s14e07: Scott Zacharias at No Way Back 2025
In the words of Scott Zacharias, who closed the Outer Space Room at No Way Back, May 25, 2025, Day 2 of Return to the Source at Tangent, Detroit:
“NWB, being more than just the sum of its parts, always reflects my current life state(or lack of) and this year was no different. My friend Zach reminded me of this ultra-special cut by Arthur Russell: “In the Light of the Miracle.” It’s one of those holy grails and this mix (by Danny Krivit & Tony Smith) only existed as unreleased Talking’ Loud promo until a Soul Jazz comp finally issued it properly in 2005. I used to run it occasionally some 20 years ago, but hearing it again left me shook and set the stage for my entire set. And the rest of my life. My partner Ellen and I learned we were pregnant that same weekend.
Completely overwhelmed, I felt like I just wanted to share music for folks like I do in my own living room. Not really as a mix, but an intimate family affair. In the wee hours of the morning when I finally decided to share Russell’s opus, Ellen joined me on stage. We embraced and cried as we saw all our friends dancing in a now sunlit room.
“I love you and that's all, living in the light.” — Arthur Russell”