MUSIC_DIRECTOR for Pickin'
Paonia, Colorado, United States
Andrea "Dre" Castillo joined the KVNF staff in June, 2022. With a strong passion for music and people, Dre serves as the Music Director & DJ Coordinator. She is originally from the West Coast and moved to the Western Slope of the Rockies in 2016. In her spare time, she enjoys hiking, rafting, drawing and going to see live music. You can catch her on the KVNF airwaves.
Latest Album Reviews
Review of The Split
Album Info: The Split
Tom Griesgraber Album: The Split Label: Self-Release Genre(s): New Age Posted
By: Robert Silverstein
Apr 25, 2026
Review
Back in 2014, the multi-talented composer and Chapman stick ace Tom Griesgraber released an album with Bert Lams called Unnamed Lands. Filled with all manners of instrumental guitar sounds, Unnamed Lands was a sleeper hit among guitar aficionados. In recent years, Tom joined Bert Lams as a member of California Guitar Trio. Tom also has a number of other album releases that music fans can see featured on his website. Putting out new music once again in 2026, Tom has released The Split, an instrumental guitar-based CD soundtrack to the film “Prairie Prophecy”. Based around key issues in industrial farming amid 21st century ecological issues including climate change, the movie is starting to make headway on public television.
Like many film soundtracks seeing the movie would be great, but either way the CD offers an engrossing spin that stands tall as an entertaining sonic
Lester Winchester McKendree Album: They Got It All Label: Times Three Genre(s): Roots Rock Posted
By: Duane Verh
Apr 25, 2026
Review
While the leadoff track may declare “I’m No Amateur”, and though the players involved are Nashville vets, there is an appealing garage-band vibe that permeates the proceedings here. Engaging lyric sets and melodies that range from ear-catching pop to raucous roadhouse rock are delivered in an unvarnished fashion that makes for a listener’s buy-in in short order. In addition to the afore-mentioned “Amateur”, standouts include “Down The Same Street”, “Baby’s Carburetor” and the title track.
Seth James Album: Motormouth Label: Qualified Genre(s): Contemporary Blues Posted
By: Duane Verh
Apr 21, 2026
Review
Seth James works his way most soulfully though a set well stocked with infectious covers and co-writes. The West Texas-bred singer/guitarist’s vocal delivery exudes an ease and a familiarity that meshes favorably with the lively blues and r&b fare present here. Arrangements nicely appointed with horns and ebullient female vocal choruses are a pleasing plus. Takes on Leon Russell’s “High Horse” and Don Bryant’s “I Got To Know” stand out as does guest Delbert McClinton’s “I Can’t Wait” and Mr. James’ co-written title track.
Baklava Express Album: Sabába Label: Self-Release Genre(s): World Posted
By: Joe Ross
Apr 9, 2026
Review
Based in New York City, Baklava Express is contemporary world music at its finest. Led by award-winning composer and oud player Josh Kaye, the band performs original music influenced by various traditions from Ashkenazi and Mizrahi folk music to the broader musical traditions of the Mediterranean. Eclectic influences and vast differences in the primary members’ musical backgrounds have created a distinct, bold style that emphasizes diversity and inclusion. Baklava Express’ debut album, Dávka, was released in 2023, and Sabába is their new 2026 offering. Josh Kaye (oud/composition), Daisy Castro (violin, cello), James Robbins (bass) and Jeremy Smith (percussion) are joined by guests James Labrosse (guitar), Eren Erdogan (ney, kaval) and Lefteris Bournias (clarinet).
Those familiar with the sweet Baklava dessert will know that it’s made from
Rick Vito Album: Slidemaster Label: MoMojo Genre(s): Contemporary Blues Posted
By: Duane Verh
Apr 8, 2026
Review
Rick Vito’s particularly haunting treks into minor-keyed regions are definite high points on his all-instrumental slide showcase. Originals “The Danger Zone” and “Soul Shadows” fit this description as well as his cover of Peter Green’s “The Supernatural”. His slow-blues take on the Jimmy Hughes soul classic “Steal Away” stands out as do respectable readings of the afore-mentioned Mr. Green’s mellow masterpiece “Albatross” and the Sam Cooke classic “A Change Is Gonna Come”.
Jan 16, 2026 -
AVAILABLE NOW: THE NEW BOOK FROM AUTHOR TAD RICHARDS
Listening to Prestige: Chronicling Its Classic Jazz Recordings, 1949–1972
A... Read Full Article
Nov 30, 2025 -
New Christmas Music by from Marcus Goldhaber “I Can’t Wait For Christmas” (digital only single) and Margee Minier-Tubbs &... Read Full Article
Sep 9, 2025 -
Chicago-based Indie-folk singer-songwriter Chris Rawlins is set to release his much anticipated sophomore album, Flyover,... Read Full Article
Sep 7, 2025 -
Putumayo Discovery is proud to announce the release of French Groove, a dynamic compilation that showcases the fresh face of French... Read Full Article
Sep 7, 2025 -
Putumayo Discovery's new album, Instrumental Odyssey, out on September 5th, 2025 is a journey across cultures, continents, and musical... Read Full Article
Oct 24, 2024 -
For fans of Beirut, Joni Mitchell, Tori Amos, Regina Spektor and Keren Ann. The lush bucolic folk of ‘Season to Season’ is the first... Read Full Article
Sep 12, 2024 -
Indiana based Singer Songwriter Abbie Thomas to release eagerly awaited second album Sept 27
The candid creative spark behind Abbie... Read Full Article
