Cards and flowers may be sent to 1124 Larkin Way Napa, CA 94558 after Wednesday. Per the request of Dr. Cosmo and his family, donations can be made to WPRB.

A memorial in the Princeton area is currently being planned.

Here’s what fellow WPRB DJs and DJ alumni have to say about Dr. Cosmo:

One of the joys of being a member of the WPRB community is getting to know some truly amazing people. George was one of the best storytellers I’ve ever met. One particular story he told me sums up for me George’s mischievous sense of humor: He was headed to a King Crimson show around ’81/’82 and he got the idea to bring a frisbee, make his way to the front of the crowd, and wing it DIRECTLY at Bill Bruford’s bombastic gong. Crimson had, (and still has,) a behemoth touring setup, with a ludicrous number of racks and extraneous percussive instruments and it was exactly the kind of playful but harmless gesture that poked fun at that without really disrupting the show. He actually pulled it off, no doubt causing a wave of uncomfortable shifting and sidelong glares from prog fans all around him, then receded back into the crowd! Brilliant! I’ll miss George’s energy, his bottomless enthusiasm for music, his humor, and, of course, his great stories. Friday nights on WPRB will never be the same. – Lizbot, “Doubleplusgood”

George believed in the magic of radio and aimed for each show he created to form an alternate universe if possible though he might settle when they were merely much more than the sum of their parts. He was also an incredibly decent, public-spirited, and humble human being. – John Weingart, “Music You Can’t Hear on the Radio”

WPRB became considerably less creative and challenging overnight. For some reason in the hours since I heard this sad news I keep thinking of your “traffic reports” during the classical programs you hosted one summer and they bring a smile to my face. Thank you for two decades of unparalleled broadcasting and friendship. – Jon Solomon

Like many of us in WPRB-land, I was deeply saddened today to learn that our friend and colleague George Mahlberg, better known as “Dr. Cosmo,” had passed away this weekend. George was a true renaissance man with limitless interests and passions, and a consummate professional in everything he did. WPRB has lost a true friend and major presence.  – SKM

One of my very first shows on WPRB was subbing for the DJ in the timeslot before Dr. Cosmo’s “Nocturnal Transmissions.” The last song of my show was a tune on vinyl — I think it may have been The Tubes’ “White Punks on Dope” — and it was going to run over about 90 seconds into Dr. Cosmo’s time I, of course, told the good doctor he could pod it down if he wanted to start his program promptly. Instead, as soon as the clock struck 10 p.m., he abruptly stopped the 12-inch with his hand and then started spinning the record backward at different speeds all the way to the beginning of the song. At first, I was little irked and thought his action somewhat rude, until I realized that those 4 or so minutes of manipulated backward music was far more provocative than any of the sounds I had filled the airwaves with over the previous three hours. I’ve since on more than one occasion bragged about my clever “collaboration” with Dr. Cosmo. – Paddy, “All Ages Show”

[W]e had the good fortune to have Dr. Cosmo sit in with us during our show, as we had the slot before his. We had a lot of laughs, and his musical knowledge was second to none. I could ask him about some obscure sixties band, and he would whip out his Ipod and have whoever I was talking about already stored there. I particularly enjoyed the looseness of his show, and the knowledge that you could never predict where he was going next, be it some unknown European prog band, a forgotten garage band, or a total improv on some topic or event that others would never even think of, let alone broadcast it from the seat of their pants. — Frank, “Mike and Frank’s Radio Free America”

Cosmo came on board at WPRB sometime in 1991—about a year prior to me, but his experience and radio wizardry far surpassed anything in my stable. He was older than most of PRB’s other non-student DJs, and had a long résumé of radio credentials, reaching all the way back to the 70s when he’d been a programmer at L.A.’s then-adventurous K-Rock. He was also a brilliant storyteller, had a voracious appetite for unusual sounds, and most of all, he really enjoyed the company of young people who were passionate about radio. To call him an inspiration and a hero may sound trite, but after spending the last 18 hours reckoning with the news of his cruel departure, I’m having trouble denying how appropriate those terms are. Recollections on his Facebook page, as well as the phone calls and emails I’ve fielded from former WPRB colleagues seem to validate the sentiment. There are probably dozens of mic break techniques I’ve nicked from him over the years, and I feel no shame in admitting it. WPRB was beyond fortunate to have a shepherd like him, even if only a small minority of the staff were aware of how incredible his talents were. – Mike Lupica, “Hip Transistor”

Dr. Cosmo left a mark on everyone he met. His incredible radio voice and physical presence were backed with a lifetime of amazing stories to tell. He had a way of relating his adventures that was engaging and not prententious, though many of them were certainly brag-worthy. His life had taken various paths – astrophysicist, DJ, actor, writer…and he was a mentor to my budding Photoshop ambitions, having created the much reproduced “In-A-Gadda-Da-Oswald”, a brilliant retake on Jack Ruby’s assassination of Lee Harvey Oswald. – Stephanie Obodda, WPRB DJ alumna

Dr. Cosmo siezes control of the airwaves during WPRB’s inaugural membership drive, October 2007 (courtesy of Adam Flynn):

Pledge drive showdown w Dr Cosmo, Fall 2007 by adamflynn

Please join us on Friday night at 10PM ET for a special on-air event to pay tribute to our friend and colleague.

