H.I. Art on the Edge

Surprise Cast #120 SWiiMS & Simon Leclerc

Welcome to another entertaining episode of Surprise Cast! This one brings together the talented members of the Toronto-based band, SWiiMS, alongside DJ extraordinaire and music aficionado Simon Leclerc from DKFM Radio. 
Simon shares his experiences in the music industry and his passion for curating playlists for his DKFM show, 'Melomania Safety Zone'. The discussion explores the nuances of song sequencing and the impact of "context" on musical experiences, drawing insights from Rick Rubin's special philosophies.
The band members, Mai Diaz Langou, Cian O'Ruanaidh, and Colin Thompson, share personal stories about their musical inspirations, favorite concerts, and the interesting dynamics within SWiiMS. They discuss the creative process behind their music, emphasizing the importance of collaboration, experimentation, and maintaining momentum in their projects. Their friendship is strong!
Looking ahead, SWiiMS is gearing up for an exciting live performance at the Baby G in Toronto on November 23rd, alongside other talented bands. The band members express their enthusiasm for live shows, their dedication to delivering high-octane performances, and their plans for future projects. Exciting!
The episode wraps up with fun rapid-fire questions and recommendations from each guest, offering listeners a glimpse into their interests. Tune in to discover cool new music, and gain insights into the creative minds of SWiiMS and Simon Leclerc. You'll be enchanted by their respect for one another and endless love for music. Great chemistry, indeed!Follow SWiiMS:https://www.swiimsmusic.com/
Follow Simon Leclerc:https://decayfm.com/members/simon-leclerc/
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Surprise Cast #119 Stephen Douglas (Trashcan Sinatras)

Welcome to this friendly episode of Surprise Cast! I enjoy a heartfelt conversation with Stephen Douglas, the talented and kind drummer from the renowned indie band, Trashcan Sinatras.
Listeners will be taken on a journey to Stephen's musical beginnings, as he recounts his formative experiences, from tapping along to records in his youth to playing in a cramped room with a drum kit. He describes the nuances of drumming, his preference for hi-hats, and certain sticks whilst playing.
The episode also explores the dynamics of band life, shedding light on the joys of working alongside his bandmates, including his brother John. Stephen reflects on the band's success, the significance of their body of work, with a focus on the sparkling album, 'I've Seen Everything' + 'The Perfect Reminder' book (fantastic!) and the attention to detail that defines their music.
Our conversation ends with a fun segment, featuring icebreaker questions, drummer jokes, and a playful challenge involving guessing a mystery album.
Tune in to this episode for an engaging mix of music, life experiences, and wholesome laughter, as Stephen shares his journey and perspectives with the listeners in such a warm and inviting manner. His words land with charming and perfect pop!
Follow Trashcan Sinatras:https://trashcansinatras.com/
https://x.com/thetrashcans
https://www.facebook.com/thetrashcansinatras
https://www.instagram.com/thetrashcansinatras/
 
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Surprise Cast #118 Meadowlake

Welcome to another dazzling episode of Surprise Cast! Today, we dive deep into the musical world of Meadowlake, the talented band hailing from the Netherlands. Join us as we explore their latest album, "Where the Mountain Meets the Sea," a breathtaking journey through soundscapes inspired by the natural beauty of Topanga, California. It's truly a stunning body of work. 
As we delve into their artistic journey, we begin with some light-hearted icebreaker questions that reveal personal insights about the band members. I appreciate how deep they go with their connections. 
The conversation transitions into a deeper exploration of their childhood memories and how these experiences have shaped their music. Tjeerd shares his positive upbringing and the supportive environment provided by his parents, while Yarno recounts his musical influences and the impact of his father's music collection. Olivia opens up about her father's unique taste in music and the profound effect of her mother's passing on their art, highlighting themes of grief, loss, and resilience. A testament to the human spirit. 
The episode also features an engaging discussion on Meadowlake's creative process, guided by insights from Rick Rubin's book, "The Creative Act: A Way of Being." The band members reflect on experimentation, inspiration, and the lightning bolt moments that spark their creativity. They discuss their journey to sunny California, where they recorded their album live, embracing imperfections and capturing raw, authentic sound.
Join us for an unforgettable episode that celebrates the beauty of imperfection, the power of music, and the heartfelt connections that Meadowlake creates through their art and, most importantly, their friendship. This episode will make you smile because it's easy to root for all three musicians. They're hardworking and kind.Follow Meadowlake:https://meadowlake.bandcamp.com/album/where-the-mountain-meets-the-sea
https://www.facebook.com/meadowlakeband
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Surprise Cast #117 Ben Easton (Deary)

Welcome to another exciting episode of Surprise Cast. In this episode, we enter the mesmerizing world of Deary, a London-based band that has been captivating the hearts and minds of music lovers globally with their unique blend of dream pop, shoegaze, trip hop and indie melodies. Our special guest, Ben Easton, provides an insightful look into the band's journey, sound, and creative process.
Currently residing in Kingston, just outside of London, he shares his experiences and inspirations as a musician. From his admiration for Nick Cave ("probably the best performer I've ever seen") to his formative years growing up in Kent, Ben reflects on the influential moments that have shaped his musical journey. He discusses the importance of perseverance and the pivotal role family and personal experiences play in his life and music.
The conversation takes a deeper dive into Deary's creative process, exploring the essence and spontaneity of their music. Ben elaborates on the band's latest work, including their upcoming EP 'Aurelia', and the evolution of their sound. He shares anecdotes about the band's live performances and the dynamics of working alongside Dottie, his creative partner. ("She's phenomenal")
Listeners will also gain insights into the broader music community, including the role of Sonic Cathedral, a label that has fostered a sense of community and support for emerging bands like Deary. Ben highlights the invaluable contributions of individuals like Simon Scott (Slowdive/Three Quarter Skies) who has been instrumental in mastering Deary's work, ("he brings to our music...an inherent knowledge of the sonic sphere"). 
In the spirit of sharing and discovery, Ben offers recommendations for music, books, and films that have inspired him, including the dystopian novel 'Brave New World' by Aldous Huxley. The episode concludes with a fun segment of rapid-fire questions, revealing fun and personal tidbits about Ben.
Join us as we explore the sonic depths with Ben Easton, gaining a deeper understanding of the artistry and passion that drives Deary's music. Tune in and discover why this band is poised to inspire and connect with fans for many years to come. The role of the "fixer" helps solidify him as one highly talented musician that understands the marriage of emotion and music!Follow Deary:https://deary.bandcamp.com/album/dearyhttps://linktr.ee/dearyband
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Surprise Cast #116 Last Tourist

In this charming episode of "Surprise Cast,"  we jump into Jason Booth's and John Wellby's artistic journey from the band Last Tourist. They share cool insights into their lives as musicians, their creative processes, and the stories behind their sensational music.
We start with some fun icebreakers. The conversation takes a deeper turn as John shares how his love for music began with a serendipitous raffle win ("ended up buying my first guitar"), uncovering musical roots in his family history. Jason reflects on his school days in Sheffield and his defiance against mainstream trends, drawing parallels to my experiences. ("everyone was into poodle rock...I saw a kid with a James t-shirt on...I've always enjoyed not doing whatever everyone else is doing"). 
The episode explores the essence ("a slip or a mistake can add to the artwork") of creativity, as inspired by Rick Rubin's book, "The Creative Act." John and Jason discuss how spontaneity and energy ("a blessing and a curse") influence their music, sharing anecdotes of "happy mistakes" that led to the creation of songs like "Black Raven" and "Spiritual Cove." (The essence of the album). They emphasize the importance of balancing structured writing with moments of improvisation, both in the studio and during live performances.
The discussion also touches on the challenges and joys of being part of a band, including the collaborative dynamics with other members and the impact of live audiences on their performances. As they look to the future, John and Jason tease upcoming projects, 1991 Recordings, including a new single, a couple of gigs, and collaborations with notable artists like Maps (James Chapman) and Paul Kehoe (Peter Hook and the Light). Fantastic!
Listeners are invited to engage in a fun guessing album game and rapid-fire questions, revealing Jason and John's playful side. Tune in to discover the creative essence of Last Tourist and the exciting projects they have in store. They keep pushing the boundaries and we're better off with that approach. Follow Last Tourist:https://lasttouristband.bandcamp.com/
http://www.lasttourist.co.uk/
Follow 1991 Recordings:https://linktr.ee/1991recordings?
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Surprise Cast #115 Miki Berenyi / Keeley Moss (Part 2)

