Marc Taras surrounds himself with records for a living. In his "day job" he's the proprietor of a local record shop. Saturday evenings he spins tunes for all of us during Cuban Fantasy. He's a prime example of how WEMU's hosts turn their passion for music and community service into great radio.
What is your position at WEMU - I am the host of Cuban Fantasy. Former host of What's New Saturday mornings and 891 Jazz Saturday nights.
Where is your hometown - I was raised in Birmingham, Michigan.
Where did you attend college - I am an Honors Graduate and James B. Angell Scholar from the University of Michigan.
What was your major - I majored in English Literature with a minor in History. Received a Teaching Certificate for English and Social Studies (7-12). (Perhaps) sadly unused.
What are your favorite WEMU shows - My favorite WEMU shows (trick question?) include Linda Yohn's 891 Jazz, The Roots Music Project and the Big City Blues Cruise...but I love them all,OK?
How did you come to WEMU - I was tapped by Linda Yohn to host the Saturday Morning show. Whew! I spend most of Saturday Afternoon mapping out the Cuban Fantasy Program. I think about what the listeners will enjoy most!
What are your "go to" restaurants - I like Holidays, Nick's Pancake House, and The Golden Egg.
Do you have a song stuck in your head - Cristo Redentor by Duke Pearson, especially as recorded by guitarist Harvey Mandel.
What album should everyone listen to at least once - Miles Davis Bitches Brew. A masterpiece of modern jazz abstraction! Mystical and soulful. Beautiful layers of electric keyboards.
Where do you love to shop - Well...maybe Barnes & Noble.
Where are your favorite vacation desintations - Havana, Cuba. Though the affordable favorite is Alpena, Michigan. I had a great aunt and uncle that lived in Presque Isle at Sand Bay on Grand Lake. We went there many times when I was a kid, so this area has lotsa warm memories for me. And it is right pretty.
Whom do you follow on social media - Oh, gosh...sorry... I'm a Luddite. Patrick Campion says I still burn wood for fuel.
What was the last movie you watched - I just saw The Big Short. Compelling and Head Shaking story.
Do you have a favorite WEMU memory - Gosh...there are so many...Maybe the night that I brought bassist Dave Holland to the station for an on air interview with Michael G. Nastos and Michael invited me to join in the interview. It was a blast and listeners told me that it was Big Fun!
Why do you love public radio - I am entertained and informed in a way that is both satisfying and fun. Personal and Professional.
