In Our Headphones

DJ Brian Foss (and his wife/DJ assistant Cyndi) deliver a fun holiday edition of In Our Headphones, featuring everything from pop to soul to psych. Brian is KEXP’s longtime Christmas guy, having hosted the “Punk Rock X-Mess” for over 20 years on the punk show Sonic Reducer, and hosting “No Standards Christmas” on December 25th for over a decade. Music Director Chris Sanley closes out this Christmas episode with a melancholy track for the season. Listen to the full songs on KEXP's "In Our Headphones 2024" playlist on Spotify or the “What's In Our Headphones” playlist on YouTube. Hosted and produced by: Janice Headley and Isabel Khalili Mixed by: Emily Fox Mastered by: William Myers Editorial Director: Larry Mizell Jr. Our theme music is “好吗 (Hao Ma)” by Chinese American Bear Support the show at: kexp.org/headphones Contact us at headphones@kexp.org Support the show: https://www.kexp.org/donate See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s that list-making time of year! So for this episode, we've brought together 12 KEXP DJs and tastemakers for a sonic collage of the best new music from 2024. We hear from each DJ about one song that rose above the rest, getting a diverse sampling of the year in music. From hardcore to reggae to ambient and everything in between, this episode is sure to bring something unexpected for even our most voracious listeners. Songs featured: Mk.gee - “Dream Police” (DJ Alex’s pick) Bures Band - “Green Town” (Greg Vandy’s pick) Clay Birds - “Call Out My Name” (Gabriel Lopez’s pick) Rapsody - “Never Enough (feat. Keznamdi)” (DJ Miss Ashley’s pick) MUÑECA - “Bambi” (DJ Chilly’s pick) Brimheim - “Dancing in the Rubble” (Kevin Cole’s pick) The Scoffs - “Factories In Heaven” (Brian Foss’s pick) Burning Hammer - “Howling With The Wolves” (Jenn’s pick) Chat Pile - "Masc" (Reeves’ pick) Rich Ruth - “No Muscle, No Memory” (Noel Brass Jr.’s pick) Seiji Oda - "a gentle gigg.." (Mike Ramos’s pick) Porridge Radio - “Sick Of The Blues” (Chris Sanley’s pick) Listen to the full songs on KEXP's "In Our Headphones 2024" playlist on Spotify or the “What's In Our Headphones” playlist on YouTube. Stream KEXP at any hour, any day, for live DJ curation and recommendations. Tune into 90.3 FM in Seattle, 92.7 FM in the Bay Area, or KEXP.org and the KEXP App anywhere in the world. Hosted and produced by: Janice Headley and Isabel Khalili Mixed by: Emily Fox Mastered by: William Myers Editorial director: Larry Mizell Jr. Our theme music is “好吗 (Hao Ma)” by Chinese American Bear Support the podcast: kexp.org/headphones Contact us at headphones@kexp.org. Support the show: https://www.kexp.org/donate See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Albina Cabrera returns to the podcast for a very ”roquera” episode, spotlighting four new tracks from Argentina and Spain with elements of shoegaze, psychedelic, and punk, partly inspired by her recent travels. She also shares the 2020 song she keeps coming back to from the riot grrrls of Madrid. And Music Director Chris Sanley talks about the moving tribute that Sade Adu wrote for her son (her first new music in six years) as part of TRAИƧA, the 8-part compilation record celebrating trans artistry. Songs featured: Winona Riders - "No hagas que me arrepienta" Dum Chica - "Such a Witch" Alcalá Norte - "La Vida Cañón" Carolina Durante - "Hamburguesas" Aiko el grupo - "Si me conoces tanto por que me haces sufrir?" Sade Adu - "Young Lion" Listen to the full songs on KEXP's "In Our Headphones 2024" playlist on Spotify or the “What's In Our Headphones” playlist on YouTube. Listen to El Sonido with Albina Cabrera every other Monday from 7-10 PM PT, or on-demand anytime at KEXP.org or the KEXP App. Hosted and produced by: Janice Headley and Isabel Khalili Mixed by: Emily Fox Mastered by: William Myers Editorial director: Larry Mizell Jr. Our theme music is “好吗 (Hao Ma)” by Chinese American Bear Support the podcast: kexp.org/headphones Contact us at headphones@kexp.org. Support the show: https://www.kexp.org/donate