Based out of the Cal State Northridge campus, public radio station KCSN (88.5) gives other local FM stations a run for their pledge-drive money with inventive era- and genre-spanning music programming. The station digs up deep cuts from well-known classic acts and features niche-y shows in the categories of roots, bluegrass and the blues, along with time slots devoted solely to Dylan and The Beatles. KCSN keeps it current, too, playing promising up-and-comers with a focus on local acts via the Kevin Bronson–hosted L.A. Buzz Bands. It even has former Morning Becomes Eclectic host Nic Harcourt at the helm of its morning show. While programming is diverse, general manager Sky Daniels says, it's the station's focus on quality that creates a cohesive vibe. Those good vibes are spreading, too: KCSN is in the process of expanding its airwave reach with a new broadcast tower. 1818 Nordhoff St., Northridge, 91330. (818) 677-3090, kcsn.org. —Katie Bain
Nice pick and write-up Katie. Sky D. and crew have been doing excellent work at their CSUN-sited studios for at least a couple of years now. Friendly note to students, faculty, et al.: It'd be really nice to actually hear the station on campus a little more often . . . . JMHO.
