Episode 8: feeding the marsh - chik white

photo credit Heather Rappard.

A one-hour interview with experimental jaw-harpist, actor, and writer Darcy Spidle, who releases work under the name chik white and is based in West Chezzetcook.

about chik white

‘chik white began in 2004 as my stage name for crust-punk band The Hold. That project lasted for five years and saw two full lengths, multiple singles/EPs, and a number of Canadian tours. I kept the chik white moniker for doom metal outfit Vennt and  art-damaged noise rock trio Attack Mode. I played drums in both bands. I also recorded under chik white for my experimental vocal project Shitcook, and I use the pseudonym for acting (Lowlife, Tin Can, etc.).

chik white music took a minimalist turn when I moved to West Chezzetcook, on the rural coast of Nova Scotia, in 2009. Around then I acquired a collection of handmade jaw harps and began a regular ritual of improvising on the instruments in natural settings. Over time, my harp project morphed into experimental territory and has come to incorporate preparations, techniques, and performative elements that tease uncomfortable vocalizations from my mouth, throat, and lungs.’ - Darcy Spidle

Musical excerpts, in order of their placement in the interview:

Intro – chik white and Philadelphia guitarist Bill Nace, on the album 'off motion' – to be released later in 2022

xY3-rat – from a split with Vancouver Noise artist Hermit – to be released later in 2022
Excerpt from part 2 of chik white's Wind Wound – coming out this winter
Excerpt from the 2004 record NoiseBloodAssault by The Hold

Erasing, from the aforementioned Bill Nace collaboration Joseph, from the Hermit split
Nose Wires from chik white's ‘Solo Horn’, out now on Soundholes
Excerpt from Johann Georg Albrecthsberger’s Concerto for Jaw Harp, Mandora and Orchestra