See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, we make space for calm with a selection of new ambient tracks curated by KEXP DJs and editorial staff. We hear from Alex Ruder, host of the ambient and neo-classical show, Pacific Notions, about where his interest in ambient music began and the first song he ever played on his show. Then, we get recommendations that play with heavy distortion, post-rock, jazz, and field recordings. Songs featured: Helios - “First Dream Called Ocean” (Alex Ruder’s foundational ambient pick) KMRU - “opener” (Dusty Henry’s pick) Austyn Wohlers - “How Heavy the Slow World” (Brit Hansen’s pick) Evan Chapman - “Windows” (Roddy Nikpour’s pick) Nala Sinephro - “Continuum 4” (Isabel Khalili’s pick) Mark McGuire - “Anhedonia” (Alex Ruder’s pick) Listen to the full songs on KEXP's "In Our Headphones 2024" playlist on Spotify or the “What's In Our Headphones” playlist on YouTube. Listen to more ambient tunes with DJ and Associate Music Director Alex Ruder on Pacific Notions every Sunday from 6-9am Pacific Time or on-demand anytime at KEXP.org or the KEXP App. Hosted and produced by: Janice Headley and Isabel Khalili Mixed by: Emily Fox Mastered by: William Myers Editorial director: Larry Mizell Jr. Our theme music is “好吗 (Hao Ma)” by Chinese American Bear Support the podcast: kexp.org/headphones Contact us at headphones@kexp.org. Support the show: https://www.kexp.org/donate See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Darek Mazzone – KEXP’s longtime host of Wo’Pop, our Modern Global music show – takes us on a melodic journey from Cyprus to Lebanon to his homeland of Poland on today’s episode, concluding with a track that transcends all language for him. And Music Director Chris Sanley shares a haunting, hypnotic, moody song from a Danish-Chilean composer, collaborating with a Copenhagen-based artist. Songs featured: Listen to the full songs on KEXP's "In Our Headphones 2024" playlist on Spotify or the “What's In Our Headphones” playlist on YouTube. Listen to Darek on Wo' Pop every other Tuesday from 7-10pm PT or on-demand anytime at KEXP.org or the KEXP App. Hosted and produced by: Janice Headley and Isabel Khalili Mixed by: Emily Fox Mastered by: William Myers Editorial director: Larry Mizell Jr. Our theme music is “好吗 (Hao Ma)” by Chinese American Bear Support the podcast: kexp.org/headphones Contact us at headphones@kexp.org. Support the show: https://www.kexp.org/donate See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, we welcome Troy Nelson, Variety Mix DJ and host of the KEXP podcast, Live on KEXP. Not only does Troy share some recent faves with a ‘90s vibe, but stories of casino concerts, a childhood best friend turned Grammy-nominated producer, and discovering a post-punk gem behind a “one-hit wonder.” Our Music Director Chris Sanley closes things out with a magical, mystical track from two Annas that’s sure to transport you. Songs featured: Listen to the full songs on KEXP's "In Our Headphones 2024" playlist on Spotify or the “What's In Our Headphones” playlist on YouTube. Listen to Troy Nelson every Saturday from 3-6pm Pacific Time, or on-demand anytime at KEXP.org or the KEXP App. Hosted and produced by: Janice Headley and Isabel Khalili Mixed by: Emily Fox Mastered by: William Myers Editorial director: Larry Mizell Jr. Our theme music is “好吗 (Hao Ma)” by Chinese American Bear Support the podcast: kexp.org/headphones Contact us at headphones@kexp.org. Support the show: https://www.kexp.org/donate See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, we hear from KEXP’s queen of psychedelia and host of Astral Plane, DJ Jewel. She shares the mellow yet mind-bending tracks that have been easing her into shorter and darker days. She also talks with Isabel about the way psych music bends time, how you can find ego death in a good jam session, and the krautrock roots of much of the psychedelia that’s popular today. Music Director Chris Sanley then shares a song that’s been bringing her a sense of calm amidst chaos. Songs featured: Listen to the full songs on KEXP's "In Our Headphones 2024" playlist on Spotify or the “What's In Our Headphones” playlist on YouTube. Listen to DJ Jewel on Astral Plane every Wednesday from 7-10pm PT or on-demand anytime at KEXP.org or the KEXP App. Hosted and produced by: Janice Headley and Isabel Khalili Mixed by: Emily Fox Mastered by: William Myers Editorial director: Larry Mizell Jr. Our theme music is “好吗 (Hao Ma)” by Chinese American Bear Support the podcast: kexp.org/headphones Contact us at headphones@kexp.org Support the show: https://www.kexp.org/donate See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Variety Mix DJ Sean brings a dreamy, synth-heavy vibe to the show with his song choices, including a nod to an influential Krautrock guitarist and a salute to an ‘80s Scottish new wave duo who helped set the standard for his picks. And Associate Music Director Alex Ruder spotlights the latest from a long-running Detroit-based artist/producer/composer whose latest LP is a showcase of masterful collaborations. Songs featured: Listen to the full songs on KEXP's "In Our Headphones 2024" playlist on Spotify or the “What's In Our Headphones” playlist on YouTube. Listen to Sean every Monday night from 10pm -1am, or on-demand anytime at KEXP.org or the KEXP App. Hosted and produced by: Janice Headley and Isabel Khalili Mixed by: Emily Fox Mastered by: Jackson Long Editorial director: Larry Mizell Jr. Our theme music is “好吗 (Hao Ma)” by Chinese American Bear Support the podcast: kexp.org/headphones Contact us at headphones@kexp.org. Support the show: https://www.kexp.org/donate See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

To kick off this late October episode, Atticus brings us into the spirit of his favorite holiday with a Chelsea Wolfe track remixed by Boy Harsher - a perfect goth/dark wave pairing for Halloween. He also shares some dizzying psych-pop, his favorite lines from a singer-songwriter with “goofy and smart” lyricism, and the story of how he first discovered The Cramps’ Halloween classic. Atticus hosts a Variety Mix every Friday morning (aka late Thursday night) from 1-5am and will be doing a Halloween special the night of Oct 31/Nov 1. We also hear an honest, heart wrenching song from former Girls-frontman Christopher Owens, recommended by Music Director Chris Sanley. Songs featured: Listen to the full songs on KEXP's "In Our Headphones 2024" playlist on Spotify or the “What's In Our Headphones” playlist on YouTube. Listen to Atticus every Friday from 1-5 am, or anytime on the 2-week archive, at KEXP.org or the KEXP App. Hosted and produced by: Janice Headley and Isabel Khalili Mixed by: Roddy Nikpour Mastered by: William Myers Editorial director: Larry Mizell Jr. Our theme music is “好吗 (Hao Ma)” by Chinese American Bear Support the podcast: kexp.org/headphones Contact us at headphones@kexp.org. Support the show: https://www.kexp.org/donate See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In Our Headphones will be back next week with song recommendations from Atticus. But this week, we'd like to share another KEXP podcast: A Deeper Listen. It’s hosted by Emily Fox and every week it features a conversation with an artist bringing you deeper into their music. After hearing about their inspirations and the experiences that inform their work, you’ll find yourself hearing their music in a whole new way. On this episode, Emily talks with Alynda Segarra of Hurray for the Riff Raff about their recent album, 'The Past Is Still Alive.' They share some of the stories that informed the album, like hitchhiking and train hopping around the country. They also talk about their experience helping those struggling with addiction, and how grief is an act of love. Get more stories like this delivered straight to your feed. Subscribe to A Deeper Listen wherever you get your podcasts. Support KEXP podcasts at kexp.org/headphones. Support the show: https://www.kexp.org/donate See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For this episode, we