'Cool music 101': Brave New Waves lives on among its night owl fans 35 years later
The alternative music and culture show hit CBC Stereo airwaves in 1984
Even though it's been off the air for nearly 12 years, Brave New Waves' nocturnal fan club still holds strong.
CBC Radio's alternative music and culture show celebrated its 35th anniversary on Wednesday. The show launched on CBC Stereo on Feb. 6, 1984 with Augusta LaPaix in the host chair. It wrapped 23 years later, not long after Patti Schmidt's sign-off.
Brent Bambury, who held the reins from 1985 until 1995, shared tales from his time hosting the midnight music marathon — and, in turn, you offered your memories.
Some night owls found solace in the show's eclectic mix
Brave New Waves was a regular nighttime companion as a teen-so many great profiles, discovered much good music (which I often special ordered @ record store afterward). Now I use spotify and while I discover new music, it lacks the humanity and beautiful serendipity of BNW.
—@lo_fi_brarianBNW has influenced my musical tastes throughout my adult life. Introduced me to so many sounds I would never have heard otherwise. I remember hearing it described as "Professionally produced college radio". We need more of that. I'd listen to Kevin Komoda's playlists today!
—@mjduigouOthers tuned in to feel less isolated
As an '80s rural Ontario teen, BNW was Cool Music 101 - my static-laced, late-night conduit to music I still treasure today; it was where I first heard Swans, Lloyd Cole, Jim Thirlwell's Foetus projects, Green on Red, etc... fond memories & gratitude. <a href="https://twitter.com/thatkellyboy?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@thatkellyboy</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/iamalexbodnar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@iamalexbodnar</a>
—@GregoryKlagesMeanwhile, nightcrawling workers found company
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