Welcome back to the second part of our conversation with the exceptionally talented musicians, Miki Berenyi and Keeley Moss. In this episode, we delve deeper into the complex world of being a musician, exploring the artistry, challenges, and humor that define their journeys. Miki and Keeley share their fascinating stories and sharp insights, providing an inspiring glimpse into the music industry.
The episode starts with a lively music game, 'Guess the album' with Miki and Keeley demonstrating their sharp wit and knowledge. As they navigate through questions about Dubya's "favourite album of all time", their camaraderie and banter add a delightful layer to the discussion. ("I'm like a liability"). 
We then shift gears to discuss the essence of success in the music industry. Drawing inspiration from legendary producer Rick Rubin, Keeley reflects on the evolving nature of success and the importance of having a personal metric to judge artistic achievements. ("You knew what a top 10 album"). The conversation touches on the challenges faced by indie musicians in today's landscape, emphasizing the value of passion and perseverance ("I strive toward making as good as shows as we can...getting lost in music") 
Miki explores the concept of adaptation in music, highlighting the physical ("it's quite practical...there's a sweet spot") and emotional aspects of performing and evolving as artists. Miki shares insights from her experiences with MB3 and Lush. ("going to America was really good for us...some of the songs we recorded have changed massively")
The episode concludes with a candid discussion on the financial and logistical challenges of touring, especially for indie bands. Miki and Keeley share personal anecdotes about the costs and sacrifices of bringing their music to international audiences.
Join us for this engaging and entertaining episode as these two incredibly talented musicians open up about their musical journeys, offering inspiration and wisdom to aspiring musicians and music lovers alike. They have what Rick Rubin has..."immense self-confidence" in how they approach their craft. *additional music "Mad as Snow" / "The Most Beautiful Day" by Kitchens of DistinctionFollow Miki Berenyi:https://linktr.ee/mikiberenyi?
Follow KEELEY:https://linktr.ee/mikiberenyi?Follow Kitchens of Distinction / Stephen Hero:https://kitchens-of-distinction.bandcamp.com/
https://patrickfitzgerald.bandcamp.com/album/deciduous-eccentric
https://www.facebook.com/stephen.hero.3/
 
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Surprise Cast #114 Humdrum (Loren Vanderbilt)

Join me in a spirited episode of Surprise Cast as we swim into the mesmerizing world of Chicago's Humdrum, led by the talented Loren Vanderbilt. 
In this episode, Loren shares insights into his creative process, the genesis of Humdrum, and his journey from a small-town upbringing in Shaker Heights ("interesting place") to the vibrant Chicago music scene. Listeners will be captivated by his reflections on the influences that shaped his sound, from the iconic guitar work of The Smashing Pumpkins ("I could not get enough of them") to the dance-inducing grooves inspired by New Order.
We discuss the emotional resonance of Humdrum's music, exploring the themes of joy and melancholy that permeate their debut album, "Every Heaven." He reveals the story behind standout tracks like "Eternal Blue" and "See Through You," offering a glimpse into the meticulous experimentation and artistic intuition that drive his songwriting.
Discover Loren's artistic inspirations and pivotal moments that have defined his career, including his admiration for the legendary John McEnroe ("he played hard") and the impact of visual artists like Mark Rothko. The episode also highlights Lauren's collaboration with Slumberland Records, run by the greatly respected Mike Schulman, who is well-renowned for his impeccable taste and dedication to independent music. Loren shares his deep respect for Mike and the fierce loyalty that he shows toward his clients that are on Slumberland Reocrds. 
Tune in for an engaging conversation filled with laughter, vulnerability, and profound insights from a young man who Whether you're a fan of indie pop, shoegaze, or simply curious about the creative process, this episode offers a rich tapestry of stories and sounds that will leave you inspired and eager for more.
Don't miss out on his music recommendations, where he shares some hidden gems from the world of indie music. We top off the conversation with a fun game of "Guess That Album," You won't believe what it is.  Now is the time to hop on the Humdrum express...it's well worth the price of admission. Follow Humdrum:https://heyhumdrum.bandcamp.com/album/every-heaven
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Surprise Cast #113 Ian Bickerton (Balloon) - Part 2

In part 2 of our conversation, I sit down with Ian Bickerton from the band Balloon to explore the enduring impact of their seminal album 'Gravity' and the exciting release of their latest work, 'Gas n Air'. He reflects on the timeless quality of 'Gravity', sharing his pride in its creation and the continued resonance it holds for listeners. ("I'm enormously pleased that people that like the record REALLY like the record"). Ian discusses the influence of producer Michael Brook on 'Gravity' ("He's a sound man, he's about sonics"). 
Listeners are treated to a behind-the-scenes look at the making of 'Gas 'n' Air,' recorded in the vibrant cultural hub of Mexico City ("it sounded exotic...hugely hip"), and the new collaborations that have shaped the latest album. ("The musicians were terrific...free of ego"). We listen to some of the emotional tracks like "Magnetic North" and "God Knows".
The episode also touches on the broader themes of artistic integrity, vulnerability (it's a very fine line...I know when it doesn't work"), and the ever-present specter of self-doubt. Ian shares his thoughts on the creative journey, emphasizing the importance of staying true to oneself and continuously striving for artistic excellence.
Join us as Ian shares his musical journey, offering listeners a unique opportunity to rediscover the magic of Balloon's past and present works. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to the music, this episode promises to inspire. It'll transport your mind to a more thoughtful place - a place that doesn't feel artificially inflated in the slightest bit!

