WXPN’s Mike Vasilikos shouts out jazz fusion, Kevin Morby, and a stellar cover song for Ears We Trust

You know him, you love him, it’s WXPN host Mike Vasilikos chiming in for the latest installment of Ears We Trust.

He’s been into new releases from some WXPN favorites, as well as a classic rock-era album that’s often overshadowed by the artist’s pop hits.

Kevin Morby — Little Wide Open (2026)

We won’t be the only folks showering Kevin Morby with praise for his new album Little Wide Open. His eighth studio album reflects on midwestern life with songs that, musically, feel vast and unconfined. Yet, Morby crafts songs and stories that feel more personal and intimate. And as his words meet that sonic terrain, Little Wide Open feels like its own world, a world that only a songwriter a la Kevin Morby could craft.

Santana — Caravanserai (1972)

Santana has always been an intriguing figure for me; a bit of a sonic shapeshifter. Ask any ordinary music fan and songs such as “Winning” or “Smooth” come to mind. But recently I had the itch to explore some of his work from the early ’70s. I landed on Caravansrai, a transitional piece for the band as they began to explore jazz fusion. And my gosh, this album is otherworldly. Santana has always had a spiritual edge, but the playing and vibe on this collection is truly magical.

Brennan Wedl & Waxahatchee — “Six O’Clock News” (2026)

Our love of Waxahatchee is well documented, but this collaboration is more about the singer joining Katie Crutchfield. Meet Bennan Wedl. I was lucky enough to chance her perform twice in the last few months, once with a band and once solo (at the Met opening for Waxahatchee and MJ Lenderman). Brennan is a force and will immediately bring to mind icons like Lucinda Williams and Patty Griffin. “Six O’Clock News,” a cover of Kathleen Edwards signature tune, is a perfect introduction to an artist I’m sure we’ll be hearing more from very soon.