Episode 162

Episode 162: Technology as Cognitive Space

Published on: 31st October, 2025

In this episode, N8K99 reflects on the relationship between music, technology, and creativity while sharing thoughts on his ongoing musical projects with Radio Poets. He explores how technology has always been intertwined with music creation - from ancient bone flutes to modern electronic instruments - and discusses his fascination with AI as a "cognitive space" for exploring ideas.

The episode takes a deep dive into worldbuilding and storytelling, as Nathan shares his seven-year project creating the planet Orbis - a fictional world he's been developing with the help of AI tools. He discusses the challenges of creating an entire planetary history spanning 10,000 years, complete with cities, dragons, and narrative templates for epic adventures.


Drawing connections between fan fiction, creative gaps in storytelling (referencing works like "Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are Dead"), and the collaborative nature of audience participation in creative works, Nathan explores how AI tools have allowed him to systematically expand his creative vision. The episode concludes with his excitement about finally translating this long-held mental world into a novel format.


A blend of musical philosophy, technology commentary, and creative process insights, this episode offers a unique perspective on how modern tools can enhance rather than replace human creativity.

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About the Podcast

Living Room Music
I established this podcast as a personal writing challenge, aiming to continually push myself to explore the depths of music creation. To maintain this drive, I've set a self-imposed publishing deadline every Friday at 6 PM EST.
Rather than seeking fame or fortune, my main goal is to discover music that resonates with me, something I haven't experienced before. Throughout this journey, I immerse myself in a wide array of electronic music, drawing inspiration from various sources to infuse fresh ideas into my own compositions. I relish experimenting with novel techniques and tonalities, always on the lookout for unique sounds.
My work embraces the mathematical intricacies of music theory, exploring new ways to manipulate sounds and embracing the spirit of improvisation. Above all, my music is a celebration of joy and love for the creative process, capturing the essence of fun and passion in playing and crafting melodies.
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Nathan Eckenrode

From the womb to the stage, N8K99's life has been a symphony of diverse musical experiences. His journey began with melodies echoing in his mother's womb during her piano recitals and evolved through debates over musical alphabets in kindergarten. N8K99's early classical training under his mother's tutelage seamlessly transitioned into a passion for the improvisational freedom of Free Jazz, idolizing legends like Maynard Ferguson, Miles Davis, and Chet Baker. His teenage curiosity led him to a pawn shop guitar, igniting a spark that would illuminate his path through various musical endeavors.
Post-Navy life found N8K99 in Jacksonville, Florida, where punk rock's raw energy collided with his burgeoning talent, resulting in a series of ephemeral bands. New York City called next, presenting a harsh reality of talent and competition. His days oscillated between roles as a PA, bike messenger, book mover, and the occasional subway busker, honing his skills in the city's vibrant music scene. A chance encounter with Wu Tang Clan during a jam session marked a turning point, embedding a sense of belonging within the industry's fabric.
N8K99's musical style defies categorization, a testament to his journey across genres and geographies. His sound is an eclectic blend, rooted in classical music theory, adorned with jazz improvisation, and electrified by electronic production. He finds solace and challenge in his podcast, "Living Room Music by N8K99," a weekly expedition into new musical territories, collaborating with local Hip Hop artists, exploring emotional tones, and experimenting with various modalities.
Despite his mastery, N8K99 remains the industry's "invisible man," focusing on the art rather than the fame. His elusive double album "Chromatic Depression" whispers of his presence in the digital music realm, but it's his dedication to the craft that truly defines him. N8K99's vision extends beyond personal acclaim; through Eckenrode Muziekopname, he aspires to elevate Jacksonville's local talent, creating a digital collective to champion and disseminate their artistry globally.
With his feet firmly planted in Jacksonville, N8K99 envisions a future of continued musical exploration with his band Radio Poets, his podcast, and EM. His ambition is not of glittering fame but of a sustainable, fulfilling musical journey, evolving as a Middle Class musician who navigates the industry's tides with a whimsical yet determined spirit.