Surprise Cast #90 The Proctors

Welcome to another heartfelt episode of Surprise Cast! Today, we have a very special guest in the studio, Gavin Priest from the band The Proctors, here to discuss the brand new album, Snowdrops and Hot Air Balloons, and so much more.

Our discussion is structured around three main pillars: family life and childhood experiences, friend tourships that have shaped Gavin's musical journey, and a comprehensive look at his body of work. We get to know Gavin not just as a musician but as a human being, peeling away the layers of his life experiences that have influenced his artistry.

Gavin joins us from his home in Dudley, West Midlands, UK, a place with a rich musical history. We kick off our conversation by diving deep into Gavin's early life, exploring his family dynamics and childhood experiences ("I have memories of holidays...we used to play football, go on our bikes"). Gavin opens up about the melancholy ("I used to have lows") and challenges he faced growing up, including the impact of his parent's divorce and his mother's struggle with OCD ("it was very difficult...something in control of my mom") These personal stories set the stage for understanding the emotional depth of his music. ("it's good for me to get this out").

In the second pillar, Gavin reflects on the significant friendships and mentorships that have guided him. From early bandmates to influential figures like Pete Williams ("a hero of mine") from Dexys Midnight Runners, these relationships have played a crucial role in his development as an artist. ("he was the guy at the mixing deck...he was so lovely...so so encouraging!").

The third part of our conversation is dedicated to the body of Gavin's work, with a special focus on the new album, Snowdrops and Hot Air Balloons ("it features in a lyric from a previous album...two of my earliest memories with my mom in the garden"). We delve into the themes ("a little bit of anxiety, nostalgia, some hope") and inspirations behind the album, discussing tracks like "Seven Wonders" and "The Final Kiss." Gavin shares the personal stories and emotions that shaped these songs, providing a deeper understanding of his creative process.

To lighten the mood, we wrap up with a fun lightning round of quick questions, revealing Gavin's favorite things and quirky preferences. This segment adds a touch of humor and warmth to our conversation, making for a well-rounded and engaging episode.

Join us for this intimate and revealing conversation with Gavin Priest, where we explore the highs and lows of his life, the friendships that have supported him, and the music that continues to inspire. Whether you're a long-time fan of The Proctors or new to their sound, this episode offers valuable insights into the man behind the music. Don't miss out on the chance to connect with Gavin and experience the beautiful tracks from Snowdrops and Hot Air Balloons. He has a way of bringing the sunshine into the darkness!