WXPN Local Picks – Week of September 22, 2025

Every weekday afternoon in the 1:00 hour, WXPN celebrates the Philly-regional music scene with the WXPN Local Picks. That’s when midday host Mike Vasilikos presents a hand-picked new song by an artist rooted in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, or Delaware. Here’s who Mike has on deck this week! Tune in to hear these songs on the radio every day at 1 p.m., and for more Philly music, don’t miss the WXPN Local Show with John Vettese every Tuesday night at 8 p.m.

Monday 9/22: The Primaries – “Summer Love”

For the last day of summer, we’ve got one more summertime tune for you. Released in July, “Summer Love” is the debut single from Philly’s The Primaries, and its delightful take on psychedelic sunshine pop is a treat for listeners of all ages. Bonus fun for Philly music fans: that voice you recognize? It’s Susan Rosetti of Stargazer Lily. [click for more on the band]

Tuesday 9/23: Suzanne Sheer – “Me and My Friends”

Serene R&B singer-songwriter Suzanne Sheer consistently impresses us every time she releases new music into the world. This summer, we got to hear Suzanne’s story in one of WXPN and REC Philly’s Sofa Sessions, and we heard her latest song: “Me and My Friends,” which we’ll play for you on Tuesday. [click for more on the artist]

Wednesday 9/24: Ben Arnold – “Catch The Lightning”

30 years ago, local singer-songwriter Ben Arnold broke out onto the national scene with his undeniably infectious alt-rock pop song “Astral Freak.” He’s been a key part of the WXPN orbit for the years since then, and this weekend, he’ll celebrate his new album XI with a headlining matinee at 118 North. To get you set for the show, we’ll play its terrific single “Catch The Lightning” on Wednesday. [click for more on the artist]

Thursday 9/25: Kerry Charles – “In Deep”

Laid-back synth-dappled indie pop artist Kerry Charles skirts the territory of yacht rock on his new song, “In Deep.” Its stylishly retro music video is a treat to watch, but this song will sound great coming out of your car speakers when we Local Pick it on Thursday. [click for more on the artist]

Friday 9/26: The MAKs – “The Boulder”

Local roots pop trio The MAKs got our attention in a big way in June when their song “The Boulder” became a finalist in the second WXPN 24 Hour Song Challenge. The song was a stunner captured on a cell phone for their entry, but this summer, the band dipped into the studio to record a fully produced version of the song that we’ll pay for you when it releases on Friday. [click for more on the band]