I’ve always believed DJs to be among the most intelligent individuals I’ve had the pleasure of coming into contact with. Not only does hip-hop and electronic artist Paul D. Miller (aka DJ Spooky) spin records, he is also a writer, multimedia artist and composer. After spending a week playing at venues around the world, including Jakarta and Copenhagen, Miller took some time to discuss the purpose behind his latest composition. 

This past Sunday (Nov 15), Miller sat down with Climate Central’s head research scientist, Heidi Cullen, and environmental reporter, Andrew C. Revkin to discuss his latest project, Terra Nova: Sinfonia Antartica, at the American Museum of Natural History.  

Many attended the special event expecting a taste of Miller’s latest creation but may have left a bit disappointed. The event was comprised of a discussion on stage about the future of our planet’s climate and what projects are currently underway to study the possible solutions and outcomes.  

Miller shared several sound samples of both his own recording as well as others who accompanied him on his month-long stay in Antarctica. He recorded everything from the sound of water rushing over a sheet of ice to the restless penguins, which, he added, you could smell for miles.  

All in attendance were given a CD sampler of tracks Miller recorded for his latest release, The Secret Song, as well as songs recorded with artists like Chuck D and Yoko Ono. Miller believes we need free gifts and trade to help this economy survive. I don’t disagree.

Stay tuned for my live review of Miller’s latest composition, which he will be sharing at the Brooklyn Academy of Music (BAM) on December 2, 4, and 5.