H.I. Art on the Edge

Surprise Cast #110 Scott Causer (Slow Thrills/Northern Star Records)

Welcome to the latest episode of Surprise Cast, hosted by W. In this episode, we are joined by Scott Causer, the visionary founder of Northern Star Label. Scott's journey in the music industry is a testament to passion and perseverance, as he shares, "I didn't have any intention of starting a record label," yet has created a haven for underground and innovative music.
Scott's roots in North Wales played a significant role in shaping his musical journey. Growing up in a small village, he recounts, "we had to make our own fun," which fostered his creativity and love for music. His music-loving family, with a mother who named him after the iconic Scott Walker and a father who adored the Stones and Bowie, laid the foundation for his musical aspirations.
His early gig experiences with bands like The Mission, Primal Scream, Jesus and Mary Chain, and The Stone Roses were pivotal. Describing these moments as "like a gate opening," he reflects on how they shaped his musical path and fueled his "music obsessive" nature from a young age. Scott offers a candid look at the dynamics of the Britpop era and the ever-changing landscape of the music industry. He reminisces about witnessing Oasis live in their early days, stating, "they were one of the greatest live bands," and the plethora of good bands emerging from the U.K. during that time.
Despite not initially planning to start a record label ("we didn't have a clue...it was shocking really...we did a lot of fun taking it on"), Scott's passion for discovering and promoting talent led to the creation of Northern Star Records. His label champions underground music, providing a platform for artists who push boundaries and challenge the status quo. Scott's vision has not only revived interest in innovative music but also cultivated a community of music enthusiasts and creators. 
In addition to his work with Northern Star, Scott discusses his side project, Slow Thrills. The recent release of their 7-inch vinyl is garnering significant attention, showcasing Scott's commitment to creative exploration. He shares insights into the creative process behind Slow Thrills, emphasizing how "limitations make for better music" and the importance of collaboration in the artistic journey. ("Chris has been the finisher...we really buzzed off each other...fantastic partnership"). 
Throughout the episode, Scott highlights the significance of community within the music scene. His belief in the power of collaboration and creativity shines through, underscoring the notion that music is not just an art form but a collective experience. Whether you're a music enthusiast or an aspiring musician, this episode is sure to provide valuable insights and inspiration. Scott Causer brings incredible light and positivity, something our world needs more of in a big way. Follow Scott Causer:https://northernstarrecords.bandcamp.com/
https://www.instagram.com/scottcauser/https://www.facebook.com/scott.causer
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Surprise Cast #109 Miki Berenyi & Keeley Moss

Join me in this engaging episode of the Surprise Cast, as I welcome two captivating guests, Miki Berenyi (MB3, Lush, Piroshka) and Keeley Moss (KEELEY). Known for their sharp wit and profound insights, they bring an invigorating blend of humor and reflection to the table. Drawing inspiration from the renowned academic and podcaster, Brené Brown, we tackle such intricate themes such as vulnerability, courage, and the complexities of human relationships.
This episode is a delightful mix of heartfelt discussions and light-hearted moments, beginning with a series of entertaining icebreaker questions. Keeley shares her thoughts on fashion trends she'd love to see return("floppy fringes...I always think they look good"), while Miki humorously contemplates teaching religious studies with a twist ("I'd be sensitive, but I would be questioning"). The conversation transitions into summer reflections, where my guests recount their memorable experiences, from touring and performing to enjoying the simple pleasures of life.
The discussion takes a deeper turn as I introduce concepts from Brené Brown's work, exploring the nuanced paths to true belonging,identity and the courage required to stand alone. Keeley and Miki share personal anecdotes, revealing their own journeys of empathy, compassion, and resilience in the face of life's challenges ("pain is relative...we know a lot of the demons that we've had to love through").  Their candid reflections offer listeners a chance to consider their own experiences and the choices they make in navigating pain and joy.("you can navigate...I suppose sufficiently battle-hardened in a way that will enable you to proceed and advance...").
Tune in for an enriching conversation that not only explores the depths of human emotion but also celebrates the power of connection, friendship and the beauty of shared stories. Whether you're seeking wisdom or just a good laugh, this episode has something for everyone. Follow Miki Berenyi:https://mikiberenyitrio.bandcamp.com/
https://www.instagram.com/berenyi_miki/?hl=en
https://x.com/berenyi_mikihttps://www.facebook.com/piroshkaband
 
