KGNU Music

Sister Sadie chats with KGNU's Robin Claire behind the scenes at RockyGrass. The band discusses their excitement about returning to RockyGrass with a refreshed lineup. Founding members Deanie Richardson and Gena Britt are now joined by Maddie Dalton, Dani Flowers, Rainy Miatke, and Jaelee Roberts. They talk about the band's evolving energy and sound, with their upcoming album featuring original songs and new elements like drums, piano, and electric guitar (Interview date: 7/30/24)

The Fretliners speak with KGNU Old Grass GNU Grass DJ Shawna Sprowls. They mention their current work on a new EP titled Three of a Kind, which was a result of winning the Telluride band competition. The band talks about their upcoming performances at Rapidgrass in Idaho Springs and Rhythms on the Rio in Del Norte, emphasizing the distinct flavors of these Colorado festivals (Interview date: 7/28/2024)

Dan Tyminski speaks with KGNU Old Grass GNU Grass DJ Neil Smart ahead of his RockyGrass 2024 performance. They discuss Dan's new album, God Fearing Heathen, particularly the track “Ode to Jimmy,” which pays tribute to Jimmy Martin, a significant influence on Dan. Dan talks about his talented band members and his excitement to be closing out the festival (Interview date: 7/30/2024)

Tim O’Brien and Jan Fabricius chat with KGNU’s Robin Claire at the RockyGrass festival. Tim and Jan discuss their musical journey and the creation of their recent albums. The duo talks about collaborating on new songs, testing them in live performances before recording, and their ongoing work with Tom Paxton. Tim shares insights into his songwriting process, particularly during the pandemic, and his approach to crossing genre boundaries (Interview date: 7/30/2024)

Jack Hadley, a blues guitarist based in Boulder, spoke with KGNU’s Joanne Cole. Jack discussed his new album, The St. Louis Sessions, Vol. II, released in April. Jack explained the album’s connection to St. Louis and its rich blues history. He also talked about his upcoming performance with Mike Maurer Band on September 7th at the Roots Music Project and his collaboration with R&B artist Hazel Miller (Interview date: 8/16/2024)

KGNU’s Shawna Sprowls chats with Sarah Jarosz, RockyGrass headliner, at the festival. They discuss her latest album, Polaroid Lovers, released in January, and her ongoing tour. Sarah talks about her journey from Texas to Nashville, her band lineup, her first RockyGrass experience at 12 years old, and the inspiration she draws from the bluegrass community (Interview date: 7/28/2024)

Photo: Josh Wool

Ain't From Here chats with KGNU Honky Tonk Heroes DJ Big Daddy (Interview date: 8/10/24)

The Mountain Grass Unit joins Matt Malick on KGNU's Old Grass, GNU Grass, performing live and discussing their music. The band, originally from Birmingham, Alabama, includes Luke Black (guitar), Drury Anderson (mandolin and vocals), Sam Wilson (bass), and Josiah Nelson (fiddle). They share their journey from childhood friends to forming the band, and talk about their upcoming album releasing on September 20th. They also discuss their show at the Bluebird Theater in Denver (Interview date: 8/10/2024)

The Felonius Smith Trio joins KGNU’s Greg Schultz for a studio session, sharing their passion for blues and old-timey music. They perform a couple of tunes, including a Grateful Dead-inspired original and a Tampa Red classic. Felonius discusses his musical influences, his love for improvisation, and his 35-year journey with blues music. Felonius Smith Trio will perform at the Mapleton Hill Porchfest on September 22! (Interview date: 8/9/2024)

In an interview with KGNU’s Bruce Trujillo, La Lom discusses their debut album, the influences behind their music, and their journey as a band. The group, based in Los Angeles, draws from diverse sounds like cumbia, chicha, and 60s rock, blending them into their unique style. They emphasize their love for danceable rhythms and how they translate the energy of live shows into the recording studio (Interview date: 8/9/2024)