KGNU Music

KGNU’s DJ Jack Armstrong hosts Boulder-based punk/emo trio Shorts for a high-energy studio session and listening party celebrating the release of their new EP. Band members Zane Manning, Graham Lauren, and Ari introduce themselves, talk about their roots in Boulder’s DIY scene, and reflect on the importance of venues like Unit Five in building community for emerging punk bands. Throughout the interview, Shorts preview upcoming shows including New Year’s weekend lineups, a Fort Collins bill with Mood Swing Misery, and local house shows, while sharing insights into the making of the EP, their love of live performance, and their plans for future releases. The band closes out the segment by introducing a two-part track, “Camping with Emos” into “Dog Three Part Two,” showcasing their signature Midwest-emo flair and offbeat humor (November 21, 2025).

Singer-songwriter Liz Barnez stopped by the KGNU studios to celebrate the release of her long-awaited new album Wholehearted. In conversation with DJ Meredith Carson, Liz shared stories behind the record’s eight-year creation, including collaborations with members of The Subdudes, Bonnie and Taylor Sims, John Macy, and a circle of family voices woven into the autobiographical title track. She also discussed the inspiration behind “Snow on the Bayou,” reflecting on the changing climate and her New Orleans roots. Liz spoke about the vibrant Fort Collins music community, her work with FoCoMA, and the efforts underway to strengthen connections among Front Range musicians. The interview features live discussion, humor, local music history, and a warm look at the creative collaborations that shaped Wholehearted. (November 21, 2025).

Singer-songwriters Tim and Jenny Ostdiek joined DJ Indra Raj in the KGNU studio ahead of their performance at the Sound Post Sessions Mixtape Series in downtown Longmont. Fresh off their recent marriage, the duo discussed their musical partnership, the rich Front Range songwriting community, and how collaborative spaces like Sound Post Sessions nurture local artists. Tim performed songs from The Lost Days and shared how growing up along the North Platte River, moving to Colorado, and finding a like-minded creative community shaped his songwriting. Jenny performed original songs including “People Pleaser” and “Caroline Away,” speaking about her artistic journey from self-taught musician to emerging songwriter, and her upcoming debut album All to Ash. The pair also highlighted their joint podcast Songs Off the Vine, upcoming Longmont performances, and where listeners can follow their work. (November 19, 2025).

Legendary violinist, composer, and educator Darol Anger joins KGNU’s Joanne Cole to discuss his long, genre-spanning career—from co-founding the David Grisman Quintet to his work with Turtle Island String Quartet and his current ensemble, Mr. Sun. Anger shares the inspiration behind the group’s newest project, a bold and joyful re-imagining of Duke Ellington and Billy Strayhorn’s 1960 jazz-big-band adaptation of The Nutcracker Suite. He talks about arranging Ellington’s masterpiece for an acoustic string band, the deep jazz–R&B roots within American string music, and the band’s upcoming Colorado performance. Anger also highlights the importance of community radio, reflecting on the unique role stations like KGNU play in sustaining music culture, discovery, and artist community (11/12/25).

DJ Soul Rock speaks with Catherine Jackson of the Colorado Caribbean Social Club and Eton Pearcy of Jam Rock Events about their community-led relief efforts following the recent hurricane in Jamaica. Both guests describe the severe conditions on the ground, the urgent need for supplies, and the overwhelming support coming from Colorado’s Caribbean community, local businesses, and restaurants. They share details about two upcoming donation drives in Denver and Lone Tree, where all proceeds and collected goods will go directly toward recovery efforts and an ongoing breakfast program for students in Jamaica. Catherine and Eton also highlight their upcoming trip to Jamaica to distribute aid and assess long-term rebuilding needs. The conversation centers on resilience, community solidarity, and the shared commitment to supporting Jamaican families during a critical time (11/8/2025). Listen at kgnu.org. #kgnu #kgnucommunityradio #kgnumusic

Master oud player Rahim AlHaj joins KGNU to reflect on his lifelong mission to use music as a bridge between cultures. He discusses his early days in the U.S., his Grammy-nominated collaboration Ancient Sounds with Amjad Ali Khan, and the power of live performance to create genuine human connection. Rahim also shares the stories behind his cross-cultural projects—including the politically bold Axis of Evil ensemble—and the emotional origins of pieces like The Searching and Dancing Planet. Speaking with deep sincerity about war, displacement, creativity, and empathy, Rahim reminds listeners that music can unite us across borders and experiences. He will perform in Denver with Serena Safadi as part of his One Sky project. (11/12/2025)

Banjo virtuoso Andy Thorn chats with KGNU's Brian Eyster about his upcoming Leftover Salmon shows over Thanksgiving weekend, his journey from North Carolina to Colorado's music scene, and the unique traditions he’s built with the band. Andy shares insights on his love for Clawhammer banjo, his new Clawhammer album, and the creative process behind his original tunes. He also talks about the unforgettable experiences of jamming with friends in Boulder, the legacy of Leftover Salmon, and his exciting live performances with Vince Herman at Mountain Sun Pub. Listen in for a mix of personal stories, music, and good vibes from one of Colorado’s finest musicians (11-8-2025).

Master oud player Rahim AlHaj joins EC Erb to discuss his lifelong journey of using music as a bridge across cultures and conflicts. From his Grammy-nominated collaboration Ancient Sounds with Amjad Ali Khan to his latest album One Sky with Sourena Sefati, AlHaj reflects on how music expresses shared humanity, connects people beyond borders, and keeps stories of compassion and resilience alive. He performs November 13 at the Savoy in Denver, presented by MAS. (Air date: 11/12/2025)

Local musician and composer Ben Sloan joined Indra Raj live in the KGNU studio for a conversation and performance ahead of his March 7 show at the Glob DIY space in Denver. Sloan discussed his creative process blending drums, electronics, and sampled sounds, as well as his work in film scoring and animation. He shared stories about his musical influences, including Tony Allen and Kassa Overall, and reflected on finding inspiration across sound and visual art. The Glob performance will feature experimental live visuals and benefit the Colorado Immigrant Rights Coalition. (Air date: 2/10/2025)

Banjo master Kyle Tuttle joins KGNU’s Neil Smart to talk about his upcoming appearance at Swallow Hill’s Banjo Fest on November 15, where he’ll lead workshops and perform alongside Pete Wernick, Chris Coole, and The Lowest Pair. In this conversation, Tuttle shares his laid-back approach to teaching, his plans for new music, and life as a new dad balancing touring, recording, and Monday nights at Nashville’s Dee’s Country Cocktail Lounge. (Air date: 11/1/2025)