Organic Radio with Bill Cosentino

Bill Cosentino, WPKN
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  • Music Interviews

In the early 2000’s I began doing my radio program, which I call Organic Radio. The name holds a dual meaning for me… I view WPKN to be a living organism and not a formulaic or algorithm-driven venture, like commercial radio or paid streaming services. It’s a collective tapestry woven together by the many programmers who cultivate the musical fibers into something artistic and imbued with meaning and a greater significance – so Organic as in living matter. And also Organic, like the practice of farming without the use of chemical fertilizers, pesticides, or other artificial means. We are small, not factory scale, and like the soil, we aim to enrich the listener to yield a better experience that is in harmony with the planet. After moving to The Netherlands in 2009, I had been on hiatus, and though I’ve been back for nearly 10 years as a volunteer I recently returned to the airwaves. Looking forward to hanging with you in our community garden soon!

Episodes

  1. Mar 26

    Interview: Bugs On A Log with Live In Studio Performance

    The Bugs on a Log String Band was featured on the Organic Radio show with Bill Cosentino on WPKN 89.5 FM on February 26, 2026. The band performed a live session at the WPKN studio in Bridgeport, CT, as part of the station's free-form community programming.  About the Band Bugs on a Log is an emergent New England-based stringband known for a blend of old-time, bluegrass, and classical influences.  Members: The group features Lana Auerbach (fiddle, banjo), Austin Scelzo (fiddle, mandolin, guitar), Jeff Smith (guitar, banjo, mandolin), Malcolm Callagy (cello, fiddle), Jack Corcoran (bass), and Oriana Mack (fiddle).Recent Activity: Following their WPKN appearance, the band performed a matinee show at the Best Video Film & Cultural Center (Best Video Performance Space) in Hamden, CT, on March 29, 2026.

    Interview: Bugs On A Log with Live In Studio Performance

  2. Feb 26

    Interview: Mikaela Davis Discusses Upcoming Tour and New Album - Graceland Way

    Joining us today on Organic Radio is an artist who has effectively rewritten the rulebook for her instrument. Classically trained at the Crane School of Music, she traded the orchestra pit for the psychedelic frontier, blending the ethereal glissandos of the harp with the grit of canyon country and 70s rock. She’s shared stages with a growing array of artists from members of the Grateful Dead to Bon Iver, and today we were fortunate to have Mikaela join us to introduce her latest single, (Looking Through) Rose Colored Glasses, and talk about her highly anticipated new album out this April on Kill Rock Stars. It’s a record born in the hills of Glendale, California, exploring the delicate balance between light and shadow. Given WPKN’s reputation for eclectic, free-form, and community-driven programming, Mikaela Davis is a perfect fit. Her blend of classically trained harp with "canyon country" and psychedelic rock aligns beautifully with Bill Cosentino’s "Organic" philosophy.  The new album is actually titled Graceland Way (releasing April 24, 2026), and it marks a significant evolution in her sound. Have a listen!

    Interview: Mikaela Davis Discusses Upcoming Tour and New Album - Graceland Way

  3. 12/04/2025

    Interview: Jano Rix Discusses 2 New Albums, The Wood Brothers, Puff of Smoke. and Rix, Legacy Vol. 1

