H.I. Art on the Edge

What does quality art mean to you? Hello. My name is Dubya, host of this special channel. Enjoy my conversations with online artists and musicians via a show called Surprise Cast. Their creative work influences the way we view their world while giving us fresh and new perspectives on our own lives. In addition, I host a feature called Two Tickets Please! with an online friend, Michael Hare. We have exciting conversations about movies and they way impact us as lovers of film. Get ready to be entertained and educated! Thanks for your support - it always means a great deal to me.

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Episodes

Saturday Sep 28, 2024

In this entertaining and 100th episode of Surprise Cast, we are delighted to welcome the talented singer and songwriter, Louise Quinn, known for her work with Gates of Light. Joining her is the accomplished musician and producer, Finlay Macdonald known for his Wor_kspace sounds. Together, they share their personal and professional journeys, offering listeners a deep dive into their creative processes and musical inspirations.
Louise opens up about her daily routines, revealing how her special morning playlist, which includes the likes of Penguin Cafe Orchestra and Nancy Sinatra, sets the tone for her busy days. She reminisces about her school days, her early love for music, and the unique experiences that shaped her artistic journey, including her time at drama school and the formation of her first band. ("I had a lovely teacher who went on to become mayor of East Kilbride...she was a great teacher"). 
The conversation takes a nostalgic turn as Louise reflects on her childhood musical influences, from punk bands like The Clash to the melodic tunes of Joni Mitchell and The Mamas & the Papas. She shares how these diverse influences have colored her music, blending seamlessly with her mom's religious background. ("I learned like hymns...church did give me a sort of spiritual dimension").
As the discussion moves forward, Louise talks about the formation of Gates of Light, a collaborative project born out of the creative necessity of the lockdown period. She details the process of working with international talents from Glasgow, London, Paris, and New York, and the serendipitous involvement of legendary producer Kramer, who fell in love with their work and decided to release it on Shimmy Disc. ("Kramer was amazing...it was really good working with him")
Finlay then takes the stage, sharing his perspective on working with Louise and the creative synergy they discovered. He discusses the technical aspects of music production, the challenges of managing multiple projects, and the joy of seeing their collaborative efforts come to life. He also gives listeners a sneak peek into his upcoming projects under the Workspace moniker, promising more innovative and captivating music. ("I'd say her songwriting...I admire her melodic and musical economy")
This episode is a rich tapestry of musical memories, personal anecdotes, and professional insights, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the making of Gates of Light and the artistic minds driving it. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to their music, this conversation is sure to inspire and entertain you. Don't miss this insightful episode that celebrates the power of music, collaboration, and h.i. creativity :). Follow Gates of Light:https://linktr.ee/gatesoflight
https://www.instagram.com/laquinn27/?hl=enhttps://gatesoflight1.bandcamp.com/album/gates-of-light
 
Follow Wor_kspace:https://workspace041.bandcamp.com/
https://www.instagram.com/wor_kspace/
https://www.facebook.com/workspace041
 

