H.I. Art on the Edge Dubya

In this engaging episode of Surprise Cast, I sit down with Giel and Bert, members of the Belgium-based band Newmoon. Broadcasting all the way from San Francisco, we dive into the heart of Newmoon's musical journey, exploring their creative processes, inspirations, and the evolution of their sound.
Giel and Bert discuss their roles in the band, with Giel sharing insights on his guitar playing and vocal layering, while Bert opens up about his guitar work and singing. The episode starts on a reflective note with a nostalgic walk through their past musical influences, “good at their craft” from Queen, Prince (Purple Rain album), U2, Nirvana, Radiohead and The Cure. This personal exploration reveals the artists who have shaped their musical landscape and their "Beethoven moments."
Listeners are treated to an intimate look at the band's formation and creative evolution. They recount the spontaneous beginnings of Newmoon, their first demo recordings, and the swift rise to signing with Secret Voice, a label under Deathwish. They share stories of their travels and how these experiences influenced their debut album "Space" and their latest release "Temporary Light."
The conversation delves into the band's approach to their new album, highlighting their commitment to authenticity and the importance of gut instinct in their creative process. I read excerpts from Rick Rubin's "The Creative Act," sparking discussions about awareness and the guiding principles that shaped "Temporary Light." The band reflects on their freedom to experiment and the deliberate choices that led to the album's unique sound.
Listeners get a special treat as the episode features tracks from "Temporary Light," including "Fading Phase" (it took awhile to find the balance…the opening riff took 10-15 minutes…the puzzle pieces fell into place) and "Sense of Longing," (one of the last songs we made for the record, one main riff, main chords, we wanted to have a banger, straightforward song) with Giel and Bert providing their analysis and the stories behind these songs. The band also shares their thrilling experience working with Simon Scott (He was super friendly, super opinion…he was very involved, taking pride in his work) of Slowdive for the album's mastering, adding another layer of depth to their journey.
As the episode wraps up, Newmoon's future plans are revealed, with upcoming fall and winter shows in Europe(playing as many shows as we can) and a special unreleased ninth track from the "Temporary Light '' sessions. The lightning round offers a fun and quick-paced segment where they share personal tidbits and preferences, adding a light-hearted end to a rich and insightful conversation.
Join us for this heartfelt and intelligent discussion that not only celebrates Newmoon's music but also underscores the deep friendship and creative synergy that drive the band. Don't miss out on this episode that promises to resonate with fans and new listeners alike. Check out New Moon's tour dates and support their music on their official website, Facebook, and Bandcamp. Follow Newmoon:https://linktr.ee/newmoontheband
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Welcome to another captivating episode of Surprise Cast. This episode promises an enriching dive into the world of indie music, featuring conversations with members from three remarkable bands. Joining us from various corners of the world are Scott (Secret Shine), Pete and Simon (Soundwire), and Sean (Jetstream Pony). These talented musicians share their unique insights and experiences, shedding light on what it means to be a musician in today's dynamic landscape.
Scott opens up about his journey with Secret Shine, reflecting on the band's evolution and his personal transformation from a passionate young musician to a seasoned artist who now enjoys the process without the pressure of seeking fame. He recounts the band's creative process, particularly the making of their song "Falling Again," highlighting the collaborative effort and the joy of recording in a French studio.
Pete and Si of Soundwire delve into their meticulous approach to songwriting and recording. They discuss the balance between spontaneity and precision, sharing anecdotes about their collaborative lyric-writing sessions and the influence of diverse musical tastes on their sound. They also touch on the challenges and joys of maintaining a unique musical identity amidst external influences. Check out their analysis on the wonderful tune, 'Everything is Real'. 
Sean from Jetstream Pony provides a glimpse into the band's creative process, emphasizing the importance of lyrics and melody. He shares his experiences of balancing musical pursuits with personal life and the thrill of creating music that resonates with both the band and their audience. The band's song "Look Alive," featured on the Under the Bridge compilation, exemplifies their commitment to producing fresh and engaging music. Pay close attention to when he speaks reverently about The Fall. Throughout the episode, our guests reflect on their + and - school experiences, the impact of early musical influences, and the enduring passion that drives their creative endeavors. They also discuss the significance of the Under the Bridge compilation, which brings together bands with a connection to the legendary Sarah Records, showcasing new music that continues the label's legacy. The conversation culminates with a preview of their highly anticipated show in Bristol on June 14th, a must-attend event for fans of indie music.
Tune in to this episode of Surprise Cast for an inspiring exploration of the creative pulse that drives these talented musicians. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to their music, this episode offers a wealth of insights and stories that celebrate the art of making music and friendship. Follow Soundwire:https://soundwiremusic.bandcamp.com/
Follow Jetstream Pony:https://jetstreampony.bandcamp.com/album/jetstream-pony
Follow Secret Shine:https://secretshine.bandcamp.com/
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Welcome to another episode of Surprise Cast with your host, W. In this special episode, we jump deep into the vibrant world of the Glasgow-based band Homework. Joining us from the band are Santiago, Lizzie, Michael, and Andrew, who share their musical journeys, inspirations, and what lies ahead for them in 2024.