    On the WPKN program Organic Radio, host Bill Cosentino recently welcomed Jano Rix (multi-instrumentalist for The Wood Brothers) for a deep-dive interview focusing on two major 2025 releases: his father-son collaboration Rix, Legacy, Vol. 1 and The Wood Brothers' latest album, Puff of Smoke. The Interview: Organic Radio with Bill Cosentino WPKN is a listener-supported station out of Bridgeport, CT, where Bill Cosentino's "Organic Radio" often features a variety of local, national and international music artists, across genres which include Americana and roots artists. In this session, Jano discusses the rare experience of releasing a "solo" project and a major band album simultaneously, touching on the influence of his father, Luther Rix, and the improvisational nature of his work. Album 1: Rix Legacy, Vol. 1 (RIX) Released on November 7, 2025, through the Royal Potato Family label, this project is a long-awaited collaboration between Jano and his father, Luther Rix. The Duo: Jano (keyboards, percussion, vocals) and Luther (drums, percussion, vocals). Luther is a veteran of the industry, having played with Bob Dylan’s Rolling Thunder Revue and Leonard Cohen. The Vibe: The record is described as a "contemporary blues" album with heavy New Orleans influence, inspired by Dr. John and Allen Toussaint. Key Tracks:  "Blow Wind Blow": A Huey "Piano" Smith cover reimagined with a NOLA groove."Down and Nylon": A live recording from Brooklyn that Jano cites as a favorite."All Kinds": A tender vocal track written by Dan Wilson.Backstory: The album was over 12 years in the making, recorded in small windows of time between Jano’s tours with The Wood Brothers and Luther’s studio sessions. Album 2: Puff of Smoke (The Wood Brothers) The Wood Brothers released their ninth studio album, Puff of Smoke, on August 1, 2025, via Honey Jar/Thirty Tigers. The Themes: The album explores mindfulness, uncertainty, and "letting go." As Oliver Wood stated, "We're not in control and that can be good news." Musical Highlights: * "Witness": The lead single, featuring a "back-alley" New Orleans brass section. "The Trick": Showcases Jano Rix’s experimentation with a Fender Rhodes through distortion and octave pedals. "Above All Others": An experimental track featuring calliope-style sounds and an anthemic, Queen-inspired chorus. Production: Recorded at The Studio Nashville, it emphasizes "first-take gold" on tracks like "Slow Rise (to the middle)." How to Listen If you missed the live broadcast, you can typically find the archived show on the WPKN Archives page (archives.wpkn.org). Look for "Organic Radio" under host Bill Cosentino's name.

    Interview: Jano Rix Discusses 2 New Albums, The Wood Brothers, Puff of Smoke. and Rix, Legacy Vol. 1

  4. 11/07/2025

    Interview: Producer Gary Waldman Discusses Neal Casal Foundation and the Album - No One Above You (The Early Years 1991-1998)

    Interview conducted by Bill Cosentino, host of Organic Radio on WPKN in Bridgeport, CT, with producer Gary Waldman. The discussion centers on the posthumous collection of Neal Casal's early recordings, No One Above You (The Early Years 1991-1998), and offers insights into Casal's profound career and personal impact. Waldman and Cosentino's discussion touched on the deep impression Neal Casal left on those who knew and listened to him, confirming his status as an artist who cast "soft indentations on the soul." His tragic passing in 2019 left a significant hole in the hearts of his fans and friends. Casal was celebrated as a roots guitarist and a revered bandmate, known for his work with numerous high-profile artists and groups, including Phil Lesh, The Chris Robinson Brotherhood, Ryan Adams & The Cardinals, The Skiffle Players, and Circles Around The Sun. In the wake of Neal's passing, the Neal Casal Music Foundation (NCMF) was created to honor his memory and fulfill a wish he expressed in his farewell letter: to draw attention to the difficulties of a touring musician's life and the need for care. The NCMF is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization with a dual mission: Mental Health Support: Donating funds to mental health organizations that support musicians in need, such as Backline and MusiCares.Music Education: Donating musical instruments and lessons to students in New Jersey and New York state schools where Neal was born and raised.

