression. All statements in this podcast are her own and do not reflect the opinions of her employer.

]]>dfac31ed-7d4e-4b28-ba93-95598655ed82Tue, 06 Jan 2026 06:00:00 -070031:49falsefull88Vocal jazz, doo-wop, and a little melodica: In the Still of the Night (I’ll Remember) (Johnny Mathis)Vocal jazz, doo-wop, and a little melodica: In the Still of the Night (I’ll Remember) (Johnny Mathis)Listen to the song


Other links


Key takeaways

  • Trist and Elaine discuss Johnny Mathis' rendition of "In the Still of the Night (I'll Remember)" with Take 6, highlighting the unique arrangement and the contrast between Mathis' wide vibrato and Take 6's tight, straight-toned jazz harmonies
  • The hosts analyze the distinct features of Take 6's arrangement, including close vocal harmonies, walking bass lines, syncopated backgrounds, subtle jazz chord tensions, and the use of vocal techniques to mimic instrumental sounds
  • In the mailbag portion, Trist and Elaine discuss different approaches to merchandise, such as limited runs, and how these strategies can help artists create a sense of exclusiveness and urgency to purchase. ​ They also touch on evaluating the return on investment of merchandise sales, especially for indie artists​


About us


Trist Curless is a Los Angeles-based vocalist, educator, and sound engineer. As a performer, Trist has toured worldwide as a co-founder of the pop-jazz vocal group m-pact and a 10 year member of the Grammy-award winning The Manhattan Transfer. In addition to these two vocal powerhouse groups, he’s also performed with Take 6, Bobby McFerrin, New York Voices, Vox Audio, Naturally 7, and The Swingle Singers. His latest venture, The LHR Project, is a new vocal group collective celebrating legendary jazz vocal group Lambert, Hendricks, and Ross.


As an audio engineer, Trist has toured nationally with several vocal groups and bands in a large variety of venues, working for Grammy award winners Pentatonix and Take 6, as well as prominent a cappella vocal groups Straight No Chaser, VoicePlay, and Accent.


Elaine Chao, M.Ed is a San Francisco Bay Area-based vocalist, multi-instrumentalist, vocal percussionist, and songwriter whose career spans a cappella, contemporary worship, and classical music. She has leveraged her training in classical and choral music over the course of her contemporary performance, including in orchestras for musical theatre and in sacred spaces. In addition to music, she also is a martial artist and published author. She currently leads a product management team at a major software company dedicated to creative expression. All statements in this podcast are her own and do not reflect the opinions of her employer.




]]>Listen to the song


Other links


Key takeaways

  • Trist and Elaine discuss Johnny Mathis' rendition of "In the Still of the Night (I'll Remember)" with Take 6, highlighting the unique arrangement and the contrast between Mathis' wide vibrato and Take 6's tight, straight-toned jazz harmonies
  • The hosts analyze the distinct features of Take 6's arrangement, including close vocal harmonies, walking bass lines, syncopated backgrounds, subtle jazz chord tensions, and the use of vocal techniques to mimic instrumental sounds
  • In the mailbag portion, Trist and Elaine discuss different approaches to merchandise, such as limited runs, and how these strategies can help artists create a sense of exclusiveness and urgency to purchase. ​ They also touch on evaluating the return on investment of merchandise sales, especially for indie artists​


About us


Trist Curless is a Los Angeles-based vocalist, educator, and sound engineer. As a performer, Trist has toured worldwide as a co-founder of the pop-jazz vocal group m-pact and a 10 year member of the Grammy-award winning The Manhattan Transfer. In addition to these two vocal powerhouse groups, he’s also performed with Take 6, Bobby McFerrin, New York Voices, Vox Audio, Naturally 7, and The Swingle Singers. His latest venture, The LHR Project, is a new vocal group collective celebrating legendary jazz vocal group Lambert, Hendricks, and Ross.


As an audio engineer, Trist has toured nationally with several vocal groups and bands in a large variety of venues, working for Grammy award winners Pentatonix and Take 6, as well as prominent a cappella vocal groups Straight No Chaser, VoicePlay, and Accent.


