Get ready, music lovers! As the summer nights stretch out, JamFest on NRN Radio is setting the perfect soundtrack for your Wednesdays. We’re thrilled to announce our incredible lineup for June and July, promising a journey through diverse genres and showcasing some of the most captivating releases in recent memory. Prepare for a series of handpicked masterpieces that are guaranteed to captivate your senses and ignite your imagination like never before.
Tonight’s Sonic Journey: Neil Young – Coastal (Soundtrack)
Kicking off this sensational summer run tonight, Wednesday, June 11th, at 9:00 PM EST, we delve into the profound depths of Neil Young’s Coastal (Soundtrack). This isn’t just an album; it’s an intimate conversation with a legend. Captured during his 2023 solo U.S. tour and serving as the companion to Daryl Hannah’s revealing documentary, Coastal, this release strips everything back to the raw essence of Young’s artistry.
Forget the roaring feedback of Crazy Horse or the polished studio sheen. Coastal presents Neil Young at his most unguarded: just a man, his guitar, a piano, a harmonica, and six decades of stories pouring out through song. It’s a meditative exploration of time, memory, and survival, where age and experience lend new weight to every note. Whether it’s the spectral melancholy of “Expecting To Fly” or the timeless innocence of “I Am A Child,” each track resonates with renewed power. His voice, fragile yet potent, is more filled with truth than ever. This live recording immerses you directly in the room, with every pause, breath, and audience murmur contributing to an unvarnished authenticity. For fans seeking a candid look into the soul of an artist who ceaselessly chases truth through sound, tonight’s feature is an absolute must-listen.
Looking Ahead: Your JamFest Summer Soundtrack Continues!
The sonic adventure doesn’t stop there. Here’s what else JamFest has in store for your upcoming Wednesday nights:
Wednesday, June 18th, 9:00 PM EST: Galactic & Irma Thomas – Audience With the Queen
Next week, prepare for a royal treat as the Crescent City’s own chameleonic funk-rock-pop veterans Galactic join forces with the unparalleled “Soul Queen of New Orleans,” Irma Thomas, for Audience With the Queen. This uplifting joint effort is a vibrant celebration of new music, shining a brilliant light on the Grammy-winning singer’s timeless sound. At 84, Irma Thomas continues to defy expectations, contributing era-defining hits and earning worldwide acclaim. With Galactic’s high-energy, groove-laced originals, and a dazzling revamp of Nancy Wilson’s “How Glad I Am,” Thomas sounds more vibrant than ever. This unique full-length LP is a definitive must-have for fans of any genre, merging two beloved New Orleans acts into one unforgettable experience. Get ready to groove!
Wednesday, June 25th, 9:00 PM EST: Joan Osborne – Dylanology
As June draws to a close, JamFest brings you a captivating interpretation of a legendary catalog with Joan Osborne’s Dylanology. The gifted vocalist takes center stage in front of a live audience, joined by special guests Amy Helm, Robert Randolph, and Jackie Greene. Osborne’s soulful renditions breathe new life into some of Bob Dylan’s most iconic compositions. From the evocative “Spanish Harlem Incident” to the powerful “Masters Of War” and the intimate “Tonight I’ll Be Staying Here With You,” Osborne’s unique artistry promises to reveal fresh layers and compelling perspectives on these timeless classics. This is a masterclass in vocal interpretation you won’t want to miss.
Wednesday, July 2nd, 9:00 PM EST: Alison Krauss & Union Station – Arcadia
Kick off July with a highly anticipated return! On July 2nd, JamFest is thrilled to feature Alison Krauss & Union Station’s Arcadia. This marks their first studio album in a remarkable 14 years, following the beloved Paper Airplane, and Alison Krauss’s first release since her critically acclaimed 2021 collaboration with Robert Plant, Raise the Roof. Arcadia is a testament to their enduring artistry, showcasing their signature blend of bluegrass, folk, and Americana. It’s the final project to feature long-time member Dan Tyminski and introduces the fresh voice of Russell Moore. Praised for its soulful ballads and Krauss’ angelic vocals, Arcadia is a “return to form” that weaves stories of human existence with themes of bravery, valor, and loyalty. Prepare for a truly beautiful and poignant listening experience.
Wednesday, July 9th, 9:00 PM EST: ALO – Frames
Rounding out our spectacular July lineup, we’ll immerse ourselves in the vibrant soundscapes of ALO’s (Animal Liberation Orchestra) Frames. This 10-song LP is a joyful explosion of sound, boasting a seamless fusion of rock, electronic, alt-pop, R&B, folk, and funk, all delivered with an infectious, subtle wit. What makes ALO truly special is their collaborative spirit – every member writes and sings lead, contributing to a dynamic and richly textured sound. Frames offers a much-needed escape, crafted by a band of lifelong friends who, despite becoming serious artists, never take themselves too seriously. Dive into seriously well-crafted songs like “Blank Canvas,” with its melodic guitar riff and easy-going vibe, radiating pure optimism. If you’re looking for music that will uplift your spirits and make you move, Frames is your perfect summer companion.
Don’t Miss a Single Note!
JamFest on NRN Radio is your destination for handpicked musical masterpieces every Wednesday night. Mark your calendars, set your reminders, and prepare to be transported by these incredible artists. Each week promises to be a journey that transcends the ordinary and elevates the art form to new heights.
Tune in every Wednesday night at 9:00 PM EST on NRN Radio for JamFest! Your summer soundtrack starts now.