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Buffalo musicians compete in 2018 NPR Tiny Desk Contest

Buffalo Toronto Public Media | By Nick Lippa

Published April 23, 2018 at 5:08 AM EDT

The Tiny Desk online series features music performances shot at NPR in Washington with bands playing in a small space behind a desk. It has featured big names like Buffalo's Ani DiFranco, but is mainly an opportunity for little known musicians to get a following. Musicians compete in an annual contest for a spot in the series, with winners announced Monday. WBFO’s Nick Lippa spoke with Buffalo area artists who are hoping to be among the winners.

Get to know some of Buffalo's 2018 Tiny Desk Contest applicants

1. LEYDA

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gR75mkjrDqQ

gettign_to_know--ledya_mixdown.mp3

WBFO's Nick Lippa sat down with Leyda to discuss their bonding experience while creating music for the Tiny Desk Contest. They also debate which cracker is superior-- wheat thins or triscuits?

2. IAN MCCUEN

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x_1eItMXdSg

getting_to_know-_ian_mccuen_mixdown.mp3

WBFO's Nick Lippa talks with songwriter Ian McCuen about his Tiny Desk experience and Mighty Taco.

3. PARADE CHIC

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XqmsnZ0ypCU

getting_to_know--_colin_griffin_parade_chic_mixdown.mp3

WBFO's Nick Lippa talks with lead singer/guitarist Colin Griffin of Parade Chic. They discuss the Tiny Desk Contest, the Buffalo music scene, and what QB the Bills should take in the upcoming 2018 draft (hint: it's all about the name).

4. 14 TRAPDOORS

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rnY-uOFDLrA

getting_to_know--_short_moscato_mixdown.mp3

WBFO's Nick Lippa talks to MC/Producer Short Moscato about his spontaneous Tiny Desk contest creation. He's also very upset several Wegmans Food Markets in the area are closing at midnight.

5. MARK MINCARELLI

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ewSLqdh_lMM&feature=youtu.be

Jamestown songwriter Mark Mincarelli has been writing music for years—that includes jingles, satire, and songs like “Take Me Back”, which he entered in this year’s Tiny Desk Contest.

mark_wrap_mixdown.mp3

WBFO's Nick Lippa talks to Jamestown musician Mark Mincarelli and his Tiny Desk Contest experience.