The Leake in Review

Jeff Leake
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The Leake in Review is your backstage pass to the world of music and entertainment, hosted by the award-winning music journalist, Leake. Tune in for in-depth interviews with your favourite artists, insightful industry analysis, and behind-the-scenes stories that you won't hear anywhere else. Whether you're a music enthusiast or just love a good story, Leake brings you the best of both worlds with wit, charm, and unparalleled expertise. Join us every week for a journey through the soundscape of today's most exciting musical talents and industry insiders.

  1. 20h ago

    Kevin Drew of Broken Social Scene on LIR Part 2

    In the highly anticipated second part of his conversation on The Leake in Review, host Jeff Leake welcomes back Kevin Drew of Broken Social Scene for a deep, heartfelt dive into one of the most poignant chapters in Canadian music history. Drew opens up about his experience co-producing (with Dave Hamelin) The Tragically Hip’s final studio album, Man Machine Poem (2016). He describes the creative process, and atmosphere. Drew reflects on the collaborative energy in the studio, the challenges and joys of helping the Hip evolve their sound while staying true to their essence, and how the record stands as a bold, critically acclaimed farewell that captured the band at a profound artistic peak. The conversation naturally moves into the emotional weight of The Tragically Hip’s final tour. Drew shares behind-the-scenes insights into the atmosphere surrounding those shows—knowing the gravity of Downie’s terminal brain cancer diagnosis while witnessing the band deliver performances filled with joy, defiance, and deep connection with their audience. He paints a picture of a nation united in celebration and mourning, culminating in the unforgettable final concert in Kingston. A particularly moving segment covers Gord Downie’s passing on October 17, 2017. Drew speaks with raw honesty about the personal and collective loss, the legacy Downie left as a poet, activist, and rock icon, and the impact on the broader Canadian music community. The episode reaches an emotional high point as Drew recounts how Broken Social Scene chose to take the stage that very night to honour Gord. He details the decision, the atmosphere in the room, and the powerful act of performing as a tribute—turning grief into communal catharsis and music into a living memorial. Throughout the interview, Drew’s warmth, humility, and storytelling shine through. It’s a masterclass in gratitude, creativity under pressure, and the bonds that hold the Canadian indie and rock scenes together. Part 2 is essential listening for Hip fans, BSS devotees, and anyone moved by stories of music as both personal expression and cultural unifier. This episode delivers laughs, tears, and plenty of “only in Canada” moments—pure Leake in Review gold. Highly recommended! 🎙️🍁

    24 min

  2. Jun 9

    Kevin Drew of Broken Social Scene on LIR Part 1

    In this engaging episode of The Leake in Review, host Jeff Leake sits down with Kevin Drew, co-founder and key creative force behind the iconic Canadian indie collective Broken Social Scene. Drew opens up about the band's long-awaited new album Remember the Humans (released May 8, 2026 via Arts & Crafts), their first full-length studio effort in nearly a decade. He discusses reuniting with producer David Newfeld (known for classics like You Forgot It in People and the self-titled 2005 album), the collaborative chaos of the BSS collective, and standout tracks that capture their signature maximalist, communal indie-rock sound blending emotional depth, guitars, horns, and soaring melodies. The conversation highlights the upcoming All the Feelings Tour with Metric and Stars, celebrating community, friendship, and the enduring power of their music. Drew emphasizes working within a supportive music community—drawing from the Toronto scene that helped launch acts like Feist and others through their Arts & Crafts label—and the importance of nurturing creative relationships over time. He reflects on avoiding negativity, staying focused on the positive, and embracing optimism for what the band and fans have built together, even amid the challenges of long gaps between records and evolving lineups. Themes of gratitude, resilience, and the joy of reconnection shine through in a heartfelt, insightful discussion. Broken Social Scene Social Media & Links: Instagram: @brokensocialscene X (Twitter): @bssmusic Facebook: Broken Social Scene Official Website: brokensocialscene.com or brokensocialscene.ca YouTube: @BrokenSocialSceneOfficial Bandcamp: brokensocialscene.bandcamp.com The Leake in Review Social Media: Instagram: @theleake X (Twitter): @theleake Broken Social Scene 2026 Tour Dates (All the Feelings Tour with Metric & Stars) (Partial list based on current announcements; check official sites/Ticketmaster for updates, tickets, and any additions): June 8, 2026 – Austin, TX @ Moody Amphitheater June 9, 2026 – Dallas, TX @ South Side Ballroom June 11, 2026 – Denver, CO @ Fillmore Auditorium June 13, 2026 – Sandy, UT @ Sandy Amphitheater June 16, 2026 – Los Angeles, CA @ The Greek Theatre June 17, 2026 – Phoenix, AZ @ Arizona Financial Theatre June 19, 2026 – San Diego, CA @ Cal Coast Credit Union Open Air Theatre (or Amphitheater) June 21–22, 2026 – San Francisco, CA @ The Masonic June 24, 2026 – Bend, OR @ Hayden Homes Amphitheater

