Mark Flanagan welcomed Erika Wennerstrom and Beth Harris of the Heartless Bastards to the KGNU studio ahead of their Colorado shows. The band, known for their blues-rock foundation and eclectic musical influences, performed a few live songs and discussed the evolution of their sound and lineup. Erika shared the band’s origin story, including a pivotal moment involving The Black Keys and a demo rescued from a junk email folder. They also reflected on the creative process behind their most recent album, A Beautiful Life, and hinted at a new project in the works. You can catch Heartless Bastards live Friday night at the Gothic Theatre in Denver for a KGNU Presents show, and Thursday evening at Old Town Square Stage in Fort Collins as part of the Thursday Night Live concert series. (Studio Session: 7/17/25)