We Recommend

The foundation of Kansas city rapper and hip-hip artist Miles Megaciph' s music resides in the meaning of his name: Mental Energies Gather And Circulate In Positive Harmony. Drawing on his experiences as a Marine in Okinawa, Japan, his subsequent battles with PTSD, and his current involvement with Veterans For Peace, Megaciph's music is equally visceral, honest and hopeful. His recently released fourth album, Codeswitching, is a continuation of his hard-hitting and socially conscious perspectives on the world. We are fortunate to share an interview about his creative process, influences and other topics with the artist himself.

How does one capture in words a creative force such as Kansas City's Jen Appell? A singer-songwriter, collaborator, performer, activist, poet and open mic host, Appell's music explores "the space where humor and tragedy skate a teetering, uncomfortable line." In recent years she was, along with Kristina Ning, half of the folk duo Not Sisters. Since then she has helped stage theater productions and art installations and contributed to a comic book focused on the history of redlining in Wyandotte County, Kansas. We're delighted to share an interview with the artist herself about all these topics and more.