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)

Wood Belly joins Sam Fuqua live on The Morning Sound Alternative ahead of their Halloween show at Globe Hall in Denver. The band performs live in-studio and talks about their ten-year journey and plans to take a break after this final show in their current lineup. They share details about the event—featuring Tonewood String Band, Ridgeliners Duo, and a costume contest with a year-long concert pass prize—while reflecting on their evolution from bluegrass roots to a broader, original sound. (Local Gold: 10/30/25)

Singer-songwriter Nina de Freitas joins Indra Raj live on The Morning Sound Alternative ahead of her November 6 performance at the Chautauqua Community House Series. Nina performs several songs, including her upcoming single “Madness Everlasting.” She discusses her Brazilian roots, her musical upbringing with musician parents, and how moving to Denver inspired a creative renewal after her former band ended. Influenced by artists like Jeff Buckley, Joni Mitchell, and Radiohead, Nina shares that she’s focused on releasing new music that reflects her authentic artistic voice. (Local Gold: 10/29/25)

Joanne Cole interviews bassist and composer Eric Thorin about The Pugilist, an experimental theatrical production debuting at the Dairy Center for the Arts on November 1st. Thorin, a longtime Colorado musician known for his work in bluegrass and Celtic music, reads an excerpt from the script, giving listeners a glimpse into the show’s dramatic tone. The conversation ends with a discussion about the importance of supporting independent media and KGNU following funding cuts, encouraging listeners to contribute to the station.