Elaine Chao, M.Ed is a San Francisco Bay Area-based vocalist, multi-instrumentalist, vocal percussionist, and songwriter whose career spans a cappella, contemporary worship, and classical music. She has leveraged her training in classical and choral music over the course of her contemporary performance, including in orchestras for musical theatre and in sacred spaces. In addition to music, she also is a martial artist and published author. She currently leads a product management team at a major software company dedicated to creative expression. All statements in this podcast are her own and do not reflect the opinions of her employer.




]]>882d91d4-f7dd-4738-b7ef-a062f6df1d2cTue, 30 Dec 2025 06:00:00 -070031:33falsefull77Standards, phrasing, and the jazz ballad: Over the Rainbow (Lorez Alexandria)Standards, phrasing, and the jazz ballad: Over the Rainbow (Lorez Alexandria)Listen to the song


Other links



Key takeaways

  • Trist and Elaine discuss Lorez Alexandria’s take on the jazz classic “Over the Rainbow,” which introduces an intro from “Sing a Rainbow,” performed by Peggy Lee in “Pete Kelly’s Blues.” Topics include the relationship with theme and variation, back phrasing, and the push and pull with jazz instrumentalists
  • In the Mailbag portion, Trist and Elaine reflect on the importance of creativity and expression in helping people connect, discover their true selves, and understand the human experience. They go on to discuss what type of activity to them brings meaning and connection in the context of an artist’s contribution to the world


About us

Trist Curless is a Los Angeles-based vocalist, educator, and sound engineer. As a performer, Trist has toured worldwide as a co-founder of the pop-jazz vocal group m-pact and a 10 year member of the Grammy-award winning The Manhattan Transfer. In addition to these two vocal powerhouse groups, he’s also performed with Take 6, Bobby McFerrin, New York Voices, Vox Audio, Naturally 7, and The Swingle Singers. His latest venture, The LHR Project, is a new vocal group collective celebrating legendary jazz vocal group Lambert, Hendricks, and Ross.


As an audio engineer, Trist has toured nationally with several vocal groups and bands in a large variety of venues, working for Grammy award winners Pentatonix and Take 6, as well as prominent a cappella vocal groups Straight No Chaser, VoicePlay, and Accent.


Elaine Chao, M.Ed is a San Francisco Bay Area-based vocalist, multi-instrumentalist, vocal percussionist, and songwriter whose career spans a cappella, contemporary worship, and classical music. She has leveraged her training in classical and choral music over the course of her contemporary performance, including in orchestras for musical theatre and in sacred spaces. In addition to music, she also is a martial artist and published author. She currently leads a product management team at a major software company dedicated to creative expression. All statements in this podcast are her own and do not reflect the opinions of her employer.



]]>Listen to the song


Other links



Key takeaways

  • Trist and Elaine discuss Lorez Alexandria’s take on the jazz classic “Over the Rainbow,” which introduces an intro from “Sing a Rainbow,” performed by Peggy Lee in “Pete Kelly’s Blues.” Topics include the relationship with theme and variation, back phrasing, and the push and pull with jazz instrumentalists
  • In the Mailbag portion, Trist and Elaine reflect on the importance of creativity and expression in helping people connect, discover their true selves, and understand the human experience. They go on to discuss what type of activity to them brings meaning and connection in the context of an artist’s contribution to the world


About us

Trist Curless is a Los Angeles-based vocalist, educator, and sound engineer. As a performer, Trist has toured worldwide as a co-founder of the pop-jazz vocal group m-pact and a 10 year member of the Grammy-award winning The Manhattan Transfer. In addition to these two vocal powerhouse groups, he’s also performed with Take 6, Bobby McFerrin, New York Voices, Vox Audio, Naturally 7, and The Swingle Singers. His latest venture, The LHR Project, is a new vocal group collective celebrating legendary jazz vocal group Lambert, Hendricks, and Ross.


As an audio engineer, Trist has toured nationally with several vocal groups and bands in a large variety of venues, working for Grammy award winners Pentatonix and Take 6, as well as prominent a cappella vocal groups Straight No Chaser, VoicePlay, and Accent.


Elaine Chao, M.Ed is a San Francisco Bay Area-based vocalist, multi-instrumentalist, vocal percussionist, and songwriter whose career spans a cappella, contemporary worship, and classical music. She has leveraged her training in classical and choral music over the course of her contemporary performance, including in orchestras for musical theatre and in sacred spaces. In addition to music, she also is a martial artist and published author. She currently leads a product management team at a major software company dedicated to creative expression. All statements in this podcast are her own and do not reflect the opinions of her employer.