    Interview: Producer Gary Waldman Discusses Neal Casal Foundation and the Album - No One Above You (The Early Years 1991-1998)

  5. 10/16/2025

    Interview: Warren Haynes Discusses his 30+ Year Journey with Gov't Mule

    The interview explores Warren Haynes' 45+ year musical journey discussed with Bill Cosentino on WPKN's Organic Radio. The interview took place on October 16, 2025, ahead of a Gov't Mule concert in New Haven on October 30, 2025 at College Street Music Hall. This episode traces the musical journey of legendary guitarist and singer-songwriter Warren Haynes, from his beginnings as a sideman to becoming a formidable bandleader in his own right. An apprentice to a legend The Dickey Betts Band: Hear how a young Haynes first earned his stripes in Dickey Betts's solo band, learning from one of the masters of Southern rock.A momentous introduction: Discover how this early experience paved the way for Haynes to join The Allman Brothers Band during their 1989 reunion.Finding his voice: Explore how Haynes navigated the challenging role of filling the shoes of guitar icons in one of rock's most storied groups.Birth of the Mule, a power trio Forging a new path: Get the inside story on the formation of Gov't Mule, a side project Haynes started with his Allman Brothers bandmate Allen Woody and drummer Matt Abts.A powerful legacy: Hear how this trio carved its own niche with a powerful blend of rock, blues, and jazz, earning a loyal following with their explosive live shows.Facing tragedy and moving forward: Learn how the band persevered after the unexpected death of bassist Allen Woody, inviting a series of guest bassists before establishing a new permanent lineup.A Deadhead's dream and a jazz fusion jam Keeping the spirit alive: Uncover Haynes's history playing with surviving members of the Grateful Dead, including extensive touring with Phil Lesh & Friends.When worlds collide: ScoMule: Dive into the details of the landmark 1999 collaboration between Gov't Mule and acclaimed jazz guitarist John Scofield.Crossing genres: Get a behind-the-scenes look at the dynamic between Haynes's blues-rock sensibilities and Scofield's jazz-fusion expertise, resulting in an album that defies categorization.The voice of a generation Looking back, moving forward: A reflection on a career spent alongside and alongside his musical heroes, and the dedication it took to become a legend in his own right.The annual tradition: An update on his ongoing solo work and the philanthropic Christmas Jam, which he has hosted for decades to raise money for charity.

    Interview: Warren Haynes Discusses his 30+ Year Journey with Gov't Mule

  6. 03/06/2025

    Interview: Joe Russo discusses his latest project - Selcouth Quartet

    Joe Russo’s Rhythmic Evolution and the Selcouth Quartet  Episode Summary: In this episode of Organic Radio, host Bill Cosentino sits down with acclaimed drummer and multi-instrumentalist Joe Russo for an in-depth conversation tracing his storied musical journey. Russo reflects on his evolution behind the kit and his experience performing with an array of legendary projects, detailing how those foundational years ultimately led to the formation of the powerhouse ensemble Joe Russo’s Almost Dead (JRAD). The conversation then shifts to his newest sonic exploration into jazz with the Selcouth Quartet. Russo discusses the origins of this dynamic ensemble—featuring himself on drums and keys, Stuart Bogie (saxophone, flute, clarinet, keys), Jon Shaw (upright & electric basses), and Jonathan Goldberger (acoustic & electric guitars). He gives listeners an insider’s look at their creative process and what it was like recording their self-titled debut album at the remote Floki Studios in Iceland. Tune in to WPKN’s Organic Radio for a fascinating dive into improvisation, group chemistry, and musical reinvention.

    Interview: Joe Russo discusses his latest project - Selcouth Quartet

  7. 05/02/2024

    Interview: John Lee Shannon Discusses his Album: In and Of

    On the WPKN program Organic Radio, host Bill Cosentino welcomed John Lee Shannon (guitarist for Circles Around The Sun, Grateful Shred, and Mikaela Davis) for a deep-dive interview focusing on his evolution as a player. On this episode of The Organic Radio Show, host Bill Cosentino sits down with guitarist and composer John Lee Shannon for an in-depth conversation on music, growth, and the creative process. John dives into the making of his solo acoustic debut, In & Of, a intimate love letter to six-string guitar music, as well as his work with psychedelic jam outfit Circles Around the Sun on their genre-bending album, Language. Tune in as John reflects on his organic journey as a guitarist, the evolution of his sound, and how these two distinct projects came to life. Join WPKN host Bill Cosentino as he catches up with guitarist John Lee Shannon to discuss his musical journey and recent releases. In this episode, we cover: The Guitarist’s Journey: John’s organic evolution as a musician and player.In & Of: The origin, inspiration, and crafting of his solo debut album.Language: Step inside the studio process behind Circles Around the Sun’s acclaimed LP.Creative Process: How solo expression compares to collaborative group improvisation.