welcome back Kevin Sur (Kānaka Maoli) and Tory J (Quinault), hosts of KEXP’s global Indigenous music show. They share the origins of their show name, Sounds of Survivance, and how the notion of survivance relates to the music they play and informs a way of being. They bring a mix of new releases from Indigenous artists pushing the boundaries of sound, from experimental electronic to soul to hardcore, then share a lesser known track from the 70s group that brought the hit “Come and Get Your Love.” Finally, Music Director Chris Sanley shares a propulsive piece of futurist folk celebrating Black and Indigenous solidarity. Songs featured: Listen to the full songs on KEXP's "In Our Headphones 2024" playlist on Spotify or the “What's In Our Headphones” playlist on YouTube. Listen to Sounds of Survivance with Tory J and Kevin Sur every Monday from 3-5am PT, or anytime on the 2-week archive, at KEXP.org or the KEXP App. Hosted and produced by: Janice Headley and Isabel Khalili Mixed by: Emily Fox Mastered by: William Myers Editorial director: Larry Mizell Jr. Our theme music is “好吗 (Hao Ma)” by Chinese American Bear Support the podcast: kexp.org/headphones Contact us at headphones@kexp.org. Support the show: https://www.kexp.org/donate See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ahead of the 36th Annual Earshot Jazz Festival in Seattle, we chat with John Gilbreath, long-time host of KEXP’s Jazz Theatre. He spotlights a few of the artists playing – offering everything from an R&B-infused song to a meditative flute-led track – and closes out his set with a classic from the great “Ambassador of Jazz” and the story of how he fell in love with radio. The Earshot Jazz Festival runs from October 17th through November 3rd in various venues throughout Seattle. Our Associate Music Director Alex Ruder ends the episode with not one, but two tracks from a new Brussels-based group that he has on loop. Listen to the full songs on KEXP's "In Our Headphones 2024" playlist on Spotify or the “What's In Our Headphones” playlist on YouTube. Listen to John Gilbreath every other Monday from 1-3am PT, or anytime on the 2-week archive, at KEXP.org or the KEXP App. Hosted and produced by: Janice Headley and Isabel Khalili Mixed by: Emily Fox Mastered by: William Myers Editorial Director: Larry Mizell Jr. Our theme music is “好吗 (Hao Ma)” by Chinese American Bear Support the podcast: kexp.org/headphones Contact us at headphones@kexp.org Support the show: https://www.kexp.org/donate See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, we meet Kelley Stoltz, one of KEXP’s newest DJs as the co-host of Vinelands, our Bay Area local music show broadcasting there on 92.7 FM. Kelley shares an ode to summer camp, an intended TV theme song from an alt-rock legend, a track he himself plays sitar on (an In Our Headphones first!), and the band who made his young rock star dreams come true. Our Music Director Chris Sanley closes out the show with a fantastic psych-pop song that takes you on an aural trip around the world. Listen to the full songs on KEXP's "In Our Headphones 2024" playlist on Spotify or the “What's In Our Headphones” playlist on YouTube. Listen to Kelley Stoltz on Vinelands every other Saturday from 6-9 PM PT on 92.7 in the Bay Area, or check out the Vinelands show archive here. Hosted and produced by: Janice Headley and Isabel Khalili Mixed by: Roddy Nikpour Mastered by: William Myers Editorial Director: Larry Mizell Jr. Our theme music is “好吗 (Hao Ma)” by Chinese American Bear It’s not too late to support us during KEXP's Fall Drive – find out how at: kexp.org/headphones Contact us at headphones@kexp.org Support the show: https://www.kexp.org/donate See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For this episode, we welcome one of KEXP's newest DJs, Gabriel Lopez. Gabriel is the co-host of the weekly show Vinelands, which launched in August as part of KEXP's new Bay Area broadcast (92.7 FM), and spotlights music from the surrounding scenes. He talks about what's been exciting him about music from the Bay Area, then shares a dreamy and joyful ambient track from Oakland in the 90s that was recently rediscovered. He also recommends a track that bring West Asian folk into the club, talks about what makes the "Oakland techno" sound, and shares some enveloping shoegaze from an emerging group. Then, Music Director Chris Sanley brings us a song about seeking home to ease us into fall. Songs featured: Listen to the full songs on KEXP's "In Our Headphones 2024" playlist on Spotify or the “What's In Our Headphones” playlist on YouTube. Listen to Gabriel Lopez on Vinelands every other Saturday from 6-9pm PT on 92.7 in the Bay Area, or check out the Vinelands show archive at kexp.org/shows/vinelands/ Hosted and produced by: Janice Headley and Isabel Khalili Mixed by: Emily Fox Mastered by: William Myers Editorial director: Larry Mizell Jr. Our theme music is “好吗 (Hao Ma)” by Chinese American Bear Support the podcast during KEXP's Fall Drive and get some new merch: kexp.org/headphones Contact us at headphones@kexp.org. Support the show: https://www.kexp.org/donate See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As KEXP kicks off Aqui y Ahora – our special programming for Latinx Heritage Month – we welcome Albina Cabrera back to the podcast to talk about the kick-off day's on-air programming, as well as KEXP’s Mexico City broadcast, taking place in October. We spotlight four of the bands playing the El Sonido Live event on October 19 at Foro Indie Rocks, covering everything from shoegaze to indigenous punk. Plus, our Music Director Chris Sanley helps us celebrate Aqui y Ahora with one of the most upbeat tracks on depression we’ve ever had the pleasure to hear. Listen to the full songs on KEXP's "In Our Headphones 2024" playlist on Spotify or the “What's In Our Headphones” playlist on YouTube. Listen to El Sonido with Albina Cabrera every Monday from 7-10 PM PT, or anytime on the two-week archive, at KEXP.org or the KEXP App. Hosted and produced by: Janice Headley and Isabel Khalili Mixed by: Emily Fox Mastered by: Jackson Long Editorial Director: Larry Mizell Jr. Our theme music is “好吗 (Hao Ma)” by Chinese American Bear Support the podcast: kexp.org/headphones Contact us at headphones@kexp.org. Support the show: https://www.kexp.org/donate See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Riz Rollins, also known as DJ Riz, recently celebrated 35 years at KEXP. He hosts Drive Time every Monday from 4-7pm Pacific Time and is one of the rotating hosts on Expansions, the Sunday night mix show originally inspired by trip-hop and acid jazz. His sets incorporate jazz, rock, hip-hop, funk, and everything in between, always with soul. To celebrate Riz's 35-year milestone, we get two extra song recommendations in this episode! Isabel joins Riz at his house to discuss 4 new songs and 2 old favorites (remixed, because Riz loves a good remix). They also talk about his origins and inspirations as a DJ, imposter syndrome, and the influence faith and gospel have had on his life and trajectory. As expected, Riz shares much wisdom along the way. (Note: the first song recommendation starts around 10:23). To finish the episode, Associate Music Director (and fellow Expansions DJ) Alex Ruder shares a song that's perfect for a chill out room or after party, and also serves as a nod to his mentor Riz. Listen to the full songs on KEXP's "In Our Headphones 2024" playlist on Spotify or the “What's In Our Headphones” playlist on YouTube. Listen to DJ Riz on Drive Time every Monday from 4-7pm PT, monthly on Expansions, or anytime on the 2-week archive, at KEXP.org or the KEXP App. Hosted and produced by: Janice Headley and Isabel Khalili Mixed by: Emily Fox Mastered by: William Myers Editorial Director: Larry Mizell Jr. Our theme music is “好吗 (Hao Ma)” by Chinese American Bear Support the podcast: kexp.org/headphones Contact us at headphones@kexp.org. Support the show: https://www.kexp.org/donate See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Lace Cadence is the host of KEXP’s “The