Follow Keeley:https://www.facebook.com/keeleysound
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https://www.instagram.com/keeleysound
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Surprise Cast #108 - A Tribute to OMD: Part 2 w/ Chris Gilliland

In this fun episode of Surprise Cast, we delve into the rich musical legacy of Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark (OMD), the iconic British band that emerged from Liverpool in 1978. Known for their pioneering contributions to synth-pop and new wave, OMD has captured the hearts of fans worldwide with hits like "Enola Gay," "If You Leave," and "Electricity."Joining the discussion is Chris Gilliland, a dedicated fan and music enthusiast, as we embark on the second part of our tribute to OMD. Together, we explore three pivotal albums: 'Dazzle Ships', 'Junk Culture', and 'Crush'.
We start with Dazzle Ships, an album that pushed the boundaries of experimental soundscapes. Chris shares his initial impressions and the influence of avant-garde elements, while we discuss its impact on the band's career and its lasting legacy. ("I've always been fascinated by field recordings...it felt worldly to me...I like to open mix tapes with it"). 
Moving to Junk Culture, we examine OMD's shift towards a more pop-oriented sound, discussing standout tracks like "Talking Loud and Clear" ("...Pure Pop Perfection") and "Tesla Girls." We reflect on the band's decision to embrace their songwriting skills while maintaining their innovative spirit with a bit of "Caribbean synth pop". ("This is a good album...sounds a bit dated") / (...shows how Andy is underrated at playing the bass"). 
Finally, we jump into Crush, highlighting its catchy-as-hell and pop-tastic tracks like "So In Love" and "Secret." Chris reminisces about the nostalgic connection these songs have to his youth, while we analyze the album's enduring appeal and its place in OMD's discography. ("This album contains two of the greatest OMD tracks ever") / ("I'll never get tired of it...reminds me of really good times"). 
Throughout the episode, we also sprinkle in light-hearted icebreaker questions and explore Swedish bands like Easy and Popsicle ("bright, exciting, and fresh"). Two bands we highly recommend! Chris also shares insights about his blog, This Wreckage, where he channels his passion for music into thoughtful writing. Check it out!
Join us for this entertaining journey through OMD's musical evolution, as we celebrate the band's creativity and the "windmill" joy they bring to fans worldwide. Stay tuned for a potential Part 3, where we'll continue to uncover more gems from OMD's extensive catalog. 

Surprise Cast #107 Amelia Fletcher/Rob Pursey

Welcome to a highly entertaining and warm episode of Surprise Cast, where we explore the vibrant journeys of indie music legends, Amelia Fletcher and Rob Pursey.
Broadcasting from the serene landscapes of rural Kent, England, they share anecdotes from their rich musical journey, discussing everything from the beauty of Romney Marsh (“beautiful flat”) to their experiences with weather in England and upcoming travels to the Bay Area for a special show in San Francisco. The episode is also filled with light-hearted banter, as they tackle ice-breaking questions at the onset of the conversation.
In this episode, listeners are treated to a deep dive into the creative process as Rob and Amelia discuss the challenges and joys of songwriting. They explore the themes of collaboration and inspiration, offering insights into how they navigate creative decisions in their projects like Heavenly and the The Catenary Wires. The conversation takes an introspective turn as they reflect on personal experiences, such as the impact of family relationships (“my dad just telling me that I was singing out of tune...it actually kind of encouraged me to get better at harmony”) / (“it somehow expressed my anxiety about the missing bird”)and life-changing moments.Listeners will also enjoy exclusive insights into tracks from their projects, including the driving rhythms of Swansea Sound's "20th Century" and the ethereal harmonies of the The Catenary Wires' "The Overview Effect."
Tune in for a really heartwarming and touching conversation that not only celebrates Rob and Amelia's vast contributions to indie music but also delves into the broader themes of success, endless creativity, and the enduring power of intelligent music. With a mix of humor, nostalgia, and profound insights, this episode is a must-listen for fans. They really are such Heavenly creatures of positivity and wonderful ambassadors of indie music.Follow Amelia and Rob:https://swanseasound.bandcamp.com/album/swansea-sound
https://www.facebook.com/swanseasound/
https://x.com/SoundSwansea
https://www.facebook.com/HeavenlyGroupOfficial
https://www.facebook.com/TheCatenaryWires
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Surprise Cast #106 Nathaniel Cramp (Sonic Cathedral)

Welcome to this exciting episode of Surprise Cast, where I sit down with Nathaniel Cramp, the passionate owner of Sonic Cathedral record label. Known for its dedication to shoegaze, dream pop, and atmospheric soundscapes, Sonic Cathedral has carved a niche in the music industry by nurturing artists who craft introspective and layered sound experiences. In this episode, Nathaniel shares his journey from his humble beginnings in North Devon ("it was boring...nothing really happened") to becoming an important figure in the music scene.
Nathaniel opens up about his personal life, including childhood memories and family dynamics as the youngest of eight children. ("by the time I was a teenager, I was kind of on my own"). He reflects on his early influences, from schoolyard embarrassments to discovering music through his siblings and the iconic 'Top of the Pops'. ("We had a record of bad ABBA covers...my dad liked playing organ music."). We learn about his formative years in the indie music scene ("my older brother would have these OMD records..."), his early years of going to concerts("the first I went to see was the Soup Dragons") transition into sub-editing ("making other people's words make sense") at NME ("I was only a freelance"), stint at Rough Trade Records, and the serendipitous beginnings of Sonic Cathedral including an important event. ("we did a show as a 1-off...got the Radio Dept. to play").
He takes us through the evolution of Sonic Cathedral, sharing stories of the label's inception, its notable releases, and the challenges and triumphs along the way. He discusses the label's ethos, the importance of genuine passion for music, and the delicate balance of running an independent label. ("I didn't know what I was doing...I didn't know where to get a record pressed...it felt like a whole new world"), and how he handled the business during COVID-19. The conversation delves into his thoughts on success, creativity, and the future of Sonic Cathedral as it celebrates its 20th anniversary ("I don't know where it has gone") with exciting events and releases. Quite exciting!
Join me for a captivating exploration of the indie music world, filled with personal anecdotes, industry insights, and Nathaniel's unwavering commitment to championing music that resonates. This episode promises to offer a unique perspective on the power of music and the community it fosters in a grand business fashion. What a precious jewel!Follow Sonic Cathedral:https://soniccathedral.co.uk/
https://www.instagram.com/soniccathedral/
https://x.com/soniccathedral
https://www.youtube.com/user/soniccathedral
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Surprise Cast #105 Slowness (Part 1)

In this personal episode of Surprise Cast, I welcome Jules Lynn and Geoffrey Scott, members of the San Francisco-based band, Slowness. Known for their unique sound that seamlessly blends shoegaze, dream pop, slowcore, and some psych rock, Slowness offers a rich and immersive auditory experience. 
Jules, the bassist, vocalist and keyboardist, shares her journey in music, her role in the band, and the influences that shaped her artistic path. She reflects on the importance of creativity, perseverance ("get shit done") and balancing life as a musician and a mother. Geoffrey Scott, the guitarist, vocalist, and lyricist, discusses his musical background, the significance of mentorship, and the challenges and rewards of maintaining a creative life alongside a teaching career.
The episode explores the early influences and special moments that have left a lasting impact on both Jules and Geoffrey. From her vivid childhood memories of listening to music with her father ("he was hugely influential for me...the love of sound") to his parents ("they were always supportive of me") transformative experience at a Kinks concert (my dad bought tickets...they had gotten a good report from my caretakers"), these stories offer a glimpse into the personal connections that fuel their passion for music.
As the conversation unfolds, the duo shares insights into their songwriting process and the dynamics of their creative partnership ("no, you got this") They discuss the concept of tuning into the creative energy of the universe, the value of stepping away to gain fresh perspectives, and the importance of persistence in the face of challenges like "imposter syndrome".
Join us for an inspiring episode filled with engaging stories, thoughtful reflections, and a deeper understanding of what it means to be a musician who creates and shares music that resonates well beyond when the album stops playing. They are wonderful educators of music and show an ambition for the arts that is to be celebrated and admired. Follow Slowness:https://slowness.bandcamp.com/music
https://www.facebook.com/slownessmusic
https://www.youtube.com/slownessmusic
https://www.instagram.com/slownessmusic/
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Surprise Cast #104 Leathers (Shannon Hemmett)

In this episode of Surprise Cast, I go deep into the world of electronic music with a very special guest, Shannon Hemmett. The frontwoman of Leathers and a member of the acclaimed Vancouver post-punk darkwave band Actors. 
The conversation kicks off with a glowing review of "Ultraviolet" penned by online friend, Jason Rogers, highlighting the album's sleek, synth-driven sound that evokes images of nighttime drives and future noir cityscapes. Shannon reflects on the comparisons to iconic bands like Eurythmics and The Passions, expressing her admiration for Annie Lennox.
Throughout this three-part discussion, Shannon opens up about various facets of her life and career. She talks about her childhood, family influences, and the significant impact of her school's photography program ("we had a dark room, which wasn't common...magical experience") which sparked her passion for both music and visual arts. She also shares stories about her upbringing in a blue-collar family, her father's long career in aircraft maintenance ("40+ years" working on jets"), her mom doing volunteer work at school, and the creative encouragement she received from her parents. ("maybe I can have a profession that I'm inspired by").
In the segment on "friend-torships," Shannon discusses the pivotal role of Jason Corbett, her bandmate and producer, in her musical journey via Vancouver. ("Are you in a band...you have a nice singing voice"). She explains how their collaborative partnership has been instrumental in shaping Leathers' sound and how their combined strengths have led to the success of both Leathers and Actors. ("Having Jason in my corner...it's pretty special"). 
As the conversation shifts to the themes and inspirations behind "Ultraviolet," Shannon delves into the album's exploration of fantasy versus reality, drawing literary inspiration from J.G. Ballard's novel "High Rise." ("The response to the album has been really lovely"). She also candidly discusses personal experiences, such as a life-changing car accident, and how these events have influenced her songwriting. 
To wrap up, Shannon shares her thoughts on performing live, future tour plans for Leathers and Actors, and some of her favorite albums that have shaped her musical taste. The episode concludes with a series of rapid-fire questions, offering listeners a glimpse into Shannon's personal preferences and inspirations. Fun stuff!
Join us for this insightful and inspiring episode as we uncover the layers of creativity and passion that define Shannon Hemmett and the mesmerizing soundscape of "Ultraviolet." "Shannon is a singer!" :)...and much much more!Follow Leathers:https://leathers.bandcamp.com/
https://www.instagram.com/leathersmusic/
https://soundcloud.com/leathersmusic
https://x.com/LEATHERSmusic
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Surprise Cast #103 Nalinee Darmrong

In this eye-opening episode, I welcome a special guest, Nalinee Darmrong, an esteemed photographer with a keen eye for talent in the music industry. Tuning in from a suburb of Washington, D.C., she shares her fascinating journey from a young music enthusiast to a celebrated photographer whose work has captured the essence of iconic bands like The Smiths.
The conversation begins with light-hearted icebreakers, revealing her unique ways to unwind, from playing pinball ("I joined a league")l to her love for various music genres. ("pending on my mood...ambient to rock") As the discussion deepens, she reflects on her upbringing in Maryland and the impactful experiences that shaped her as a person, including a humorous yet formative childhood biking mishap and the influence of a memorable elementary school teacher.
Nalinee jumps into her early exposure to music, sharing anecdotes from her time at the legendary Yesterday and Today record store ("that was my rock n roll education") and the vibrant D.C. music scene. Her stories are peppered with encounters with music legends and the profound impact these experiences had on her career.The episode also highlights her notable projects, including her acclaimed book "The Smiths," published by Rizzoli, and her involvement in a mural Crowdfunder project honoring the late Andy Rourke of The Smiths in Manchester. ("Mike Joyce sent me a message on Instagram... Johnny Marr emailed me that morning").  Nalinee's stories are rich with connections to the music world, from her early interactions with The Smiths to her friendships with musicians across genres. What a great way to honor a legend. ("I'm sure Andy is giggling up there"). 
Listeners are treated to insights into her creative process, as she discusses her approach to photography and the challenges of transitioning from film to digital. She shares her admiration for various cameras, from classic 35mm to modern DSLRs ("are my staples"), and how her musical background enhances her photographic work. (The Smiths helped me launch my work as a photographer").
Join us for an inspiring episode that celebrates the power of music and photography, and discover how Nalinee's lens has captured some of the most unforgettable moments in music history. Listen to how she gives 150%" to her craft and just knows the "cadence" of living life. Follow Nalinee:https://www.rizzoliusa.com/book/9780847848126/#:~:text=Author%20Nalinee%20Darmrong%2C%20Contributions%20by,height%20of%20its%20creative%20period
https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/andy-rourke-mural#start
 

Surprise Cast #102 Emma Anderson

Welcome to this episode of Surprise Cast! Join us as we dive into an engaging conversation with Emma Anderson, singer-songwriter (Lush/Sing-Sing) and as a solo artist. We explore the intricacies of family life, friendships, and professional endeavors. Inspired by Arthur C. Brooks' book, Build the Life You Want: The Art and Science of Getting Happier, Emma shares her sharp insights and experiences across these three pivotal pillars of life.
Emma opens up about her childhood in central London, detailing the unique aspects of growing up in a central, adult-centric environment. (We had a flat in this big building...it wasn’t the best place for a child to grow up”) She reflects on the impact of her parents' health and generational differences on her upbringing, sharing how these experiences have shaped her approach to motherhood and her relationship with her lovely daughter.
The discussion shifts to the significance of friendships, with Emma recounting fond memories of her long-time friends, (“...brought out my jokey side”) and how their shared love for music (“we were really into The Beatles”) and humor enriched her life. She highlights the importance of maintaining meaningful connections, both past and present, and the role social media plays in contemporary friendships.
Emma also delves into her musical journey, discussing her time with the band Lush and her solo work. She shares insights into the creative process behind her latest album, Pearlies, produced by James Chapman(Maps). (“It was very enjoyable...he’s a lovely man”) Emma candidly discusses the challenges and joys of touring, Sonic Cathedral, recording, and the music industry's evolution over the years.
As the episode wraps up, Emma participates in a rapid-fire round, offering a glimpse into her personal preferences and thoughts on various topics.
Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of Emma Anderson's life and music, and explore the universal themes of “happiness” and personal growth. She brings plenty of sweetness and pearly light!Follow Emma Anderson:https://www.facebook.com/emmaandersonmusic/
https://www.instagram.com/emmaandersonmusic
https://x.com/evjanderson
https://linktr.ee/emmaandersonmusic?
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Surprise Cast #101 Ian Bickerton (Balloon) - Part 1

Welcome to a special episode of Surprise Cast! This Part 1 episode marks a momentous occasion: a deep dive into the life, music, and creative journey of Ian Bickerton from the band Balloon. 
Ian Bickerton joins us from Haarlem in the Netherlands, where he has resided for over two decades. In this conversation, Ian reflects on his life, from his early years in Birmingham, Croydon, and Manchester to his experiences living in Australia and finally settling in the Netherlands. He shares poignant memories of his childhood, marked by his father's battle with cancer and the family's frequent relocations. Ian also opens up about his relationship with his siblings, especially his older brother, whose struggles with being gay and later alcohol dependency deeply influenced Ian's life and music. ("My parents...they really protected us").
Ian recounts his early love for music, spurred by his older brother's eclectic taste and the punk rock movement of the late 70s. ("an extraordinary time of change and differences...") He describes the formative years spent with his friend and bandmate David Sheppard, writing poetry and songs, and the thrill of seeing legendary bands in intimate settings. The conversation touches on the various musical influences that have shaped Balloon's sound, from the Velvet Underground to Al Green, and the unique blend of urban and pastoral elements in their music.
The discussion delves into Ian's creative process, highlighting the importance of observation, curiosity ("I was bent on being a reporter"), and the inspiration drawn from everyday life. Ian shares his approach to songwriting, often relying on stream-of-consciousness techniques and the collection of phrases and ideas from various sources. He emphasizes the discipline required to hone his craft and the serendipitous moments that can spark a song's creation. ("I just watch stuff...it just happens"). 
The episode takes a closer look at some of the standout tracks from Balloon's masterful1992 album, Gravity, including "Frightened to Death," "I Can't Leave Her," and "Tightrope Walker." Ian provides intimate insights into the stories behind these songs, which resonates deeply with listeners, including my 5th grade students who performed it in class often in 2014. Ian also reminisces about the recording sessions for Gravity in New Orleans, working with talented musicians. He also touches on the challenges and triumphs of performing live, including a humorous anecdote about a technical mishap during a performance of "Tightrope Walker."
Join us for this heartfelt and enlightening conversation with Ian Bickerton, as we explore the intersection of life, music, and creativity, and celebrate the enduring impact of Balloon's album Gravity. He is "fundamentally good and a lovely man" just like his father. Follow Balloon:https://www.instagram.com/ianfromballoon/
https://linktr.ee/balloontheband
https://balloontheband.bandcamp.com/album/gas-n-air
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