My vote, every time, has to be for WFMU. "The format", in 'FMUs case, is whatever the DJ likes to play.

You may end up listening to an hour of funk, followed by an hour of experimental noise, then old '78s and bluegrass. It makes for a fun listen.

https://wfmu.org/ - for a feel of programming, you can pick some of the DJs from here: http://www.wfmu.org/table

Yes! Freem-form WFMU is an incredible station. Though based in NJ, it has a worldwide listener base. It is entirely listener supported, without even corporate underwriting, unlike other public radio stations in the US. It also has internet accesible archives of programming that goes back into the 90's. If you have a unique musical itch, just Google that song and add WFMU as the site. Click and enjoy the playlist that pops up.

Another truly eclectic station is Radio Paradise. It's like a constant wandering journey with a great community.

Probably because they were all owned by iHeartMedia. Outside of a few AM stations, and a college station, they own everything in my area.

I would listen to broadcast radio if DJ's were hired for their muscial knowledge, and ability to put a playlist together. But I don't think they even use local people on these stations anymore. It's just the same tired old songs with a commercial break every 6 minutes.

Filter for public radio? In my opinion anything else isn’t worth listening anyways.

For non-commercial stations in the US, I can vouch for WBAI and WUSB in New York.