Surprise Cast

P.C.E! #3 - Depeche Mode

What kind of energy do you get after a DM show?We leap into the vibrant and lasting impact of Depeche Mode through the lens of live concert experiences. This episode features engaging discussions with two special guests: Shannon Hemmett, a musician from Vancouver, Canada, who is part of the bands Leathers and Actors; and Jason Rogers, an environmental protection professional from Georgia, who shares a passionate side-hobby of writing about music and movies.
The conversation opens up a nostalgic journey as each speaker shares their first encounters with Depeche Mode's iconic tunes and how these songs became an intrinsic part of their musical DNA. Listeners are treated to vivid narratives of live performances, with Shannon describing an unforgettable close-up experience during the Delta Machine tour and Jason sharing a personal transformation and community moment at the same tour years later. I recount my transformative seventh-grade concert experience during the Music for the Masses tour, emphasizing the electrifying atmosphere. 
This episode is a tribute to music's timeless power to inspire, connect, and create lasting memories, with Depeche Mode at the heart of the conversation. We just can't get enough of them, can we?Follow H.I. Art on the Edge, P.C.E! and Surprise Cast. Follow: https://www.actorstheband.com/
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Surprise Cast #166 David Newton (The Mighty Lemon Drops/Thee Mighty Angels)

How do talent and kindness come together so effortlessly?
We dive into a friendly conversation with the talented guitarist/songwriter/producer David Newton, best known for his role in the post-punk band, The Mighty Lemon Drops.
The discussion kicks off with a trip down memory lane as David reminisces about his first festival experience, the Rock Against Racism carnival in London, where he saw The Clash perform. How incredible! Listen to him speak about an important festival in Pasadena, CA, called The Cruel World Festival. 
Adding depth to the conversation, the episode touches on David's personal journey, including his early start in music, the support (and sometimes skepticism) from family, and his career trajectory from DIY beginnings to global recognition. 
Furthermore, the episode explores the collaborative efforts within the music industry, the enduring friendships among various bands, and the Mighty Lemon Drops' unique legacy. He kindly analyzes music from albums such as Uptight, Laughter, and Ricochet. So fun! 
If you've ever been captivated by the indie music revolution or are curious about the life of a musician with a stalwart career, this episode is not to be missed. Grab a good drink, sit back, and enjoy the journey into the world of David Newton and the enduring impact of his work. His sweet words are infectious and never sour. Follow The Mighty Lemon Drops: https://www.themightylemondrops.com/mld/
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Surprise Cast #165 Stephen Patman (Chapterhouse)

How does Stephen sprinkle magic into his craft and tell such compelling stories?We dive into the vibrant past and present of the legendary band Chapterhouse with the talented composer and producer, Stephen Patman. This conversation unspools the band's origins, formed in Reading, England, where friendships were forged through shared musical tastes and different home lives.
Listen as Stephen recounts the first demos recorded in a quirky studio that would lead to the band's significant milestone—playing with Spacemen 3. These demos, now part of a newly released four-track EP, through Sonic Cathedral Records, embody the raw energy and teenage spirit that would shape Chapterhouse's unique sound. The episode also touches upon the intense personal experiences that influenced Stephen's artistry and resilience, detailing the difficult childhood that music helped him navigate. Discover the evolution of the '90s iconic album "Whirlpool" and the challenges encountered with "Blood Music," including reflections on the band's dynamic and the external pressures faced. How amazing!
This honest episode offers a heartfelt conversation that celebrates resilience, the power of music, and the enduring legacy of a band within the shoegaze/dreampop genre. Your ears will be immersed in the poignant stories and musical craft that merge together Stephen Patman and Chapterhouse's enduring journey. Time to get sucked in!

Surprise Cast #164 David Gedge

How do you celebrate and honor a 40 year journey?Join me for an in-depth conversation with David Gedge, the iconic lead singer and songwriter of The Wedding Present and Cinerama, as he reflects on his incredible experiences in the indie music scene.We delve into the band's formation in 1985, their upcoming anniversary tour spanning the UK, Ireland, and beyond. He also shares his involvement in a new musical, 'Reception', his annual festival 'At the Edge of the Sea' in Brighton, and the challenges and excitement of touring North America after seven years.
Rediscover the influence of John Peel and how his radio program shaped David's musical tastes during his teenage years. Listen to candid anecdotes about working with producer Chris Allison on the album 'Bizarro' and the lasting impact of hit tracks like "Take Me." He also opens up about his meticulous work ethic, the influence of his childhood, and how those factors continue to shape his music today.
If you're a fan of indie rock or intrigued by the artistic process behind one of the UK's most impactful artists, this episode offers a rare glimpse into the mind of a music industry stalwart who has remained at the helm of creativity for decades. What got him here? The way he values hard work, pays attention to detail, and his ability to pace himself in a marathon career!

