Bill Laswell

The Rise and Fall and Rise of Sensational

E. A. Moore

Kenneth Bobb, Art Vizthum

The Rise and Fall of Sensational explores the curious odyssey of Brooklyn underground rapper Sensational, from his early days with the seminal hip-hop group Jungle Brothers, through his promising solo career, to his downward spiral into drug addiction, homelessness, and obscurity. Despite his impossible circumstances, Sensational continues to release new material and remains an indelible force in music.

Sound and Chaos: The Story of BC Studio

Sara Leavitt, Ryan Douglass

Martin Bisi, Lee Ranaldo

For over 30 years, Martin Bisi has been recording music from his studio in Gowanus, Brooklyn. He has worked with many influential musicians, including Sonic Youth, Swans, Herbie Hancock, Brian Eno and the Dresden Dolls. Now though, he finds himself squeezed in by the approaching gentrification of his neighborhood.

Tabla Beat Science: Talamanam Sound Clash

Bill Laswell, Zakir Hussain

Filmed June 21, 2002 with 12 cameras at the legendary Fillmore in San Francisco, this DVD documents a Tabla Beat Science performance that features founders Zakir Hussain (Tablas) and Bill Laswell (Bass), along with Ustad Sultan Khan (Sarangi and Vocals), Ejigayehu "Gigi" Shibabaw (Vocals), Karsh Kale (Drums), DJ Disk (Turntable) and MIDIval PunditZ (Electronics). Directed by Alex Winter.

Bill Laswell - World Beat Sound System: Live at Soundstage

Bill Laswell, Nils Petter Molvaer

Throughout three decades, Bill Laswell has been a constant innovator, fusing seemingly disparate genres into a whole new sound. Touching upon everything from worldbeat, funk, rock, hip-hop and jazz, there are no limits to his experimental approach. Among his many talents is his ability to bring together well-matched singers and players to create a distinct style that defies easy classification. His Soundstage episode embodies his unique approach, transcending any genre boundaries and delivering an engaging performance. From the World Beat of Tabla Beat Science, to the jazzy flavors of Pharoah Sanders backed by Material, it’s an exciting mix. Other surprises include a rocking Buckethead set that includes a little breakdancing and songs by Praxis. The show culminates with an all-star performance, funked up by Bootsy Collins.