If you have memories of Dr. Cosmo and “Nocturnal Transmissions,” please share them in the comments — we’d love to hear from you!

TRENTON – Marvin James Bradshaw, son of the late Ella Bradshaw, was born Aug. 17, 1939 in Andalusia, Ala. He departed this life on Sunday, Dec. 19, 2010, at Jeanes Hospital, Philadelphia. Marvin lived most of his life in Trenton. He was employed by Princeton University and Rider University and retired in 1996. After he retired, he became a Sunday morning host of WPRB 103.3 FM, where he played some of yesterday’s and today’s best jazz music. On Dec. 26, 2010 WPRB dedicated the entire program in his memory. He was a member of Shiloh Baptist Church, Trenton. He also was a Mason and belonged to the Bordentown Lodge. Marvin especially enjoyed reading, fishing, and football. He was a lifelong fan of the New York Giants and you could always catch him, Donald Bray, and the guys at Giants Stadium or at Klotz watching the game.

Those left behind to cherish Marvin’s memory are his beloved brothers, John Bradshaw of Boston and Robert Lane (Essie) of Trenton; his sister, Lois Rodafox of Pensicola, Fla.; three children, Andrea Wells (Keith) of Evansville, Ind., John Morton of Hamilton Township and Marva Bradshaw of Lawrenceville; nine grandchildren Qiana Counts, Gabrielle Morton, Cindy Morton, Marcus Wells, Mason Wells, Keon Heaverly, Marquis Bradshaw, Johnna Morton, and Tatiana Morton; and one great-grandchild, Devyn Baldon. Marvin, Daddy, Poppa Dukes, Pop-Pop, or Uncle Marvin will always be remembered by his winning smile, his laughter, and most of all, his electrifying personality. He was wholeheartedly devoted to his family. He loved us all and desired only the best for us.

Since the mid-1990s, Marvin had been one of the cornerstones of our jazz programming, most recently co-hosting “Sunday Jazz” with Jeannie Becker. “His voice had an incredible presence on the air — full of joy and excitement for the music he loved,” remarks fellow on-air host, Julia Factorial. Our sincerest condolences to his family and friends — we will certainly miss his presence here at WPRB and on our airwaves.

Photo credit: Sam Levine

Join Her Jazz with Maria T for an in-studio performance by Philadelphia’s Party Photographers on Monday 8/23 at 9:00 PM ET sharp!

We’re big fans of their reverb-laden pop around here, and their sound hasn’t gone unnoticed in Philly either.

Here’s what the Philadelphia City Paper’s John Vettese had to say about a recent performance:

“So it’s what, only two songs in and somebody at stage left throws something at Party Photographers singer Elizabeth Rogers. She takes no guff – tosses it right back, doesn’t let it distract her from delivering on her band’s fuzzed-out pop bliss tones. Except, as we’ll see, there’s more to them than this…but dude is relentless. He continues antagonizing, and she hits a breaking point. From the center of the crowd, we watch Rogers dumping the remains of a Natty Boh on the provocateur, and he relents. And it’s back to the music. Right the fuck on.

Party Photogs get drawn into Jesus and Mary Raveonettes parallels for their speedy rhythms and reverb’d take on proto-rock n roll. And sure, the influence is undeniable. So what? It sounds phenomenal bouncing off the cement walls of Kensington DIY space The Ox. And it made the moments where they slowed it down into a tense simmer all the more striking, breathtaking. Rogers and her three bandmates… can slam you into a fierce dancing frenzy with their fastest songs. But their introverted moments have such a grip, you won’t make a peep, lest you get in a fight with the band. And you don’t want that.”

Enjoy an archived version of Monday’s in-studio performance!

Source

On Classical Discoveries Wednesday, September 16, Marvin will be joined by American composer Derek Bermel from 8:30 a.m. ET until 11:00 a.m. ET.

Derek Bermel is a clarinetist and composer whose works draw from a rich variety of musical genres including classical, jazz, pop, rock, blues, and gospel. He has received commissions from many major performers and ensembles and has been described by the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette as “one of America’s finest young composers.” He is the current Artist In Residence at the Institute for Advanced Study in Princeton.

• RSVP for this event on Facebook!

On Classical Discoveries Goes Avant-Garde Wednesday, Sept. 16 from 11:00 a.m. ET to 3:00 p.m., join Marvin for a celebration of George Crumb’s 80th Birthday!

Marvin will be joined by both James Freeman, Conductor of Orchestra 2001 and Pulitzer Prize Winning composer George Crumb.

James Freeman is artistic director and Conductor of Orchestra 2001, Philadelphia’s chamber orchestra devoted to contemporary music. He is Daniel Underhill Professor of Music at Swarthmore College and has received many honors for his work. James Freeman has recorded for many record labels and has performed and conducted the music of George Crumb for many years.

