In Our Headphones

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.

DJ Michele Myers shares her song-based approach to DJ’ing and her philosophy for choosing positive messaging in music, like the infectious dance-friendly tracks she spotlights in this episode. Plus, KEXP Associate Music Director Alex Ruder shares a beautiful tribute from a young South-East London-based artist to his late sister. 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 Michele Myers live every Tuesday from 10pm to 1am Pacific Time, 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.

Evie Stokes joins us to talk about what she has in store for listeners as KEXP’s new Drive Time host (Tuesdays through Fridays), then shares three standout tracks she’s had in her headphones lately. Ranging from art-pop to psychedelic jazz and soul, every recommendation deals with some heavy themes while being completely danceable. Plus, Music Director Chris Sanley shares an emotional track from the artist she calls one of the greatest songwriters of our time. 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 Evie Stokes Tuesdays through Fridays from 4-7pm 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.

The great Kevin Cole talks about his “remix, not retirement,” as he steps down from Drive Time at the end of this week and transitions to a weekly show, starting in August. Plus, he shares songs from a Civil Rights legend, a pop music “it girl,” and an unclassifiable band from the Czech Republic. Then, KEXP Music Director Chris Sanley shares a chaotic, yet melodic track from an Austin art-punk band. 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. Starting in late August, you can listen to Kevin Cole in his new slot every Sunday 3-6pm 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: 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.

Tory J, co-host of KEXP’s global Indigenous music show “Sounds of Survivance” talks with Isabel about how sound and music inform Indigenous life, dispelling myths about Indigenous peoples through his show, and his deep love of Rez Metal. He shares three new songs touching on shoegaze, metal, jazz, plus one foundational track. Then, Music Director Chris Sanley shares why she’s dancing and weeping to the new single posthumously released from hyper-pop icon SOPHIE. 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.

DJ Chilly talks about stepping down as co-host of El Sonido, KEXP’s Modern Latin music show that he founded 14 years ago, and shares three tracks that run the gamut from jazz to grindcore to his favorite genre of all time, soul. Plus, KEXP Associate Music Director Alex Ruder shares a chilled-out track that’s been in his headphones, unintentionally tying together this episode’s theme of “home.” 1. DJ Green Lantern - “Falling For Jazz”" 2. BRAT - “Human Offense” 3. J Noa - “Arrogante” 4. Ohio Players - “Here Today And Gone Tomorrow” 5. ZG - “Feels Like Home” 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. Catch DJ Chilly’s latest shows on his DJ page on KEXP.org. 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, host of El Sonido and KEXP’s Latin Partnerships and Editorial Manager, joins Isabel for our quarterly Latin music highlight. As we pass the half-year mark, Albina takes stock of some of her favorite albums of the year so far and shares four standout tracks, ranging from industrial synth to hazy indie punk and universal tales of love and loss. As always, we end with one recommendation from KEXP Music Director Chris Sanley, this time bringing us cumbia-inspired avant-pop with ancestral depth. 1. Mueran Humanos - "Dentaduras" 2. Las Nubes - "Would Be" 3. Luisa Almaguer - "Un día nos vamos a morir" 4. La Zorra Zapata - "El Invento" 5. Angelica Garcia - "Juanita" 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 at 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: 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.

DJ Kennady Quille, host of KEXP’s Pacific Northwest music show, Audioasis, shares three songs with a Northwest focus, as well as the first new music in 19 years from a legendary Olympia, WA queercore band. Plus, KEXP Music Director Chris Sanley shares a stunning slow-burn single off the debut LP of a Brooklyn-based artist on the verge of a breakout. 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 Kennady Quille on Audioasis live every Saturday from 6 to 9pm Pacific Time, 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: 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.

Greg Vandy is the host of The Roadhouse, KEXP’s Sunday morning roots and American music show. He talks with Isabel Khalili about how the show is more about a feeling than a genre, and how he uses music to draw connections between the past and present. Then he shares three songs he’s been loving lately, from 60’s girl group harmonies to a soulful expression of joy, plus one lesser known track from the inventor of the power chord. Lastly, we hear from KEXP Music Director Chris Sanley about a powerful indie collaboration recorded at Abbey Road Studios. 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 Greg Vandy on The Roadhouse live every Sunday from 9am to noon Pacific Time, 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.

