Over the Edge (radio program)

Over the Edge was a freeform radio program hosted by Don Joyce, broadcast from radio station KPFA in Berkeley, California. The show was known for its eclectic and often bizarre mix of sound collages, found sounds, telephone calls from listeners, spoken word segments, and music.

The program began in 1981 and continued until Joyce's death in 2015. Over the Edge was characterized by its experimental and improvisational nature, often lacking a pre-planned format and evolving organically during its broadcast.

Central to the show's identity was the concept of "sound collage," where disparate audio elements were layered and juxtaposed to create a dense and often surreal listening experience. Joyce incorporated recordings from diverse sources, including radio broadcasts, television shows, films, answering machine messages, and his own field recordings.

A key element of the program was the participation of listeners via telephone. Callers contributed to the stream of consciousness by sharing anecdotes, playing music, or simply reacting to the unfolding soundscape. Joyce often incorporated these calls into the overall collage, blurring the lines between the host, the content, and the audience.

Over the Edge cultivated a dedicated cult following who appreciated its unconventional approach to radio broadcasting and its commitment to sonic experimentation. The show's archive, maintained by the Don Joyce Estate, offers access to recordings of past broadcasts, allowing listeners to continue exploring its unique audio landscape.