    41 min

  3. Apr 30

    Sports on LIR

    Join me, Jeff Leake, on this episode of the Leake in Review podcast as I sit down with the dreamy electro-pop band Sports from Oklahoma. We dive into how the band members first met, their playful and breezy sound that's often labeled as dreamy, playful electro-pop (with some moodier, jagged edges on their latest self-titled album), and what makes Sports unique: their ability to scale in size from a tight core of instruments and players to a bigger, more expansive live setup depending on the show. We also talk about growing up on the outskirts of Tulsa, Oklahoma—where MTV and church played big roles in their early lives—along with their independent DIY ethos, creative process, and the fresh perspective they’ve gained after time spent between LA, Norman, and back home. Whether you're a longtime fan or discovering their catchy, feel-good vibes for the first time, this conversation is full of insight, stories, and good energy. Catch Sports on their '26 World Tour this summer and beyond. Confirmed summer dates include: May 1, 2026 – Boise, ID @ Shrine Social Club May 5, 2026 – San Diego, CA @ Quartyard May 6, 2026 – West Hollywood / Los Angeles, CA @ Roxy Theatre May 8, 2026 – Santa Cruz, CA @ The Catalyst (Live in the Atrium) May 9, 2026 – San Francisco, CA @ The Independent May 10, 2026 – Sacramento, CA @ Harlow’s (or Momo Sacramento) May 12, 2026 – Seattle, WA @ Tractor Tavern May 13, 2026 – Portland, OR @ Polaris Hall May 14, 2026 – Boise, ID @ Shrine Social Club (additional date) May 17, 2026 – Denver, CO @ Bluebird Theater May 19, 2026 – Oklahoma City, OK @ Beer City Music Hall (Note: This show is currently marked as Sold Out on some platforms) May 21, 2026 – Dallas, TX @ Club Dada May 22, 2026 – Houston, TX @ The Bronze Peacock / Secret Group area Follow Sports online: Instagram: @sportsband Facebook: facebook.com/sportsband Stream their music and grab tour tickets at sportsband.lnk.to or sportsbandok.com/tour Don’t miss this fun and honest chat with one of indie music’s most consistent and creative acts. Subscribe, rate, and review Leake in Review—new episodes drop regularly!

    42 min

  4. Apr 22

    Pelle Almqvist of The Hives on LIR

    On this episode of The Leake in Review, Jeff sits down with the electrifying frontman of The Hives, Pelle Almqvist, for a conversation as fast, sharp, and wildly entertaining as the band’s legendary live shows. Pelle breaks down the band’s decades‑long run of global popularity, digging into why The Hives have stayed loud, stylish, and impossible to ignore. From their disciplined work ethic to their commitment to making rock music feel dangerous and fun, Pelle lays out the mindset that’s kept the band at the top of the game for decades. We get into: Songwriting the Hives way — big hooks, bold choices, and instinct over overthinking Touring at full throttle and why every show still feels like a mission Longevity in rock and staying culturally sharp while others fade The grind behind the chaos — rehearsals, discipline, and the band’s relentless drive It’s Pelle exactly as fans love him: hilarious, self‑aware, and fully committed to the gospel of rock ’n’ roll. Follow The Hives Instagram: @thehives Twitter/X: @TheHives Facebook: facebook.com/hives YouTube: The Hives (official channel) Website: thehives.com Follow Jeff Leake / The Leake in Review Instagram: @TheLeake Twitter/X: @TheLeake TikTok: @TheLeakeTok YouTube: @ShedofDreamsPodcasts

    20 min

  5. Apr 16

    The RRHOF Scorecard on LIR

    Leake in Review: RRHOF 2026 Inductees – We Got 7 Out of 8 Right! (Replay with Alan Cross) Now that the official 2026 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductees have been announced, it’s time for the ultimate victory lap! In this replay of our special conversation with legendary radio personality and rock historian Alan Cross, we look back at our bold predictions and celebrate nailing 7 out of 8 in the Performer category. Official 2026 Performer Inductees: Phil Collins Billy Idol Iron Maiden Joy Division/New Order Oasis Sade Luther Vandross Wu-Tang Clan (Announcement dropped live on American Idol on April 13, 2026. The official induction ceremony is set for Saturday, November 14, 2026 in Los Angeles.) Hear Alan and I break down the biggest surprises, the snubs, and why this class feels like one of the most diverse and exciting in years. If you love deep rock history, music industry insight, and a little friendly prediction bragging, this one’s for you. Leake in Review – where music opinions get real.