Surprise Cast #163 Jem Kelly (Part 1)

Are your ears geared up for this special interview?In this episode, we dive into the multifaceted journey of musician Jem Kelly. Renowned for his work with new wave bands The Wild Swans/The Lotus Eaters and other musical collaborations, Jem vividly explores his life, music, and cycling.
He shares captivating anecdotes about his early days playing guitar and the creative processes that have come to define his artistry. His unique ability to blend the storytelling with the cerebral in his music comes to life as he revisits his history with The Wild Swans, his collaborations, and how they leveraged his innate talent.
We also explore the cultural significance of Liverpool's iconic Eric's Club, where Jem experienced the bustling music scene of the 80s, witnessing legendary bands and his growth as an artist. This episode promises a deep dive into the world of Jem Kelly — an artist with an uncompromising devotion to his craft and one helluva storyteller -- nothing seems to deflate his enthusiasm for life. Follow Jem: https://x.com/BrotherPlukkerFollow Surprise Cast: Amazon, Apple, iHeart, Podbean, or Spotify

Surprise Cast #162 Jetstream Pony

What's that saying about birds of a feather?
I chat with the eclectic and talented members of Jetstream Pony to dive into their latest musical explorations. Listeners are treated to an analysis of their sparkling new album, Bowerbirds and Blue Things, exploring its innovative departure from Jetstream Pony’s established sound while still staying true to their core style. Shaun, Beth, Kerry, and Tom candidly share the challenges and joys of writing lyrics and pushing the boundaries of their usual musical recipe. It's a winning formula!
The conversation also touches on the impact of social media in the music industry, with Tom discussing the balancing act of reaching new audiences through platforms like TikTok while managing the time-consuming demands of digital promotion. Never easy!
Discover how Jetstream Pony continues to evolve and captivate fans with their dynamic performances and infectious music. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to the JP style, this episode promises an engaging and hilarious ride with one of today's most intriguing bands that flock together with plenty of indie giddy-up and never exhibiting a high horse attitude!Follow Jetstream Pony: https://jetstreampony.bandcamp.com/
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Surprise Cast #161 Shapes Like People

How does a married couple make it sound so easy?In this spirited episode of Surprise Cast, we enter the world of Shapes Like People, a band intertwined by their music and a deep, personal connection between its members, Carl and Kat Mann.  Join us as we explore the unique dynamics of this remarkable duo, who effortlessly support each other in their creative journey. Our friendly guests share their personal encounters with these challenges, offering a glimpse into the vulnerabilities and triumphs of their musical endeavors.
As the discussion unfolds, listeners are treated to insights on the songwriting process, where mundane conversations can blossom into profound lyrical narratives. The band members candidly share their methods, discussing how melodies are born and lyrics are crafted across scattered pages, evolving into the songs we hear on their latest album, "Ticking Haze."--which is a must own!
Join us for an inspiring journey with Shapes Like People, where music, love, and life's endless stories converge, promising an auditory experience as heartwarming as it is enlightening. They certainly know how to bring out the best in one another!Follow Shapes Like People: https://shapeslikepeople.bandcamp.com/album/ticking-hazeFollow Surprise Cast:Amazon, Apple, iHeart, Podbean, and SpotifyFollow H.I. Art on the Edge: Bluesky, Facebook, Instagram, X, and YouTube

Surprise Cast #160 Tim Hill

How would you describe artistic innovation?Join us for an introspective and enlightening episode featuring Tim Hill, a multifaceted musician, visual artist, and director hailing from Canada. Known for his distinctive style that intertwines sound, visuals, and storytelling, Tim shares his journey from a dynamic childhood marked by frequent relocations to becoming a recognized figure in the realms of music and visual artistry.
He shares his creative process, drawing connections between his experiences and his art, while also discussing the impact of renowned artists like Gary Numan, OMD, and Brian Eno on his work.
Our conversation explores Tim's artistic philosophy, revealing the challenges and triumphs he faces as both a visual artist and musician. He discusses insights into his unique approach to capturing sounds across genres like ambient and electronic music, and how he incorporates both sound and sight to craft immersive experiences for audiences.
This episode is an invitation to discover the deep depth and breadth of Tim Hill's creative endeavors, as he continues to push boundaries. He is the true aural architect!

Surprise Cast #159 Kimberly Adamis Fongheiser

Are you ready to zoom in on this special guest? My talented and insightful interviewee, Kimberly Adamis Fongheiser, joins us for this episode. In this deeply engaging conversation, we leap into Kimberly's personal experiences and sharp perspectives, offering listeners a unique blend of passion, art, empathy, and resilience. 
The conversation shifts to Kimberly's multifaceted identity, including her upbringing in the culturally rich backdrop of the Bay Area, where she navigated her Mexican-Italian heritage amidst family challenges, including her parents' divorce. She honestly discusses the impact of these experiences on her personal growth and how they informed her understanding of family dynamics.In addition, art and photography have been major pillars in Kimberly's life, serving as essential tools for expression, creativity, and healing. She shares the joys and struggles of her artistic journey, underscoring the importance of stepping out of her comfort zone to innovate and grow creatively. It's great to know that Kimberly can view mistakes as wonderful opportunities for personal growth. It's all about adjusting her lens on life in a positive direction, which is quite inspiring! Follow Kimberly: https://www.kimberlyadamis.com/
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Surprise Cast #158 Soundwire

How would you define musical chemistry?In this engaging episode of the Surprise Cast, I welcome two pivotal members of the band Soundwire, Simon and Peter, to discuss their musical journey and the evolution of their unique sound. We talk about their early school experiences and the influential role that music played in their lives. The episode delves into the foundational years of Peter and Simon's friendship, strengthened by their love for punk and goth music, and their admiration for bands such as Joy Division and Depeche Mode, as well as musical influencers like John Peel. Listeners are also taken behind the scenes of Soundwire's recent album, 'Collider', which is described as a propulsive, energetic force with layers of sound that compel the listener on an aural voyage. Simply said, it's gorgeous! Strap in for the ride and appreciate their musical friendship more than ever. It's quite infectious on cosmic proportions. Follow Soundwire: https://soundwiremusic.bandcamp.com/Follow Surprise Cast: Amazon, Apple, iHeart, Spotify, and Podbean, Follow H.I. Art on the Edge: Bluesky, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube