Fusebox Sleeve Notes grew out of the Welsh Connections Show that I’d hosted since 2013. It was a vehicle to shout out about all the fantastic musicians that are in Wales but as the show grew and gained listeners the guests did too and I found myself interviewing ... Richie Blackmore, Allan Clarke, Kula Shaker, Steve Balsamo, Suzi Quatro, John Illsley etc - now some did still have a Welsh Connection but others did not and I was getting a few tongue in cheek comments asking what their connection to Wales was ! 

After a decade it was time to change. I wanted a name that still said what it did on the can but everything was taken - then I was interviewing Van Dyke Parks who was telling me about some sleeve notes he’d written for ‘Orange Crate Art’ and I had one of those lightbulb moments. So welcome to Sleeve Notes. I hope you’ll be entertained and I hope you discover some new music to fill up your record collections for the future]]> Sleeve Notes grew out of the Welsh Connections Show that I’d hosted since 2013. It was a vehicle to shout out about all the fantastic musicians that are in Wales but as the show grew and gained listeners the guests did too and I found myself interviewing ... Richie Blackmore, Allan Clarke, Kula Shaker, Steve Balsamo, Suzi Quatro, John Illsley etc - now some did still have a Welsh Connection but others did not and I was getting a few tongue in cheek comments asking what their connection to Wales was ! 

After a decade it was time to change. I wanted a name that still said what it did on the can but everything was taken - then I was interviewing Van Dyke Parks who was telling me about some sleeve notes he’d written for ‘Orange Crate Art’ and I had one of those lightbulb moments. So welcome to Sleeve Notes. I hope you’ll be entertained and I hope you discover some new music to fill up your record collections for the future]]> en-gb false https://www.sleevenotes.uk fbx/9cb16250-b5f4-11ee-ab10-ba5fa9561315 Thu, 18 Jan 2024 12:26:43 +0000 Deep Purples' Ritchie Blackmore and his wife Candice Night chat with Mike about their, then, current album - Nature’s Light.  This one was full of surprises and a genuine Welsh Connection as Ritchie’s father was born in Cardiff and his grandfather was from Swansea ! Deep Purples' Ritchie Blackmore and his wife Candice Night chat with Mike about their, then, current album - Nature’s Light.  

This one was full of surprises and a genuine Welsh Connection as Ritchie’s father was born in Cardiff and his grandfather was from Swansea !]]> 3952 false 4 full fbx/f3bcd756-b5f3-11ee-b36e-ba5fa9561315 Thu, 18 Jan 2024 12:26:48 +0000 Allan was the lead singer and founding member of The Hollies who had many international hits throughout the 60’s & 70’s. He retired in 1999 but was inducted into the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame in 2010 and returned to music in 2019. In this show he talks about the beginning of the band with Graham Nash and their turbulent friendship through the years, right up to his, then, current release. Allan was the lead singer and founding member of The Hollies who had many international hits throughout the 60’s & 70’s. 
He retired in 1999 but was inducted into the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame in 2010 and returned to music in 2019. 

In this show he talks about the beginning of the band with Graham Nash and their turbulent friendship through the years, right up to his, then, current release.]]> 4038 false 3 full fbx/afbcc2d4-b560-11ee-90fd-ba5fa9561315 Thu, 18 Jan 2024 12:26:52 +0000 Van Dyke is an American musician, songwriter, arranger and producer who has worked with Brian Wilson, Ry Cooder, Randy Newman, Harry Nilsson, Little Feat and so many more. He was asked to join The Byrds and Crosby Stills & Nash - and turned them down ! He’s also known for his work on film soundtracks. I caught up with him the day after his 81st birthday to talk about his start in showbiz and current projects. Van Dyke is an American musician, songwriter, arranger and producer who has worked with Brian Wilson, Ry Cooder, Randy Newman, Harry Nilsson, Little Feat and so many more. He was asked to join The Byrds and Crosby Stills & Nash - and turned them down ! 

He’s also known for his work on film soundtracks. 

I caught up with him the day after his 81st birthday to talk about his start in showbiz and current projects.]]> 3356 false 2 full fbx/bc114dec-b561-11ee-82a6-ba5fa9561315 Thu, 18 Jan 2024 12:26:56 +0000 Van Dyke is an American musician, songwriter, arranger and producer who has worked with Brian Wilson, Ry Cooder, Randy Newman, Harry Nilsson, Little Feat and so many more. He was asked to join The Byrds and Crosby Stills & Nash - and turned them down ! He’s also known for his work on film soundtracks. I caught up with him the day after his 81st birthday to talk about his start in showbiz and current projects. Van Dyke is an American musician, songwriter, arranger and producer who has worked with Brian Wilson, Ry Cooder, Randy Newman, Harry Nilsson, Little Feat and so many more. He was asked to join The Byrds and Crosby Stills & Nash - and turned them down ! 

He’s also known for his work on film soundtracks. 

I caught up with him the day after his 81st birthday to talk about his start in showbiz and current projects.]]> 2412 false 1 full fbx/1dafdd3c-b618-11ee-9de8-ba5fa9561315 Thu, 18 Jan 2024 15:41:53 +0000 The Real Thing were formed in Toxteth the 1970s and charted internationally with their song "You to Me Are Everything", which reached No. 1 on the UK Singles Chart. They also had successes with a string of British hits such as "Can't Get By Without You" and "Can You Feel the Force?". They returned to mainstream success in 1986 with the Decade Remix of "You to Me Are Everything". By number of sales, they were the most successful black rock/soul act in the UK during the 1970’s. Mike caught up with Chris to talk about the band’s continuing success. The Real Thing were formed in Toxteth the 1970s and charted internationally with their song "You to Me Are Everything", which reached No. 1 on the UK Singles Chart. 
They also had successes with a string of British hits such as "Can't Get By Without You" and "Can You Feel the Force?". They returned to mainstream success in 1986 with the Decade Remix of "You to Me Are Everything". 
By number of sales, they were the most successful black rock/soul act in the UK during the 1970’s. 

Mike caught up with Chris to talk about the band’s continuing success.]]> 3798 false 5 full fbx/dec62180-b847-11ee-bc23-ba5fa9561315 Sun, 21 Jan 2024 10:28:50 +0000 Eclectic, grounded and always surprising - that's how the extraordinary trademark sound of Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter Ajay Mathur can be described. A musical cosmopolitan and smooth shifter between the stylistic worlds, the Swiss by choice with Indian roots chatted with Mike about his fifth longplayer "Talking Loud" probably one of the most multifaceted albums of the year! Eclectic, grounded and always surprising - that's how the extraordinary trademark sound of Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter Ajay Mathur can be described. 

A musical cosmopolitan and smooth shifter between the stylistic worlds, the Swiss by choice with Indian roots chatted with Mike about his fifth longplayer "Talking Loud" probably one of the most multifaceted albums of the year!]]> 3747 false 6 full fbx/5b6930f6-b848-11ee-b5d5-ba5fa9561315 Sun, 21 Jan 2024 10:32:18 +0000 Colm Gavin is a Dublin based singer/songwriter currently signed to BEO Records home to The First Lady of Celtic Music Moya BrennanColm's first two solo releases (Your endless slumber/A voice for the urban darlings) both topped the Irish Charts at the time of their releaseHe has performed alongside such notable luminaries as Sinead O’Connor, Hozier, Glen Hansard, Aslan, Damien Dempsey, Andy Irvine & Bono. Colm Gavin is a Dublin based singer/songwriter currently signed to BEO Records home to The First Lady of Celtic Music Moya Brennan

Colm's first two solo releases (Your endless slumber/A voice for the urban darlings) both topped the Irish Charts at the time of their release

He has performed alongside such notable luminaries as Sinead O’Connor, Hozier, Glen Hansard, Aslan, Damien Dempsey, Andy Irvine & Bono.

]]> 3496 false 7 full fbx/851d8cce-b94e-11ee-86ff-ba5fa9561315 Mon, 22 Jan 2024 17:48:44 +0000 Sandi Thom became widely known in 2006 after her debut single, "I Wish I Was a Punk Rocker (With Flowers in My Hair)", topped the UK Singles Chart in June of that year, as well as in Australia and Ireland. The single became the biggest-selling single of 2006 in Australia, where it spent ten weeks at the top of the ARIA Singles Chart. Always known as a trailblazer, Sandi is also a staunch supporter of animal welfare and virtually parked her career to set up a sanctuary in the Middle East but now she’s back with an amazingly beautiful new single called ‘Silence’ taken from her forthcoming EP, ‘Warpaint’. Mike caught up with Sandi to chat about her rise to fame, career and plans for the future. Sandi Thom became widely known in 2006 after her debut single, "I Wish I Was a Punk Rocker (With Flowers in My Hair)", topped the UK Singles Chart in June of that year, as well as in Australia and Ireland. The single became the biggest-selling single of 2006 in Australia, where it spent ten weeks at the top of the ARIA Singles Chart. Always known as a trailblazer, Sandi is also a staunch supporter of animal welfare and virtually parked her career to set up a sanctuary in the Middle East but now she’s back with an amazingly beautiful new single called ‘Silence’ taken from her forthcoming EP, ‘Warpaint’. Mike caught up with Sandi to chat about her rise to fame, career and plans for the future.

]]> 2966 false 8 full fbx/38e2f6b8-b94f-11ee-9ad1-ba5fa9561315 Mon, 22 Jan 2024 17:54:07 +0000 Dany is a Toronto-based singer-songwriter whose music is infused with modern takes on familiar melodies, with melodic guitar and piano chords, popping bass licks, and toe-tapping percussion. Mike caught up with Dany to chat about his songs and what inspired him to follow a career in music. Dany is a Toronto-based singer-songwriter whose music is infused with modern takes on familiar melodies, with melodic guitar and piano chords, popping bass licks, and toe-tapping percussion. Mike caught up with Dany to chat about his songs and what inspired him to follow a career in music.]]> 3333 false 9 full fbx/a6854cd4-b94f-11ee-ac26-ba5fa9561315 Mon, 22 Jan 2024 17:57:11 +0000 Dana Jean Phoenix the Canadian synthwave singer-songwriter and musical theatre actress joins Mike to talk about her career to date, touring the world and why she’s settling in Wales ! Dana Jean Phoenix the Canadian synthwave singer-songwriter and musical theatre actress joins Mike to talk about her career to date, touring the world and why she’s settling in Wales !]]> 3500 false 10 full fbx/3ef33522-bd32-11ee-9f03-ba5fa9561315 Sat, 27 Jan 2024 16:40:47 +0000 Kula Shaker’s Crispian Mills & Alonza Bevan join Mike to chat about their sixth album, ‘1st Congregational Church of Eternal Love and Free Hugs’. They came to prominence during the Post-Britpop era of the late 1990s and enjoyed huge commercial success notching up a number of Top Ten Hits before disbanding in 1999 before reforming five years later. Kula Shaker’s Crispian Mills & Alonza Bevan join Mike to chat about their sixth album, ‘1st Congregational Church of Eternal Love and Free Hugs’. They came to prominence during the Post-Britpop era of the late 1990s and enjoyed huge commercial success notching up a number of Top Ten Hits before disbanding in 1999 before reforming five years later.]]> 3060 false 11 full fbx/d223c57c-bd33-11ee-871c-ba5fa9561315 Sat, 27 Jan 2024 16:48:03 +0000 James Warren, John Baker & Al Steele chat to Mike about their latest album Kartoon World. Originally formed in Bath in the 1970’s the band is perhaps best known for their worldwide smash hits ‘Everybody’s Gotta Learn Sometime’, ‘If I Had You’ and ‘Young n’Russian’. James Warren, John Baker & Al Steele chat to Mike about their latest album Kartoon World. Originally formed in Bath in the 1970’s the band is perhaps best known for their worldwide smash hits ‘Everybody’s Gotta Learn Sometime’, ‘If I Had You’ and ‘Young n’Russian’.]]> 3601 false 12 full fbx/57e85af6-bd34-11ee-b692-ba5fa9561315 Sat, 27 Jan 2024 16:51:48 +0000 Violet Malice is a performer and writer of comedy and poetry. She also produces bad videos, dances, prances and blitzes her way through life. Mike caught up with her to talk about her groundbreaking performance poetry and the challenges faced as she pushes some buttons. Violet Malice is a performer and writer of comedy and poetry. She also produces bad videos, dances, prances and blitzes her way through life. Mike caught up with her to talk about her groundbreaking performance poetry and the challenges faced as she pushes some buttons.]]> 3534 false 13 full fbx/18e8d7f8-bd35-11ee-8248-ba5fa9561315 Sat, 27 Jan 2024 16:55:43 +0000 Legend has it that Dire Straits referenced Borowski in their 'Sultans Of Swing' song, in the lyrics 'Guitar George, he knows all the chords'. George was born in Wrexham to Russian and Polish parents. He is the great-nephew of the Russian composer, Sergei Rachmaninov and as a teenager, he taught himself to play guitar, and performed in a number of bands including The Pixies, Sad Café, Meat Loaf, The Waterboys, Radiohead, Bonnie Raitt and Teenage Fanclub, and received praise from many, including Stereophonics and Doves. Legend has it that Dire Straits referenced Borowski in their 'Sultans Of Swing' song, in the lyrics 'Guitar George, he knows all the chords'. George was born in Wrexham to Russian and Polish parents. He is the great-nephew of the Russian composer, Sergei Rachmaninov and as a teenager, he taught himself to play guitar, and performed in a number of bands including The Pixies, Sad Café, Meat Loaf, The Waterboys, Radiohead, Bonnie Raitt and Teenage Fanclub, and received praise from many, including Stereophonics and Doves.]]> 4714 false 14 full fbx/c71aa35e-be36-11ee-acde-ba5fa9561315 Sun, 28 Jan 2024 23:41:15 +0000 Martin first joined Man 1969 with his debut gig at the Marquee in London that year. Prior to Man he played in The Jets, The Vikings, The Brothers Grimm, The Bobcats, Smokeless Zone and The Dream !In this show Martin recounts his start in the world of music including time with The Flying Aces and The Rockin’ Sikh ! Packed with great tunes and funny takes this is a must for any Man fan or lover of music made in Wales. Martin first joined Man 1969 with his debut gig at the Marquee in London that year. Prior to Man he played in The Jets, The Vikings, The Brothers Grimm, The Bobcats, Smokeless Zone and The Dream !
In this show Martin recounts his start in the world of music including time with The Flying Aces and The Rockin’ Sikh ! Packed with great tunes and funny takes this is a must for any Man fan or lover of music made in Wales.]]> 3181 false 15 full fbx/2b01cfba-c1b5-11ee-94ab-ba5fa9561315 Fri, 02 Feb 2024 10:24:02 +0000 Steve Balsamo, the Welsh singer/songwriter, has played the lead role in the West End revival productions of Jesus Christ Superstar, toured with Elton John for two years as a member of The Storys, has released many critically acclaimed songs as a solo artists as well as collaborating with Jon Lord, Eric Woolfson, ChimpanA and many more. Steve is currently in third of Balsamo Collins Riley and champions grassroots talent in his hometown of Swansea as part of Grand Ambition Steve Balsamo, the Welsh singer/songwriter, has played the lead role in the West End revival productions of Jesus Christ Superstar, toured with Elton John for two years as a member of The Storys, has released many critically acclaimed songs as a solo artists as well as collaborating with Jon Lord, Eric Woolfson, ChimpanA and many more. Steve is currently in third of Balsamo Collins Riley and champions grassroots talent in his hometown of Swansea as part of Grand Ambition]]> 3576 false 16 full fbx/919a0e0e-c1b5-11ee-a60b-ba5fa9561315 Fri, 02 Feb 2024 10:26:54 +0000 Rob Lear is a Welsh-based singer-songwriter who started in music as the principal songwriter and lead singer of Welsh bands Lear and the Proud Marys before embarking on a solo career. His music has seen him tour the UK and Europe, including a residency at Liverpool’s Cavern Club, performances at Wembley Arena and playing support to Amy Wadge, Henry Priestman, Bernard Butler and Ian McCulloch. As a dedicated song-smith he has also been sought after to co-write songs from country to R&B, has co-written for UK X-Factor quarter-finalist Katie Waissel, Spanish electronic dance music artist Edge of Universe and electronic dance music trio, Lua Sonique. He has also written songs for animated films, as well as for the 2012 British motion picture musical Rain. Rob was voted the best live act while touring Scotland, during which he played in support of Mark Morriss, Dodgy, Mystery Jets, Tom Hingley, Stories, The Crocketts and Thousand Reasons. Rob Lear is a Welsh-based singer-songwriter who started in music as the principal songwriter and lead singer of Welsh bands Lear and the Proud Marys before embarking on a solo career. His music has seen him tour the UK and Europe, including a residency at Liverpool’s Cavern Club, performances at Wembley Arena and playing support to Amy Wadge, Henry Priestman, Bernard Butler and Ian McCulloch. As a dedicated song-smith he has also been sought after to co-write songs from country to R&B, has co-written for UK X-Factor quarter-finalist Katie Waissel, Spanish electronic dance music artist Edge of Universe and electronic dance music trio, Lua Sonique. He has also written songs for animated films, as well as for the 2012 British motion picture musical Rain. Rob was voted the best live act while touring Scotland, during which he played in support of Mark Morriss, Dodgy, Mystery Jets, Tom Hingley, Stories, The Crocketts and Thousand Reasons.]]> 3601 false 17 full fbx/b01106f2-c1b6-11ee-9b63-ba5fa9561315 Fri, 02 Feb 2024 10:34:55 +0000 Deke Leonard (18 December 1944 – 31 January 2017) was a Welsh rock musician, "serving a life sentence in the music business". He was best known as a member of the progressive rock band Man, which he joined and left several times, and for fronting his own rock and roll band Iceberg, which he formed and disbanded several times, he was also an author, raconteur and television panelist - and very much missed. Deke Leonard (18 December 1944 – 31 January 2017) was a Welsh rock musician, "serving a life sentence in the music business". He was best known as a member of the progressive rock band Man, which he joined and left several times, and for fronting his own rock and roll band Iceberg, which he formed and disbanded several times, he was also an author, raconteur and television panelist - and very much missed.]]> 2433 false 18 full fbx/54bd181c-c1b7-11ee-bcde-ba5fa9561315 Fri, 02 Feb 2024 10:39:30 +0000 Rick Witter formed Shed Seven in 1990 and signed his first record deal with the band in 1993. They went on to have thirteen consecutive Top 40 hits in the UK Singles Chart becoming one of the most successful bands of the BritPop era. The band officially broke up in 2003, but reformed for a greatest hits tour in July 2007 and continued to play shows around Britain periodically until releasing a new studio album in 2017 - Instant Pleasures. Their latest album, A Matter of Time, was released on 5 January 2024 and became the first number one album in their career. Rick Witter formed Shed Seven in 1990 and signed his first record deal with the band in 1993. They went on to have thirteen consecutive Top 40 hits in the UK Singles Chart becoming one of the most successful bands of the BritPop era. The band officially broke up in 2003, but reformed for a greatest hits tour in July 2007 and continued to play shows around Britain periodically until releasing a new studio album in 2017 - Instant Pleasures. Their latest album, A Matter of Time, was released on 5 January 2024 and became the first number one album in their career.]]> 3129 false 19 full fbx/ec606df8-c519-11ee-a7e1-ba5fa9561315 Tue, 06 Feb 2024 18:02:49 +0000 Alonza Bevan is the English bassist for Kula Shaker - although he has strong links to Wales (and probably identifies as Welsh tbf !) When Kula Shaker split in 1999 and before reforming in 2004, Bevan played in a number of groups including Johnny Marr's band, The Healers as well as forming Tumblewild with his wife and former Mediæval Bæbes singer Audrey Evans, and released the 7" and digital download single "Sinnerman", he also produced The Stanfords self-titled debut album.In this episode, Alonza chats to Mike about Kula Shaker’s new album, Natural Magick, touring and future plans for the band. Alonza Bevan is the English bassist for Kula Shaker - although he has strong links to Wales (and probably identifies as Welsh tbf !) When Kula Shaker split in 1999 and before reforming in 2004, Bevan played in a number of groups including Johnny Marr's band, The Healers as well as forming Tumblewild with his wife and former Mediæval Bæbes singer Audrey Evans, and released the 7" and digital download single "Sinnerman", he also produced The Stanfords self-titled debut album.
In this episode, Alonza chats to Mike about Kula Shaker’s new album, Natural Magick, touring and future plans for the band.]]> 2720 false 20 full fbx/a99d8464-c51a-11ee-a51c-ba5fa9561315 Tue, 06 Feb 2024 18:08:06 +0000 Ellie Jones is a lover of Jazz and swing standards and performs with Gary Phillips (Guitar), Paul Smith (Drums) & Alun Vaughan (Bass) as Ellie Jones Jazz ! In this show she tells Mike all about her love of music, late start and terrible stage fright - we just can’t wait for an official release from this hugely talented lady ! Ellie Jones is a lover of Jazz and swing standards and performs with Gary Phillips (Guitar), Paul Smith (Drums) & Alun Vaughan (Bass) as Ellie Jones Jazz ! In this show she tells Mike all about her love of music, late start and terrible stage fright - we just can’t wait for an official release from this hugely talented lady !]]> 2834 false 21 full fbx/374054cc-c51b-11ee-84c3-ba5fa9561315 Tue, 06 Feb 2024 18:11:48 +0000 “A smoky, soulful voice, provocative lyrics, and extraordinary guitar playing make her one of the most talented musicians in this generation" - Never Enough MusicThe Spanish-born and London-living artist has developed a timelessly classic yet fresh sound with undertones of neo-soul, funk and R&B, inspired by the likes of John Mayer, Joss Stone, Eric Clapton and Alicia Keys. She’s a passionate environmental campaigner and likes to use her music to make a difference and speak up about social and climate issues and has joined forces with several non-profit organisations to raise funds and awareness around climate change and how music can be greener.Following a string of critically acclaimed single releases; her music has been added to rotation in radios around the globe - Mike caught up with her to find out what makes her tick ! “A smoky, soulful voice, provocative lyrics, and extraordinary guitar playing make her one of the most talented musicians in this generation" - Never Enough Music
The Spanish-born and London-living artist has developed a timelessly classic yet fresh sound with undertones of neo-soul, funk and R&B, inspired by the likes of John Mayer, Joss Stone, Eric Clapton and Alicia Keys. She’s a passionate environmental campaigner and likes to use her music to make a difference and speak up about social and climate issues and has joined forces with several non-profit organisations to raise funds and awareness around climate change and how music can be greener.
Following a string of critically acclaimed single releases; her music has been added to rotation in radios around the globe - Mike caught up with her to find out what makes her tick !]]> 2286 false 22 full fbx/2c3c82de-c51c-11ee-b74b-ba5fa9561315 Tue, 06 Feb 2024 18:18:55 +0000 Aliens Don't Ring Doorbells comprise Dorian Foyil (guitar, sax, backing & lead vocals), Adam King (lead, backing vocals) and Mark Boden (keyboards, backing vocals). The band took their outlandish name from a conversation Foyil recalled witnessing between an old man and Foyil’s (then) six year old son on a New York subway platform a number of years ago: the old man appeared to be talking to himself until he turned to the boy and said, “it’s because aliens don’t ring doorbells.” To the guys in the band, the phrase ‘aliens don’t ring doorbells’ has some ring of truth to it and the name kind of felt right. True ? Find this out and more as Adam King chats with Mike in this episode ! Aliens Don't Ring Doorbells comprise Dorian Foyil (guitar, sax, backing & lead vocals), Adam King (lead, backing vocals) and Mark Boden (keyboards, backing vocals). The band took their outlandish name from a conversation Foyil recalled witnessing between an old man and Foyil’s (then) six year old son on a New York subway platform a number of years ago: the old man appeared to be talking to himself until he turned to the boy and said, “it’s because aliens don’t ring doorbells.” To the guys in the band, the phrase ‘aliens don’t ring doorbells’ has some ring of truth to it and the name kind of felt right. True ? Find this out and more as Adam King chats with Mike in this episode !

]]> 1624 false 23 full fbx/ccfb78c4-c9cc-11ee-b432-ba5fa9561315 Mon, 12 Feb 2024 17:33:34 +0000 As a youngster, Aaron Badgley developed a profound love of The Beatles and music in general, also developing a fascination with record labels. At the age of 19, he started working in radio and by 20, he was a production manager for a number of stations in Canada. In 2005, Aaron debuted his syndicated radio show The Beatles Universe, which ran for six years. Currently, he is the host of Here Today and Backwards Traveller radio shows and cohosts From Memphis To Merseyside and The Way-Back Music Machine (with Tony Stuart). He writes for Spill Magazine and Immersive Audio Album, and has also contributed to the All Music Guide. Aaron resides in Toronto, Canada - in this episode Mike catches up with Aaron to talk about his new book on Dark Horse Records. As a youngster, Aaron Badgley developed a profound love of The Beatles and music in general, also developing a fascination with record labels. At the age of 19, he started working in radio and by 20, he was a production manager for a number of stations in Canada. In 2005, Aaron debuted his syndicated radio show The Beatles Universe, which ran for six years. Currently, he is the host of Here Today and Backwards Traveller radio shows and cohosts From Memphis To Merseyside and The Way-Back Music Machine (with Tony Stuart). He writes for Spill Magazine and Immersive Audio Album, and has also contributed to the All Music Guide. Aaron resides in Toronto, Canada - in this episode Mike catches up with Aaron to talk about his new book on Dark Horse Records.]]> 3608 false 24 full fbx/239198d2-cb60-11ee-9e55-ba5fa9561315 Wed, 14 Feb 2024 17:40:33 +0000 Nia is a singer songwriter who hails from Kent. After graduating from performing arts college at the age of 19 she went on to work in the business for 20 years, 14 of which were in London’s West End. She worked with award winning choreographers and composers and was part of numerous original casts including Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, Sister Act and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory directed by Sam Mendes. A lifelong lover of harmonies, Nia has always connected with the emotive and healing power of music. Her unique sound lends itself to muscular, emotional songs and her music has been likened to Annie Lennox. Paula Cole and Sarah McLachlan. Making her mark as a recording artist a little later than most, she feels passionately that it is never too late to be unapologetically you! Nia is a singer songwriter who hails from Kent. After graduating from performing arts college at the age of 19 she went on to work in the business for 20 years, 14 of which were in London’s West End. She worked with award winning choreographers and composers and was part of numerous original casts including Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, Sister Act and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory directed by Sam Mendes. A lifelong lover of harmonies, Nia has always connected with the emotive and healing power of music. Her unique sound lends itself to muscular, emotional songs and her music has been likened to Annie Lennox. Paula Cole and Sarah McLachlan. Making her mark as a recording artist a little later than most, she feels passionately that it is never too late to be unapologetically you!]]> 2760 false 25 full fbx/b7d6e7a4-cb60-11ee-b123-ba5fa9561315 Wed, 14 Feb 2024 17:44:42 +0000 Born in Port Talbot, Ryan played trombone in the National Youth Orchestra but his rock career started in 1964 when he formed the Port Talbot/Neath band The Smokestacks, with John Hockin, Gary Pickford-Hopkins, Peter Randal and Gerald Trolley. He found fame with The Eyes Of Blue but also worked with Man, Neutrons, Piblokto and Pete Brown over a long and successful career. Mike caught up with him to talk about his long and varied career when he visited his hometown from Denmark. Phil sadly passed away aged 69 in 2016. Born in Port Talbot, Ryan played trombone in the National Youth Orchestra but his rock career started in 1964 when he formed the Port Talbot/Neath band The Smokestacks, with John Hockin, Gary Pickford-Hopkins, Peter Randal and Gerald Trolley. He found fame with The Eyes Of Blue but also worked with Man, Neutrons, Piblokto and Pete Brown over a long and successful career. Mike caught up with him to talk about his long and varied career when he visited his hometown from Denmark. Phil sadly passed away aged 69 in 2016.]]> 7002 false 26 full fbx/8c3d8598-cb61-11ee-b5cb-ba5fa9561315 Wed, 14 Feb 2024 17:50:38 +0000 Catherine is a dark pop singer-songwriter whose music is introspective and fierce in equal measure, drawing on the raw emotion of Tori Amos and the brash power of PJ Harvey. A self-taught pianist with heavy rock sensibilities, Catherine creates an epic and transcendent sound described as “dark and lush”, “immersive and captivating”, and “not for the faint of heart”. In this episode she chats to Mike about her influences, working with The Dresden Dolls and gives a rare insight into her music. Catherine is a dark pop singer-songwriter whose music is introspective and fierce in equal measure, drawing on the raw emotion of Tori Amos and the brash power of PJ Harvey. A self-taught pianist with heavy rock sensibilities, Catherine creates an epic and transcendent sound described as “dark and lush”, “immersive and captivating”, and “not for the faint of heart”. In this episode she chats to Mike about her influences, working with The Dresden Dolls and gives a rare insight into her music.]]> 3453 false 27 full fbx/62dda10e-d257-11ee-a591-16a2cd1ac1f8 Fri, 23 Feb 2024 14:25:32 +0000 All the Bees is a female-led collaboration comprising two consummate and highly experienced writer-musicians - Gitika Partington & Kirsty McGee. Between them they have clocked up more than 20 album releases. Together, they weave a shimmering, gossamer music that is somehow more than the sum of its individual players.. Here they chat to Mike about their debut album. All the Bees is a female-led collaboration comprising two consummate and highly experienced writer-musicians - Gitika Partington & Kirsty McGee. Between them they have clocked up more than 20 album releases. Together, they weave a shimmering, gossamer music that is somehow more than the sum of its individual players.. Here they chat to Mike about their debut album.]]> 3288 false 28 full fbx/e9a2ae1e-d257-11ee-8b92-16a2cd1ac1f8 Fri, 23 Feb 2024 14:29:18 +0000 It's been some 15 years since The Daisycutters released their last album, 'Come Sweet Bullets', and a decade since frontman and vocalist Cameron Wilson had written a song.It was a call from the band's label that jumpstarted the writing process for 'Become What You Are'. Stephen Morris, MADCAP Global Managing Director and long-time champion of the band, rang with a proposition: If he backed a new Daisycutters album, would they write and record it? Mike caught up with the band to find out what happened next. It's been some 15 years since The Daisycutters released their last album, 'Come Sweet Bullets', and a decade since frontman and vocalist Cameron Wilson had written a song.
It was a call from the band's label that jumpstarted the writing process for 'Become What You Are'. Stephen Morris, MADCAP Global Managing Director and long-time champion of the band, rang with a proposition: If he backed a new Daisycutters album, would they write and record it? Mike caught up with the band to find out what happened next.]]> 3634 false 29 full fbx/b260c534-d258-11ee-afd8-16a2cd1ac1f8 Fri, 23 Feb 2024 14:34:55 +0000 Elaine has a wealth of experience working alongside show business luminaries including Bob Monkhouse OBE, Leslie Crowther CBE, Gary Wilmott MBE and many more. She started her career as a musician backing artists on the piano/organ in the working men's clubs in South Wales but soon took to the stage herself joining a 10 piece function band in which she served her 'apprenticeship' over many years as a lead vocalist gaining valuable experience in corporate entertainment , theatres and summer seasons at a young age. In this episode she talks to Mike about her album of Burt Bacharach songs called ‘love is still the answer’ Elaine has a wealth of experience working alongside show business luminaries including Bob Monkhouse OBE, Leslie Crowther CBE, Gary Wilmott MBE and many more. She started her career as a musician backing artists on the piano/organ in the working men's clubs in South Wales but soon took to the stage herself joining a 10 piece function band in which she served her 'apprenticeship' over many years as a lead vocalist gaining valuable experience in corporate entertainment , theatres and summer seasons at a young age. In this episode she talks to Mike about her album of Burt Bacharach songs called ‘love is still the answer’]]> 3863 false 30 full fbx/b6933e9c-d259-11ee-be77-16a2cd1ac1f8 Fri, 23 Feb 2024 14:42:11 +0000 They do say the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree, and George Jones is carrying on his father’s musical legacy with his band, Son Of Man.George has said that “Some people inherit jewellery, I’ve inherited Micky’s songs, and my inheritance is keeping them alive”, and while the Man legacy casts a long shadow, this doesn’t mean Son of Man are rooted in the past - in this episode Mike catches up with George to find out exactly what makes him tick. They do say the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree, and George Jones is carrying on his father’s musical legacy with his band, Son Of Man.
George has said that “Some people inherit jewellery, I’ve inherited Micky’s songs, and my inheritance is keeping them alive”, and while the Man legacy casts a long shadow, this doesn’t mean Son of Man are rooted in the past - in this episode Mike catches up with George to find out exactly what makes him tick.]]> 7289 false 31 full fbx/8a613c08-dfaa-11ee-902d-16a2cd1ac1f8 Tue, 12 Mar 2024 12:54:05 +0000 Barracudas frontman, Jeremy Gluck chats with Mike about his latest release, I Am Time, a personally selected career overview from 1985 to 2017 released on Glass Modern Records. Jeremy talks about his varied recording projects after the Barracudas broke up as well as the friendships formed and collaborations made. This fascinating insight into the cult star's work at this time sometimes makes him sound like the 'last man standing' which in many ways he is. Certainly innovative and daring - potentially a musical genius. You decide. Barracudas frontman, Jeremy Gluck chats with Mike about his latest release, I Am Time, a personally selected career overview from 1985 to 2017 released on Glass Modern Records. Jeremy talks about his varied recording projects after the Barracudas broke up as well as the friendships formed and collaborations made. This fascinating insight into the cult star's work at this time sometimes makes him sound like the 'last man standing' which in many ways he is. Certainly innovative and daring - potentially a musical genius. You decide.]]> 3532 false 33 full fbx/269c31c4-df90-11ee-a339-16a2cd1ac1f8 Tue, 12 Mar 2024 12:55:10 +0000 Michael Armstrong was born in South London in November 1973. His parents were not in the slightest bit musical, although they did listen to music frequently and he remembers car journeys singing along and harmonising with his brother to The Beatles Greatest Hits. He knew from a very early age that he wanted to express himself through music and song. As a dedicated touring artist, Michael has performed with some of the biggest names in the business. He has spent over two years ‘on the road’ headlining his own shows as well as appearing as a special guest on major tours with Leo Sayer, Vonda Shepard, T’Pau, Beverley Craven, Dean Friedman & The Hollies’ Peter Howarth. He has also collaborated and worked alongside massive global stars including Sir Paul McCartney, Sir Cliff Richard, Mark Knopfler, Glenn Fry, Chris de Burgh, Russell Watson, Hank Marvin, Michael Ball and countless others. In this episode Mike catches up with him to talk about his latest release, health scares and plans for the future. Michael Armstrong was born in South London in November 1973. His parents were not in the slightest bit musical, although they did listen to music frequently and he remembers car journeys singing along and harmonising with his brother to The Beatles Greatest Hits. He knew from a very early age that he wanted to express himself through music and song. As a dedicated touring artist, Michael has performed with some of the biggest names in the business. He has spent over two years ‘on the road’ headlining his own shows as well as appearing as a special guest on major tours with Leo Sayer, Vonda Shepard, T’Pau, Beverley Craven, Dean Friedman & The Hollies’ Peter Howarth. He has also collaborated and worked alongside massive global stars including Sir Paul McCartney, Sir Cliff Richard, Mark Knopfler, Glenn Fry, Chris de Burgh, Russell Watson, Hank Marvin, Michael Ball and countless others. In this episode Mike catches up with him to talk about his latest release, health scares and plans for the future.]]> 3088 false 32 full fbx/891aaa44-e06f-11ee-91ec-16a2cd1ac1f8 Tue, 12 Mar 2024 12:55:25 +0000 Paul Da Vinci is a British singer and musician best known as the lead singer on the 1974 hit recording by the Rubettes, "Sugar Baby Love", although he did not perform with the group at the time. He worked as a demo and session singer before and after his own successful solo career, that included "Your Baby Ain't Your Baby Anymore", which peaked at number 20 in the UK Singles Chart. In the 1980s he sang most of the voices, backing and lead, on the Tight Fit hit "Back to the Sixties, Part 2", and performed on Top of the Pops with the group. In this interview Paul chats with Mike about his career and forthcoming new album. Paul Da Vinci is a British singer and musician best known as the lead singer on the 1974 hit recording by the Rubettes, "Sugar Baby Love", although he did not perform with the group at the time. He worked as a demo and session singer before and after his own successful solo career, that included "Your Baby Ain't Your Baby Anymore", which peaked at number 20 in the UK Singles Chart. In the 1980s he sang most of the voices, backing and lead, on the Tight Fit hit "Back to the Sixties, Part 2", and performed on Top of the Pops with the group. In this interview Paul chats with Mike about his career and forthcoming new album.]]> 3413 false 34 full fbx/41de994a-e486-11ee-9ee5-16a2cd1ac1f8 Sun, 17 Mar 2024 17:46:38 +0000 Nashville based, John Fishell’s most recent single “Carolina California” spent 18 weeks on the Mediabase Top 40 Chart (US Radio), eventually climbing to #38, and was the highest-ranked independent (unsigned) artist on the chart, During that time, the song was the highest-ranked rock song among a strong field of pop, rap, and country artists.John started with piano lessons early in life only to (regretfully) quit and start learning cello while teaching himself to play guitar. A four-track cassette-based machine started him on the production process, followed by his operation of a small-club sized live sound reinforcement service. While studying music in college, NEA Jazz Master David Liebman recruited John to record a big band album, and this relationship led to John engineering various albums with other future NEA Jazz Masters including Jon Hendricks, Jimmy Cobb, Jack DeJohnette, Dave Holland, and Billy Hart. The 2002 Dave Liebman Big Band album Beyond the Line was Grammy-nominated in the “Best Instrumental Arrangement” category.As an unlikely full-time college professor, John has taught within premier music recording programs at Middle Tennessee State University, University of Colorado at Denver and Ball State University, and founded a successful program at Purdue University - Fort Wayne. Throughout this time, John wrote, recorded, and performed his own music. In 2021 John left university teaching, in order to devote everything to his own music. In this show Mike chats with John about his career and forthcoming UK your. Nashville based, John Fishell’s most recent single “Carolina California” spent 18 weeks on the Mediabase Top 40 Chart (US Radio), eventually climbing to #38, and was the highest-ranked independent (unsigned) artist on the chart, During that time, the song was the highest-ranked rock song among a strong field of pop, rap, and country artists.

John started with piano lessons early in life only to (regretfully) quit and start learning cello while teaching himself to play guitar. A four-track cassette-based machine started him on the production process, followed by his operation of a small-club sized live sound reinforcement service. While studying music in college, NEA Jazz Master David Liebman recruited John to record a big band album, and this relationship led to John engineering various albums with other future NEA Jazz Masters including Jon Hendricks, Jimmy Cobb, Jack DeJohnette, Dave Holland, and Billy Hart. The 2002 Dave Liebman Big Band album Beyond the Line was Grammy-nominated in the “Best Instrumental Arrangement” category.

As an unlikely full-time college professor, John has taught within premier music recording programs at Middle Tennessee State University, University of Colorado at Denver and Ball State University, and founded a successful program at Purdue University - Fort Wayne. Throughout this time, John wrote, recorded, and performed his own music. In 2021 John left university teaching, in order to devote everything to his own music. In this show Mike chats with John about his career and forthcoming UK your.]]> 2146 false 35 full fbx/e7df4600-e486-11ee-9bd5-16a2cd1ac1f8 Sun, 17 Mar 2024 17:50:54 +0000 Since going solo during lockdown then escaping to rural France after a house fire devastated her home in South Wales, indie folk singer songwriter Alcie Bela has embarked on a journey to fully independently record and produce her first project.Alongside her music and life partner, award wining Welsh blues singer songwriter Jack Ellis, she has produced a 5 track debut EP called Botanical Imaginations.It encapsulates recovering from traumatic times, embracing lockdown, losing everything to the flames and getting back on her feet to walk into a new life in the French wilderness.Their first track together, Snake Eyes, won them Best Musical Collaboration from Wigwam Awards in December 2020. Since then they have been concentrating on Alcie Bela’s first EP with plans to record a full studio album to follow. Mike catches up with Alcie at home in France to chat about her career and future plans. Since going solo during lockdown then escaping to rural France after a house fire devastated her home in South Wales, indie folk singer songwriter Alcie Bela has embarked on a journey to fully independently record and produce her first project.
Alongside her music and life partner, award wining Welsh blues singer songwriter Jack Ellis, she has produced a 5 track debut EP called Botanical Imaginations.
It encapsulates recovering from traumatic times, embracing lockdown, losing everything to the flames and getting back on her feet to walk into a new life in the French wilderness.
Their first track together, Snake Eyes, won them Best Musical Collaboration from Wigwam Awards in December 2020. Since then they have been concentrating on Alcie Bela’s first EP with plans to record a full studio album to follow. Mike catches up with Alcie at home in France to chat about her career and future plans.]]> 2655 false 36 full fbx/7b97ea32-e487-11ee-ad77-16a2cd1ac1f8 Sun, 17 Mar 2024 17:55:02 +0000 The four-piece band are best known for their ‘anonymous’ status, catchy tunes, dark humour and sardonic lyrics.Although ‘anonymous’, each member is a well-established member of the Welsh music scene with an enviable CV.Those who attend the live performances and get a close-up glimpse of the four piece will surelyrecognise them from bands such as The Five Darrens, Glee Club, The Bluesters, Heavy Quartet, Miracle Bros, Dansette and The Mummies.Mike catches up with the band to chat about current projects. The four-piece band are best known for their ‘anonymous’ status, catchy tunes, dark humour and sardonic lyrics.
Although ‘anonymous’, each member is a well-established member of the Welsh music scene with an enviable CV.

Those who attend the live performances and get a close-up glimpse of the four piece will surely
recognise them from bands such as The Five Darrens, Glee Club, The Bluesters, Heavy Quartet, Miracle Bros, Dansette and The Mummies.
Mike catches up with the band to chat about current projects.]]> 3085 false 37 full fbx/c1d3875e-e487-11ee-8482-16a2cd1ac1f8 Sun, 17 Mar 2024 17:56:59 +0000 Passionate about people, humanity and truth, Bettie is a Singer-Songwriter from Cardiff, Wales and a published author.Having performed in various settings (and countries) big and small- from St David’s Hall Cardiff, Festivals, Outreach events in Harare, Zimbabwe and, once upon a time, busked in Nashville, Bettie has been writing and playing live gigs with her acoustic guitar and bowler hat and performing in bands since her early teens.Mike talks with Bettie about her career and future plans. Passionate about people, humanity and truth, Bettie is a Singer-Songwriter from Cardiff, Wales and a published author.
Having performed in various settings (and countries) big and small- from St David’s Hall Cardiff, Festivals, Outreach events in Harare, Zimbabwe and, once upon a time, busked in Nashville, Bettie has been writing and playing live gigs with her acoustic guitar and bowler hat and performing in bands since her early teens.
Mike talks with Bettie about her career and future plans.]]> 2226 false 38 full fbx/152bb61c-ea08-11ee-85e8-16a2cd1ac1f8 Sun, 24 Mar 2024 17:58:20 +0000 Paul Roland, the English singer-songwriter, author and music journalist typically writes his songs in the form of stories, often addressing historical figures, characters from literature and film, or his own creations. He has explored genres including gothic rock, psychedelic pop, folk and baroque.Described by Music Week as a "psychedelic cult celebrity", Roland has enjoyed an underground career as opposed to mainstream success, gathering a stronger fanbase in mainland Europe than in his native UK. He has been credited with spearheading steampunk music.Aside from his recording career, Roland has written for various music magazines, and has authored numerous books on subjects including popular music, crime, World War II, and the supernatural.In this interview Mike chats with Paul about his music, influences and future plans. Paul Roland, the English singer-songwriter, author and music journalist typically writes his songs in the form of stories, often addressing historical figures, characters from literature and film, or his own creations. He has explored genres including gothic rock, psychedelic pop, folk and baroque.

Described by Music Week as a "psychedelic cult celebrity", Roland has enjoyed an underground career as opposed to mainstream success, gathering a stronger fanbase in mainland Europe than in his native UK. He has been credited with spearheading steampunk music.

Aside from his recording career, Roland has written for various music magazines, and has authored numerous books on subjects including popular music, crime, World War II, and the supernatural.

In this interview Mike chats with Paul about his music, influences and future plans.]]> 3878 false 39 full fbx/a6ab4080-ea08-11ee-8329-16a2cd1ac1f8 Sun, 24 Mar 2024 18:02:15 +0000 David Knopfler the British musician was born in Scotland, but raised in Blyth, near Newcastle upon Tyne, England. Together with his older brother Mark Knopfler, John Illsley, and Pick Withers, he founded the rock band Dire Straits in 1977, serving as rhythm guitarist on their first two albums. Mike caught up with the prolific musician to chat about his latest album, Crow Gifts. David Knopfler the British musician was born in Scotland, but raised in Blyth, near Newcastle upon Tyne, England. Together with his older brother Mark Knopfler, John Illsley, and Pick Withers, he founded the rock band Dire Straits in 1977, serving as rhythm guitarist on their first two albums. Mike caught up with the prolific musician to chat about his latest album, Crow Gifts.

]]> 3604 false 40 full fbx/4bf199cc-ea09-11ee-8f85-16a2cd1ac1f8 Sun, 24 Mar 2024 18:07:01 +0000 One of the best known and most renowned drummers in the world Mel Gaynor has sold over 60 million records during his 35 years with Rock superstars, the legendary force that is Simple Minds. Although Mel is best known with arena and festival audiences around the world for his time with Simple Minds it’s perhaps surprising to many of his fans that he’s also had a shining career as a session musician most notably with guitar gods Brian May, Gary Moore, and the likes of Elton John, Lou Reed, Tina Turner, Meat Loaf, Samson, The Pretenders, Jackson Browne, Little Steven, Robert Palmer, Joan Armatrading, Incognito, Imagination and Light of the World to name but a few of the luminary bands and solo artists Mel has worked with - here, Mel chats with Mike about his first solo release !

One of the best known and most renowned drummers in the world Mel Gaynor has sold over 60 million records during his 35 years with Rock superstars, the legendary force that is Simple Minds. Although Mel is best known with arena and festival audiences around the world for his time with Simple Minds it’s perhaps surprising to many of his fans that he’s also had a shining career as a session musician most notably with guitar gods Brian May, Gary Moore, and the likes of Elton John, Lou Reed, Tina Turner, Meat Loaf, Samson, The Pretenders, Jackson Browne, Little Steven, Robert Palmer, Joan Armatrading, Incognito, Imagination and Light of the World to name but a few of the luminary bands and solo artists Mel has worked with - here, Mel chats with Mike about his first solo release !

]]> 2128 false 41 full fbx/471c352c-ea0b-11ee-a2fb-16a2cd1ac1f8 Sun, 24 Mar 2024 18:20:59 +0000 Marty Wilde, MBE was among the first generation of British pop stars to emulate American rock and roll, scoring several 1950s and 1960s hit singles including "Endless Sleep", "Sea of Love" and "Bad Boy". During the late 1960s to early 1980s, Wilde continued to record and, with Ronnie Scott, co-wrote hit singles for others including the Casuals' "Jesamine" and Status Quo's "Ice in the Sun". He is the father of pop singer Kim Wilde and co-wrote many of her hit singles including "Kids in America" with his son Ricky. He continues to perform and record - here, he chats with Mike about his remarkable career and new single ! Marty Wilde, MBE was among the first generation of British pop stars to emulate American rock and roll, scoring several 1950s and 1960s hit singles including "Endless Sleep", "Sea of Love" and "Bad Boy". During the late 1960s to early 1980s, Wilde continued to record and, with Ronnie Scott, co-wrote hit singles for others including the Casuals' "Jesamine" and Status Quo's "Ice in the Sun". He is the father of pop singer Kim Wilde and co-wrote many of her hit singles including "Kids in America" with his son Ricky. He continues to perform and record - here, he chats with Mike about his remarkable career and new single !

]]> 2156 false 42 full fbx/0e11da64-f0de-11ee-92f2-16a2cd1ac1f8 Tue, 02 Apr 2024 11:44:59 +0100 Named as one of RnR Magazines Ones to watch for 2022, Jenny Colquitt encompasses a unique combination of Americana, indie and folk rock and pop.Winner of the 2021/2022 FATEA Female artist of the Year award and the 2020/2021 GSMC Award for best female solo singer/songwriter, Jenny’s music is described as fit for film and storytelling at its finest. A voice that uniquely combines the melodic undertones of artists such as Eva Cassidy and the rawness of Alanis Morissette. She writes with soul, lyrical vulnerability and style to accompany her musicality both through keys and guitar.Jenny’s debut album Something Beautiful was released in November 2021. Described as “very much recommended, for her strong and expressive voice, impactful lyrics and winning melodies” by BBC Radio 2’s Paul Sexton.Mike caught up with Jenny to talk about her forthcoming album and UK tour. Named as one of RnR Magazines Ones to watch for 2022, Jenny Colquitt encompasses a unique combination of Americana, indie and folk rock and pop.
Winner of the 2021/2022 FATEA Female artist of the Year award and the 2020/2021 GSMC Award for best female solo singer/songwriter, Jenny’s music is described as fit for film and storytelling at its finest. A voice that uniquely combines the melodic undertones of artists such as Eva Cassidy and the rawness of Alanis Morissette. She writes with soul, lyrical vulnerability and style to accompany her musicality both through keys and guitar.
Jenny’s debut album Something Beautiful was released in November 2021. Described as “very much recommended, for her strong and expressive voice, impactful lyrics and winning melodies” by BBC Radio 2’s Paul Sexton.
Mike caught up with Jenny to talk about her forthcoming album and UK tour.]]> 3021 false 43 full fbx/38fff786-f0e5-11ee-9e95-16a2cd1ac1f8 Tue, 02 Apr 2024 12:36:17 +0100 London-based actor, writer, teacher and spoken word artist, Karen Brace chats with Mike about her career and love of the spoken word. Her original pieces transport the listener outside of themselves taking them on a journey which is at once exciting and adventurous. Karen has a voice that would stop you in your tracks whether she was reading an old classic or a bus time-table. One of our favourites. London-based actor, writer, teacher and spoken word artist, Karen Brace chats with Mike about her career and love of the spoken word. Her original pieces transport the listener outside of themselves taking them on a journey which is at once exciting and adventurous. Karen has a voice that would stop you in your tracks whether she was reading an old classic or a bus time-table. One of our favourites.]]> 3338 false 45 full fbx/8cc10d2a-f0e9-11ee-b84e-16a2cd1ac1f8 Tue, 02 Apr 2024 13:07:15 +0100 Man’s Deke Leonard said of Link :Link was a flamboyant, Strat-wielding Buddy Holly look-alike, who was different from the other local lead guitarists of the time because he was the first to shake off the dead hand of Hank B Marvin. Something of a showman, he had an ebullient personality and played with blistering speed and unfettered invention.Want to know more ? Listen to this show which feature previously unreleased demo tracks recorded at Abbey Road.Man’s Deke Leonard said of Link :Link was a flamboyant, Strat-wielding Buddy Holly look-alike, who was different from the other local lead guitarists of the time because he was the first to shake off the dead hand of Hank B Marvin. Something of a showman, he had an ebullient personality and played with blistering speed and unfettered invention.Want to know more ? Listen to this show which feature previously unreleased demo tracks recorded at Abbey Road. Man’s Deke Leonard said of Link :
Link was a flamboyant, Strat-wielding Buddy Holly look-alike, who was different from the other local lead guitarists of the time because he was the first to shake off the dead hand of Hank B Marvin. Something of a showman, he had an ebullient personality and played with blistering speed and unfettered invention.
Want to know more ? Listen to this show which feature previously unreleased demo tracks recorded at Abbey Road.Man’s Deke Leonard said of Link :
Link was a flamboyant, Strat-wielding Buddy Holly look-alike, who was different from the other local lead guitarists of the time because he was the first to shake off the dead hand of Hank B Marvin. Something of a showman, he had an ebullient personality and played with blistering speed and unfettered invention.
Want to know more ? Listen to this show which feature previously unreleased demo tracks recorded at Abbey Road.]]> 7474 false 44 full fbx/01ba4412-f594-11ee-b7b9-16a2cd1ac1f8 Mon, 08 Apr 2024 11:37:31 +0100 Casey Maunder was born and raised in Swansea and as the son of a local musician was immersed in music from an early age. By twelve years old he was performing with his father’s band and at 14 was writing and performing with local rock bands. At 19 Casey joined The Cherry Thieves and inspired by the Los Angeles glam rock scene they toured the UK extensively and featured regularly in music publications such as Kerrang and Melody Maker. After the demise of The Cherry Thieves Casey linked up with a childhood friend and formed Four Stories High. The band kept the energy of Casey’s earlier rock projects but fused it with a more imaginative and creative approach to song writing. The band gigged extensively across the UK and their single “Another Day” gained radio play, Welsh TV slots and was released on a compilation of the best emerging UK talent.2021 saw Casey decide to go it alone and take sole control of his song writing and releases. His sound is defined by overdriven guitars and a dedication to melody that means every track has a huge chorus that will not quit! His first three solo singles have had extensive radio play, including the track “Rolling at The Rathouse” being played on esteemed station Planet Rock. Casey Maunder was born and raised in Swansea and as the son of a local musician was immersed in music from an early age. By twelve years old he was performing with his father’s band and at 14 was writing and performing with local rock bands. At 19 Casey joined The Cherry Thieves and inspired by the Los Angeles glam rock scene they toured the UK extensively and featured regularly in music publications such as Kerrang and Melody Maker. After the demise of The Cherry Thieves Casey linked up with a childhood friend and formed Four Stories High. The band kept the energy of Casey’s earlier rock projects but fused it with a more imaginative and creative approach to song writing. The band gigged extensively across the UK and their single “Another Day” gained radio play, Welsh TV slots and was released on a compilation of the best emerging UK talent.
2021 saw Casey decide to go it alone and take sole control of his song writing and releases. His sound is defined by overdriven guitars and a dedication to melody that means every track has a huge chorus that will not quit! His first three solo singles have had extensive radio play, including the track “Rolling at The Rathouse” being played on esteemed station Planet Rock.]]> 1924 false 46 full fbx/5d5e87ec-f594-11ee-97fd-16a2cd1ac1f8 Mon, 08 Apr 2024 11:40:05 +0100 Dean Friedman is an American singer-songwriter who plays piano, keyboard, guitar, and harmonica.Although considered a one-hit wonder in the US, he has had multiple singles chart in other territories and continues to write, record, and tour.Ray Del Barrio catches up with Dean to talk about his, then, new album.  Dean Friedman is an American singer-songwriter who plays piano, keyboard, guitar, and harmonica.
Although considered a one-hit wonder in the US, he has had multiple singles chart in other territories and continues to write, record, and tour.
Ray Del Barrio catches up with Dean to talk about his, then, new album. ]]> 5573 false 47 full fbx/b0748c24-f594-11ee-abb7-16a2cd1ac1f8 Mon, 08 Apr 2024 11:42:24 +0100 Feeder are a Welsh rock band formed in Newport in 1994. They have released 11 studio albums, 12 compilations, four EPs and 43 singles, spending a combined total of 184 weeks on the singles and albums charts as of 2019, while accumulating 25 top 75 singles between 1997 and 2012. At the peak of their commercial success, Feeder won two Kerrang! Awards in 2001 and 2003; they were inducted into their Hall of Fame in August 2019. Craig Mapstone catches up with Grant Nicholas to talk about the band’s, then, latest release and tour.  Feeder are a Welsh rock band formed in Newport in 1994. They have released 11 studio albums, 12 compilations, four EPs and 43 singles, spending a combined total of 184 weeks on the singles and albums charts as of 2019, while accumulating 25 top 75 singles between 1997 and 2012. At the peak of their commercial success, Feeder won two Kerrang! Awards in 2001 and 2003; they were inducted into their Hall of Fame in August 2019. Craig Mapstone catches up with Grant Nicholas to talk about the band’s, then, latest release and tour. ]]> 3539 false 48 full fbx/00f98ba4-f595-11ee-aaea-16a2cd1ac1f8 Mon, 08 Apr 2024 11:44:39 +0100 TangleJack are an acoustic duo from South Wales who have been making music together for over 30 years. Formed by Duncan Leigh and John Paul Davies they have released an EP and one album. Mike joins them to chat about album number two, The Ragged Edge, and how it was written and recorded.  TangleJack are an acoustic duo from South Wales who have been making music together for over 30 years. Formed by Duncan Leigh and John Paul Davies they have released an EP and one album. Mike joins them to chat about album number two, The Ragged Edge, and how it was written and recorded. ]]> 2878 false 49 full fbx/db3887c2-fc19-11ee-b4fd-16a2cd1ac1f8 Tue, 16 Apr 2024 18:50:54 +0100 Jayce Lewis is a Welsh musician from Bridgend, South Wales. In 2009 his self-produced single titled "Icon" (also included on EMI Records' Smash Hits 2009 compilation) achieved a top-10 chart position alongside VH1/MTV Asia Viacom18 features. With strong industrial music and synth-pop influences, his music has been described as alternative rock with electronica roots and "tribal percussion". Lewis has collaborated with acts such as Queen, Rammstein and synth-pop icon Gary Numan, for whom Lewis has been a supporting act three times. Mike caught up with him at his Bridgend studio to talk about his career to date.  Jayce Lewis is a Welsh musician from Bridgend, South Wales. In 2009 his self-produced single titled "Icon" (also included on EMI Records' Smash Hits 2009 compilation) achieved a top-10 chart position alongside VH1/MTV Asia Viacom18 features. With strong industrial music and synth-pop influences, his music has been described as alternative rock with electronica roots and "tribal percussion". Lewis has collaborated with acts such as Queen, Rammstein and synth-pop icon Gary Numan, for whom Lewis has been a supporting act three times. Mike caught up with him at his Bridgend studio to talk about his career to date. ]]> 3771 false 50 full fbx/c8b1d74a-fc21-11ee-b7a9-16a2cd1ac1f8 Tue, 16 Apr 2024 19:52:15 +0100 Composer, musician, record producer, and film-maker PaulHazel has had many releases on labels such as Rising High, Rotation, Inspiral, 2Kool, Masters At Work, SWND, Welsh Modular Alliance, and Bamboo Radical. He’s composed and produced the music for a number of commercial film and TV programmes and has produced and exhibited several short films of his own.In 2016 he was a founding member of the Swansea Laptop Orchestra and runs an independent record label whilst continuing to record, perform, and create. Mike talks to Paul about his love of music in this inspiring interview.  Composer, musician, record producer, and film-maker Paul
Hazel has had many releases on labels such as Rising High, Rotation, Inspiral, 2Kool, Masters At Work, SWND, Welsh Modular Alliance, and Bamboo Radical. He’s composed and produced the music for a number of commercial film and TV programmes and has produced and exhibited several short films of his own.
In 2016 he was a founding member of the Swansea Laptop Orchestra and runs an independent record label whilst continuing to record, perform, and create. Mike talks to Paul about his love of music in this inspiring interview. ]]> 3600 false 51 full fbx/c1ac43b2-fc22-11ee-8fb7-16a2cd1ac1f8 Tue, 16 Apr 2024 19:54:29 +0100 Ricky Warwick is a Northern Irish musician and the lead singer of the rock bands Black Star Riders and Thin Lizzy. He is also the frontman for the Scottish hard rock band The Almighty, with whom he achieved chart success in the UK throughout the 1990s. In this candid interview, from his LA home, Ricky talks to Mike about his career to date and future plans.  Ricky Warwick is a Northern Irish musician and the lead singer of the rock bands Black Star Riders and Thin Lizzy. He is also the frontman for the Scottish hard rock band The Almighty, with whom he achieved chart success in the UK throughout the 1990s. In this candid interview, from his LA home, Ricky talks to Mike about his career to date and future plans. ]]> 3566 false 52 full fbx/32eb77c8-ffe8-11ee-9dd2-16a2cd1ac1f8 Sun, 21 Apr 2024 15:05:06 +0100 Born and raised in India and residing in Switzerland, Ajay Mathur’s talent as a singer-songwriter and seasoned musician blends both pop and rock genres with Americana and traditional Indian instruments into something radically new and genre-bending.None of these tracks, even when the sitar effects kick in, become stereotypes of post-rock n roll Indian music. There is a hazy originality that makes it seem like this award-winning musician has a primal, as well as purple hazed, glory.Join Mike as he chats with Ajay about his latest album, recorded remotely during lockdown, which has probably the strangest history of any record ! Born and raised in India and residing in Switzerland, Ajay Mathur’s talent as a singer-songwriter and seasoned musician blends both pop and rock genres with Americana and traditional Indian instruments into something radically new and genre-bending.

None of these tracks, even when the sitar effects kick in, become stereotypes of post-rock n roll Indian music. There is a hazy originality that makes it seem like this award-winning musician has a primal, as well as purple hazed, glory.

Join Mike as he chats with Ajay about his latest album, recorded remotely during lockdown, which has probably the strangest history of any record !]]> 2986 false 53 full fbx/9f8cc808-0233-11ef-9998-16a2cd1ac1f8 Wed, 24 Apr 2024 13:10:20 +0100 In September of 2014 3MPH, hailing from the Gwent Valleys released their debut album - a year later Mike caught up with them to find out all about the band and their plans.  In September of 2014 3MPH, hailing from the Gwent Valleys released their debut album - a year later Mike caught up with them to find out all about the band and their plans. ]]> 6295 false 54 full fbx/0efbf826-0234-11ef-8441-16a2cd1ac1f8 Wed, 24 Apr 2024 13:13:27 +0100 Lizzie Gormley - VocalsNick Jones - Lead GuitarMatthew Witherstone - Rhythm GuitarSean Davies - BassJames Griffiths - DrumsThe indie alternative band from Wales sat with Mike in the studio to talk about the bands beginnings - playing a live set too !  Lizzie Gormley - Vocals
Nick Jones - Lead Guitar
Matthew Witherstone - Rhythm Guitar
Sean Davies - Bass
James Griffiths - Drums

The indie alternative band from Wales sat with Mike in the studio to talk about the bands beginnings - playing a live set too ! ]]> 3540 false 55 full fbx/9f3a9d0c-0234-11ef-87ac-16a2cd1ac1f8 Wed, 24 Apr 2024 13:17:29 +0100 Catrin O’Neill grew up by the sea in Aberdyfi, Southern Snowdonia, surrounded by a wealth of traditional Welsh music and culture. Her Grandmother or Nain, was one of the first to introduce her to the magic of traditional folk songs, often sung in the kitchen beside the warm Aga with a cup of tea in hand. It is her humour and ability to tell a story, transporting the audience to places past and present, that really set her aside from other folk singers. She often plays solo but also as a duo or as part of a three piece incorporating harp, fiddle, bouzouki and whistle. Catrin is also the lead singer of Allan yn y Fan, one of Wales best known traditional folk bands and is a member of the 10 mewn Bws collective. She has toured extensively in the U.K. Ireland and Europe and performs in Welsh and English. Catrin O’Neill grew up by the sea in Aberdyfi, Southern Snowdonia, surrounded by a wealth of traditional Welsh music and culture. Her Grandmother or Nain, was one of the first to introduce her to the magic of traditional folk songs, often sung in the kitchen beside the warm Aga with a cup of tea in hand. It is her humour and ability to tell a story, transporting the audience to places past and present, that really set her aside from other folk singers. She often plays solo but also as a duo or as part of a three piece incorporating harp, fiddle, bouzouki and whistle. Catrin is also the lead singer of Allan yn y Fan, one of Wales best known traditional folk bands and is a member of the 10 mewn Bws collective. She has toured extensively in the U.K. Ireland and Europe and performs in Welsh and English.]]> 2815 false 56 full fbx/9adb75e4-02e1-11ef-9c9d-16a2cd1ac1f8 Thu, 25 Apr 2024 09:55:44 +0100 Mike chats with Mike Lloyd, from The Time Mechanics, about their recent trip to Brazil and finds out all about their new album and plans for the future.  Mike chats with Mike Lloyd, from The Time Mechanics, about their recent trip to Brazil and finds out all about their new album and plans for the future. ]]> 2838 false 57 full fbx/5416403e-087d-11ef-8331-16a2cd1ac1f8 Thu, 02 May 2024 13:13:03 +0100 Pianist, songwriter and singer, Andrew Clode joins Mike in the studio to chat about his critically acclaimed album "Sweet The Fire" which draws on Andrew's experiences of life.- described as a Welsh Gilbert O Sullivan you will also hear shadows of Georgie Fame.Alan Price and Randy Newman. Pianist, songwriter and singer, Andrew Clode joins Mike in the studio to chat about his critically acclaimed album "Sweet The Fire" which draws on Andrew's experiences of life.
- described as a Welsh Gilbert O Sullivan you will also hear shadows of Georgie Fame.
Alan Price and Randy Newman.]]> 3506 false 58 full fbx/c47ed7be-087d-11ef-aa4a-16a2cd1ac1f8 Thu, 02 May 2024 13:16:12 +0100 Buffalo Summer sound like you hope and dream…big, bluesy, southern-tinged rock with riffs and melodies that refuse to leave your body or brain. Hailing from South Wales, guitarist Jonny Williams, vocalist Andrew Hunt, drummer Gareth Hunt and bassist Darren King walk with giants in both action and attitude, evoking the days when classic rock such as Led Zeppelin, Free and Whitesnake strode stages like lions, yet with infusions of contemporary legends such as The Black Crowes, Alice In Chains and even a little dash of Jack White.  Buffalo Summer sound like you hope and dream…big, bluesy, southern-tinged rock with riffs and melodies that refuse to leave your body or brain. 
Hailing from South Wales, guitarist Jonny Williams, vocalist Andrew Hunt, drummer Gareth Hunt and bassist Darren King walk with giants in both action and attitude, evoking the days when classic rock such as Led Zeppelin, Free and Whitesnake strode stages like lions, yet with infusions of contemporary legends such as The Black Crowes, Alice In Chains and even a little dash of Jack White. ]]> 3654 false 59 full fbx/2c1d31fe-087e-11ef-80e9-16a2cd1ac1f8 Thu, 02 May 2024 13:19:03 +0100 Peaness are a band from Chester, England formed in 2013. Their all-female line-up is Balla (guitar and vocals), Jess (bass and vocals) and Rach (drums). Their sound has been described as "melodic indie pop", “DIY punk" and "shiny shiny pop with an infectious energy and tunes as sharp as their fringes". Mike chats with the trio about the band and future plans.  Peaness are a band from Chester, England formed in 2013. Their all-female line-up is Balla (guitar and vocals), Jess (bass and vocals) and Rach (drums). Their sound has been described as "melodic indie pop", “DIY punk" and "shiny shiny pop with an infectious energy and tunes as sharp as their fringes". Mike chats with the trio about the band and future plans. ]]> 3233 false 60 full fbx/8b89b3d8-087e-11ef-af47-16a2cd1ac1f8 Thu, 02 May 2024 13:21:45 +0100 Teri N is a singer-songwriter, who comes from the heart of Europe, a beautiful city of Prague. Her travels across Europe inspire her to write folk and new-age music. The lyrics of her songs often describe nature, narrate fictional stories, and sometimes mention details from her own life. Teri N is a singer-songwriter, who comes from the heart of Europe, a beautiful city of Prague. Her travels across Europe inspire her to write folk and new-age music. The lyrics of her songs often describe nature, narrate fictional stories, and sometimes mention details from her own life.]]> 2356 false 61 full fbx/c1253b54-0eb2-11ef-b3f4-16a2cd1ac1f8 Fri, 10 May 2024 10:50:33 +0100 Ground Control was formed in Swansea in South Wales to write and play hard edged post-punk “Power Pop” and became one of the hottest young bands in the area in the early 1980s.The band consisted of Mark Northcott on lead vocals and rhythm guitar, Carl Jones on lead guitar and backing vocals, Dave Badger on bass and backing vocals and Steve Sambrook on drums.In this show Mike catches up with Carl to chat about his career and music. Ground Control was formed in Swansea in South Wales to write and play hard edged post-punk “Power Pop” and became one of the hottest young bands in the area in the early 1980s.
The band consisted of Mark Northcott on lead vocals and rhythm guitar, Carl Jones on lead guitar and backing vocals, Dave Badger on bass and backing vocals and Steve Sambrook on drums.
In this show Mike catches up with Carl to chat about his career and music.]]> 3420 false 62 full fbx/8ac92fc4-0eb3-11ef-9c0d-16a2cd1ac1f8 Fri, 10 May 2024 10:56:13 +0100 Cheryl Beer is an author, folk singer and multi-media artist. She is included among the 100+ Menywod Cymraeg/Welsh Women who have made a significant contribution to national life. In one of our earliest shows Mike chats to Cheryl about her music.  Cheryl Beer is an author, folk singer and multi-media artist. She is included among the 100+ Menywod Cymraeg/Welsh Women who have made a significant contribution to national life. In one of our earliest shows Mike chats to Cheryl about her music. ]]> 7128 false 63 full fbx/9a9e2c1e-0eb4-11ef-a6b9-16a2cd1ac1f8 Fri, 10 May 2024 11:03:49 +0100 Influenced by the likes of Yeah Yeah Yeah’s and The Gossip, CHROMA have already received a groundswell of early radio support from BBC Radio 1, BBC 6 Music, Kerrang! Radio, Radio Wales and BBC Radio Cymru and ongoing support from BBC Introducing now it’s our turn ! In this candid interview the band talk about their career and future plans.  Influenced by the likes of Yeah Yeah Yeah’s and The Gossip, CHROMA have already received a groundswell of early radio support from BBC Radio 1, BBC 6 Music, Kerrang! Radio, Radio Wales and BBC Radio Cymru and ongoing support from BBC Introducing now it’s our turn ! In this candid interview the band talk about their career and future plans. ]]> 3710 false 64 full fbx/0b520e26-0eb5-11ef-8d4d-16a2cd1ac1f8 Fri, 10 May 2024 11:06:59 +0100 A Canadian singer-songwriter, painter from Saskatoon, now living in Montreal, known for his hit single, MIRACLE, for which he was nominated, "Most Promising Male Vocalist", in the 80s. He’s released many albums, singles and videos, and exhibited paintings for many years.  A Canadian singer-songwriter, painter from Saskatoon, now living in Montreal, known for his hit single, MIRACLE, for which he was nominated, "Most Promising Male Vocalist", in the 80s. He’s released many albums, singles and videos, and exhibited paintings for many years. ]]> 2684 false 65 full fbx/c0bf1da8-13a6-11ef-af12-16a2cd1ac1f8 Thu, 16 May 2024 21:46:36 +0100 Aline, the debut album of Cristiano Varisco, reflects the life of the guitarist, whose daily life is shared between bucolic country ways and the polluted streets of Porto Alegre, located in the southernmost part of Brazil. This 16-track/50-minutes masterpiece indulges the listener as it shifts effortlessly between styles of: traditional: folk, psychedelic, classic, rock, and blues. Varisco’s compositionss showcase all of the musical influences that he has incorporated into his work during his 20 year career. The album established Varisco in the Progressive rock scene with his incorporation of a collection of vignettes, random sounds, and hot progressive-based jams, – sometime meditative, sometimes contemplative…always pleasing to the ears.’ Aline, the debut album of Cristiano Varisco, reflects the life of the guitarist, whose daily life is shared between bucolic country ways and the polluted streets of Porto Alegre, located in the southernmost part of Brazil. This 16-track/50-minutes masterpiece indulges the listener as it shifts effortlessly between styles of: traditional: folk, psychedelic, classic, rock, and blues. Varisco’s compositionss showcase all of the musical influences that he has incorporated into his work during his 20 year career. The album established Varisco in the Progressive rock scene with his incorporation of a collection of vignettes, random sounds, and hot progressive-based jams, – sometime meditative, sometimes contemplative…always pleasing to the ears.’]]> 2303 false 66 full fbx/e3e2890e-13c5-11ef-9640-16a2cd1ac1f8 Thu, 16 May 2024 21:50:08 +0100 In 2004, Hayley was flown to Dublin to sing for the Executive Producer of the Irish phenomenon, ‘Riverdance’. Just two days later she began a tour that over the next few years would take her extensively across the world. It was during a return to the North American tour of Riverdance in 2007 that Hayley was bought to the attention of Grammy award nominated Producers, Surefire Music Group. Invited to return to Boston to write and record original material, Hayley flew to the US in September 2008 to begin collaboration on her debut album, and her first single ‘Separated by Glass’ was born but was 2012 that marked the start of a brand new and perhaps unexpected collaboration for Hayley. Hayley joined UK Prog Rock band, Karnataka as their new front-woman.In this episode Hayley talks with Mike about her latest albums and plans for the future.  In 2004, Hayley was flown to Dublin to sing for the Executive Producer of the Irish phenomenon, ‘Riverdance’. Just two days later she began a tour that over the next few years would take her extensively across the world. 
It was during a return to the North American tour of Riverdance in 2007 that Hayley was bought to the attention of Grammy award nominated Producers, Surefire Music Group. Invited to return to Boston to write and record original material, Hayley flew to the US in September 2008 to begin collaboration on her debut album, and her first single ‘Separated by Glass’ was born but was 2012 that marked the start of a brand new and perhaps unexpected collaboration for Hayley. Hayley joined UK Prog Rock band, Karnataka as their new front-woman.
In this episode Hayley talks with Mike about her latest albums and plans for the future. ]]> 3180 false 67 full fbx/58e6909c-13c6-11ef-8275-16a2cd1ac1f8 Thu, 16 May 2024 21:53:27 +0100 Dai Williams has been in bands for the best part of his life, starting with Million Dollar Babies in the 90s. His solo work is now being transformed through collaboration with his 505 friends into masterpieces. Dai Williams has been in bands for the best part of his life, starting with Million Dollar Babies in the 90s. His solo work is now being transformed through collaboration with his 505 friends into masterpieces.]]> 3464 false 68 full fbx/c053328a-13c6-11ef-8758-16a2cd1ac1f8 Thu, 16 May 2024 21:56:21 +0100 James Oliver is one of the UK's busiest acts playing over 300 gigs a year all over the UK, Europe, and the USA! He has performed over 3000 gigs and shared the stage with many acts including Albert Lee, Bill Kirchen, Deke Leonard, Greg Koch, Walter Trout, Steve Gibbons, Billy Bremner, Geraint Watkins, and many others. Mike catches up with James to talk about his latest EP James Oliver is one of the UK's busiest acts playing over 300 gigs a year all over the UK, Europe, and the USA! He has performed over 3000 gigs and shared the stage with many acts including Albert Lee, Bill Kirchen, Deke Leonard, Greg Koch, Walter Trout, Steve Gibbons, Billy Bremner, Geraint Watkins, and many others. Mike catches up with James to talk about his latest EP]]> 3780 false 69 full fbx/cd09fc2e-1c0a-11ef-860c-16a2cd1ac1f8 Tue, 28 May 2024 15:03:09 +0100 BORN IN THE RHONDDA WITH STRONG GIBRALTARIAN ROOTS, CAITLIN LAVAGNA HAS DEVELOPED A HUGE PASSION FOR PERCUSSION. WITH A STRONG, RICH VOCAL AND A KNACK FOR INSTANT POP HOOKS, SHE BLENDS HONEST SONGWRITING WITH AN EXCITING RHYTHMIC CORE. MIKE AND CAITLIN CHAT ABOUT HER MUSIC, ACTING AND COPING WITH ‘FAME’ IN THIS CANDID AND FUNNY INTERVIEW BORN IN THE RHONDDA WITH STRONG GIBRALTARIAN ROOTS, CAITLIN LAVAGNA HAS DEVELOPED A HUGE PASSION FOR PERCUSSION. WITH A STRONG, RICH VOCAL AND A KNACK FOR INSTANT POP HOOKS, SHE BLENDS HONEST SONGWRITING WITH AN EXCITING RHYTHMIC CORE. MIKE AND CAITLIN CHAT ABOUT HER MUSIC, ACTING AND COPING WITH ‘FAME’ IN THIS CANDID AND FUNNY INTERVIEW]]> 2812 false 73 full fbx/763ae1a6-1c0a-11ef-a53e-16a2cd1ac1f8 Tue, 28 May 2024 17:19:30 +0100 The Canadian/Welsh musician and film-maker joins Mike to talk about her love of music featuring tracks from her album and influences through the years.  The Canadian/Welsh musician and film-maker joins Mike to talk about her love of music featuring tracks from her album and influences through the years. ]]> 5950 false 72 full fbx/2ed0e590-1c0a-11ef-87f0-16a2cd1ac1f8 Tue, 28 May 2024 17:39:33 +0100 Cara Pearce is a Swansea singer-songwriter. In this episode she talks to Mike about her favourite tracks, inspirations and future plans.  Cara Pearce is a Swansea singer-songwriter. In this episode she talks to Mike about her favourite tracks, inspirations and future plans. ]]> 7098 false 71 full fbx/e8ceaa96-1c09-11ef-aca0-16a2cd1ac1f8 Tue, 28 May 2024 18:09:49 +0100 Al Lewis, originally from North Wales, released his first Welsh language EP entitled Byw Mewn Breuddwyd in 2007 followed by an album in 2009 which reached No.1 in the C2 Radio Cymru Welsh language chart. His next album, In the Wake, was released in October 2010 and in early 2013, Lewis released his second English language album, which featured backing vocals from Sarah Howells. The album also features a rerecorded version of Llosgi. The album was produced by Charlie Peacock. The album was recorded at his home studio in Nashville.In December 2013 Lewis released a Christmas single, A Child's Christmas in Wales, in homage to Welsh poet and writer Dylan Thomas and the song was added to the BBC Radio 2 playlist.By his links in Nashville, Lewis met Mississippi-born singer-songwriter Alva Leigh and they formed the band Lewis and Leigh. As of October 2014 Lewis and Leigh have released a four-track EP, Night Drives. The EP features three original songs and a cover of Wilco's Say You Miss Me.Lewis's music is regularly played on BBC Radio 2. In 2015 he headlined the bill at Sesiwn Fawr in Dolgellau. Al Lewis, originally from North Wales, released his first Welsh language EP entitled Byw Mewn Breuddwyd in 2007 followed by an album in 2009 which reached No.1 in the C2 Radio Cymru Welsh language chart. 
His next album, In the Wake, was released in October 2010 and in early 2013, Lewis released his second English language album, which featured backing vocals from Sarah Howells. The album also features a rerecorded version of Llosgi. The album was produced by Charlie Peacock. The album was recorded at his home studio in Nashville.
In December 2013 Lewis released a Christmas single, A Child's Christmas in Wales, in homage to Welsh poet and writer Dylan Thomas and the song was added to the BBC Radio 2 playlist.
By his links in Nashville, Lewis met Mississippi-born singer-songwriter Alva Leigh and they formed the band Lewis and Leigh. As of October 2014 Lewis and Leigh have released a four-track EP, Night Drives. The EP features three original songs and a cover of Wilco's Say You Miss Me.
Lewis's music is regularly played on BBC Radio 2. In 2015 he headlined the bill at Sesiwn Fawr in Dolgellau.]]> 2916 false 70 full fbx/90c3907c-24b6-11ef-b6cc-16a2cd1ac1f8 Fri, 07 Jun 2024 11:13:18 +0100 Kent born songstress Sorrel Nation brings a soulful mix of folk/country/rock with powerful vocals and haunting melodies. She engages audiences with her heartfelt, emotive and relatable songwriting and is known for her earthy 1970's inspired style.Mike caught up with her, on the road, as she was about to release her duet with Steve Balsamo.  Kent born songstress Sorrel Nation brings a soulful mix of folk/country/rock with powerful vocals and haunting melodies. She engages audiences with her heartfelt, emotive and relatable songwriting and is known for her earthy 1970's inspired style.
Mike caught up with her, on the road, as she was about to release her duet with Steve Balsamo. ]]> 3030 false 74 full fbx/bcd3c600-297a-11ef-8fae-16a2cd1ac1f8 Fri, 14 Jun 2024 14:51:17 +0100 Play Misty are a folk & Americana band that draw their influences from the Laurel Canyon sound of the early 1970’s and give it a unique and contemporary feel. Based in Bristol their music is making waves across the UK with delicious harmonies and beautiful Melodies. Mike caught up with Sophie and Ishavi to chat about where they are now and where they want to go.  Play Misty are a folk & Americana band that draw their influences from the Laurel Canyon sound of the early 1970’s and give it a unique and contemporary feel. Based in Bristol their music is making waves across the UK with delicious harmonies and beautiful Melodies. Mike caught up with Sophie and Ishavi to chat about where they are now and where they want to go. ]]> 3337 false 75 full fbx/796662f0-3a1f-11ef-83c1-16a2cd1ac1f8 Thu, 04 Jul 2024 17:07:08 +0100 Following 2021's very warmly received debut album "Villains In MyHead", National Milk Bar have followed up with the bigger, moreaccomplished-sounding album 'ELECTRO/CUTE'.The album explores new territory for the duo with a handful of Welshlanguage tracks such as the recent single 'Dwi'n Poeni Dim' and 'MoogDrwg' which have both received airplay on BBC Radio Cymru.Another track featured on the new album called 'Five More Minutes'has been arranged with the help of JJ Jeczalik, the legendary cofounder of The Art Of Noise.Formed during the pandemic, the Welsh duo of Chuzz and Sash delivera sublime, driving slice of electronic pop, drawing on the sounds oforiginators such as Depeche Mode, The Human League, or Yazoo but ultimately with their own unique sound. Following 2021's very warmly received debut album "Villains In My
Head", National Milk Bar have followed up with the bigger, more
accomplished-sounding album 'ELECTRO/CUTE'.
The album explores new territory for the duo with a handful of Welsh
language tracks such as the recent single 'Dwi'n Poeni Dim' and 'Moog
Drwg' which have both received airplay on BBC Radio Cymru.
Another track featured on the new album called 'Five More Minutes'
has been arranged with the help of JJ Jeczalik, the legendary cofounder of The Art Of Noise.
Formed during the pandemic, the Welsh duo of Chuzz and Sash deliver
a sublime, driving slice of electronic pop, drawing on the sounds of
originators such as Depeche Mode, The Human League, or Yazoo but ultimately with their own unique sound.]]> 3272 false 76 full fbx/644ec094-3a27-11ef-917e-16a2cd1ac1f8 Thu, 04 Jul 2024 18:03:49 +0100 Hard rock valleys band, Crashin Clouds join Mike to talk about their acclaimed album.  Hard rock valleys band, Crashin Clouds join Mike to talk about their acclaimed album. ]]> 7259 false 77 full fbx/2fff0518-3a29-11ef-934b-16a2cd1ac1f8 Thu, 04 Jul 2024 18:16:43 +0100 Nashville’s Dirty Proper, Trey Call & Natalie Aulvin Thomas, are with Mike in the studio talking about their UK your and album release.  Nashville’s Dirty Proper, Trey Call & Natalie Aulvin Thomas, are with Mike in the studio talking about their UK your and album release. ]]> 3747 false 78 full fbx/40527032-3a2c-11ef-9028-16a2cd1ac1f8 Thu, 04 Jul 2024 18:38:38 +0100 Coolhand’s debut self titled album was released in 2014 and received rave reviews from critics and the public alike and even peaked at number 15 in the IBBA monthly chart !Luke & Darren join Mike to talk about the album, their influences and future plans. Coolhand’s debut self titled album was released in 2014 and received rave reviews from critics and the public alike and even peaked at number 15 in the IBBA monthly chart !
Luke & Darren join Mike to talk about the album, their influences and future plans.]]> 6722 false 79 full fbx/2c8799d6-429e-11ef-8250-16a2cd1ac1f8 Mon, 15 Jul 2024 12:34:17 +0100 Ian's sometimes brutal, sometimes apocalyptic and at all times personal lyrics are known for knocking down doors. Together with a live show that ensures all that see it are left with a feeling tomorrow will be a better day for the night out they have just had. Never one to shy away from his many addictions and demons, when all is said and done Ian's drug of choice is life.The Sunday Times Magazine described Ian as the 'Ian Dury of the 21st Century'. Ian's sometimes brutal, sometimes apocalyptic and at all times personal lyrics are known for knocking down doors. Together with a live show that ensures all that see it are left with a feeling tomorrow will be a better day for the night out they have just had. Never one to shy away from his many addictions and demons, when all is said and done Ian's drug of choice is life.
The Sunday Times Magazine described Ian as the 'Ian Dury of the 21st Century'.]]> 2876 false 80 full fbx/6d29bf3c-45af-11ef-babf-16a2cd1ac1f8 Fri, 19 Jul 2024 10:15:20 +0100 Ian's sometimes brutal, sometimes apocalyptic and at all times personal lyrics are known for knocking down doors. Together with a live show that ensures all that see it are left with a feeling tomorrow will be a better day for the night out they have just had. Never one to shy away from his many addictions and demons, when all is said and done Ian's drug of choice is life.The Sunday Times Magazine described Ian as the 'Ian Dury of the 21st Century'.Part 2 of Mike’s interview with Ian Wills.  Ian's sometimes brutal, sometimes apocalyptic and at all times personal lyrics are known for knocking down doors. Together with a live show that ensures all that see it are left with a feeling tomorrow will be a better day for the night out they have just had. Never one to shy away from his many addictions and demons, when all is said and done Ian's drug of choice is life.
The Sunday Times Magazine described Ian as the 'Ian Dury of the 21st Century'.
Part 2 of Mike’s interview with Ian Wills. ]]> 3189 false 81 full fbx/8acdaa88-4aca-11ef-a063-16a2cd1ac1f8 Thu, 25 Jul 2024 22:12:03 +0100 Raised in Ukraine, Eduard Shyfrin was classically trained on piano before becoming an award-winning mathematician, physicist, and businessman. A crisis led him to begin a search for meaning and purpose, and to research and write the Amazon bestseller ‘From Infinity to Man: The Fundamental Ideas of Kabbalah Within the Framework of Information Theory and Quantum Physics’.But Eduard’s passion for music never left him, and his musicianship and profound life experience have now led to his debut album, Shyfrin Alliance. This intoxicating mix of rock, blues and romantic balladry brims with messages of unconditional love and antiwar – and the effortlessly rich voice of this singular talent. Raised in Ukraine, Eduard Shyfrin was classically trained on piano before becoming an award-winning mathematician, physicist, and businessman. A crisis led him to begin a search for meaning and purpose, and to research and write the Amazon bestseller ‘From Infinity to Man: The Fundamental Ideas of Kabbalah Within the Framework of Information Theory and Quantum Physics’.
But Eduard’s passion for music never left him, and his musicianship and profound life experience have now led to his debut album, Shyfrin Alliance. This intoxicating mix of rock, blues and romantic balladry brims with messages of unconditional love and antiwar – and the effortlessly rich voice of this singular talent.]]> 2532 false 82 full fbx/209464f4-50ab-11ef-a19b-16a2cd1ac1f8 Fri, 02 Aug 2024 09:42:18 +0100 Death Monkey Records record and promote Underground music from South-Wales and beyond and have been part of the Alternative and Indie music scene in Swansea since 2010.Mike chats with Dave Milsom and the late Adam Burse about the origins of the label and their, then, future plans.  Death Monkey Records record and promote Underground music from South-Wales and beyond and have been part of the Alternative and Indie music scene in Swansea since 2010.
Mike chats with Dave Milsom and the late Adam Burse about the origins of the label and their, then, future plans. ]]> 5656 false 83 full fbx/0cb31a48-56fa-11ef-bd6d-16a2cd1ac1f8 Sat, 10 Aug 2024 21:55:51 +0100 Brick Briscoe is an American songwriter, composer, performer, filmmaker, television and radio producer. He has spent over thirty years in show business on virtually every level from New York to Los Angeles as well as Petersburg and Indiana to name but a few, doing music, TV and film. In this interview he chats with Mike about a forthcoming new album plus the recently released retrospective collection.  Brick Briscoe is an American songwriter, composer, performer, filmmaker, television and radio producer. He has spent over thirty years in show business on virtually every level from New York to Los Angeles as well as Petersburg and Indiana to name but a few, doing music, TV and film. In this interview he chats with Mike about a forthcoming new album plus the recently released retrospective collection. ]]> 2699 false 84 full fbx/911f39c6-5bc6-11ef-8358-16a2cd1ac1f8 Fri, 16 Aug 2024 12:56:26 +0100 Vibrant and attention grabbing rockers The Now have just released their much awaited and highly dynamic debut album ‘Too Hot To Handle’. Four of the five members join Mike to chat about the new album - Shane Callaghan, Callum Bromage, Jay Evans & Will Scott.  Vibrant and attention grabbing rockers The Now have just released their much awaited and highly dynamic debut album ‘Too Hot To Handle’. 
Four of the five members join Mike to chat about the new album - Shane Callaghan, Callum Bromage, Jay Evans & Will Scott. ]]> 2261 false 85 full fbx/f3ba1988-613f-11ef-964d-16a2cd1ac1f8 Fri, 23 Aug 2024 12:07:55 +0100 Billy J. Kramer, is back with a brand new album called ‘Are You With Me’ and it’s full of new songs - some of which pay tribute to those that helped him with his career including Brian Epstein, George Martin & The Beatles. In this episode he talks to Mike about the early days of Rock’n’Roll in Liverpool, Abbey Road and how he coped with fame as well as tales of the Fab Four ! Billy J. Kramer, is back with a brand new album called ‘Are You With Me’ and it’s full of new songs - some of which pay tribute to those that helped him with his career including Brian Epstein, George Martin & The Beatles. In this episode he talks to Mike about the early days of Rock’n’Roll in Liverpool, Abbey Road and how he coped with fame as well as tales of the Fab Four !]]> 2335 false 86 full fbx/9881feba-67ec-11ef-812d-16a2cd1ac1f8 Wed, 04 Sep 2024 11:09:18 +0100 The evolution of 3 Bucket Jones started at a song writing retreat at Monnow Valley Studio in Sept 2013 when Gitika Partington, Andy McCrorie-Shand and Garry Hughes met for the first time. Now a duo, Andy & Gitika’s music has been described as 'Bjork and Kate Bush meets Sgt Pepper’ – acoustic folk, smart pop – with radio tracks segued next to Dave Gilmore, Kate Bush and Antony And The Johnsons which can be heard on Radio 6 (other stations are available).    The evolution of 3 Bucket Jones started at a song writing retreat at Monnow Valley Studio in Sept 2013 when Gitika Partington, Andy McCrorie-Shand and Garry Hughes met for the first time. Now a duo, Andy & Gitika’s music has been described as 'Bjork and Kate Bush meets Sgt Pepper’ – acoustic folk, smart pop – with radio tracks segued next to Dave Gilmore, Kate Bush and Antony And The Johnsons which can be heard on Radio 6 (other stations are available). 
 
 ]]> 3657 false 87 full fbx/1529b66e-7275-11ef-bfb0-16a2cd1ac1f8 Sat, 14 Sep 2024 09:41:16 +0100 William’s sound bridges the gap between Bob Dylan and The Japanese House, capturing a melancholy vibe alongside his strong vocals. Mike chats with Will to talk about his music that has had millions of streams and gained him half a million followers  William’s sound bridges the gap between Bob Dylan and The Japanese House, capturing a melancholy vibe alongside his strong vocals. Mike chats with Will to talk about his music that has had millions of streams and gained him half a million followers ]]> 2036 false 88 full fbx/1c9cf678-75cb-11ef-9ab0-16a2cd1ac1f8 Wed, 02 Oct 2024 15:57:40 +0100 The band from Bristol have established themselves as mainstays of the current original hard rock scene. With a reputation built on extensive touring, blistering live performances and a passion for creating exceptional new rock music the band's trajectory has been extraordinary. Mike caught up with them to chat about their latest critically acclaimed album and tour plans. Sons of Liberty are Russ Grimmett (Vocals), Fred Hale and Andy Muse (Guitars), Mark Thomas (Bass) and Steve Byrne (Drums).  The band from Bristol have established themselves as mainstays of the current original hard rock scene. With a reputation built on extensive touring, blistering live performances and a passion for creating exceptional new rock music the band's trajectory has been extraordinary. Mike caught up with them to chat about their latest critically acclaimed album and tour plans. 

Sons of Liberty are Russ Grimmett (Vocals), Fred Hale and Andy Muse (Guitars), Mark Thomas (Bass) and Steve Byrne (Drums). ]]> 2293 false 89 full fbx/9e8ea430-81b3-11ef-8a0e-16a2cd1ac1f8 Thu, 03 Oct 2024 19:16:32 +0100 Betty Boo, the singer, songwriter and rapper first came to mainstream prominence in the late 1980s following a collaboration with the Beatmasters on the song "Hey DJ/I Can't Dance (To That Music You're Playing)". Between 1990 and 1992 she had a successful solo career, which spawned a number of chart-placing singles, most notably "Doin' the Do", "Where Are You Baby?", and "Let Me Take You There". Now she’s back with a critically acclaimed album. Mike caught up with her to talk about her career and return to music. Betty Boo, the singer, songwriter and rapper first came to mainstream prominence in the late 1980s following a collaboration with the Beatmasters on the song "Hey DJ/I Can't Dance (To That Music You're Playing)". Between 1990 and 1992 she had a successful solo career, which spawned a number of chart-placing singles, most notably "Doin' the Do", "Where Are You Baby?", and "Let Me Take You There". Now she’s back with a critically acclaimed album. Mike caught up with her to talk about her career and return to music.]]> 2577 false 90 full fbx/c824b8dc-87d2-11ef-aae2-16a2cd1ac1f8 Fri, 11 Oct 2024 14:14:43 +0100 Two former West End stars, Nia Fisher & Steve Balsamo join Mike to chat about the new single that they’ve co-written, ‘Signal In The Noise’. In this Sleeve Notes interview they talk about songwriting and where their inspiration comes from, how the song can change over time and why they have to write. An indepth look at the inner workings of the creative mind.  Two former West End stars, Nia Fisher & Steve Balsamo join Mike to chat about the new single that they’ve co-written, ‘Signal In The Noise’. In this Sleeve Notes interview they talk about songwriting and where their inspiration comes from, how the song can change over time and why they have to write. An indepth look at the inner workings of the creative mind. ]]> 1982 false 91 full fbx/2523a5ea-8e57-11ef-8c88-16a2cd1ac1f8 Sat, 19 Oct 2024 21:17:19 +0100 Jimi Griffin and Nigel Mervyn join Grant Eden to chat about their band Caduseus.  Jimi Griffin and Nigel Mervyn join Grant Eden to chat about their band Caduseus. ]]> 7259 false 92 full fbx/6dc7ecc0-91fe-11ef-9c35-16a2cd1ac1f8 Thu, 24 Oct 2024 12:52:21 +0100 Legendary broadcaster, author and passionate advocate for live music, BB Skone joins Mike to talk about the Tenby Blues Festival - now in its 19th year - which he co founded in the West Wales seaside town.  Legendary broadcaster, author and passionate advocate for live music, BB Skone joins Mike to talk about the Tenby Blues Festival - now in its 19th year - which he co founded in the West Wales seaside town. ]]> 2185 false 93 full fbx/edad52a4-9771-11ef-8096-16a2cd1ac1f8 Thu, 31 Oct 2024 10:21:43 +0000 Jeff Wayne joins Mike to talk about his much loved musical version of War Of The Worlds. In this fascinating interview we find out what inspired Jeff to develop the project, how he convinced some of the biggest names in music to take part and just why the listening public’s love for it has lasted for over 40 years !  Jeff Wayne joins Mike to talk about his much loved musical version of War Of The Worlds. In this fascinating interview we find out what inspired Jeff to develop the project, how he convinced some of the biggest names in music to take part and just why the listening public’s love for it has lasted for over 40 years ! ]]> 2950 false 94 full fbx/7eb2e9f2-9dd6-11ef-89ec-16a2cd1ac1f8 Fri, 08 Nov 2024 13:36:44 +0000 In a rare interview, Spiritualized frontman, Jason Pierce joins Mike to talk about the history of the band and plans for the future. *originally featured in print in TIWN’s Focus Wales magazine In a rare interview, Spiritualized frontman, Jason Pierce joins Mike to talk about the history of the band and plans for the future. 
*originally featured in print in TIWN’s Focus Wales magazine]]> 2336 false 95 full fbx/76c1782e-a279-11ef-bcb2-16a2cd1ac1f8 Fri, 15 Nov 2024 18:01:58 +0000 Transatlantic songwriting team, The Grand Cru have a new release out. Sung by Darren Parry - “17” is a song about first love and Darren, with Steve Balsamo, chat to Mike about the song and how the team work together as well as discussing the songwriting merits of the others in the team - Bonnie Skop & Lee Gilbert.  Transatlantic songwriting team, The Grand Cru have a new release out. Sung by Darren Parry - “17” is a song about first love and Darren, with Steve Balsamo, chat to Mike about the song and how the team work together as well as discussing the songwriting merits of the others in the team - Bonnie Skop & Lee Gilbert. ]]> 1047 false 96 full fbx/210b5030-a81e-11ef-a251-16a2cd1ac1f8 Thu, 21 Nov 2024 15:34:42 +0000 Film-maker, Gav Crumpton and, Son Of Man’s, George Jones join Mike to talk about the new five part, 9hr documentary, on Welsh group Man.  Film-maker, Gav Crumpton and, Son Of Man’s, George Jones join Mike to talk about the new five part, 9hr documentary, on Welsh group Man. ]]> 3080 false 97 full fbx/97b27308-ae8b-11ef-8c2c-16a2cd1ac1f8 Fri, 29 Nov 2024 19:53:23 +0000 The longest serving member of Dr Feelgood joins Mike to talk about their 2024 tour and popularity of the much loved R&B band.  The longest serving member of Dr Feelgood joins Mike to talk about their 2024 tour and popularity of the much loved R&B band. ]]> 752 false 98 full fbx/db063aee-b3fa-11ef-ac0f-16a2cd1ac1f8 Fri, 06 Dec 2024 17:52:26 +0000 Mike chats with Katherine Blake about Mydwynter the, second, Christmas album from the Medieval Baebes and their current UK tour.  Mike chats with Katherine Blake about Mydwynter the, second, Christmas album from the Medieval Baebes and their current UK tour. ]]> 824 false 99 full fbx/bb80e544-b7dc-11ef-b66f-16a2cd1ac1f8 Wed, 11 Dec 2024 16:26:53 +0000 US singer songwriter, H Jack Williams is probably best known right now for his work with Kevin Costner’s Yellowstone TV series but Jack has been writing ‘honest’ songs since he was a teenager - working with Pete Townshend (The Who), Ken Hensley (Uriah Heep), Dicky Betts & Duane Allman (Allman Brothers Band) and Richie Havens. Now, at 72, he’s releasing his debut solo album. Find out why as he chats with Mike about his career.  US singer songwriter, H Jack Williams is probably best known right now for his work with Kevin Costner’s Yellowstone TV series but Jack has been writing ‘honest’ songs since he was a teenager - working with Pete Townshend (The Who), Ken Hensley (Uriah Heep), Dicky Betts & Duane Allman (Allman Brothers Band) and Richie Havens. Now, at 72, he’s releasing his debut solo album. Find out why as he chats with Mike about his career. ]]> 2853 false 100 full fbx/70e0ba10-bd3f-11ef-ba1d-16a2cd1ac1f8 Wed, 18 Dec 2024 12:56:03 +0000 Andy McCrorie-Shand and Gitika Partington are 3 Bucket Jones - often described as a smart pop collective they met and formed at a songwriting retreat in Monmouthshire discovering a shared love for melody and lyrics. Mike Sat down with them one afternoon to talk about their career, music and plans for the future. (Part one of a two part interview). Andy McCrorie-Shand and Gitika Partington are 3 Bucket Jones - often described as a smart pop collective they met and formed at a songwriting retreat in Monmouthshire discovering a shared love for melody and lyrics. Mike Sat down with them one afternoon to talk about their career, music and plans for the future. (Part one of a two part interview).]]> 4503 false 101 full fbx/2346252c-c912-11ef-bf7c-16a2cd1ac1f8 Thu, 02 Jan 2025 14:02:00 +0000 Andy McCrorie-Shand and Gitika Partington are 3 Bucket Jones - often described as a smart pop collective they met and formed at a songwriting retreat in Monmouthshire discovering a shared love for melody and lyrics. Mike Sat down with them one afternoon to talk about their career, music and plans for the future. Andy McCrorie-Shand and Gitika Partington are 3 Bucket Jones - often described as a smart pop collective they met and formed at a songwriting retreat in Monmouthshire discovering a shared love for melody and lyrics. Mike Sat down with them one afternoon to talk about their career, music and plans for the future.]]> 4015 false 102 full fbx/d9e94680-ce9c-11ef-a6f7-16a2cd1ac1f8 Thu, 09 Jan 2025 15:17:32 +0000 Originally from Liverpool, Lewis Evans has lived in France since his teens and is one of the most successful musicians in the country. Finding fame with his band The Lanskies, Lewis has also written for many top French artists, worked on soundtracks and now as a solo artist. Join Mike as he chats with Lewis about his career to date and plans to tour the UK.  Originally from Liverpool, Lewis Evans has lived in France since his teens and is one of the most successful musicians in the country. Finding fame with his band The Lanskies, Lewis has also written for many top French artists, worked on soundtracks and now as a solo artist. 

Join Mike as he chats with Lewis about his career to date and plans to tour the UK. ]]> 2639 false 103 full fbx/29e9334c-ce9e-11ef-b2d8-16a2cd1ac1f8 Thu, 09 Jan 2025 15:26:56 +0000 One from the archives ! Mike chats with former Swansea multi-instrumentalist, and broadcaster, Adam Croucher about his love of music.  One from the archives ! Mike chats with former Swansea multi-instrumentalist, and broadcaster, Adam Croucher about his love of music. ]]> 6904 false 104 full fbx/699743a0-d419-11ef-a095-16a2cd1ac1f8 Thu, 16 Jan 2025 14:51:47 +0000 Aisha and the Astronauts were a female Swansea based 3 piece acoustic band featuring Aislinn Peters, Kate Jones and Rhiannon Lord. Mike interviewed them about their debut album ‘Between The Walls’. Aisha and the Astronauts were a female Swansea based 3 piece acoustic band featuring Aislinn Peters, Kate Jones and Rhiannon Lord. Mike interviewed them about their debut album ‘Between The Walls’.]]> 4999 false 105 full fbx/afc0df50-db3d-11ef-9218-16a2cd1ac1f8 Sat, 25 Jan 2025 16:59:04 +0000 One of the earliest shows in the Welsh Connections archive - Mike interviews Swansea singer/songwriter Aislinn about her music, influences and future plans. One of the earliest shows in the Welsh Connections archive - Mike interviews Swansea singer/songwriter Aislinn about her music, influences and future plans.]]> 7158 false 106 full fbx/ad44da5e-e24c-11ef-9337-16a2cd1ac1f8 Mon, 03 Feb 2025 16:34:01 +0000 Mike catches up with Al Steele and John Baker of The Korgis to chat about their latest album.  Mike catches up with Al Steele and John Baker of The Korgis to chat about their latest album. ]]> 3644 false 107 full fbx/c4871c78-ed3b-11ef-907a-16a2cd1ac1f8 Mon, 17 Feb 2025 14:30:41 +0000 Another early interview from the Welsh Connections archive - Mike with comedian Ali Hancock. When this was originally aired on Oystermouth Radio it was the first show to receive a complaint !  Another early interview from the Welsh Connections archive - Mike with comedian Ali Hancock. When this was originally aired on Oystermouth Radio it was the first show to receive a complaint ! ]]> 7071 false 108 full fbx/57f317e8-ed7b-11ef-9092-16a2cd1ac1f8 Mon, 17 Feb 2025 22:05:47 +0000 Alex Donnini was the Olympic team's head coach in Tokyo, after being the personal coach to Keegan Palmer and Poppy Olsen for many years prior to the event. Mike caught up with Alex just after Keegan’s success at the Olympics Alex Donnini was the Olympic team's head coach in Tokyo, after being the personal coach to Keegan Palmer and Poppy Olsen for many years prior to the event. Mike caught up with Alex just after Keegan’s success at the Olympics]]> 1225 false 109 full fbx/19e693e6-f067-11ef-808b-16a2cd1ac1f8 Fri, 21 Feb 2025 15:18:27 +0000 Andy Berry was our guest back in 2015. The former Iona guitarist chatted to Mike about his time in the band and discussed his solo career and time with Tres Hombres. Andy Berry was our guest back in 2015. The former Iona guitarist chatted to Mike about his time in the band and discussed his solo career and time with Tres Hombres.]]> 2493 false 110 full fbx/a5d6e518-f067-11ef-81e1-16a2cd1ac1f8 Fri, 21 Feb 2025 15:22:21 +0000 In this interview Mike catches up with Swansea based singer-songwriter Ben Tidy to talk about his influences and future plans.  In this interview Mike catches up with Swansea based singer-songwriter Ben Tidy to talk about his influences and future plans. ]]> 6963 false 111 full fbx/28287668-fb3e-11ef-8700-16a2cd1ac1f8 Fri, 07 Mar 2025 10:23:04 +0000 Mike catches up with Simon John Court and Pete Moore of Soundwire to discuss the writing and recording of their second album, Collider, due out in March 2025.  Mike catches up with Simon John Court and Pete Moore of Soundwire to discuss the writing and recording of their second album, Collider, due out in March 2025. ]]> 3191 false 112 full fbx/84864ee4-fb3e-11ef-9e4d-16a2cd1ac1f8 Fri, 07 Mar 2025 10:25:39 +0000 Tom Killner is an incendiary UK award-winning singer/songwriter/guitarist who straddles the line between genres with soulfully infused blues, southern rock, country, and Americana. Mike caught up with him to talk about his highly acclaimed new album ‘Borrowed Time’. Tom Killner is an incendiary UK award-winning singer/songwriter/guitarist who straddles the line between genres with soulfully infused blues, southern rock, country, and Americana. Mike caught up with him to talk about his highly acclaimed new album ‘Borrowed Time’.

]]> 2258 false 113 full fbx/f589ade8-fb3e-11ef-ba38-16a2cd1ac1f8 Fri, 07 Mar 2025 10:28:48 +0000 Mike chats with Craig Mapstone, of Secret Postal Society, about his latest release - a collaboration with Swansea musician Guy Challenger to raise funds for Papyrus.  Mike chats with Craig Mapstone, of Secret Postal Society, about his latest release - a collaboration with Swansea musician Guy Challenger to raise funds for Papyrus. 

]]> 841 false 114 full fbx/a2925738-fb3f-11ef-9c62-16a2cd1ac1f8 Fri, 07 Mar 2025 10:33:38 +0000 Mike sat down with renowned jazz guitarist James Chadwick to talk about his latest album, Inside Out. On the way the pair chat about James’ love of music and how he immersed himself into the jazz scene from an early age.  Mike sat down with renowned jazz guitarist James Chadwick to talk about his latest album, Inside Out. On the way the pair chat about James’ love of music and how he immersed himself into the jazz scene from an early age. 

]]> 3494 false 116 full fbx/db783d10-fb3f-11ef-8feb-16a2cd1ac1f8 Fri, 07 Mar 2025 10:35:14 +0000 Mike caught up with Welsh AM Bethan Jenkins to talk politics and music - did you know that she was in the Welsh indie band Gilasby ?  Mike caught up with Welsh AM Bethan Jenkins to talk politics and music - did you know that she was in the Welsh indie band Gilasby ? 

]]> 3771 false 115 full fbx/48471206-08cc-11f0-9e62-16a2cd1ac1f8 Mon, 24 Mar 2025 16:23:11 +0000 In a music career spanning more than 40 years, Chaz Jankel came to prominence in the late 1970s as the guitarist and keyboardist of the rock band Ian Dury and the Blockheads. With Dury, Jankel co-wrote some of the band's best-known songs including "Sex & Drugs & Rock & Roll", "Hit Me with Your Rhythm Stick" and "Reasons to Be Cheerful, Part 3".In this episode Chaz talks to Mike about his recently re-released soundtrack to DOA. In a music career spanning more than 40 years, Chaz Jankel came to prominence in the late 1970s as the guitarist and keyboardist of the rock band Ian Dury and the Blockheads. With Dury, Jankel co-wrote some of the band's best-known songs including "Sex & Drugs & Rock & Roll", "Hit Me with Your Rhythm Stick" and "Reasons to Be Cheerful, Part 3".
In this episode Chaz talks to Mike about his recently re-released soundtrack to DOA.]]> 3364 false 117 full fbx/d537df5c-0ce0-11f0-a2e7-16a2cd1ac1f8 Sat, 29 Mar 2025 21:00:22 +0000 The 8th September 2014 saw the release of the debut album 'Life In The Slow Lane' from 3MPH. Mike chats with Huw James, Pete O’Brien & Mike Trigg about the release and future plans.  The 8th September 2014 saw the release of the debut album 'Life In The Slow Lane' from 3MPH. Mike chats with Huw James, Pete O’Brien & Mike Trigg about the release and future plans. ]]> 6295 false 118 full fbx/6c672ff2-179c-11f0-9246-16a2cd1ac1f8 Sat, 12 Apr 2025 13:48:16 +0100 From Welsh Rock’n’Roll royalty, Femmebug comes from a rich and varied music background but she’s very much her own person - writing and recording cutting edge indie music. Mike caught up with her one summer’s afternoon to talk music.  From Welsh Rock’n’Roll royalty, Femmebug comes from a rich and varied music background but she’s very much her own person - writing and recording cutting edge indie music. Mike caught up with her one summer’s afternoon to talk music. ]]> 3668 false 119 full fbx/c79751cc-179c-11f0-82ba-16a2cd1ac1f8 Sat, 12 Apr 2025 13:50:56 +0100 Mike caught up with, Mwnci Studios owner, Jethro Chaplin to talk about the iconic Welsh recording studio and the trials and tribulations of working with bands in a rural location - still managing to make some amazing and award winning music !  Mike caught up with, Mwnci Studios owner, Jethro Chaplin to talk about the iconic Welsh recording studio and the trials and tribulations of working with bands in a rural location - still managing to make some amazing and award winning music ! ]]> 3290 false 120 full fbx/f0958204-1fa0-11f0-b8ae-ba5fa9561315 Tue, 22 Apr 2025 18:40:52 +0100 The Rogues are a five-piece band from Newport, South Wales, made up of Andrew Flannelly (lead vocals & acoustic guitar), Rhodri Eley (lead guitar & backing vocals), Ben Slade (bass), Alex Ainsworth (lead guitar), and James Mundy (drums). Mike caught up with them to chat about their current success and future plans.  The Rogues are a five-piece band from Newport, South Wales, made up of Andrew Flannelly (lead vocals & acoustic guitar), Rhodri Eley (lead guitar & backing vocals), Ben Slade (bass), Alex Ainsworth (lead guitar), and James Mundy (drums). Mike caught up with them to chat about their current success and future plans. 

]]> 1792 false 121 full fbx/39954e12-25aa-11f0-bf8e-ba5fa9561315 Wed, 30 Apr 2025 11:02:27 +0100 Dropping Like Flies were formed from the breakup of Welsh punk legends 100000 Bodybags, during the Covid-19 lockdowns the band called it a day after 29 years and founding members Simon Cullen and Craig “Brewer” Bruzas continued to write, sneaking time together illegally during lockdown in a kitchen or garage, hiding from nosey neighbours, Covid wardens and hyper alert dog walkers in order to write and rehearse a set of new original material. With bass and drums recorded on twelve new songs in November 2020, during a brief break in totalitarianism, a new guitarist was recruited with Brian Meade, an old school friend who had never played in a band before, joining as the final member of the band. (Edited) Dropping Like Flies were formed from the breakup of Welsh punk legends 100000 Bodybags, during the Covid-19 lockdowns the band called it a day after 29 years and founding members Simon Cullen and Craig “Brewer” Bruzas continued to write, sneaking time together illegally during lockdown in a kitchen or garage, hiding from nosey neighbours, Covid wardens and hyper alert dog walkers in order to write and rehearse a set of new original material. With bass and drums recorded on twelve new songs in November 2020, during a brief break in totalitarianism, a new guitarist was recruited with Brian Meade, an old school friend who had never played in a band before, joining as the final member of the band. (Edited)

]]> 3730 false 122 full fbx/b57fc82c-3afe-11f0-b837-ba5fa9561315 Tue, 27 May 2025 14:30:07 +0100 World renowned jazz pianist, Dave Jones joins Mike to talk about his early influences and musical choices in this fascinating first instalment of a three part interview... World renowned jazz pianist, Dave Jones joins Mike to talk about his early influences and musical choices in this fascinating first instalment of a three part interview...]]> 3673 false 123 full fbx/225c41aa-3aff-11f0-a53e-ba5fa9561315 Tue, 27 May 2025 14:33:10 +0100 World renowned jazz pianist, Dave Jones joins Mike to talk about his early influences and musical choices in this fascinating second instalment of a three part interview. World renowned jazz pianist, Dave Jones joins Mike to talk about his early influences and musical choices in this fascinating second instalment of a three part interview.]]> 3483 false 124 full fbx/9c6102e2-3aff-11f0-9d09-ba5fa9561315 Tue, 27 May 2025 14:36:35 +0100 World renowned jazz pianist, Dave Jones joins Mike to talk about his early influences and musical choices in this fascinating third instalment of a three part interview. World renowned jazz pianist, Dave Jones joins Mike to talk about his early influences and musical choices in this fascinating third instalment of a three part interview.]]> 2242 false 125 full