New Zealand Net Radio

In this episode of Musical Musings, we cross the border into the brilliant world of Canadian progressive rock to explore the tightly-sequenced, synth-driven legacy of Saga. Joining the show is the host of YouTube's The Music Den, Armando Venditti. Together, we dive deep into a fan-curated "Five of the Best" tracklist from image.png, tracking Saga’s evolution from their complex, late-70s conceptual prog origins to their sleek, chart-topping 1980s melodic rock mastery. Along the way, Armando breaks down the band's legendary dual-solo chemistry, the mystery behind their scattered "Chapters" sci-fi narrative, and the surprising vocal switches that gave some of their biggest hits their unique identity. From the early genius of "The Perfectionist" to the massive MTV-era stadium anthem "On the Loose," this episode is an essential deep dive for die-hard fans and classic rock newcomers alike. We wrap up the journey with a look at the band's modern touring life and a spin of a gorgeous, reinvented acoustic medley from their recent album, Symmetry. Broadcast 22 June 2026

In this episode of Five of the Best, we are joined by Ken Cheshire (X: @klcheshire) for a deep dive into the cinematic, electronic, and influential sound of Ultravox. Focusing exclusively on the Midge Ure-fronted era, we explore how this legendary four-piece transformed from post-punk roots into the architects of the 1980s synth-pop explosion. From the "electronic cathedral" grandeur of their George Martin-produced hit "Hymn," to the dark, cinematic mood of Vienna, we break down five standout tracks that define the band’s peak. We discuss the stories behind the music—including their struggle to afford basic stage outfits, the irony of their biggest chart hits, and their surprising final experiment with traditional Irish folk music. Join us as Ken shares his personal selections, revealing why these tracks remain essential listening for any fan of new wave, synth-pop, and atmospheric rock. Whether you are a long-time fan or discovering their "Film Noir" sound for the first time, this episode celebrates the enduring legacy of a band that was never afraid to push musical boundaries. Originally broadcast 15 June 2026

In this episode, we count down a definitive Top 20 tracklist sourced straight from the music curators of the X timeline. We’re spinning everything from the kaleidoscopic, genre-shifting blog-rock of Animal Collective and the haunting, nocturnal synth-pop of Bat for Lashes, to the arena-sized alternative anthems of Kings of Leon and Depeche Mode. Finally, we build all the way down to the minimalist, nocturnal masterpiece from a group of south London teenagers that completely redefined the sound of the decade: The xx. Broadcast 29 March 2026

Get ready to hit the open road with this edition of In the Mix, where we track the legendary evolution of Country Rock. In this 50-minute curated set, we travel from the sun-drenched, harmony-rich hills of Laurel Canyon straight down to the gritty, blues-drenched swamps of the American South. We’re spinning the absolute gold standard of the genre—featuring the timeless storytelling of the Eagles, CCR, and Linda Ronstadt, building up to the roaring twin-guitar anthems of the Allman Brothers and Lynyrd Skynyrd, and closing with a powerhouse heartland finish. Whether you're a lifelong fan of the 1970s vinyl era or discovering these roots for the very first time, turn the volume up, lock the dial in, and let’s dive into the ultimate country rock mixtape. Broadcast 27 May 2026

Step back into 1993, a transitional year when alternative rock collided with the electronic underground and established icons completely reinvented themselves for the dance floor. In this episode of In the Mix: 1993 Extended, we are dusting off the vinyl crates to spin ten iconic 12” singles, promo rarieties, and extended mixes that defined the era. From an early, moody trip-hop rework of Depeche Mode by a pre-fame Portishead, to Andrew Weatherall’s ten-minute Balearic masterpiece for One Dove, and Paul Oakenfold’s legendary, stadium-sized progressive house remix of U2’s Lemon, we are diving deep into the studio stories, club culture, and music nerd trivia behind these extended cuts. Turn it up and get ready for the ultimate 90s sonic time capsule! Thanks to Leon from Adelaide for his help. Broadcast 25 May 2026

An indulgence - my favourite ten The Killers tracks (today anyway) Inspired by The Music Den's albums list on X https://x.com/VendittiAr22341/status/2055774864473202952?s=20 Originally broadcast 18 May 2026

Great new pop for May 2026 including music from Gracie Abrams, Madison Beer, Zayn + more. Broadcast 16 May 2026

Great recent tracks chosen by Jim Bricker including music from The Black Keys, Geordie Gordon and The Boo Radleys. X: @jbbricker Broadcast 14 May 2026

Who doesn’t like a great extended single? Here are a few favourites from 1981. Broadcast 11 May 2026

A selection of tracks from albums 20-11 of “The Music Den” (on YouTube) Top 20 albums of 1979. Chosen by Armando Venditti and Ken Cheshire. Broadcast 7 May 2026

Jim's picks including tofusmell, The Milk Carton Kids and Robben Ford @jbbricker. Originally broadcast 1 May 2026

New Zealand’s Top 20 for this week in 1986. Pet Shop Boys, Fine Young Cannibals, Klymaxx and more! Broadcast 29 Apr 2026