Tuesday Sep 24, 2024

In this compelling episode, we delve deep into the intricacies of vulnerability, creativity, and personal growth. Our guest, Rachel Cogan, offers a raw and insightful perspective on the importance of embracing one's truth and learning from life's challenges. With a focus on understanding different perspectives, she emphasizes the value of empathy and problem-solving in navigating complex emotional landscapes. ("Your truth is yourself").
Rachel shares her experiences with bullying, discussing the impact it had on her and how it shaped her approach to life. She reflects on the lessons learned from movies that influenced her during her formative years, such as "Homeward Bound" and "The Land Before Time," highlighting the themes of perseverance and empathy. ("That's where I learned not to judge people"). 
We also explore Rachel's creative endeavors, including her innovative project "That Something Creative," which connects freelancers and creatives across various fields. Rachel discusses the motivation behind this initiative and the importance of fostering a supportive community for creative minds. ("It's from tiny lines to taglines to massive projects...").
As we dive into the topic of vulnerability, Rachel candidly talks about her personal struggles with health issues and how they have influenced her perception of strength and resilience. She emphasizes the significance of owning one's emotions and the power of mindfulness in managing pain and stress. The conversation takes a philosophical turn as we discuss the concepts of "Viking or Victim," examining how societal expectations can shape our understanding of strength and vulnerability. Rachel offers a nuanced perspective on the importance of recognizing and nurturing our emotions rather than denying them. ("Do I want to expose that person to that side of me...?). 
In the final segment, Rachel shares her favorite books, music, and movies that have inspired her, providing listeners with a rich array of recommendations. We wrap up with a light-hearted rapid-fire round, where Rachel's wit and humor shine through, offering a delightful end to an enlightening discussion.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in personal growth, creativity, and the transformative power of vulnerability. Join us for an engaging conversation that promises to leave you with a renewed appreciation for the art of conversation and the challenges of the human condition. Thankfully, Rachel shows us how to walk into the wilderness of vulnerability with plenty of grit and determination. She's our tour guide!Follow Rachel:https://thatsomethingcreative.com/https://www.instagram.com/rcoges/Follow H.I. ART ON THE EDGE:
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Sunday Sep 22, 2024

Welcome to another exciting episode of the Surprise Cast! Today we have the pleasure of diving into an inspiring conversation with Oli Steadman, a talented musician and a member of the band Stornoway.
We kick off the episode by catching up with Oli about his summer adventures. He shares his travels across Canada and the US, from hiking in the Rockies and encountering elk to learning to surf in California. He also introduces us to his unique concept of a "trail dance," which combines music, mental health, nature exploration, and sport. (“I’ve really enjoyed doing in the past couple of months”).
As we navigate through the episode, we explore his deep connection with nature. He passionately discusses his favorite hikes (“very dramatic elevation”), the importance of responsible wildlife management, and his admiration for specific trees. We also touch on the impact of natural disasters, such as the Jasper fires, and how they shape our understanding of nature and conservation. (“we sing about this in Stornoway’s music”).
In a heartfelt segment, he opens up about his personal life, sharing stories of how he met his wife (“I should stay away from her because she would undoubtedly be too cool for me”), their travels, and the epiphanies they experienced along the way. He also reflects on his role as a new father, discussing the joys and challenges of parenthood. We delve into the concept of vulnerability, drawing insights from Brene Brown's book "Braving the Wilderness," and explore how these principles apply to his life as a musician, a man (if everyone’s blagging, no one is held to account...”), and a father (“it’s brilliant”).
We then shift our focus to Stornoway's music, particularly their upcoming "Unplucked" album. He gives us an inside look at the creative process behind their acoustic renditions of popular songs, including a hauntingly beautiful cover of Depeche Mode's "Enjoy the Silence." He also shares his excitement about their future projects and potential tours. (It’s the track we’ve been hiding for a few months now...it sounds up close and personal”).
This episode is a treasure trove of insights into the life of a passionate musician who finds harmony between his art and the natural world. Join us as we journey through Oli’s experiences, his love for nature, and his reflections on vulnerability and growth. He’s the real diver!Follow Oli Steadman:https://www.stornowayband.com/Follow H.I. Art on the Edge:Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube

Surprise Cast #97 Rachel Cogan

Thursday Sep 19, 2024

Thursday Sep 19, 2024

In this deeply moving episode, I engage in an intense and heartfelt conversation with special guest Rachel Cogan, founder and creative director of That Something Creative. 
The episode begins with an honest introduction to the Sandy Hook tragedy, a harrowing event that profoundly affected me as an educator. Rachel responds with her own experiences, discussing how working with children has shaped her perspective on such tragedies. She recounts an event that shook her world on October 7, 2023, which led her to question the nature of humanity and the societal response to geopolitical issues. She shares the personal impact of experiencing anti-Semitism for the first time and her struggle with the loss of faith in humanity. ("Who do we trust? Who do we not?"). The conversation then shifts to exploring possible silver linings in the aftermath of tragic events like 9-11, Sandy Hook ("not taking time for granted"), ("there's no silver lining"), and October 7th ("refine and improve the circle of community...it brought a lot of people together"). Rachel reflects on the potential for increased understanding, societal changes, and the importance of meaningful connections and community support during difficult times. 
In a lighter segment, we engage in an imaginative exercise, discussing hobbies, skills, and aspirations. Rachel shares her love for collecting Starbucks mugs, her interest in learning mechanical skills, and her desire to take a photography course ("I want things more tangible in life, more authentic"). 
The episode delves into Rachel's family dynamics, highlighting her close relationship with her parents and sister, Sarah. Rachel describes her parents as her best friends ("they are my #1 fans...they weren't pedestal parents...they're in this with me") and recounts their selflessness and support throughout her life. She also shares anecdotes about sibling rivalry, envy, and the unique bond she shares with Sarah. ("She is more stoic and an introvert...I think she found her brilliance"),
The conversation transitions to creativity, with Rachel discussing how she channels her creative energy ("a sense of self") through problem-solving and free thinking. She shares her experiences as a dancer and how dance allowed her to express herself in powerful ways. ("Dance is our way of showing our narrative without pen and paper"). 
Rachel tackles the complex topic of truth and how it intersects with personal beliefs and actions. She explores the idea of understanding and respecting different perspectives while maintaining one's values. She emphasizes the importance of knowing oneself and the dangers of imposing one's truth on others through harmful actions. This episode is a compelling exploration of tragedy, family, creativity, comedy, and the human experience, offering listeners a chance to reflect on their own lives and the connections that shape them. Alanis Morissette said, 
"You pray you learn, you ask you learnYou live you learn" I have a feeling Rachel may subscribe to these lyrics. She's all about the learning in small and big ways. Follow Rachel Cogan:https://www.linkedin.com/in/racheljcogan/?originalSubdomain=ca
https://www.thatsomethingcreative.com/
https://www.instagram.com/rcoges/
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Monday Sep 16, 2024

In this intimate episode of Surprise Cast, I'm thrilled to welcome Oisin Leech, the exceptional Irish singer whose latest album, "Cold Sea," has been making waves in the music world. He takes us on an in-depth journey through his aural masterpiece, offering listeners a blend of heartfelt lyrics and enchanting melodies that echo the raw beauty and wonder of Ireland.
Released in March 2024, "Cold Sea" has quickly connected with audiences worldwide ("Having great fun touring it"). He shares his experiences touring and meeting fans who have resonated deeply with his music. Before diving into the album, our conversation is structured around three pillars inspired by Arthur C. Brooks and Oprah Winfrey's book, "Build the Life You Want": family, impactful experiences, and friendships.
Oisin recounts his musical upbringing, with fond memories of his grandmother's melodies from an old dance hall in Donegal ("she worked, in 1950s dance hall...she would be making tea, soundcheck...she would be playing in the corner the piano") and his father's beautiful singing voice. He delves into how his childhood in Navan, Ireland, surrounded by music and theater, shaped his passion for the arts. We discuss his early influences, from Beck, Nirvana ("we loved Unplugged"), Bob Dylan ("I love all of Dylan's work"), and Woody Guthrie, and the pivotal moments that steered him toward a musical career.
In a heartfelt tribute, he reflects on the impact of artists like Sinead O'Connor ("she was a remarkable artist") and the support he has received from friends and mentors along the way. He shares valuable advice for aspiring musicians ("Once you do a gig, don't dwell on it in a negartive way") and talks about the importance of staying connected to one's music amidst the chaos of the modern world ("nurture it"). 
As we explore the making of "Cold Sea," Oisin reveals the inspiration behind the album's natural landscapes and the serendipitous collaboration with producer Steve Gunn ("I sent him a demo of October Sun and he wrote back and said I'm in"). He describes the creative process of recording in a remote cottage in Donegal and the importance of capturing the essence of the songs without overproduction. We also discuss the therapeutic nature of his music and how it has helped him navigate his own life.
Listeners are treated to insights into specific tracks from the album, including "Empire" ("and now I've got a record") and "Color of the Rain," as he explains the stories and grooves that define these songs. He emphasizes the open-ended nature of his lyrics, inviting listeners to bring their interpretations to his work. ("I've left the door open"). 
In addition to discussing his current projects, including his radio show "Caravan Radio" and upcoming tours, Oisin shares his favorite albums and offers rapid-fire answers to fun, personal questions. Dive into the world of "Cold Sea" and let Oisin's warm-hearted melodies carry you away into a world of great introspection which draws us closer to the human connection. 
 Follow Oisin Leech:https://www.oisinleech.com/
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Wednesday Sep 11, 2024

