Once a year, industry professionals of the non-commercial radio world gather at XPN’s facilities in Philadelphia to discuss trends and hurdles, share a drink or two, and watch some amazing music at the annual NON-COMMvention, or simply Non-Comm.
In between performances from The Both, Asgeir, Hurray for the Riff Raff, Shovels & Rope, and Jessica Lea Mayfield, I attended panels discussing whether or not to play the new Tori Amos (we’re not), how to make the most of your digital footprint (we try), etc. This is a conference, not a festival: it’s more chatting and plotting than anything else, but the performers always make this business trip a pleasure.
Here are the stand out acts of 2014's Non-Comm:
While I’ve never felt quite angsty enough to consider the Hold Steady a personal favorite, the charm of their live performance is undeniable. Craig Finn bounces around the stage with an energy I haven’t possessed since the age of 12.
Chet Faker is not only a highlight of the week, but a highlight of the last couple years. This guy has it. A beautiful voice, slick beats, and he layers sound in a way makes you feel simultaneously hollow and whole. He took the stage alone and mesmerized.
I love what I’d heard from the upcoming album "Heal," and when I met the lead singer Tim in person, I fell for him too. A good person, making good music. When he announced: “This is JM going out to Jason Molina,” I melted and the room spun.
Anytime I can see Wisconsin's PHOX is a true treat. But while I've had the pleasure of catching them on stage and in an OpenAir studio session, I got to see them in a totally unique environment in Philly. During an incredible dinner courtesy of Songlines, they scooted from table to table playing from their new album for the diners. While this was probably a once-in-a-lifetime scenario, you can see them live at the Hi-Dive on July 9.
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People from across the country are looking for ways to help families of the 10 people killed at a King Soopers in Boulder on March 22.
We've compiled a list of area groups that are collecting contributions in the aftermath of the shooting.
In July, we published this statement in recognition of the work we needed to begin at CPR to confront issues of diversity, equity and inclusion in our newsroom and organization as a whole.
We know this work is urgent, and we are dedicated to doing it thoroughly and connecting it with our vision and mission to reach all and serve everyone in Colorado.
Here is an update on our progress over the last eight months.
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