Tonight, on The Sound we dive into the newly released singles from the upcoming album of Minnesota artists Maygen and the Birdwatcher, titled: The Americana Dream. Maygen and the Birdwatcher are an Americana folk/rock group of six talented artists, with artists Maygen Lacey and Noah Neumann at the helm. They have released several albums since their debut of "Moonshine" in 2021, and the hits keep coming with their upcoming October 10th release, "The Americana Dream". The group's sound fill this album with a bunch of boot stomping and gut-wrenching songs. I’m Annika Bakkum-Ekern saying sit back, kick back and get ready to listen to "The Americana dream' by Maygen and the Birdwatcher, tonight on The Sound.

Original air date: 05/21/25.
The Sound is written and produced by KQAL 89.5FM on the campus of Winona State University.
The Sound is made possible by a grant from the Minnesota Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund.

Tonight, on The Sound we bring you the debut album by Ryan Howe, titled Origin. A Winona State Alumni Based out of La Crescent, MN, Ryan Howe is a local favorite of ours here at the station and beyond. This album is full of heartfelt love ballads and gripping instrumentals! The singer/songwriter started playing the piano some 25 years ago and can be found playing at venues all across the driftless, and in an Emmy award winning documentary. Tonight, we had the chance to talk with Ryan about the album, and the stories behind it. I’m Annika Bakkum-Ekern sayin’ get up, get down, and get ready for Ryan Howe, Origin, tonight on The Sound.

Original air date: 10/15/25

The Sound is written and produced by KQAL 89.5FM on the campus of Winona State University.
The Sound is made possible by a grant from the Minnesota Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund.

Tonight, on The Sound we get into the latest album from Minneapolis artist Humbird, titled: Astrovan: The Love Vignettes. Humbird is an modern folk rock band serving up some rocking tunes, with an old sound. The band is made up of several talented artists, with Siri Undilin as the lead singer. They have released several albums spanning nearly a decade, and the hits keep coming with their latest release, "Astrovan: The Love Vignettes". This album is full of 11 short songs, all around the theme of love, giving a short but enjoyable listening experience full of heart. I’m Annika Bakkum-Ekern saying sit back, relax and enjoy the sweet sounds of the soul, as we listen to 'Astrovan: The Love Vignettes' by Humbird, tonight on The Sound.

Original air date: 08/06/25
The Sound is written and produced by KQAL 89.5FM on the campus of Winona State University.
The Sound is made possible by a grant from the Minnesota Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund.