WNRN, a listener-supported community radio station based in Charlottesville, which broadcasts in the RVA area at 103.1, is currently in the midst of their Fall Fund Drive, and one of this year's perks should definitely catch the attention of local listeners. In Studio Vol. 1 is a 17-track CD compiling performances recorded live at WNRN's studios, and features quite a few excellent artists. A live performance of "Sounds Like Hallelujah" by RVA/Seattle alt-rock group The Head And The Heart is perhaps the most noteworthy for local fans. Fans of classic alt-country sounds will be pleased by contributions from The Cowboy Junkies and Patterson Hood of the legendary Drive-By Truckers, while indie rockers will dig appearances by The Hold Steady, Alabama Shakes, and The Walkmen, among others. The compilation also features tracks by Brandi Carlile, Ra Ra Riot, Those Darlins, and quite a few more, and with all performances unavailable elsewhere, this CD should please music fans of all stripes. See the full track list here.
In Studio Vol. 1 is available as a perk of membership for all WNRN listeners who pledge contributions of $10 or more a month for at least one year. In addition to receiving a copy of the CD in question, members get access to all sorts of other exclusive events, such as the Blitzen Trapper bonfire, which took place earlier this summer at Mountfair Vineyards in Crozet, or the live performance next week by Dead Fame and Mirror Kisses, taking place at Bon in Charlottesville on October 4. That show's admission is $7 for the general public, but WNRN VIP members get in free, so membership really does have its privileges in this case. Plus, it keeps a quality alternative to crappy commercial radio on the air throughout central Virginia--always a worthy goal in and of itself. To find out how you can pledge your support to WNRN and get a copy of In Studio Vol. 1, or to listen online to WNRN's live broadcast, head over to wnrn.org. And tell em RVA Mag sent ya!