    Interview: John Lee Shannon Discusses his Album: In and Of

  8. 04/04/2024

    Interview: Ray Paczkowski Discusses How Power Trio LaMP Came To Be

    Overview: Ray Paczkowski on WPKN's Organic Radio Show Date: April 4, 2024 Station: WPKN 89.5 FM (Bridgeport, CT) Host: Bill Cosentino (Organic Radio) Guest: Ray Paczkowski (Keyboardist / Organist — Trey Anastasio Band, LaMP, Soule Monde) Summary Takeaway The interview offers an inside look at one of the jam scene's most distinctive keyboardists. Paczkowski highlights how spontaneous composition and deep group chemistry fuel LaMP's signature sound, offering listeners of WPKN's independent, non-commercial Organic Radio a detailed glimpse into the craft of live improvisation. Features Live Tracks Out of Curiosity and Mimi Digs It from LaMP: Live at Nectar's on Royal Potato Family Records. Key Discussion Themes 1. LaMP & The Dynamic of the Trio Interplay & Groove: Paczkowski discusses the creative alchemy behind LaMP—his trio alongside drummer Russ Lawton (Trey Anastasio Band) and guitarist Scott Metzger (Joe Russo's Almost Dead).Musical Communication: Insights into how the group blends jazz-adjacent improvisation, funk, and rock without a dedicated bass player, relying on Paczkowski’s organ basslines, clavinet textures, and Lawton’s rhythmic foundation.Live Performance & Touring: Previewing spring 2024 live dates and the chemistry built from playing intimate venue runs (such as Nectar's in Burlington, VT).2. Gear & The Signature Sound The Hammond B3 & Clavinet: Ray touches on his go-to setups, including the Hammond organ, Hohner Clavinet, and Wurlitzer electric piano.Tone & Technique: How he approaches sonic space, vintage gear maintenance, and balancing rhythmic vamps with melodic solos.3. Collaborations & Career Highlights Trey Anastasio Band (TAB) & Soule Monde: Reflecting on decades of collaboration with Trey Anastasio and his duo work with Russ Lawton in Soule Monde.The Vermont Music Scene: The influence of Burlington's vibrant community on his growth as a musician.4. Musical Philosophy & Improvisation The "Vibe Over Genre" Mindset: Discussing his influences ranging from Miles Davis and Thelonious Monk to funk and soul.Listening in Real Time: The importance of reaction, trust, and spontaneity when jamming on stage.

    Interview: Ray Paczkowski Discusses How Power Trio LaMP Came To Be
  • 8 Episodes

About

In the early 2000’s I began doing my radio program, which I call Organic Radio. The name holds a dual meaning for me… I view WPKN to be a living organism and not a formulaic or algorithm-driven venture, like commercial radio or paid streaming services. It’s a collective tapestry woven together by the many programmers who cultivate the musical fibers into something artistic and imbued with meaning and a greater significance – so Organic as in living matter. And also Organic, like the practice of farming without the use of chemical fertilizers, pesticides, or other artificial means. We are small, not factory scale, and like the soil, we aim to enrich the listener to yield a better experience that is in harmony with the planet. After moving to The Netherlands in 2009, I had been on hiatus, and though I’ve been back for nearly 10 years as a volunteer I recently returned to the airwaves. Looking forward to hanging with you in our community garden soon!

Information

  • Creator
    Bill Cosentino, WPKN
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    8
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Bill Cosentino, WPKN