]]>940f9d81-5841-4a27-bb6f-0772f3731e99Tue, 23 Dec 2025 06:00:00 -070031:29falsefull66Anthems, harmonies, and unexpected soul: If You Believe (Kenny Loggins)Anthems, harmonies, and unexpected soul: If You Believe (Kenny Loggins)Listen to the song

  1. YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rG0eW6zHoyc
  2. Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/track/2thU0AOHF6C9Iwnrch1oHA?si=7a2cab7b25b848a3
  3. Apple Music - https://music.apple.com/us/song/if-you-believe/202777729
  4. Amazon - https://amazon.com/music/player/albums/B00138CRKY?marketplaceId=ATVPDKIKX0DER&musicTerritory=US&ref=dm_sh_dpAh3rAcWNutnxKDLPr1dx5Z3&trackAsin=B00137RMKK

Key takeaways

  1. Kenny Loggins' song "If You Believe" from his 1991 album Leap of Faith features a unique a cappella intro that features three female singers who all had successes as background singers and successes as solo artists: Sheryl Crow, Siedah Garrett, and Ruth Pointer
  2. This song can be taken in context of the world history in the late 1980s and early 1990s, as well as in the context of Loggins’ career
  3. In the Mailbag segment, Trist and Elaine discuss the importance of external feedback, both in individual and group settings, in helping musicians grow

About us

Trist Curless is a Los Angeles-based vocalist, educator, and sound engineer. As a performer, Trist has toured worldwide as a co-founder of the pop-jazz vocal group m-pact and a 10 year member of the Grammy-award winning The Manhattan Transfer. In addition to these two vocal powerhouse groups, he’s also performed with Take 6, Bobby McFerrin, New York Voices, Vox Audio, Naturally 7, and The Swingle Singers. His latest venture, The LHR Project, is a new vocal group collective celebrating legendary jazz vocal group Lambert, Hendricks, and Ross.

As an audio engineer, Trist has toured nationally with several vocal groups and bands in a large variety of venues, working for Grammy award winners Pentatonix and Take 6, as well as prominent a cappella vocal groups Straight No Chaser, VoicePlay, and Accent.


Elaine Chao, M.Ed is a San Francisco Bay Area-based vocalist, multi-instrumentalist, vocal percussionist, and songwriter whose career spans a cappella, contemporary worship, and classical music. She has leveraged her training in classical and choral music over the course of her contemporary performance, including in orchestras for musical theatre and in sacred spaces. In addition to music, she also is a martial artist and published author. She currently leads a product management team at a major software company dedicated to creative expression. All statements in this podcast are her own and do not reflect the opinions of her employer.

]]>Listen to the song

  1. YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rG0eW6zHoyc
  2. Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/track/2thU0AOHF6C9Iwnrch1oHA?si=7a2cab7b25b848a3
  3. Apple Music - https://music.apple.com/us/song/if-you-believe/202777729
  4. Amazon - https://amazon.com/music/player/albums/B00138CRKY?marketplaceId=ATVPDKIKX0DER&musicTerritory=US&ref=dm_sh_dpAh3rAcWNutnxKDLPr1dx5Z3&trackAsin=B00137RMKK

Key takeaways

  1. Kenny Loggins' song "If You Believe" from his 1991 album Leap of Faith features a unique a cappella intro that features three female singers who all had successes as background singers and successes as solo artists: Sheryl Crow, Siedah Garrett, and Ruth Pointer
  2. This song can be taken in context of the world history in the late 1980s and early 1990s, as well as in the context of Loggins’ career
  3. In the Mailbag segment, Trist and Elaine discuss the importance of external feedback, both in individual and group settings, in helping musicians grow

About us

Trist Curless is a Los Angeles-based vocalist, educator, and sound engineer. As a performer, Trist has toured worldwide as a co-founder of the pop-jazz vocal group m-pact and a 10 year member of the Grammy-award winning The Manhattan Transfer. In addition to these two vocal powerhouse groups, he’s also performed with Take 6, Bobby McFerrin, New York Voices, Vox Audio, Naturally 7, and The Swingle Singers. His latest venture, The LHR Project, is a new vocal group collective celebrating legendary jazz vocal group Lambert, Hendricks, and Ross.

As an audio engineer, Trist has toured nationally with several vocal groups and bands in a large variety of venues, working for Grammy award winners Pentatonix and Take 6, as well as prominent a cappella vocal groups Straight No Chaser, VoicePlay, and Accent.


Elaine Chao, M.Ed is a San Francisco Bay Area-based vocalist, multi-instrumentalist, vocal percussionist, and songwriter whose career spans a cappella, contemporary worship, and classical music. She has leveraged her training in classical and choral music over the course of her contemporary performance, including in orchestras for musical theatre and in sacred spaces. In addition to music, she also is a martial artist and published author. She currently leads a product management team at a major software company dedicated to creative expression. All statements in this podcast are her own and do not reflect the opinions of her employer.

]]>f5b63d9a-a135-4581-8895-a783e32a8cf0Tue, 16 Dec 2025 06:00:00 -070031:31falsefull55Minimalism, metaphor, and heartbreak: Never Dreamed You'd Leave in Summer (Stevie Wonder)Minimalism, metaphor, and heartbreak: Never Dreamed You'd Leave in Summer (Stevie Wonder)Listen to the song

  1. YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FrLDXORRDpo&list=RDFrLDXORRDpo
  2. Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/track/37Coai9PTZrf39716Ypi0S
  3. Apple Music - https://music.apple.com/us/song/never-dreamed-youd-leave-in-summer/1443793772
  4. Amazon - https://music.amazon.com/albums/B000VWPMX2?marketplaceId=ATVPDKIKX0DER&musicTerritory=US&ref=dm_sh_SAOWAZX6uO74jq9sKAZbYD40N&trackAsin=B000VWQXJY

Key takeaways

  1. Despite Stevie Wonder’s typical full band sound, this ballad is a minimalistic experience, with just a piano, upright bass, and a light orchestra and choir
  2. Like most of his music, Stevie Wonder creates unexpected chord progressions that deviate from traditional music rules. However, these chord progressions never distract, only enhance his music
  3. Elaine and Trist also discuss album order and how it could be influenced by the limitations of available technology, and how it differs from creating a set for a live set
  4. In the Mailbag segment, Elaine and Trist explore the concept of a “calling” in music

About us


Trist Curless is a Los Angeles-based vocalist, educator, and sound engineer. As a performer, Trist has toured worldwide as a co-founder of the pop-jazz vocal group m-pact and a 10 year member of the Grammy-award winning The Manhattan Transfer. In addition to these two vocal powerhouse groups, he’s also performed with Take 6, Bobby McFerrin, New York Voices, Vox Audio, Naturally 7, and The Swingle Singers. His latest venture, The LHR Project, is a new vocal group collective celebrating legendary jazz vocal group Lambert, Hendricks, and Ross.


As an audio engineer, Trist has toured nationally with several vocal groups and bands in a large variety of venues, working for Grammy award winners Pentatonix and Take 6, as well as prominent a cappella vocal groups Straight No Chaser, VoicePlay, and Accent.


Elaine Chao, M.Ed is a San Francisco Bay Area-based vocalist, multi-instrumentalist, vocal percussionist, and songwriter whose career spans a cappella, contemporary worship, and classical music. She has leveraged her training in classical and choral music over the course of her contemporary performance, including in orchestras for musical theatre and in sacred spaces. In addition to music, she also is a martial artist and published author. She currently leads a product management team at a major software company dedicated to creative expression. All statements in this podcast are her own and do not reflect the opinions of her employer.


Contact us

  1. Email us at: themusiciansloupe@gmail.com
  2. Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themusiciansloupe/
  3. Talk with us on Threads: https://www.threads.com/@themusiciansloupe

]]>Listen to the song

  1. YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FrLDXORRDpo&list=RDFrLDXORRDpo
  2. Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/track/37Coai9PTZrf39716Ypi0S
  3. Apple Music - https://music.apple.com/us/song/never-dreamed-youd-leave-in-summer/1443793772
  4. Amazon - https://music.amazon.com/albums/B000VWPMX2?marketplaceId=ATVPDKIKX0DER&musicTerritory=US&ref=dm_sh_SAOWAZX6uO74jq9sKAZbYD40N&trackAsin=B000VWQXJY

