KZSC-FM (Santa Cruz, CA)

By Peyton K. In an age where trending tracks come and go like the Bcycles on campus, it’s nice to look back and admire the music that didn’t get algorithmically pushed into our lives. Now that we’re about halfway into the year, it’s a good time to reflect on some of the exceptional music that’s been released so far. I can definitely say that it’s been a strong year for music, especially in the metalcore and emo spheres.

by DJ Bugs This fall, I had the opportunity to study abroad at Trinity College Dublin, Ireland as a part of the UCEAP program and with the help of the Gilman Scholarship Network. When applying to study abroad, I was interested in Dublin’s iconic literary and musical scenes and soon found myself physically immersed in them. Me in the TFM studio. Upon arrival, my first order of business was joining their student radio station.

Concert Reviews, Interviews, KZSC Welcomes..., Live Performances, Music News, Staff Posts By Annelise Schouten, Serafina Holzer, and Fawn Zech On May 11th 2026, KZSC’s Jazz and Blues (Annelise Schouten), Rock (Serafina Holzer), and Folk (Fawn Zech) directors sat down for an interview with Robert Lester Folsom on the 16th stop of his Spring 2026 tour. Celebrating his release of If You Wanna Laugh, You Gotta Cry Sometimes: Archives Vol.

Concert Reviews, Live Performances, Music News By DJ Ratz Taut skin and muscles flex as lengthy ribbon-adorned hair whips in the air. Sleek silver poles rotate dancers high above heavy beats coming from a DJ booth perched on stage scaffolding. Below an afterglow, British singer-performer, FKA twigs, takes to the stage for her San Francisco stop on her Body High Tour.

Photograph by Amahli Vivian By Amahli Vivian and Zane Bird Smith In January 2026, MyVeronica visited KZSC while on their California tour. MyVeronica is based in Los Angeles and first formed in 2021. Initially a solo project, the band has formed a full lineup and is an active band within the DIY space.

Interviews, Main, Music News Everyone Asked About You/First Day Back flyer created by Daniel Zhou (@ohitszhou) By Amahli Vivian 2nd wave emo is a special thing. Perhaps it’s a combination of twinkling guitar tones, wistfulness and introspective lyricism, nostalgia for the 1990s music scene, and the unabashed heart-on-sleeve-ness that has allowed this particular subgenre to skyrocket in attention over the past several years.

Interviews, Staff Posts A few days after their show at Subrosa on April 1st, DJ Carbonate of KZSC sat down with the band Raue at our station. The alternative-grungey two piece consists of lead guitar and vocalist Paige Kalenian and drummer Jax Huckle. Although currently based in San Diego, the band found its roots right here in Santa Cruz. In this interview, you’ll find talkings of tour activities, outward identity, kick drum jumping, tea flavors, and more.

By Annelise Schouten and Dhalia Krishnan On March 21st 2026, Dhalia (KZSC’s Hip-Hop Director) and I (Annelise, KZSC’s Jazz Director) sat down for an interview in the garage of Aft’s (Afterthought’s) childhood home in the Fillmore District, gathering around a few chairs while the many artists who make Stoop Sessions happen set up audio equipment.

By Peyton K. Have you ever wondered what it might sound like if Mario ditched his efforts to save Princess Peach and instead picked up a 7-string guitar? Or if br00tal ‘core bands seldom straying from 0-0-0-0 breakdowns became stuck in a DS game? Look no further than Nintendocore. What is Nintendocore? Nintendocore (also known as bitcore) is a subgenre of music that blends chiptune and video game synths with a heavier metalcore and hardcore punk influence.

Interview by Annelise Schouten & Serafina Holzer “As a non-commercial, educational radio station, KZSC supports the free expression of ideas. Please be aware that the opinions expressed are those of the speakers or artists only and do not necessarily reflect the views of the UC Regents, KZSC staff, management, or underwriters. We welcome your feedback on our programming.