ECM Records Podcast

ECM Records has been one of the most distinctive labels in jazz and contemporary music since 1969, and their official podcast gives you direct access to the artists behind those famously beautiful recordings. Over 61 episodes, the show features in-depth conversations with musicians, composers, and collaborators who've recorded for the label -- people like Keith Jarrett, Pat Metheny, and dozens of lesser-known but equally fascinating artists from ECM's vast catalog. Each episode runs 20 to 35 minutes and goes behind the scenes of specific albums and recording sessions. The conversations explore creative process, musical philosophy, and the personal influences that shape an artist's sound. Music snippets are woven throughout, giving you context for what's being discussed. If you've ever wondered what it's like to record in ECM's signature style -- that spacious, crystalline sound that's become a genre unto itself -- this is where those stories get told. The show holds a 4.8-star rating from 42 reviews and releases new episodes roughly every two weeks. Some listeners have noted that the interview audio quality doesn't always match ECM's legendary production standards, which is a fair criticism, but the substance of the conversations more than compensates. For anyone who already loves ECM's catalog, this podcast adds layers of appreciation. For those unfamiliar with the label, it's an outstanding entry point into a world of music that rewards careful listening.