 


We kick off the episode with Santiago, who discusses his role as a guitarist, vocalist, and songwriter. He shares anecdotes about his childhood in Argentina, his early musical influences like The Beatles and Nine Inch Nails, and how his love for drawing has shaped the band's visual aesthetics. Lizzie, the band's dynamic drummer, joins in to talk about her role, her inspirations like Karen Carpenter and Keith Moon, and her unique journey into drumming. Michael and Andrew also share their experiences, with Michael reflecting on his childhood between London and Aberdeen, eldest of three, and his initial resistance to learning the piano. Andrew provides a fascinating insight into his upbringing in Dumfries, his early musical influences, and playing plenty of music. The band members discuss their collaborative process, the challenges they face, and how they manage to blend their individual talents to create their unique sound.


We delve into their latest release, the Easy Money EP, exploring tracks like "Dummy Run" and "Marina Bay Sands." Santiago and Michael discuss the evolution of these songs, from their initial ideas to the final recordings, while Andrew and Lizzie share their perspectives on the creative process and the joy of performing live.


The episode also features a thought-provoking discussion on the concepts of success, experimentation, and finishing in the creative process, inspired by passages from Rick Rubin's book The Creative Act. Some members of the band reflect on whether they see themselves as experimenters or finishers, offering a glimpse into their artistic philosophies.


Finally, the band hints at what's coming up for them in 2024, including the potential for an album and more live gigs outside of Glasgow. They also share why attending a Homework concert is a unique and worthwhile experience, promising energetic performances and a genuine connection with the audience.


Join us for this warm-hearted and insightful conversation with Homework, a band that is as dedicated to their dazzling craft as they are to each other. Discover their music on Bandcamp and Spotify, and keep an eye out for their upcoming projects; this is one assignment at home or on the road you will enjoy.


 

Follow Homework:https://www.facebook.com/homeworkglasgow
https://linktr.ee/homeworktunez
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The resurgence of Closedown, with the re-release of their iconic album 'Nearfield', now aptly renamed 'Dissolve', marks a significant moment for aficionados of the dream pop and shoegaze genres. This LA-based group, originally merging in the early 1990s, has always possessed a distinctive sound that set them apart from their contemporaries. Their music, a lush tapestry of ethereal soundscapes, encapsulates the essence of Shoegaze with its dense layers of guitar and haunting vocals. The addition of the previously unreleased track Skywards to their re-release not only enriches the album but also offers fans and new listeners alike a glimpse into what might have been.Closedown's music continues to resonate because it captures a timeless quality, an echo of longing that feels as relevant today as it did in the 90s. With Dissolve, Closedown invites us to lose ourselves once again in their dreamlike soundscapes, proving that some visions only grow more potent with time.


In this episode of Surprise Cast, we welcome Jerry, James, and Scott from the band. They share their insights and stories about the band's origins, their creative process, and the journey of re-releasing their seminal album. "We all had the same mindset...we all thought the same fashion." Listeners will learn about each member's role in the band and their personal backgrounds, providing a deeper understanding of what shaped their unique sound.


The discussion also delves into the band's challenges and triumphs, including their experiences with recording, working with the wonderfully talented, Simon Scott (Slowdive/Three Quarter Skies), "he's an awesome guy", the influence of other bands like Slowdive, and the significance of their live performances. The band members share their thoughts on the evolving music industry and the technological advancements that have impacted their music-making process. "It was all very romantic and we were pushing the boundaries!"


Join us for an intimate and revealing conversation with Closedown as they reflect on their past, celebrate their present, and look forward to their future. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to their music, this episode offers a comprehensive and engaging look into the world of Closedown. Don't miss out on this deep dive into the ethereal and timeless soundscapes of one of shoegaze's most intriguing bands. Tune in and let the music of Closedown transport you. Feel the power of their incredibly long lasting and tight as a snare drum friendship!

