I have to admit, I've gotten pretty lazy about finding new music. It should be easy-peasy between Bandcamp, SoundCloud, and the other gazillion-trillion ways to discover new bands online, but nothing beats a human being saying, "Hey, you need to check this out." I confess that KEXP and its army of DJs has become my crutch for that exact reason.

One of the best ways to get turned on to local bands is by tuning in to Audioasis on Saturdays from 6 to 9 p.m., hosted by DJ Sharlese Metcalf. Her mix of demos, new releases, and in-studio guests is invaluable. And the live performances are only going to get bigger and better at the brand-new expanded KEXP HQ.

"Later this year, I'll be able to book local bands and have actual SHOWS during Audioasis," Metcalf told me. "Now there's room for fans and friends and family to come to the station—it'll feel like a REAL live show, on the air."

Is the new live performance room the most exciting aspect of KEXP's new home? "No, it's really seeing the entire KEXP community having space to grow," she said. "The day I moved into the Seattle Center space, I was walking around and I just couldn't quit smiling. I started here 11 years ago as a volunteer. Now look how far we have grown together."

KEXP's grand opening is Saturday, April 16, from noon to 9 p.m. Featuring performances from Bob Mould, Hey Marseilles, Deep Sea Diver, Car Seat Headrest, and more.