Janice sits down with Larry Rose to discuss his DJ beginnings 30 years ago and how he’s seen radio evolve. Then they get into the stories behind three new song recommendations and a 1980’s “Pride” classic that holds special meaning for Larry. Plus, KEXP’s Associate Music Director Alex Ruder shares a song that brings him back to what he appreciated about early- 2000s “indietronica” sounds. 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. Catch Larry Rose’s latest shows on his DJ page on KEXP.org. 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.

Isabel chats with DJ Miss Ashley about four songs that are playing in her headphones lately and one foundational track that ties them all together. Plus, Ashley shares a protest song that doesn't hold back. Then, KEXP Music Director Chris Sanley shares one standout release that’s an early summer bop. 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 Miss Ashley live every Sunday from noon to 3pm Pacific Time, 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.

Overnight DJ Mike Ramos shares some songs that have been in his headphones lately, from a dirty-south-tinged track that’s an early contender for “Song of the Summer” to a chiptune jam named for an early virtual pet. Plus, KEXP Music Director Chris Sanley shares her own “Song of the Summer,” a standout release recently added to KEXP’s rotation. Songs featured: Listen to the full songs on KEXP's "In Our Headphones 2024" playlist on Spotify, or on the KEXP website. Listen to Mike Ramos on Monday nights / Tuesday mornings from 1-5 AM PT, and on-demand via the KEXP website and app. Hosted and produced by: Janice Headley and Isabel Khalili Mixed by: Emily Fox 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.

Janice Headley chats with her work BFF Sharlese, host of Mechanical Breakdown, about the four (dark) songs playing in her headphones lately. They also chat about World Goth Day, airing all day on KEXP Wednesday May 22 (and available on the archive for two weeks after). Plus, KEXP Music Director Chris Sanley returns from Radio Camp with a standout release recently added to KEXP’s rotation. Songs featured: Listen to the full songs on KEXP's "In Our Headphones 2024" playlist on Spotify, or on the KEXP website. Listen to Mechanical Breakdown with Sharlese, every Friday night (Saturday morning) from 1-3 AM PT, or anytime on the two-week archive, at KEXP.org, or the KEXP App: https://www.kexp.org/shows/mechanical-breakdown/ Hosted and produced by: Janice Headley and Isabel Khalili Mixed by: Emily Fox 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.

Isabel Khalili sits down with Brian, Jenn, and Dr. West, hosts of KEXP’s punk show Sonic Reducer, to celebrate its 20th anniversary. After reminiscing about the origins and evolution of the show, each DJ shares a new short, fast ‘n loud track they’re excited about. Plus, we hear about the show’s namesake song and what makes it an all-time great. As always, we end on one standout release from KEXP’s Music Director team. This time, we hear about a sprawling track with an unconventional story from Associate Music Director Alex Ruder. Songs featured: Listen to the full songs on KEXP's "In Our Headphones 2024" playlist on Spotify. Listen to Sonic Reducer with Jenn, Brian, and Dr. West every Saturday at 9-midnight 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: 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.

To celebrate the start of “Pushing Boundaries,” KEXP’s programming for Asian and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, Isabel Khalili chats with Diana Ratsamee. Diana is the host of Eastern Echoes, KEXP’s weekly show exploring music of all styles from Asia and the Asian diaspora. They talk about the 1980’s Lao song that connects Diana with her family’s story, plus three new songs that span the globe, from brain-tingling electro-punk from Southern China to Middle Eastern surf rock. And, as always, we hear about one standout release recently added to KEXP’s rotation, straight from KEXP Music Director Chris Sanley. Songs featured: Listen to the full songs on KEXP's "In Our Headphones 2024" playlist on Spotify. Listen to Eastern Echoes with Diana Ratsamee every Thursday at 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 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.