Key takeaways

  1. Despite Stevie Wonder’s typical full band sound, this ballad is a minimalistic experience, with just a piano, upright bass, and a light orchestra and choir
  2. Like most of his music, Stevie Wonder creates unexpected chord progressions that deviate from traditional music rules. However, these chord progressions never distract, only enhance his music
  3. Elaine and Trist also discuss album order and how it could be influenced by the limitations of available technology, and how it differs from creating a set for a live set
  4. In the Mailbag segment, Elaine and Trist explore the concept of a “calling” in music

About us


Trist Curless is a Los Angeles-based vocalist, educator, and sound engineer. As a performer, Trist has toured worldwide as a co-founder of the pop-jazz vocal group m-pact and a 10 year member of the Grammy-award winning The Manhattan Transfer. In addition to these two vocal powerhouse groups, he’s also performed with Take 6, Bobby McFerrin, New York Voices, Vox Audio, Naturally 7, and The Swingle Singers. His latest venture, The LHR Project, is a new vocal group collective celebrating legendary jazz vocal group Lambert, Hendricks, and Ross.


As an audio engineer, Trist has toured nationally with several vocal groups and bands in a large variety of venues, working for Grammy award winners Pentatonix and Take 6, as well as prominent a cappella vocal groups Straight No Chaser, VoicePlay, and Accent.


Elaine Chao, M.Ed is a San Francisco Bay Area-based vocalist, multi-instrumentalist, vocal percussionist, and songwriter whose career spans a cappella, contemporary worship, and classical music. She has leveraged her training in classical and choral music over the course of her contemporary performance, including in orchestras for musical theatre and in sacred spaces. In addition to music, she also is a martial artist and published author. She currently leads a product management team at a major software company dedicated to creative expression. All statements in this podcast are her own and do not reflect the opinions of her employer.


Contact us

  1. Email us at: themusiciansloupe@gmail.com
  2. Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themusiciansloupe/
  3. Talk with us on Threads: https://www.threads.com/@themusiciansloupe

]]>90ae8f5f-9765-4687-8d11-1570ad897095Tue, 09 Dec 2025 06:00:00 -070032:41falsefull44BONUS: A belated introductionBONUS: A belated introductionJoin us for this special bonus episode: Trist and Elaine introduce themselves, cover their own musical backgrounds, and share why they’re doing this podcast.

Other Links



About us


Trist Curless is a Los Angeles-based vocalist, educator, and sound engineer. As a performer, Trist has toured worldwide as a co-founder of the pop-jazz vocal group m-pact and a 10 year member of the Grammy-award winning The Manhattan Transfer. In addition to these two vocal powerhouse groups, he’s also performed with Take 6, Bobby McFerrin, New York Voices, Vox Audio, Naturally 7, and The Swingle Singers. His latest venture, The LHR Project, is a new vocal group collective celebrating legendary jazz vocal group Lambert, Hendricks, and Ross.


As an audio engineer, Trist has toured nationally with several vocal groups and bands in a large variety of venues, working for Grammy award winners Pentatonix and Take 6, as well as prominent a cappella vocal groups Straight No Chaser, VoicePlay, and Accent.


Elaine Chao, M.Ed is a San Francisco Bay Area-based vocalist, multi-instrumentalist, vocal percussionist, and songwriter whose career spans a cappella, contemporary worship, and classical music. She has leveraged her training in classical and choral music over the course of her contemporary performance, including in orchestras for musical theatre and in sacred spaces. In addition to music, she also is a martial artist and published author. She currently leads a product management team at a major software company dedicated to creative expression. All statements in this podcast are her own and do not reflect the opinions of her employer.


Contact us



]]>Join us for this special bonus episode: Trist and Elaine introduce themselves, cover their own musical backgrounds, and share why they’re doing this podcast.

Other Links



About us


Trist Curless is a Los Angeles-based vocalist, educator, and sound engineer. As a performer, Trist has toured worldwide as a co-founder of the pop-jazz vocal group m-pact and a 10 year member of the Grammy-award winning The Manhattan Transfer. In addition to these two vocal powerhouse groups, he’s also performed with Take 6, Bobby McFerrin, New York Voices, Vox Audio, Naturally 7, and The Swingle Singers. His latest venture, The LHR Project, is a new vocal group collective celebrating legendary jazz vocal group Lambert, Hendricks, and Ross.