We kick off the episode with introductions, as Ryan Lescure, John Conley, and Becky Cale share their roles within their respective bands. Ryan, the primary songwriter, rhythm guitarist, and vocalist for Lavender Blush, John, the singer and rhythm guitarist for Desario, and Becky, the bassist and vocalist for Soft Science, share their opinions on some interesting passages from the popular book, The Creative Act: A Way of Being, written by Rick Rubin, legendary music producer. The conversation then shifts to the main topic: The Jesus and Mary Chain. Each guest recalls when the band entered their lives and the impact it had on their musical journeys.We each select and discuss tracks from the band's extensive discography that have inspired them. Ryan's picks include "Taste of Cindy" ("that vocal, that start...I replayed that song for an hour", while John highlights "Darklands" ("the thick fuzz just single strummed guitar behind it"), Becky shares her love for "Almost Gold" ("both of their voices so dreamy").
As the episode progresses, anticipation builds for an upcoming show in San Francisco organized by Ryan ("I'm starting an enterprise...record label and Bay Area concert promoter") He reveals his plans for a series of theme nights celebrating legendary bands, starting with The Jesus and Mary Chain. John and Becky share their excitement for the show, hinting at special setlists and new merchandise. The episode wraps up with my call to action for listeners to attend the show and experience the vibrant SF music scene.
Join us for this engaging episode filled with music, memories, and insights. Whether you're a longtime fan of The Jesus and Mary Chain, shoegaze, dreampop or indie music this discussion is sure to resonate and inspire --it's good for the soul!Follow Soft Science:https://linktr.ee/softscience?
Follow Desario:https://desario.bandcamp.com/
Follow Lavender Blush:https://lavenderblush.bandcamp.com/album/theres-nothing-inside-your-heart
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Surprise Cast #94 John Robb

