July 17, 2025 - Chris Berdik, Janie Barnett on "She's So Unusual," and Emi Ferguson

Science Journalist and author Chris Berdik joins The Culture Show to talk about his new book “Clamor: How Noise Took Over the World and How We Can Take It Back.” It details our chronic exposure to noise, how it's affecting our health, and the people who are working to bring the noise down and improve our quality of life.

From there it’s another episode of “Sound Files.” Our ongoing series when we invite local musicians and cultural critics to zero in on one of their favorite entries in the US National Recording Registry. On tap today, Janie Barnett has chosen to go deep on Cyndi Lauper’s “She’s So Unusual.” Janie Barnett is a singer-songwriter and guitarist. Her latest album is “Under My Skin: Reimagining Cole Porter.”

Finally, the acclaimed flute player Emi Ferguson joins us to talk about her collaboration with the baroque ensemble Ruckus. They’ve released a new album “Fly the Coop: Bach Sonatas and Preludes.” On July 25th they'll be performing at the Jean McDonough Arts Center. The show is presented by Music Worcester. To learn more go here.