WDETs In the Groove Curates New Releases from Charli XCX to Big Thief Ahead of Detroit Show

On August 3, 2026, Detroit’s flagship NPR station WDET‑101.9 aired its afternoon music program “In the Groove,” hosted by Ryan Patrick Hooper. The episode’s playlist highlighted new releases from a wide range of artists, from pop‑techno pioneer Charli XCX to indie‑rock band Big Thief, and included tracks that span dream pop, post‑punk, electronic, and experimental styles.

The show, which runs weekdays from noon to 3 p.m. Eastern Time, is part of WDET’s five‑hour daily block of local music programming. It is designed to showcase independent releases that are not typically heard on mainstream radio. After the live broadcast, listeners can stream the episode on‑demand for two weeks via the player on wdet.org.

The August 3 playlist began with “Cha Cha Slide” by Getdown Services, a British duo known for their disco‑infused groove. It was followed by “I’m Yours” by Tricky & Mitch Sanders and “New Park,” a collaboration between London‑based Wu‑Lu and POiSON ANNA. The program then moved into a mix of indie and experimental tracks: “You Took Your Time” by Mount Kimbie & King Krule, “Silently” by Tara Clerkin Trio, and “Fire Dali” by Lee “Scratch” Perry & Mouse On Mars.

Charli XCX’s new single “Magic Metal Montana” appeared mid‑list, followed by a series of dream‑pop and post‑punk selections. The playlist included “Blue Flower” by Mazzy Star, “Heaven or Las Vegas” by Cocteau Twins, “Norway” by Beach House, and “Starburster” by Fontaines D.C. The post‑punk element was reinforced with “Incinerate” by Sonic Youth and “Marquee Moon” by Television.

The episode also featured contemporary indie rock. Big Thief’s “Los Angeles” and “Simulation Swarm” were inserted ahead of the band’s August 10 performance at Detroit’s Masonic Temple Theatre. The show’s inclusion of these tracks serves as a preview for the upcoming concert, which is scheduled for 6:00 p.m. on Monday, August 10.

Additional tracks added depth to the mix: “Well Organised (feat. Lila Iké)” by Ezra Collective, “Overchord” by Actress, “Sounds We Cannot Hear” by Protomartyr, “Breathe” by Romare, and “Rein Me In” by Sam Fender & Olivia Dean. The program also highlighted “Don’t Delete the Kisses” by Wolf Alice, “Mind’s a Lie” by High Vis, “Mumma Don’t Tell” by Leifur James, “JOHN COLTRANE” by KOMA, and “Rose Rouge” by St Germain.

WDET’s “In the Groove” is hosted by Ryan Patrick Hooper, who joined the station’s Culture Shift block after a career that includes reporting for the New York Times, NPR, Detroit Free Press, Hour Detroit, SPIN, and Paste. Hooper’s background in music journalism and his focus on independent releases make him a key figure in the station’s mission to connect listeners with emerging and under‑represented artists.

WDET is a noncommercial public‑radio station licensed to Detroit, Michigan. According to the station’s own data, it reaches more than 200,000 listeners each week through broadcast and digital channels. The “In the Groove” program is one of several locally produced shows that emphasize Detroit’s music culture while also featuring national and international acts.

The episode’s playlist is available for two weeks after the live broadcast, and listeners are encouraged to support the station through donations. WDET’s website notes that contributions help maintain its independent programming and support local music coverage.

In summary, the August 3 “In the Groove” episode offered a curated journey through contemporary pop, indie, and experimental music, highlighted upcoming Big Thief performances, and reinforced WDET’s role as a platform for independent artists in Detroit and beyond.