The Mild Mannered Army

paullaird
  • 5.0 (2)
  • MUSIC COMMENTARY

The Mild Mannered Army podcast invites music lovers to embark on a journey through the soundtracks of our lives. Hosted by authors Paul Laird and Nick Amies, the show delivers deep dives into classic albums, captivating long-form conversations, and insightful interviews with musicians, writers, and journalists. With a sharp focus on defining moments in pop history, each episode offers a fresh perspective on the music that shaped generations. Tune in and rediscover the magic of music!

  1. 06/13/2025

    The Mild Mannered Army Episode 36 - Leaving the Community

    This episode takes a different approach. No edits. No theme music. No carefully placed clips. Just a conversation between Paul and Nick—two longtime Britpop obsessives—looking back on the scene that shaped them. Using The Birth and Impact of Britpop as a springboard, we reflect on our personal connections to the music, the myths that fuelled the era, and how our views have evolved over time. We talk about: What we still love (and what we don’t) The bands that meant the most How Britpop feels now, decades later Why some things are best left messy It’s raw, nostalgic, sometimes critical—but always honest. If Britpop ever meant something to you, this one’s for you.

    1h 54m

  2. 04/08/2025

    The Mild Mannered Army Episode 35 - Maladjusted by Morrissey

    This week, Paul and Nick dive deep into Morrissey's often-overlooked 1997 album Maladjusted — a record that arrived at a crossroads in the former Smiths frontman's solo career. Misjudged by critics? Overshadowed by his earlier triumphs? Or a hidden gem filled with lyrical intrigue and sonic surprises? We explore: The context of Maladjusted in the late-'90s Britpop aftermath Why this album marked a shift in Morrissey’s public and musical persona The controversial “Sorrow Will Come in the End” and the spectre of legal battles Standout tracks and forgotten moments The legacy of Maladjusted and its place in Moz's discography Whether you're a devoted Moz disciple or a curious casual, this is the episode to reconsider one of his most enigmatic records.

    1h 29m

  3. 12/18/2024

    The Mild Mannered Army Episode 34 - Tracks of Our Years 1998

    In this episode of The Mild Mannered Army, we dive into the music and memories of 1998—a year packed with unforgettable tracks and life-defining moments. From the indie brilliance of Idlewild and the dreamy pop of The Cardigans to the iconic grooves of Jurassic 5 and the genre-defying sounds of Air and Propellerheads, we’ve got something for everyone. Join us as we reminisce about the Spice Girls' chart-topping reign, Pulp’s reflective storytelling, and the cult magic of Neutral Milk Hotel. Along the way, we share personal stories from our own lives in 1998, taking you on a nostalgic journey through one of the most eclectic years in music history. Whether you’re revisiting old favorites or discovering these tracks for the first time, this episode is a love letter to a year when music truly meant everything. Music Featured: Idlewild Spice Girls The Cardigans Jurassic 5 Air Propellerheads Pulp Neutral Milk Hotel And more! Fair Use Statement: This episode includes excerpts of copyrighted material used under the principles of fair use for purposes of commentary, criticism, and education. All rights remain with the original copyright holders. Listen Now: [Insert link to the episode] Follow Us: Stay connected with The Mild Mannered Army on [social media links] and let us know your favorite songs and stories from 1998. Subscribe: Don’t miss future episodes—subscribe to the podcast on your favorite platform and join us as we explore more classic albums, unforgettable years, and the stories behind the music.

    1h 32m

  4. 12/10/2024

    The Mild Mannered Army Episode 33 - Mark E. Nevin

    In this special episode, we’re joined by the brilliant Mark E. Nevin for an engaging and insightful conversation. From his time as the driving force behind Fairground Attraction to his collaborations with Sandie Shaw, Kirsty MacColl, and Morrissey, Mark shares candid reflections on his life in music. As a solo artist and collaborator, his work is rich with stories and creative breakthroughs, and his warm humor shines throughout. We explore Mark's incredible career, touching on the creation of timeless classics, his inspirations, and his unique experiences in the music industry. Whether you're a fan of "Perfect," a lover of Kirsty MacColl's storytelling, or curious about his time with Morrissey, this episode has something for everyone. Featured Clips: 🎵 I Know Where Ray Davies Lives 🎵 I Know Where Syd Barrett Lives 🎵 While the Kingdom Crumbles 🎵 Perfect Tokyo 🎵 Interview Breakfast News 🎵 New York Doll 🎵 Sandie Jeane Gaytime TV 🎵 Bowie Starman Lift Off 🎵 Kirsty MacColl King Kong 🎵 Mozzer Stop Me Fair Use Notice: The audio clips featured in this episode are used under the principles of "fair use." They are included solely for the purposes of commentary, review, and education, in line with the podcast’s dedication to deepening appreciation for music and its creators. Tune in for a fascinating look behind the curtain of Mark E. Nevin's remarkable career.

    1h 12m

  5. 12/03/2024

    The Mild Mannered Army Episode 32 - Tracks of Our Years 1994

    Get ready to take a deep dive into one of the most exciting years in music—1994! In this episode of The Mild Mannered Army, Paul and Nick revisit the artists and albums that defined a generation, from shoegaze to Britpop, grunge to hip-hop, and everything in between. We’ll cover the hits, the hidden gems, and the moments that shaped the music scene, featuring: 🎵 Ride – Shoegaze brilliance. 🎵 The Charlatans – Indie grooves for days. 🎵 These Animal Men – The new wave of new wave. 🎵 Suede – High drama and glamor. 🎵 Kristin Hersh – Haunting and poetic. 🎵 Weezer – Nerd rock anthems. 🎵 Morrissey – Love him or loathe him, his influence loomed large. 🎵 Shed Seven – Britpop staples. 🎵 Echobelly – Indie with an edge. 🎵 TLC – R&B icons. 🎵 Shampoo – Bubblegum brilliance. 🎵 Beastie Boys – Genre-bending legends. We’re also thrilled to feature listener memories from Dave, Faye, and Catherine, sharing their personal connections to the music of 1994. It’s always a treat to hear how these songs shaped your lives! Clips Used in This Episode As part of our exploration, we’ve included some fantastic clips to jog your memory and enrich the conversation. You can check out the full tracks here: Ride – "Drive Blind" The Charlatans – "Can’t Get Out of Bed" These Animal Men – "Speeed King" Suede – "The Wild Ones" Kristin Hersh – "Your Ghost" Weezer – "Buddy Holly" Morrissey – "The More You Ignore Me, the Closer I Get" Shed Seven – "Speakeasy" Echobelly – "Insomniac" TLC – "Waterfalls" Beastie Boys – "Sabotage" Fair Use Note The clips featured in this episode are used under fair use for commentary and educational purposes. We encourage you to check out the artists' full works for the complete experience. Tune in for a mix of deep nostalgia, great music, and lively conversation. Whether you lived through 1994 or are discovering it for the first time, this is an episode you don’t want to miss!

    2h 1m

  6. 11/26/2024

    The Mild Mannered Army Episode 31 - Tracks of Our Years 1987

    In this episode of The Mild Mannered Army, we take a musical journey through the unforgettable year of 1987, as chosen by our esteemed co-host, Nick Amies. Known for his literary deep dives into Britpop and the cultural phenomena of Oasis (She's Electric and Where Did It All Go Wrong), Nick curates a playlist of tracks that defined a pivotal year in music. Join us as we explore the sonic landscape of '87, a year that saw post-punk evolve into new, dreamy territories while indie and alternative rock carved out their indelible legacies. Expect stories, insights, and a whole lot of nostalgia as we discuss: 🎵 "Never Let Me Down Again" – Depeche Mode A darkly euphoric anthem that solidified Depeche Mode’s place as synth-pop royalty. 🎵 "Lips Like Sugar" – Echo and the Bunnymen Ian McCulloch and co. deliver a shimmering, poetic love song that’s pure alt-rock perfection. 🎵 "My Bag" – Lloyd Cole and the Commotions Smart, jazzy, and irresistibly cool – Lloyd Cole's wit shines in this sophisticated classic. 🎵 "I Started Something I Couldn’t Finish" – The Smiths Morrissey’s wry lyrics meet Johnny Marr’s jangling brilliance in a track brimming with swagger. 🎵 "Gentle Tuesday" – Primal Scream An early gem from Primal Scream, blending jangle-pop and psychedelic charm. 🎵 "Just Like Heaven" – The Cure A timeless, romantic masterpiece that encapsulates the magic of Robert Smith's songwriting. 🎵 "Real Animal" – The House of Love The raw energy and haunting lyrics of this track showcase the early promise of an iconic band. 🎵 "When It Rains" – The Jesus and Mary Chain Noise-pop brilliance with an unmistakable blend of melancholy and rebellion. 🎵 "Out of Hand" – The Mighty Lemon Drops Driving rhythms and shimmering guitars define this indie rock treasure. 🎵 "Severina" – The Mission Gothic rock grandeur with soaring melodies and a touch of mysticism. 🎵 "Love Removal Machine" – The Cult A riff-heavy, swaggering rock anthem with undeniable energy. 🎵 "Where the Streets Have No Name" – U2 An iconic opening to The Joshua Tree that transports you to vast, open landscapes. From soaring anthems to introspective gems, Nick’s selections showcase the diversity and creativity of 1987’s musical tapestry. Whether you’re reliving the era or discovering these tracks for the first time, this episode is sure to strike a chord. Tune in, turn it up, and let us take you back to a year when music truly mattered.

    1h 53m

  7. 11/20/2024

    The Mild Mannered Army Episode 30 - Tracks of Our Years 1991

    Here we are again.  Another trip back to a year in pop music history.  This time it is 1991...the calm before the storm of Britpop.  Nick and I each pick six tracks from the year that soundtracked our lives at that point.  From the sublime to the, frankly, ridiculous.  Thanks, as ever, for listening! None of the music in the episode is ours, we do not own the rights, any copyright infringement is not intended and this episode should be considered as falling under "fair use" classification.   Go well.

    2h 9m

  8. 11/13/2024

    The Mild Mannered Army Episode 29 - Tracks of Our Years 1989

    Episode 30 of the Mild Mannered Army, and this time it's my turn to fly solo through the tracks of my years for 1989.  This is the same year that we discussed with Hadley Freeman in episode 27...and there are some similarities in our list...but I also get to talk about Morrissey, The Kevin McDermott Orchestra, Del Amitri, and Erasure, amongst others.   None of the music in the episode is ours, we do not own the rights, any copyright infringement is not intended, and this episode should be considered as falling under "fair use" classification.

    1h 44m
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

The Mild Mannered Army podcast invites music lovers to embark on a journey through the soundtracks of our lives. Hosted by authors Paul Laird and Nick Amies, the show delivers deep dives into classic albums, captivating long-form conversations, and insightful interviews with musicians, writers, and journalists. With a sharp focus on defining moments in pop history, each episode offers a fresh perspective on the music that shaped generations. Tune in and rediscover the magic of music!

Information

  • Creator
    paullaird
  • Years Active
    2019 - 2025
  • Episodes
    36
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2018 . All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    The Mild Mannered Army