Let's face it, people are bummed about the impending breakup of The New Deal. The "live electronic improvised breakbeat and progressive house" act are calling it quits after 12 years at the forefront of the livetronica movement. Formed in Canada in 1998, keyboardist Jamie Shields, bassist Dan Kurtz, and drummer Darren Shearer have been a mainstay on the festival circuit, putting out a handful of live and studio albums, and sharing the stage with the biggest and brightest in both the jam and electronica scenes.

On a special two-part episode, Darren Shearer sits in on The Untz Podcast to discuss the early years of the band, and his own musical history. He talks about playing without a script, and the novelty of what The New Deal stumbled upon, practically by accident, when they first go together to play.

Tomorrow, we'll wrap up the interview with Shearer. Topics include modern electronic drumming, the finality of the band's breakup, and his future plans. Throughout the summer, The Untz will bring you interviews with tND about the end of an era. Stick with us for all your New Deal needs, as we salute a trio of vanguards. 

To download the podcast, right click The New Deal Part 1 - Podcast Episode 63 and save the file.

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