Monday Sep 09, 2024

Monday Sep 09, 2024


In this captivating episode of Surprise Cast, I engage in a dynamic conversation with the versatile and influential John Robb. Known for his extensive contributions across multiple fields, he is a journalist, TV and radio presenter, and author who has left an indelible mark on pop culture and music journalism. He is also the frontman of the post-punk band The Membranes and the author of best-selling titles such as Stone Roses, Punk Rock and Oral History, Manchester: The North Will Rise Again, and The Art of Darkness: The History of Goth.
Broadcasting from the vibrant city of Manchester, John shares his unique insights on the evolution of pop culture, the history and impact of post-punk and goth music, and the changing landscape of journalism. "It's changed a lot... all of the bands have become the media... I like to contextualize," he notes. The episode kicks off with a rapid-fire round of questions, providing listeners with a glimpse into John's personal preferences and quirks, from his favorite Disney character to his idea on soulmates.
John delves into the cultural significance of bands like Joy Division, Sparks, The Wedding Present ("David is very good at writing pop songs... he's a very good songwriter"), The Chameleons ("They never sounded this good"), and The Stranglers ("A very dark band... wrote really great pop songs, melodically"), offering anecdotes and reflections on their influence. He also discusses his role as a "cultural connector," emphasizing the importance of mentorship and collaboration in the music industry. "Over the years, I've been involved with music and writing... you like to make things happen in culture... it's about the buzz of making things happen."
The conversation touches on the art of journalism, the role of instinct in creative processes, and the blurred lines between different disciplines in today's digital age. In a heartfelt segment, he reflects on his relationship with his late father and the qualities he inherited from him ("My dad was older... he didn't really want kids... I need the approval of my father"). He also shares stories about his mother, who remains a significant influence in his life. The discussion then shifts to John's approach to interviews and his philosophy of listening and engaging with authenticity.
The episode concludes with John's thoughts on the future, including his upcoming projects and the importance of embracing chaos and contradiction in art and life. Whether you're a fan of punk rock, an aspiring journalist, or someone interested in the intersections of music and culture, this episode promises to be a thought-provoking and inspiring listen. This is one amazing "cultural catalyst" that has the pulse on the landscape of the arts and how it unites us in a myriad of ways.Follow John Robb:https://www.instagram.com/johnrobb77/?hl=en
book order: https://membranes.bandcamp.com/merch/the-art-of-darkness-the-history-of-goth-john-robb-signed-2
https://louderthanwar.com/
https://www.facebook.com/johnrobb77/
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Thursday Aug 29, 2024

Welcome to another engaging episode of Surprise Cast. In this special episode, we are joined by Brendan Canty & Joe Lally from the band The Messthetics. They share their experiences, insights, and the journey that led them to where they are today.
Joe, who plays bass, joins us from Petworth in Northwest Washington DC, while Brendan, the drummer ("kind of the band manager), checks in from Wakefield, a suburb of Washington DC. They delve into their backgrounds, sharing childhood memories and how their upbringings have influenced their music careers.
Some of the conversation is structured around Arthur C. Brooks' book "The Build the Life You Want," which explores the pillars of happiness: family, friendships, and work. Joe and Brendan reflect on their family experiences, impactful childhood memories, and how these have shaped their perspectives and music. Joe reminisces about growing up in Rockville, Maryland, and how the cultural dynamics of his neighborhood influenced his worldview. ("A nice enough family...I'm thinking about making a record where all of the songs are named after all of the streets in my neighborhood"). Brendan shares stories of his large, chaotic family ("I was pretty much left to my own devices...I spent a lot of my time running up and down the street barefoot") and how the sense of community and freedom during his childhood contributed to his creative spirit. 
As the discussion transitions to friendships and mentorships, Joe and Brendan talk about the people who have inspired and supported them throughout their musical journeys. Joe highlights the importance of collaboration and the encouragement he received from friends and fellow musicians ("a high school friend who turned me onto punk rock...opened the door to whoa I could be in a band"), while Brendan emphasizes the value of inclusivity ("there are layers of mentors in life") and the impact of being part of a supportive music community ("the scene was really bustling...let's help each other flourish...there was a lot of goofing off...pretty geeky...really fun") in DC. He highlights the mentorship of Ian MacKaye ("he was putting out better and better records...enabling us to put out our own records...incredibly supportive") and the collaborative spirit that Joe brings to their friendship and musically ("Joe is incredibly stable...he builds a really awesome stable structure that I get to jump all over"). 
The final part of the conversation focuses on the work they do, particularly with The Messthetics. They discuss the creative process, the importance of spontaneity ("you can't wait for it to happen"), and how their music evolves through collaboration and improvisation. 
Tune in to this insightful episode to learn more about their musical journeys, the principles that guide their creativity, and the experiences that have shaped their careers. This episode offers a deep dive into the lives and minds of two highly talented and humble musicians. They certainly have "That Thang" going on - we also call that the "it" factor!Follow The Messthetics:https://themessthetics.bandcamp.com/album/the-messthetics-and-james-brandon-lewishttps://linktr.ee/messthetics
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Tuesday Aug 27, 2024

