In this episode of the podcast “Unwrap Your Candies Now,” Ernie Manouse chats with singer-actor Paul Hope about legendary songwriter Harold Arlen – in particular about the music he wrote in the decade after his famous “Over the Rainbow.” The Paul Hope Cabaret presents That Old Black Magic – Harold Arlen in the 40s on February 17, February 24 and March 2 at Ovations Night Club.

Then, Catherine Lu talks with percussionist Craig Hauschild and harpist Caitlin Mehrtens of Loop38 about the life and music of Julius Eastman, an African-American composer from the ‘60s, ‘70s and ‘80s. After an eviction – upon which his landlord threw many of his scores onto the street – and early death at age 49, his music was largely lost and forgotten. Loop38 presents the first-ever Houston performance of Eastman’s music, featuring his work Femenine, on February 21 at First Congregational Church of Houston.

Share your comments, questions and ideas at UYCN@houstonpublicmedia.org.

Music credits: Ac-Cent-Tchu-Ate the Positive by Harold Arlen and Johnny Mercer; Gay Guerilla, The Holy Presence of Joan d’Arc and Stay on It from Julius Eastman: Unjust Malaise; Fememine by Julius Eastman, original recording and recording by Arcana New Music Ensemble