KGNU Music

Alex Thoele, best known as a member of the Colorado band Chain Station, stopped by the KGNU studio to perform songs from his debut solo album, Pocket Knife, and chat with Katherine Peterson. Between live performances of "Pocket Knife," "Thoele," and "Free Yourself," he shared stories behind the songs, reflected on growing up in small-town Illinois, and discussed his first solo release and album release show at Globe Hall. (Air Date 7/1/26).

Doppler Effect, a Denver-area high school rock band formed through Global Sound Studio, joins KGNU for a live in-studio session featuring original songs including "Godless Country," "Embers," "My Aphrodite," and "Getaway Train." Between performances, the band talks about finding one another through music, writing songs inspired by personal experiences and mythology, and using music as a way to build community and express themselves during challenging times. They also share how Global Sound Studio has shaped their growth as musicians and discuss upcoming performances. (Air Date 6/29/26).

Julie Koenig joined KGNU for a live studio session ahead of her appearance at the inaugural Atom Jazz Festival this August. Accompanied by bassist Domi Edson, the Fort Collins-based vocalist and educator performed several original compositions, including selections from her albums Intruder and Renaissance Woman. During the interview, Koenig discussed her musical journey from classical training in Ohio to earning a master’s degree in jazz studies at the University of Northern Colorado, as well as the importance of lifelong learning, improvisation, and strengthening the jazz community in Northern Colorado. Edson also shared information about the Colorado Conservatory for the Jazz Arts and performed his original tune “Reusable Cup Blues.”

KGNU is proud to be a sponsor of the Atom Jazz Festival, which takes place August 21–23 and celebrates jazz artists from across the Front Range and Northern Colorado. (Air Date 6/24/26).

Indra Raj talks with Delvon Lamarr of the Delvon Lamarr Organ Trio about life on the road, the group's recent tours through Europe and Japan, and why audiences overseas have embraced their blend of soul jazz, blues, R&B, rock, and more. Lamarr also shares the remarkable story of how he went from playing drums and trumpet to discovering the Hammond B3 organ almost by accident, and explains why the trio calls its genre-defying performances "feel-good music." The Delvon Lamarr Organ Trio performs at Cervantes' Masterpiece Ballroom in Denver on July 10. (Air Date 6/24/26).

Sleep Club stopped by KGNU for a live in-studio session, sharing songs from both their previous Bellows EP and their upcoming debut album, Dweller, due out this October. Between performances, the Boulder-based band talked with DJ Jules about the origins of Sleep Club, the evolution from a solo project to a full band, upcoming shows, and their excitement about playing The Fest in Florida. They also shared the artists inspiring them lately before closing the session with the song that started it all, "When I Close My Eyes." (Air Date 6/22/26).

CU Boulder country band Red Revival joined Ari Lubin on KGNU to discuss their formation, musical influences, and rapid growth from dorm-room jams to packed house shows and venue performances. The band blends country, Southern rock, indie, and classical backgrounds into a distinctive sound. They also shared how early collaborations and campus connections helped them quickly build momentum as a group.

They highlighted their “Balcony Sessions,” a dorm-balcony recording series that brought together dozens of Boulder musicians and helped expand their local following. The band also reflected on viral TikTok house-show videos that reached millions of views and boosted their visibility. Looking ahead, Red Revival plans to continue playing both house shows and venues, and release more original music. (Date 6/18/26).

Ahead of his June 20 performance at the African Creators Festival in Denver, acclaimed Malian guitarist and singer Vieux Farka Touré joined Deana Bianco for KGNU's Afternoon Alternative to discuss touring, performing in the United States, and his recent collaboration with Khruangbin. Touré reflected on the long journey from Bamako to Colorado, shared why U.S. audiences hold a special place in his heart, and spoke about reimagining his father Ali Farka Touré's music for a new generation through the collaborative album with Khruangbin. He also offered insight into his pre-show routine and the joy he still finds in performing live after decades on stage. (Air Date 6/22/26).

Denver-based indie folk duo Wife Swap stopped by the KGNU studio for a live session with DJ Jules on The Morning Sound Alternative. The pair performed several original songs, including “Dickinson,” “July,” “Nintendo,” and “Jubilee,” and shared stories about their collaborative songwriting process, musical inspirations, and the role harmony plays in their sound. They also discussed upcoming performances across Colorado, reflected on their first tour in Alaska, and talked about turning life's challenges into music. (Air Date 3/26/26).

Ahead of his Fort Collins performance, reggae artist Perfect Giddimani joined DJ Soul Rock on KGNU’s Reggae Bloodlines to discuss life on the road, his latest music, and the message at the heart of reggae. Giddimani reflected on a successful tour, shared details about an upcoming album with producer Sinckee Beatz, and talked about his new single, “Chaba and Duduque.” He also spoke about reggae’s enduring mission to promote peace, unity, awareness, and positive change. (Air Date 3/14/26).

Denver-born DJ and producer Average Jonny stopped by The Afternoon Sound Alternative with DJ Umo 1 to talk about his music journey, upcoming performances, and community work in Denver. Jonny shared how he began producing in 2011 before moving into DJing, discussed his longtime collaboration with artist Neptoon, and highlighted upcoming appearances around the city, including a set at Meadowlark.

The conversation also explored Jonny’s role as a co-owner of Fifth Coffee House in Five Points, where he helps organize community-centered events such as open mics, poetry readings, comedy nights, and DJ sets. Inspired by artists like Kaytranada and the Soulection collective, Average Jonny continues to blend music, culture, and community in Denver’s creative scene. (Air Date 6/18/26).