This week, we are thrilled to have Beth Arzy join us from Croydon, England, for an engaging and unpredictable conversation. Beth, known for her contributions to bands like Jetstream Pony ("these songs are so good...the demos turned out well...my role is lead singer, play tambourine") and The Luxembourg Signal, brings a wealth of musical experience and stories to the table.
We kick off the episode with some fun and rapid-fire questions, where Beth shares her favorite karaoke song, love for tacos, and quirky pets. We also dive into her childhood influences, including her obsession with The Monkees ("my gateway into music...made me want to pick up a tambourine), Kitchens of Distinction ("I love them so much...I'd bring them sunflowers"), The Jesus and Mary Chain, Ride, Bauhaus, Pale Saints and her journey through various musical phases. 
The conversation then shifts to Beth's musical career, starting with her involvement in Trembling Blue Stars ("the experience was wonderful...I'll never forget it, I always felt very included") and her transition to Jetstream Pony. She opens up about the challenges and triumphs of joining bands that were already beloved by fans and the process of creating new music that resonates with audiences.
We also discuss her role in The Luxembourg Signal, highlighting the camaraderie and long-standing friendships that make the band a unique and enjoyable experience for her. Beth's anecdotes about live performances, including memorable gigs with The Pastels, The Softies, Tony Malina, and Heavenly, are sure to captivate music lovers. ("back in my younger days, Blur and Pulp, Trashcan Sinatras, Belle and Sebastian, Peter Murphy and The Church...geez louise"). 
Throughout the episode, Beth's passion for music is palpable, whether she's talking about her favorite albums or the therapeutic nature of sound art. She shares her admiration for bands like The Jam, Style Council, Pete Astor, Slowdive, The Ocean Blue, and Soft Science ("I love them...if shoegaze and powerpop had a baby...I wanted to hold that baby"), offering listeners a curated list of must-hear records.
As we wrap up, Beth gives us a glimpse into her plans for the future, including possible upcoming releases from Jetstream Pony and her desire to attend more football matches. We end with a light-hearted rapid-fire round, where Beth's humor and honesty shine through. Giggle. Giggle. 
Tune in for an episode filled with laughter, insights, and a deep appreciation for the art of music. Whether you're a longtime fan of Beth's work or discovering her for the first time, this conversation is one you won't want to miss. 
"Look after your taco, and your taco will look after you" -  profound words to live by. Follow Beth Arzy:https://jetstreampony.bandcamp.com/https://theluxembourgsignal.bandcamp.com/
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Friday Aug 23, 2024

In this episode, W sits down with the talented and kind hearted Oli Steadman from the band Stornoway to discuss life as a musician, the band's journey, and the profound impact of music on both personal and collective levels.
W kicks off the conversation with a heartwarming backstory about using music to bring students together in his classroom, specifically through Stornoway's song "We Are the Battery Human." This leads to a discussion about the band's message of reconnecting with nature and stepping away from technology for well-being.
The episode delves into Oli's childhood experiences in South Africa (, his progressive education ("kids were all wacky and overstimulated b/c of busy, creative parents"), and the cultural impact of learning Zulu("history and culture"). Oli shares poignant memories of moving to the UK ("never got to say goodbye") and the challenges he faced, including the role of music in overcoming solitude. The conversation also touches on the powerful influence of Nelson Mandela ("one of a kind person, so special, genuine role model") and the inspiration drawn from his life.
We explore the concept of "friendtorships"—mentorships that also encompass deep friendships. Oli reflects on key figures in his life who have helped him grow, both personally and professionally, including his former bosses Jim Reynolds ("welcomed me to my first job...Jim had the most brutal and helpful, 1:1 chat w/ me") and Dean Curtis ("the kind of boss that everyone deserves to have"). The discussion emphasizes the importance of genuine connections and the role of technology in modern friendships.
As we transition to talk about Stornoway's work, their last performance,  the focus shifts to their 2023 album "Dig the Mountain" and the song "Trouble with the Green."(so many interpretations, it deals with stress, technically a description of the symptoms") