In a music rut? Or want to know what’s hot in the college music world? The KWVA music blog is your solution!
The KWVA music blog is a creative space for all musically curious folks. You’ll find coverage of station and local events, album reviews, interviews with local bands, oh-so-perfectly curated playlists, the weekly charts so you know what’s cutting edge, and more music-related topics.
Belltower | Sunday Live Sessions
Belltower | Sunday Live Sessions Recap
Music Video / Full Performance / Interview
On February 23rd, Belltower…
Read MoreIrish Music, its histories, and the UO’s ensemble
Irish music is ‘as old as the hills’ – at least according to Sarah Wilfong-Joblin, longtime Irish music enthusiast and music instructor at the University of Oregon. In her work at the UO, Wilfong-Joblin is continuing this musical legacy in Eugene with her own Irish music ensemble.
With a rich history spanning centuries, the oral traditions of Irish music have persevered through years of wars and cultural shifts, remaining an enduring part of Ireland's cultural heritage.
In a full-length interview, Wilfong-Joblin delves into the fascinating history and vibrant traditions of Irish music, shedding light on its influence on Irish culture and beyond. Along with clips from the ensemble themselves, this interview has been adapted into an audio story, offering an exploration of Irish music’s lineage, and its presence on the UO campus with an inside look into the ensemble’s playing.
… Read MoreA Conversation With Bendrethegiant–The Future of Neo-Soul Pop Music
The musical group Bendrethegiant is a melodic, jazz-funk fusion musical visionary. The band consists of six members: Avery Scanlon (guitar), Eli Hansen (Bass), Ben Harris (Saxophone), Delos Erickson (Keys), Nate Hansen (Drums), and the face of the group Bendre on vocals. It was clear from the beginning that this group had amazing chemistry and their artistry was through the roof.
About three years ago, Bendre began making music while living in Seattle. In 2023, he moved to Eugene where he reconnected with his old friend from high school, Delos Erikson, who was finishing his last year at the University of Oregon School of Music. They began playing together, and Erikson started to help Bendre write out some of his songs, that’s when they decided to create/join a band. Erikson, who had worked on a project with Eli and Nate Hansen, brought them in to work on this project as well and help make music. They connected with different musicians involved in Jazz Studies at UO and…
Cosplay Jesus | Sunday Live Sessions
Cosplay Jesus | Sunday Live Sessions Recap
Music Video / Full Performance / Interview
On February 9th, local rocker Cosplay…
Read MoreTrimmo | Sunday Live Sessions
Trimmo | Sunday Live Sessions Recap
Music Video / Full Performance / Interview
On January 26th, UO student and singer/songwriter Trimmo performed on KWVA Live Sessions.
Film pictures and Live Session produced by DJ Taco Supreme.
Interested in performing on KWVA's Live Sessions? Email scheduling@kwvaradio.org for more information.
… Read MoreModern Influences and Revivals: Billy Strings and Bluegrass
Cover art created by Alex Tenta for the album, "Billy Strings | Live Vol. 1."
Music genres, much like fashion, ebb and flow with societal trends. What was once out of style can quickly find itself back in the spotlight. Such is the case with bluegrass, a genre that since its start in the 1940s has continued to blend tradition with contemporary influences.
Once considered a niche corner of Americana, bluegrass has found itself at the center of a cultural resurgence. Among the largest artists at the forefront of this revival is Grammy-winning artist Billy Strings, whose rapid rise reflects the genre's contemporary success. His 2024 album “Highway Prayers” propelled his career – and the revival of old-time music – to new heights as the first Bluegrass album to top …
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