Fresh Air
Weekdays at 7:00pm
Opening the window on contemporary arts and issues with guests from worlds as diverse as literature and economics.
'Women Behind the Wheel' explains how cars became a gendered technology
by Terry Gross
Author Nancy Nichols says that for men, cars signify adventure, power and strength. For women, they are about performing domestic duties; there was even a minivan prototype with a washer/dryer inside.
Newly Released Collection Reveals Complex Artistry Of Pianist Artur Schnabel
by Lloyd Schwartz
In 1942, the Austrian pianist recorded a set of Schubert Impromptus that were never released. Those recordings, plus others from the session, are now available in a new CD set.
'Detroit' Dramatizes A Deadly '67 Motel Encounter Between Police And Civilians
by David Edelstein
Kathryn Bigelow recreates a true, largely forgotten incident of brutality in her latest film. Critic David Edelstein says Detroit triggers a sense of powerlessness that is visceral.
For Jazz Pianist Dave Frishberg, Music And Wit Go Hand In Hand
Frishberg's playful songs include "Peel Me a Grape" and "A Little Taste." To mark the publication of his new memoir, My Dear Departed Past, we listen back to a 1991 interview with the songwriter.
An Archival Interview With Ray Manzarek, Keyboardist For The Doors
To mark the 50th anniversary of "Light My Fire" hitting No. 1, Fresh Air listens back to an interview with the band's keyboardist, who died in 2013. Originally broadcast in 1998.
Veteran Political Reporter: Trump White House Is 'Different In Almost Every Way'
New York Times correspondent Peter Baker has covered the last four presidents. He says President Trump has crossed so many boundaries that "it's easy to become inured to it."
JD Allen Goes Free Form And Improvisational On 'Radio Flyer'
by Kevin Whitehead
Tenor saxophonist JD Allen has been leading a group with the same musicians for 10 years now. Critic Kevin Whitehead says the quartet's familiarity helps it hit its groove on Radio Flyer.
Looking Back At The Most Powerful Earthquake Ever To Strike North America
Science writer Henry Fountain says the deadly quake that shook Alaska in 1964 was so loud some thought it was the beginning of World War III. His new book is The Great Quake.