KGNU Music

Singer-songwriter Will Thomas, of the band River Mann, joined Meredith Carson live in the KGNU studio for an intimate set and conversation. He performed three original songs, including an autumn-inspired piece and one written in Taos, New Mexico, showcasing his poetic and reflective songwriting style. Thomas discussed River Mann’s upcoming shows—Roots Music Fest at Stone Cottage Studios in Boulder that evening, and a performance with Clay Rose on October 24 at Lanigan’s in Estes Park—as well as the community spirit surrounding Boulder’s new Roots festival. (Studio Session: 10/17/25)

Singer-songwriter and guitarist David Howley, known for his work with We Banjo 3, joined Wendy Mills live in the KGNU studio to talk about his journey from Galway, Ireland, to Boulder, Colorado. He reflected on his upbringing surrounded by eclectic music, his philosophy of creating community through song, and the emotional power of honest, human connection in music. Howley also discussed his songwriting process, fostering dogs, and finding inspiration in Boulder’s artistic spirit before performing his song “Dig Your Heels.” (Studio Session: 10/17/25)

Today on The Morning Sound Alternative, Wendy Mills spoke with Joey Ryan of The Milk Carton Kids! Joey talks about the band’s beginnings in 2011, when he and Kenneth Pattengale released their first albums online for free and toured extensively to build a following. He reflects on their creative evolution, from early inspiration and minimalism to experimenting with larger arrangements and renewed collaboration after the pandemic. Joey shares how their focus has shifted toward creating music as a form of service for their fans and previews upcoming Colorado shows, including sold-out performances in Fort Collins and Aspen, and their concert at the Boulder Theater presented by KGNU on October 19. (Interview: 10/15/25)

KGNU’s Indra Raj speaks with Canadian guitarist and songwriter Ariel Posen ahead of his October 16th performance at The Savoy in Denver as part of the Moss Presents Fall Music Series. Posen discusses his musical beginnings in Winnipeg, his transition from acclaimed session player to solo artist, and his passion for honest, song-driven rock rooted in soul and Americana. He also shares insights on performing with his powerhouse trio, his latest single “Future Present Tense,” and what fans can expect from his upcoming album and tour. (Interview: 10/14/25)

On KGNU’s Morning Sound Alternative, host Ginger Perry spoke with the folk duo Rakish, featuring Conor Hearn and Maura Shawn Scanlin, ahead of their performance at eTown Hall in Boulder. The pair discussed their seven-year musical partnership, their blend of Celtic and Appalachian influences, and their experience recording several albums together and with other artists. Despite living on opposite coasts—Connor in Boston and Maura in Asheville, North Carolina—they continue to collaborate regularly, meeting before tours to prepare sets. (Interview: 10/14/25)

DJ Jules hosts Sound Lab on KGNU and welcomes singer-songwriter Nick Dunbar, a longtime Colorado musician now based on the East Coast, back to the Boulder studio. Dunbar discusses returning to play at the Gold Hill Inn, reflects on KGNU’s role in supporting local music, and shares memories of community connections through the station. He performs three songs; “Old Money,” “Please Mend This Broken Heart,” and “A Man Worth Burying,” the title track from his upcoming album. Throughout the interview, Dunbar and Jules highlight the importance of community radio and its power to connect artists and listeners across distances. (Studio Session: 10/9/25)

Liz Vasko from Rock for the People and Erin from the Safe House Progressive Alliance for Nonviolence joined DJ Carebear on KGNU to discuss the Love and Resistance Dance Party happening in Lafayette. The event features an all-female local lineup—Resisting Bitch Face, Ironically Pink, and Lisa Sells—and aims to celebrate community, resilience, and solidarity through music. Erin also shared the history and services of her organization, which supports survivors of domestic violence through shelter, legal advocacy, counseling, and prevention programs. (Interview: 9/22/25)

Hip hop artist and producer Oddisee joined the Eclipse Crew on KGNU ahead of his October 5th show at Cervantes’ Other Side in Denver. He spoke about touring with his live band Good Company, celebrating the 10-year anniversary of his album The Good Fight, his collaborative spirit, production process, and growing up in D.C.’s go-go music scene. (Interview: 9/28/25)

Fort Collins-based band Mystee, led by Alana, joined KGNU for a live in-studio session. She shared how the project began as a solo effort in Boston before evolving into a full band through chance connections in Fort Collins. Mystee discussed her time living in Cardiff, Wales, where she gained valuable experience in the music scene, and reflected on her early love of songwriting. The band’s new EP Forget Me Not was recorded during a three-day retreat in Evergreen and features four tracks written across different stages of her musical journey. Mystee also previewed upcoming shows, including a mini tour, a Halloween performance, and a Fort Collins date at Washington’s. (Studio Session: 9/29/25)

Bouldergrass, a local bluegrass ensemble from Boulder, joined KGNU live at the Boulder County Farmers Market. The group performed originals, fiddle tunes, and classics like Bob Dylan’s I Shall Be Released, while sharing their origins in a “fiddle tune club,” introducing band members, and celebrating community connections through music. (Studio Session: 9/27/25)