George Crumb, one of America’s most well-known living composers, has received many awards including the 1968 Pulitzer Prize. He taught for many years at the University of Pennsylvania and has traveled frequently to Asia, Australia, and Europe, where his works were given many performances. Many of his works employ unique timbres and employ unusual playing techniques.

• RSVP for this event on Facebook!

Four times a year, each Whole Foods Market store sets aside a day on which 5% of the day’s net sales is contributed to a local 501(c)3 non-profit organization. Customers help support the selected organizations just by shopping on these 5% Days.

“WPRB is thrilled to be able to partner with such a respected organization as Whole Foods and have the chance to further promote ourselves in the community,” says DJ Jon Solomon (Wednesdays, 7-10 p.m.), I hope listeners will plan to buy their groceries on the 22nd, knowing they will be supporting the station as they stock their pantry.”

During WPRB’s “5% Day” there will be a booth where store visitors can learn more about the station, and meet volunteers who make up this incredibly unique community supported radio station.

• RSVP on Facebook!
• Add this to your calendar!

WPRB is conducting a listener survey throughout the month of September!

This is a routine check-up to let us know who’s out there in Radioland, what you like about our station, and how we can make WPRB an even better spot on the radio dial.

In exchange for the 10-15 minutes worth of blood, sweat, and tears you will have poured into answering our survey, you could win a $45 gift card to the iTunes Music Store! (Entering the raffle is optional.)

Click here to learn more and take our survey!

Photo: Princeton Packet/ Centraljersey.com

Join Marvin Rosen, host of “Classical Discoveries” and “Classical Discoveries Goes Avant-Garde” for a 24-hour marathon totally devoted to music from the 21st century! “VIVA 21ST CENTURY: AMERICAN EDITION” begins Tuesday, September 8 at 7:00 p.m. ET and concludes on Wednesday September 9 at 7:00 p.m. ET.

The “Viva 21st Century” marathon devotes itself to music by American composers of all styles and genres. Approximately 100 American composers will be featured. Sounds like a lot but this marathon will
barely scratch the surface in illustrating the talent of our living American composers.

”I’ve already started pulling music from my collection and I’m thinking, ‘Oh no, I’m going to have to cut some stuff out,” Mr. Rosen says. “I’m so looking forward to making listeners aware of the amazing American music of the 21st century. There’s really a lot out there.” You can read more about Marvin’s marathon in the Princeton Packet this week!

We hope you can tune in during this awesome marathon! RSVP on Facebook to let us know you’re tuning in and stay up to date with the latest information!

We’re a couple days late with this one, we know! That said, our second Localpalooza event at Whole Foods Princeton went swimmingly well. This time around our performers, DJs, and info booth were all indoors, which worked out for the better.

Continue reading for photos and commentary. And hey, while you’re at it, share your thoughts in the comments!

(Missed the first Localpalooza recap? Check it out here!)

WPRB DJs Wilbo and Will were our live performers of the night, and were set up in the Bulk Foods area.

Bulk buys? Whatta SOUND DEAL! (Couldn't help the pun.)

Will on flute; Wilbo on the upright bass.

So. Many. Kids.

Wilbo doing what he does best.

Our old banner up behind the "stage".

“Rhythm of the One”/”Ghetto Blaster”‘s Hi-Res and Monday Jazz host Dan Buskirk kept things going in the cafe area while our lovely staff and interns greeted customers on their way out.

DJ Hi-Res is not a ghost. We assure you he is very much a real DJ.

L-R: Jon Solomon, Webmaster Alan, Lance Loud, JT the Intern

Last but not least, can we just say how delicious all the samples were? New Jersey is so delicious!

Make sure to come on out to this week’s Localpalooza event on Thursday 8/13, which features a live performance by WPRB DJs Wilbo Wright (Mondays 1-3 PM) and Will Constantine, Jr (Thursdays 11 AM -1 PM) outdoors, plus station DJs Hi-Res (Wednesdays 5-7 PM) and Dan Buskirk (Mondays 11AM – 1PM) indoors. (BTW, have you RSVPed yet? If not, you can do so on Facebook!)

In the meantime, enjoy some photographs from last week’s event, and stay tuned for more images after this Thursday’s event.

WPRB DJs Jon Solomon (Wednesdays 7-10 PM) and KPC (Tuesdays 5-7) kept the cafe crowd going with their tunes.

Jennifer O’Connor, rockin’ the asphalt. During her performance, one of the store’s clean-up personnel came around to empty the trash cans. It was an unexpected comedic moment, but Jennifer, being the consummate performer that she is, played it off like a pro.

Tim & Herbie of Brown Recluse, hard at work, conjuring up jingles for Bobbi’s Black Bean Hummus. (Just joking, guys!)

Last but certainly not least, check out local photographer Oliver Lopena’s photographs from the event!

Kim Gordon of Sonic Youth, July 2009. Photo by Maria T

Welcome to the brand new WPRB blog. We hope you like it! Please feel free to share your thoughts on posts and pass along our stories to your friends, family, and colleagues.

Even though we’ve had a million eyes on this, there’s always the chance that we left something off, there’s bizarro code, and so on. So if you see anything wonky, let us know. Your help makes us better, faster, stronger.