In this episode, we make space for calm with a selection of new ambient tracks curated by KEXP DJs and editorial staff. We hear from Alex Ruder, host of the ambient and neo-classical show, Pacific Notions, about where his interest in ambient music began and the first song he ever played on his show. Then, we get recommendations that play with heavy distortion, post-rock, jazz, and field recordings.

Songs featured:

1. Helios - “First Dream Called Ocean” (Alex Ruder’s foundational ambient pick)

2. KMRU - “opener” (Dusty Henry’s pick)

3. Austyn Wohlers - “How Heavy the Slow World” (Brit Hansen’s pick)

4. Evan Chapman - “Windows” (Roddy Nikpour’s pick)

5. Nala Sinephro - “Continuum 4” (Isabel Khalili’s pick)

6. Mark McGuire - “Anhedonia” (Alex Ruder’s pick)

Listen to the full songs on KEXP's "In Our Headphones 2024" playlist on Spotify or the “What's In Our Headphones” playlist on YouTube.

Listen to more ambient tunes with DJ and Associate Music Director Alex Ruder on Pacific Notions every Sunday from 6-9am Pacific Time or on-demand anytime at KEXP.org or the KEXP App.

Hosted and produced by: Janice Headley and Isabel Khalili
Mixed by: Emily Fox
Mastered by: William Myers
Editorial director: Larry Mizell Jr.

Our theme music is “好吗 (Hao Ma)” by Chinese American Bear

Support the podcast: kexp.org/headphones
Contact us at headphones@kexp.org.