    22 min

  6. Apr 6

    Jenn Grant on LIR

    🎤 Jenn Grant on The Leake In Review! 🎶 Join host Jeff Leake for an intimate conversation with Juno-nominated Canadian singer-songwriter and painter Jenn Grant. We dive into her acclaimed new album Queen of the Strait, her creative process, life on the East Coast, and what inspires her dreamy folk-pop sound. From heartfelt storytelling to stunning visuals, this episode is a must-watch for music lovers! Follow Jenn Grant: Official Website: https://www.jenngrant.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jenngrantmusic/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jenngrantmusic/ X/Twitter: https://x.com/jenngrantmusic TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jenngrantmusic YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@JGmusicvideos Bandcamp (support direct!): https://jenngrant.bandcamp.com/ Upcoming Tour Dates - 'Cradled By The Waves' Tour: April 3, 2026 – Festival Hall, Calgary, AB April 11, 2026 – Knox Hall, Greater Sudbury, ON April 14, 2026 – The Broom Factory, Kingston, ON April 15, 2026 – Théâtre Fairmount, Montréal, QC April 16, 2026 – National Arts Centre, Ottawa, ON April 17, 2026 – TD Music Hall, Toronto, ON May 1, 2026 – Capitol Theatre, Moncton, NB May 2, 2026 – Rebecca Cohn Auditorium, Halifax, NS May 8, 2026 – Majestic Theatre, St. John's, NL (Tickets and full details: jenngrant.com/live)   #JennGrant #QueenOfTheStrait #CanadianMusic #FolkPop #SingerSongwriter #EastCoastMusic #HalifaxMusician #NewAlbum #LiveMusic #IndieFolk #CradledByTheWaves #JunoNominee

    34 min

  7. Apr 1

    Jay Malinowski Returns to LIR

    Jay Malinowski (Bedouin Soundclash) is back on the show to celebrate the release of his highly anticipated new solo album Under a Landslide of Stars — his first solo project in over a decade under the MALINOWSKI moniker. In this wide-ranging conversation, Jay opens up about the making of the record, including the standout track “Die For Love,” and the personal stories behind the music. He also shares the heartwarming tale of how he and his longtime Bedouin Soundclash bandmate Eon Sinclair were first introduced by their moms — a chance meeting that changed the course of Canadian music. Plus, we dive into upcoming tour dates, Jay’s thoughts on the evolution of Bedouin Soundclash, and a fun chat about Cone (Jason McCaslin) from Sum 41 and more. Whether you’re a longtime Bedouin fan or discovering Jay’s solo work for the first time, this episode is full of great stories, honest reflection, and plenty of laughs.

    27 min

  8. Mar 25

    Brett Emmons (The Glorious Sons & John Shambles) on LIR

    Brett Emmons (John Shambles) Drops In: Cabin Fever, Going Solo, and Life Beyond The Glorious Sons In this episode of The Leake in Review, we're thrilled to welcome a true Canadian rock heavyweight — Brett Emmons, frontman of JUNO-winning rockers The Glorious Sons, now stepping out under his new solo moniker John Shambles. Fresh off the release of his highly anticipated debut solo album Cabin Fever (out April 30, 2026), Brett sits down with Leake for a candid, in-depth conversation. They dive into the making of the record, the raw and nostalgic sound of tracks like “Try Not To Freak Out,” “Landmines,” “Gameshow,” and “Back On The Gas,” and what it feels like to create music on his own terms after years leading one of Canada’s most explosive live bands. Brett opens up about the personal side of going solo, the “Spring Fever Tour” hitting cities across Canada, the freedom (and pressure) of a new project, and how his songwriting has evolved. Expect plenty of laughs, behind-the-scenes stories, and that signature Emmons honesty that fans have come to love. Whether you’re a longtime Glorious Sons supporter or just discovering John Shambles, this is one you don’t want to miss. Grab Cabin Fever on release day, pre-save it now, and catch Brett live on the Spring Fever Tour! Available everywhere you get your podcasts. The Leake in Review — your backstage pass to music that matters.

    24 min
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About

The Leake in Review is your backstage pass to the world of music and entertainment, hosted by the award-winning music journalist, Leake. Tune in for in-depth interviews with your favourite artists, insightful industry analysis, and behind-the-scenes stories that you won't hear anywhere else. Whether you're a music enthusiast or just love a good story, Leake brings you the best of both worlds with wit, charm, and unparalleled expertise. Join us every week for a journey through the soundscape of today's most exciting musical talents and industry insiders.

Information

  • Creator
    Jeff Leake
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    43
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Show Website
    The Leake in Review