about

Abstract Science is future music radio: a weekly exploration of innovative electronic music and its roots since 1997. This staple of Chicago’s airwaves surveys the evolution and influence of DJ culture, dance music and experimental sounds on a global level. co-hosts CHRIS WIDMAN, HENRY SELF, LUKE STOKES, JOSHUA P FERGUSON + BILL BEARDEN showcase the latest releases alongside underground classics, overlooked gems, exclusive live performances, interviews and DJ mixes.

Past guest include AMON TOBIN, APPARAT, THE BLACK MADONNA, BONOBO, CONVEXTION, DAEDELUS, DEADBEAT, DJ KRUSH, FOUR TET, JAGA JAZZIST, JUAN ATKINS, LUKE VIBERT, MONOLAKE, MODESELEKTOR, MR. SCRUFF, PLAID, RJD2, ROBERT RICH, SHIGETO and SQUAREPUSHER. The program marked 1000 episodes and celebrated their 20th anniversary in 2017. Over the years, Abstract Science has curated and co-sponsored hundreds of events at Chicago’s premiere venues, including residencies at Smartbar (“Abstract Sessions” 2001–2003 + “Subfix” 2008–2011) and Sonotheque (“Funk the Mental” 2004–2006).

Abstract Science broadcasts every Thursday (now 6–8pm USCT) on WLUW-chicago 88.7fm and wluw.org, in addition to a weekly podcast.

chris widman abstract science future music radio chicago

CHRIS WIDMAN

“Chris Widman is Equal Parts DJ and Electronic Music Encyclopedia” (Noisey) — Chris Widman is a DJ that defies easy classification. Producer, co-host and co-founder of Abstract Science, he is at the forefront of breaking new styles, blurring genre lines and re-introducing forgotten music. When DJing for the dancefloor, Widman is known for his adventurous mixing of tempos and styles, creating his own form of crowd-pleasing sonic warfare. Contact chris at abstractscience.net.

joshua p ferguson abstract science

JOSHUA P FERGUSON

Joshua joined Abstract Science as a co-host in 2012, following a long stint as Clubs Editor for TimeOut Chicago. Over the years, he has developed a passionate focus on underground dance styles like house, techno, bass, indie dance, disco, soul, Balearic and whatever other adjectives have been ascribed to the current tangents in forward thinking club and lounge sounds. Joshua’s latest obsession is the recent cosmic jazz revival centered in Chicago, LA + the UK. 

bill bearden whoa-b abstract science

BILL BEARDEN aka WHOA-B

Self-described specialist in “electronic music of British origin, namely dubstep, grime, UK garage, and drum & bass”, Bill is the latest addition to our co-host roster. He has been a returning special guest on the radio show and featured performer at Abstract Science club events since 2009. Best known as WHOA-B, Bill’s YouTube DJ mixes have generated millions of views and inspired a generation of DJs. 

henry self abstract science radio

HENRY SELF

Henry is a versatile veteran behind the turntables with more than two decades of experience promoting, DJing, producing and remixing a wide range of sounds. In addition to remotely hosting Abstract Science from our Los Angeles satellite studio, he regularly plays at The Standard hotels and is a resident DJ and co-founder of the notorious Full Frontal Disco club night in L.A. As a member of production team Slash Fiction, Henry has also remixed the likes of Peaches, Dirty Sanchez and Ssion. By day, he works full time as an entertainment attorney and movie music supervisor.

LUKE STOKES

Master of textural mixing, the wildcard segue + spoken word drop, Luke showcases ambient soundscapes + electro-acoustic sounds, alongside Norwegian Jazz, experimental electronica + modern dub. Luke worked with Chris + Henry at KCOU-Columbia, and brought Abstract Science to Chicago radio following a move to work in the city’s music industry. He ran his own Deezal Records imprint; worked for Martin Atkins’ Invisible Records and John Hughes III’s Hefty Records; and tour managed numerous live acts, including Pigface, Fuck Buttons, Chris Connelly, Mudhoney, My Life with the Thrill Kill Kult, Jaga Jazzist, and Sheep on Drugs.