Continent,” which showcases the many of genres and styles across Africa, from AfroBeats to Amapiano, Soukous to Mbalax. In this episode, Lace joins Janice to share two tracks – covering the spectrum of African house music, from a classic-style jam to Amapiano. (Plus, throws a curveball in the middle, with a nod to his ‘90s Seattle roots!) And speaking of “‘90s Seattle,” KEXP Music Director Chris Sanley shares the latest single from local trio Black Ends, who bring their own style of grunge they call “gunk pop.” Listen to the full songs on KEXP's "In Our Headphones 2024" playlist on Spotify or the “What's In Our Headphones” playlist on YouTube. Listen to Lace Cadence on "The Continent" every Friday from 7-10pm PT, or anytime on the 2-week archive, at KEXP.org or the KEXP App. Hosted and produced by: Janice Headley and Isabel Khalili Mixed by: Emily Fox Mastered by: William Myers Editorial Director: Larry Mizell Jr. Our theme music is “好吗 (Hao Ma)” by Chinese American Bear Support the podcast: kexp.org/headphones Contact us at headphones@kexp.org. Support the show: https://www.kexp.org/donate See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In Our Headphones will be back next week with song recommendations from Lace Cadence, host of The Continent. But this week, we'd like to share another KEXP podcast: The Cobain 50, which explores the famous list Kurt Cobain left behind in one of his journals naming his Top 50 albums. Hosted by Martin Douglas and Dusty Henry, the series digs into a different album from the list each week, discussing its influence on Nirvana and the bigger themes still resonating today. On this episode, Dusty Henry dives into 'Surfer Rosa' by The Pixies. It's arguably the most influential "alternative music" album of the 90s — not just for Nirvana, but artists worldwide. Surfer Rosa was Nevermind before Nevermind. Subscribe to The Cobain 50 wherever you get your podcasts. Support KEXP podcasts at kexp.org/headphones. Support the show: https://www.kexp.org/donate See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

KEXP Variety Mix DJ Reeves shares a sinister ambient track, some optimistic indie rock, and changes the show name to In Our Chat Pile, in honor of the Oklahoma City-based band. He also shares a sweet story and shout-out to his Dad. Plus, KEXP Music Director Chris Sanley shares a hypnotic track from a long-time KEXP fave band, that she describes as the “middle ground between Radiohead and Young Fathers.“ Listen to the full songs on KEXP's "In Our Headphones 2024" playlist on Spotify or the “What's In Our Headphones” playlist on YouTube. Listen to DJ Reeves on Saturdays from 2-6 AM PT, or anytime on the 2-week archive, at KEXP.org or the KEXP App. Hosted and produced by: Janice Headley and Isabel Khalili Mixed by: Emily Fox Mastered by: William Myers Editorial Director: Larry Mizell Jr. Our theme music is “好吗 (Hao Ma)” by Chinese American Bear Support the podcast: kexp.org/headphones Contact us at headphones@kexp.org. Support the show: https://www.kexp.org/donate See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this special edition of In Our Headphones, KEXP’s Editorial Team comes together to share their contenders for this year’s “Song of the Summer.” From synth pop and breezy yacht rock to UK garage and the diss track to end them all, each contributor brings their own take on what makes the perfect summer track. Songs featured: Send your own "Song of the Summer" to headphones@kexp.org. Listen to the full songs on KEXP's "In Our Headphones 2024" playlist on Spotify or the “What's In Our Headphones” playlist on YouTube. Explore the work of KEXP’s Editorial Team on https://www.kexp.org/podcasts/ . Hosted and produced by: Janice Headley and Isabel Khalili Mixed by: Roddy Nikpour Mastered by: William Myers Editorial director: Larry Mizell Jr. Our theme music is “好吗 (Hao Ma)” by Chinese American Bear Support the podcast: kexp.org/headphones Support the show: https://www.kexp.org/donate See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.