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2 Minutes With … Seth Misterka, Musician and Co-Founder of Dynasty Electrik
On the magic of streaming and Neil Young's vision
Seth is a musician celebrated for his ability to create original compositions that transcend genre boundaries. He is known for his collaborations with artists such as Anthony Braxton and Brian Chase (both of the Yeah Yeah Yeahs) Ski Beatz and DJ Logic. Also, Seth co-founded the musical ensemble Dynasty Electrik. From 2000 to 2011, he operated the Newsonic performance space in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, where he also became an early advocate for cannabis legalization.
These days, Seth is collaborating with Jenny Deveau to establish a sound healing sanctuary in Nova Scotia. Their vision is to create a sacred space dedicated to the transformative power of sound, where individuals can find solace and wellness.
We spent two minutes with Seth to learn more about his background, his creative inspirations and recent work he’s admired.
Seth, tell us …
Where you grew up, and where you live now.
I grew up in Northampton, Mass., and am currently living in Nova Scotia.
Your earliest musical memory.
In 1980, when I was around 4 years old, I saw a video of the Beatles performing “Twist and Shout.” It totally blew me away and I became obsessed with music from that moment on.
Your favorite bands/musicians today.
One of your favorite projects you’ve ever worked on.
A sax/drums duo I had with Brian Chase of the Yeah Yeah Yeahs. It was abstract, totally improvisational and a lot of fun. We recorded a couple of albums and had a great tour in Australia.
A recent project you’re proud of.
My latest album with Dynasty Electrik is called Journey to Tranquility. I love how it evolved organically over a two-year period, in which I moved from California to Nova Scotia.
One thing about how the music world is evolving that you’re excited about.
The ability to stream virtually any piece of recorded music ever made. But I’m equally excited about the resurgence of vinyl. I love the experience of putting a record on a turntable.
Someone else’s work, in music or beyond, that you admired lately.
I was recently reading Waging Heavy Peace by Neil Young. I greatly admire his work in music, technology and social justice.
A book, movie, TV show or podcast you recently found inspiring.
A Man Named Scott, a Kid Cudi Documentary
An artist you admire outside the world of music.
Your favorite fictional character.
Someone worth following on social media.
Your main strength as a marketer/creative.
Thinking outside the box.
Your biggest weakness.
Taking on too many projects.
Something people would find surprising about you.
I used to run a speakeasy out of my loft in Brooklyn.
What you’d be doing if you weren’t in the music business.
Spending more time exploring sustainable agriculture.
2 Minutes With is our regular interview series where we chat with creatives about their backgrounds, creative inspirations, work they admire and more. For more about 2 Minutes With, or to be considered for the series, please get in touch.