As an audio engineer, Trist has toured nationally with several vocal groups and bands in a large variety of venues, working for Grammy award winners Pentatonix and Take 6, as well as prominent a cappella vocal groups Straight No Chaser, VoicePlay, and Accent.


Elaine Chao, M.Ed is a San Francisco Bay Area-based vocalist, multi-instrumentalist, vocal percussionist, and songwriter whose career spans a cappella, contemporary worship, and classical music. She has leveraged her training in classical and choral music over the course of her contemporary performance, including in orchestras for musical theatre and in sacred spaces. In addition to music, she also is a martial artist and published author. She currently leads a product management team at a major software company dedicated to creative expression. All statements in this podcast are her own and do not reflect the opinions of her employer.


Contact us



]]>7532e26a-79a0-462d-ae52-a8aa7752a1b6Wed, 03 Dec 2025 06:00:00 -070019:44falsefullClever songwriting, vintage vibes, and a bit of whimsy: The Laundromat Swing (Rachael and Vilray)Clever songwriting, vintage vibes, and a bit of whimsy: The Laundromat Swing (Rachael and Vilray)Listen to the song


Other links


Key Takeaways

  • The featured song, “The Laundromat Swing,” is a clever and compact duet by Racahel and Vilray, released in 2019 but styled to emulate 1940s music
  • The recording style mirrors the 1940s, using a single high-quality microphone and live balancing, which adds warmth and authenticity to the sound. ​
  • The song's lyrics are clever and nostalgic, using 1940s slang and focusing on a lighthearted, relatable topic about making a good impression
  • In the mailbag segment, Elaine and Trist discuss the importance of marketing and branding for creatives, emphasizing that quality alone is often not enough for success

About us

Trist Curless is a Los Angeles-based vocalist, educator, and sound engineer. As a performer, Trist has toured worldwide as a co-founder of the pop-jazz vocal group m-pact and a 10 year member of the Grammy-award winning The Manhattan Transfer. In addition to these two vocal powerhouse groups, he’s also performed with Take 6, Bobby McFerrin, New York Voices, Vox Audio, Naturally 7, and The Swingle Singers. His latest venture, The LHR Project, is a new vocal group collective celebrating legendary jazz vocal group Lambert, Hendricks, and Ross.

As an audio engineer, Trist has toured nationally with several vocal groups and bands in a large variety of venues, working for Grammy award winners Pentatonix and Take 6, as well as prominent a cappella vocal groups Straight No Chaser, VoicePlay, and Accent.

Elaine Chao, M.Ed is a San Francisco Bay Area-based vocalist, multi-instrumentalist, vocal percussionist, and songwriter whose career spans a cappella, contemporary worship, and classical music. She has leveraged her training in classical and choral music over the course of her contemporary performance, including in orchestras for musical theatre and in sacred spaces. In addition to music, she also is a martial artist and published author. She currently leads a product management team at a major software company dedicated to creative expression. All statements in this podcast are her own and do not reflect the opinions of her employer.


Contact us



]]>Listen to the song


Other links


Key Takeaways

  • The featured song, “The Laundromat Swing,” is a clever and compact duet by Racahel and Vilray, released in 2019 but styled to emulate 1940s music
  • The recording style mirrors the 1940s, using a single high-quality microphone and live balancing, which adds warmth and authenticity to the sound. ​
  • The song's lyrics are clever and nostalgic, using 1940s slang and focusing on a lighthearted, relatable topic about making a good impression
  • In the mailbag segment, Elaine and Trist discuss the importance of marketing and branding for creatives, emphasizing that quality alone is often not enough for success

About us

Trist Curless is a Los Angeles-based vocalist, educator, and sound engineer. As a performer, Trist has toured worldwide as a co-founder of the pop-jazz vocal group m-pact and a 10 year member of the Grammy-award winning The Manhattan Transfer. In addition to these two vocal powerhouse groups, he’s also performed with Take 6, Bobby McFerrin, New York Voices, Vox Audio, Naturally 7, and The Swingle Singers. His latest venture, The LHR Project, is a new vocal group collective celebrating legendary jazz vocal group Lambert, Hendricks, and Ross.

