Decisions, Decisions! A Critical Guide to Big Ears 2025

Get ready for Big Ears 2025 with this special roundtable featuring Nate Chinen, Ann Powers, Marcus J. Moore, and Ashley Kahn. Our panel of top critics shares favorite moments, past surprises, must-see picks, and even culinary highlights.

Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned veteran, this lively, insightful conversation is the perfect aperitif to kick off your festival week with the spirit and euphoria Big Ears always delivers.

Music featured in this episode:

Terry Riley - “In C”

Black Monument Ensemble - “Keep Your Mind Free”

Jason Moran / Milford Graves - “With Bikongo Ifá: Spirit of the Being”

Arooj Aftab - “Mohabbat”

Beth Gibbons - “Tell Me Who You Are Today”

Annette Peacock - “Real & Defined Androgens”

Herbie Hancock - “Hang Up Your Hang Ups”

Charles Lloyd - “The Lonely One”

Lonnie Holley - “Sometimes I Wanna Dance”

Magic Tuber String Band - “Trumpet of the Dead”

Joy Guidry - “Inner Child”

Helado Negro - “Running”

Carla Kihlstedt - “Auction Block”

June McDoom - “On My Way”