Follow Closedown:https://paintedair.bandcamp.com/album/dissolve
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https://x.com/paintedonair
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Emerging from the indie music scene of Seattle, Washington, Waves Crashing has swiftly carved out its niche within the alternative/shoegaze music landscape. With a distinctive approach that weaves together the rich tapestry of 80s and 90s alternative sounds, this group has managed to breathe new life into the genre. Their music, characterized by lush soundscapes and fresh melodic hooks, reflects a deep reverence for the past while boldly pushing forward into the uncharted territories of sound. Waves Crashing is undoubtedly a band to watch in the burgeoning alternative indie music scene.
In this episode of Surprise Cast, host William welcomes Josh Calisti, the frontman of Waves Crashing. Josh shares his journey from growing up in New Jersey, to becoming a pivotal figure in the alternative indie music scene. He also discusses the unique character of Olympia, its rich musical history, and how it influenced his musical career.
Josh delves into his role in the band, revealing how he balances singing, playing guitar, and managing the band. He recounts a life-changing concert experience seeing Paul McCartney, which left him with an indelible impression and reinforced his passion for music.
Listeners will get a glimpse into Josh's school life, his struggles with self-esteem, and how these experiences have shaped his music. He talks about the profound impact of his early musical influences, including the Smashing Pumpkins and Bush, and how they steered him toward creating his unique sound.
The conversation also covers the creative process, with Josh sharing his methods for overcoming writer's block and the importance of stepping back when feeling forced. He explains how different environments and inspirations, such as travel and film, can reignite creativity.
Josh provides insights into the dynamics of Waves Crashing, highlighting the strengths and contributions of his bandmates, Bryce and Josh (number two). He emphasizes the importance of genuine collaboration and the value of each member's unique skills in shaping the band's sound.
The episode features an analysis of two standout tracks, "Life on Display" from the EP 'The Viewing' and "Wish" from the EP 'Ancora.' Josh breaks down the songwriting process, the inspiration behind the lyrics, and the evolution of these songs within the band.
This episode is a must-listen for fans of Waves Crashing and anyone interested in the inner workings of the indie music scene. Josh Calisti's candid and thoughtful responses provide a deep understanding of the passion and dedication that drive his music.
 

Welcome to another engaging episode of Surprise Cast! In this special installment, I sit down with the talented Andrew Rose, a musician, and mastering engineer, to delve into his fascinating life and career. Broadcasting from a picturesque village in southwest France, Andrew brings a unique blend of stories and insights from his diverse experiences.


Listeners will be captivated by Andrew's anecdotes about his childhood, his early musical inspirations ("My mum was very musical, that meant there was music in the house...we had a piano which I learned to play") from late-night BBC radio shows (John Peel), and his initial forays into songwriting. He shares touching stories about his supportive parents ("they didn't object to me going on and studying music at university"), his musical endeavors with a childhood neighbor, and the pivotal moments that shaped his career.


Andrew shares his journey from working at the BBC in London to living in a serene French village for the past 20 years. He reveals his deep connection with music, stemming from a childhood filled with musical influences, and his evolution into a musician and mastering engineer. The episode takes a deep dive into the Art and Science of Happiness, written by Arthur C. Brooks and Oprah Winfrey's book, "Build the Life You Want." Focusing on three pillars of happiness—family, friendship/collaboration and work—Andrew reflects on his personal and professional life.


The conversation transitions into Andrew's thoughts on collaboration and friendship within the music industry. He highlights the importance of supportive relationships, recounting memorable collaborations and/or conversations with friends like Mary Wayer (Even As We Speak), members of Slowdive, and Robin Guthrie (Cocteau Twins).


The episode delves into his Callière recent work, including the latest album "Fade," which was born out of a period of intense personal reflection and creative exploration. Andrew candidly shares the emotional journey behind the album, discussing how a misdiagnosis led to a burst of creativity and introspection. He provides insights into the recording process, the challenges he faced, and the triumphs that emerged from this deeply personal project.


Listeners are treated to an exclusive listening session of two tracks from "Fade"—the hauntingly beautiful title track and the epic closing song "Open My Eyes." Andrew provides the backstory and creative process behind these tracks, offering a glimpse into his artistic mind.


Join us for this intimate and inspiring conversation with Andrew Rose, where music, emotion, and creativity intertwine to create a compelling narrative. Check out his work on Bandcamp and Spotify, and immerse yourself in the sonic landscapes he crafts with such passion and dedication. "And you kind of get that respect that people know what you're talking about." He certainly does...not a false note in his remarkable stories.


 
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Follow Andrew Rose:
https://www.pristineclassical.com/


https://www.facebook.com/andrew.rose.pristine


https://calliere.bandcamp.com/


https://www.instagram.com/andrewrosepristine/


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