What is cities sampler?

Cities Sampler is a series of compilation albums released by Minnesota Public Radio's adult album alternative station, The Current. The album series, which started in 1989, features music from local and national artists within a certain geographic region. Some of the regions that have been covered include Minneapolis/St. Paul, Portland, Austin, and New Orleans. The albums generally feature a variety of genres, including rock, folk, indie, and hip-hop. The intent of the series is to showcase the music scenes of various American cities and to promote lesser-known artists. The Cities Sampler albums have become highly popular and sought after, with many fans collect them as they are released. Money raised through the sales of the albums goes to support Minnesota Public Radio.