As an audio engineer, Trist has toured nationally with several vocal groups and bands in a large variety of venues, working for Grammy award winners Pentatonix and Take 6, as well as prominent a cappella vocal groups Straight No Chaser, VoicePlay, and Accent.

Elaine Chao, M.Ed is a San Francisco Bay Area-based vocalist, multi-instrumentalist, vocal percussionist, and songwriter whose career spans a cappella, contemporary worship, and classical music. She has leveraged her training in classical and choral music over the course of her contemporary performance, including in orchestras for musical theatre and in sacred spaces. In addition to music, she also is a martial artist and published author. She currently leads a product management team at a major software company dedicated to creative expression. All statements in this podcast are her own and do not reflect the opinions of her employer.


Contact us



]]>aedd51e6-e138-4f05-bef5-067abab20166Tue, 02 Dec 2025 06:00:00 -070030:56falsefull33Storytelling songs, pop culture references, and the underdog: You Don’t Mess Around with Jim (Jim Croce)Storytelling songs, pop culture references, and the underdog: You Don’t Mess Around with Jim (Jim Croce)Listen to the song


Key Takeaways

  • “You Don’t Mess Around with Jim” is a story song that cleverly shifts from the crowd narrative of warning people away from a city boy bully to celebrating Slim, the country boy who overcomes
  • Trist and Elaine delve into the musical and lyrical elements of the song, covering storytelling, orchestration, and usage of pop culture references
  • In the mailbag portion, Trist and Elaine discuss creativity and whether or not it’s influenced by the time of day, or if it’s just a personal rhythm and discipline that must be mastered

About us

Trist Curless is a Los Angeles-based vocalist, educator, and sound engineer. As a performer, Trist has toured worldwide as a co-founder of the pop-jazz vocal group m-pact and a 10 year member of the Grammy-award winning The Manhattan Transfer. In addition to these two vocal powerhouse groups, he’s also performed with Take 6, Bobby McFerrin, New York Voices, Vox Audio, Naturally 7, and The Swingle Singers. His latest venture, The LHR Project, is a new vocal group collective celebrating legendary jazz vocal group Lambert, Hendricks, and Ross.

As an audio engineer, Trist has toured nationally with several vocal groups and bands in a large variety of venues, working for Grammy award winners Pentatonix and Take 6, as well as prominent a cappella vocal groups Straight No Chaser, VoicePlay, and Accent.

Elaine Chao, M.Ed is a San Francisco Bay Area-based vocalist, multi-instrumentalist, vocal percussionist, and songwriter whose career spans a cappella, contemporary worship, and classical music. She has leveraged her training in classical and choral music over the course of her contemporary performance, including in orchestras for musical theatre and in sacred spaces. In addition to music, she also is a martial artist and published author. She currently leads a product management team at a major software company dedicated to creative expression. All statements in this podcast are her own and do not reflect the opinions of her employer.

Contact us



]]>Listen to the song


Key Takeaways

  • “You Don’t Mess Around with Jim” is a story song that cleverly shifts from the crowd narrative of warning people away from a city boy bully to celebrating Slim, the country boy who overcomes
  • Trist and Elaine delve into the musical and lyrical elements of the song, covering storytelling, orchestration, and usage of pop culture references
  • In the mailbag portion, Trist and Elaine discuss creativity and whether or not it’s influenced by the time of day, or if it’s just a personal rhythm and discipline that must be mastered

About us

Trist Curless is a Los Angeles-based vocalist, educator, and sound engineer. As a performer, Trist has toured worldwide as a co-founder of the pop-jazz vocal group m-pact and a 10 year member of the Grammy-award winning The Manhattan Transfer. In addition to these two vocal powerhouse groups, he’s also performed with Take 6, Bobby McFerrin, New York Voices, Vox Audio, Naturally 7, and The Swingle Singers. His latest venture, The LHR Project, is a new vocal group collective celebrating legendary jazz vocal group Lambert, Hendricks, and Ross.

As an audio engineer, Trist has toured nationally with several vocal groups and bands in a large variety of venues, working for Grammy award winners Pentatonix and Take 6, as well as prominent a cappella vocal groups Straight No Chaser, VoicePlay, and Accent.