Surprise Cast #112 Slowness

In part 2 of my conversation with Jules Lynn and Geoffrey Scott, we move into an engaging conversation with members of the band Slowness. The episode opens with a discussion on the intricacies of personal development and relationships, drawing parallels between personal growth and the dynamics within a band. ("We've been through a lot and we've had to learn how to treat each other better and other people in our group") My guests share insights on how mutual respect and individual aspirations contribute to a harmonious group environment.
The conversation is exciting as the band members discuss the creative process behind some of their tracks, including "Berlin" from the album Berths. Listeners get an exclusive look into the making of this song, inspired by their tour experiences in Europe and recorded in an intimate setting at a friend's house. The guests reveal how improvisation and experimentation played key roles in crafting their unique sound. ("We were just jamming...our guitar and bass have a very unique relationship with each other"). 
Another highlight of the episode is the exploration of the track "Illuminate" from the album How to Keep from Falling off a Mountain. The band members discuss the influence of the post-Hurricane Sandy atmosphere on the song's creation and its reflection on light and color. They also share their admiration for other artists and albums that have shaped their musical journey. (I was listening to a lot of Stereolab...that was inspired by riding home from the place she keeps talking about in Brooklyn"). 
Listeners are treated to a candid discussion about vulnerability and stage presence, with Jules and Geoffrey sharing their personal experiences with stage fright and the challenges of performing live. ("a lot of stage fright is dissipating simply by facing it"). The conversation touches on the pressures of covering iconic bands like Jesus and Mary Chain and how Slowness interprets these influences in their performances.
The episode wraps up with a light-hearted rapid-fire round, where the guests reveal their favorite albums, books, and even their favorite desserts. As they look forward to 2024, Slowness shares exciting plans for new recordings, emphasizing a fresh, improvisational approach to their upcoming projects.
Join the conversation and get to know Slowness as musicians and individuals with unique perspectives, San Francisco warmth, and stories. This is an episode that is filled with music, sharp insights, and a touch of good humor.
Follow Slowness:https://www.facebook.com/slownessmusic
https://slowness.bandcamp.com/album/part-time-punks
https://soundcloud.com/slownessmusic?fbclid=IwY2xjawGOXM9leHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHQ7Mj8Pkd_Z0h_LtHPJ68HLLortQ25DK0w2WuarttniahwdkTeQ66ZMAqA_aem_dZYC2pGuk0EnnXcWWlMgLQ
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Surprise Cast #111 Philip King (West 11, Lush, The Jesus and Mary Chain)

Join us on this engaging episode of Surprise Cast as we dive into the world of Philip King, a multifaceted musician known for his dynamic presence in the music industry. With an impressive career spanning influential bands such as The Servants, The Jesus and Mary Chain, Felt, Lush, and now West 11, Philip has cemented his reputation as a versatile artist capable of adapting to diverse musical styles.
Philip shares personal stories from his upbringing in Wimbledon (“I went to a Jesuit Priest School...I moved that focus of religion and moved it into music”), including his encounters with the local music scene and his early influences such as David Bowie and Roxy Music (“they seemed otherworldly”). He reflects on the impact of American culture (“I used to enjoy reading DC and Marvel Comics”), the punk movement, and iconic bands like Joy Division (“they were amazing”), The Human League, The Smiths, and The Cure on his musical evolution.
As the conversation unfolds, Philip introduces his latest project, West 11, and their upcoming album 'Atlantic Coast Highway'. With a blend of “Americana”, “sunshine pop”, and “bossa” influences, the album promises to be a refreshing musical experience. Philip shares insights into the creative process behind the album and the joy of collaborating with talented musicians like Beth Hirsch.
The episode concludes with a lively game, rapid-fire questions, and a thoughtful reflection on the role of art in connecting us to the eternal energy that moves through all things. Tune in for an inspiring and entertaining conversation with Philip King, a true musical innovator. His stories are as sweet as chocolate mousse!Follow Philip King:https://www.facebook.com/philippking
https://west11band.com/?
https://www.instagram.com/west11band
 
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