Elaine Chao, M.Ed is a San Francisco Bay Area-based vocalist, multi-instrumentalist, vocal percussionist, and songwriter whose career spans a cappella, contemporary worship, and classical music. She has leveraged her training in classical and choral music over the course of her contemporary performance, including in orchestras for musical theatre and in sacred spaces. In addition to music, she also is a martial artist and published author. She currently leads a product management team at a major software company dedicated to creative expression. All statements in this podcast are her own and do not reflect the opinions of her employer.

Contact us



]]>415eb3f3-986b-47e3-b137-3376dc618a63Tue, 25 Nov 2025 06:00:00 -070029:58falsefull22Retro funk, pop, and a powerful bridge: Half of the Way (Vulfpeck)Retro funk, pop, and a powerful bridge: Half of the Way (Vulfpeck)Listen to the song we're discussing:


References


Key Takeaways

  • “Half of the Way” is a song by Vulfpeck, a funk and soul band. This particular song has a strong pop structure, catchy hooks, and retro sound
  • The discussion includes a discussion of the role of a bridge in pop music, and discusses how different this one is from the main body of the song
  • The Mailbag portion of the discussion focuses on the relationship between social media and the music industry, and the ongoing importance of live performances and word-of-mouth

About us

Trist Curless is a Los Angeles-based vocalist, educator, and sound engineer. As a performer, Trist has toured worldwide as a co-founder of the pop-jazz vocal group m-pact and a 10 year member of the Grammy-award winning The Manhattan Transfer. In addition to these two vocal powerhouse groups, he’s also performed with Take 6, Bobby McFerrin, New York Voices, Vox Audio, Naturally 7, and The Swingle Singers. His latest venture, The LHR Project, is a new vocal group collective celebrating legendary jazz vocal group Lambert, Hendricks, and Ross.

As an audio engineer, Trist has toured nationally with several vocal groups and bands in a large variety of venues, working for Grammy award winners Pentatonix and Take 6, as well as prominent a cappella vocal groups Straight No Chaser, VoicePlay, and Accent.

Elaine Chao, M.Ed is a San Francisco Bay Area-based vocalist, multi-instrumentalist, vocal percussionist, and songwriter whose career spans a cappella, contemporary worship, and classical music. She has leveraged her training in classical and choral music over the course of her contemporary performance, including in orchestras for musical theatre and in sacred spaces. In addition to music, she also is a martial artist and published author. She currently leads a product management team at a major software company dedicated to creative expression. All statements in this podcast are her own and do not reflect the opinions of her employer.

Contact us



]]>Listen to the song we're discussing:


References


Key Takeaways

  • “Half of the Way” is a song by Vulfpeck, a funk and soul band. This particular song has a strong pop structure, catchy hooks, and retro sound
  • The discussion includes a discussion of the role of a bridge in pop music, and discusses how different this one is from the main body of the song
  • The Mailbag portion of the discussion focuses on the relationship between social media and the music industry, and the ongoing importance of live performances and word-of-mouth

About us

Trist Curless is a Los Angeles-based vocalist, educator, and sound engineer. As a performer, Trist has toured worldwide as a co-founder of the pop-jazz vocal group m-pact and a 10 year member of the Grammy-award winning The Manhattan Transfer. In addition to these two vocal powerhouse groups, he’s also performed with Take 6, Bobby McFerrin, New York Voices, Vox Audio, Naturally 7, and The Swingle Singers. His latest venture, The LHR Project, is a new vocal group collective celebrating legendary jazz vocal group Lambert, Hendricks, and Ross.

As an audio engineer, Trist has toured nationally with several vocal groups and bands in a large variety of venues, working for Grammy award winners Pentatonix and Take 6, as well as prominent a cappella vocal groups Straight No Chaser, VoicePlay, and Accent.

Elaine Chao, M.Ed is a San Francisco Bay Area-based vocalist, multi-instrumentalist, vocal percussionist, and songwriter whose career spans a cappella, contemporary worship, and classical music. She has leveraged her training in classical and choral music over the course of her contemporary performance, including in orchestras for musical theatre and in sacred spaces. In addition to music, she also is a martial artist and published author. She currently leads a product management team at a major software company dedicated to creative expression. All statements in this podcast are her own and do not reflect the opinions of her employer.

Contact us



]]>fc1b46b7-8d7b-4cbe-b2fe-77b0184f313bTue, 18 Nov 2025 06:00:00 -070026:53falsefull11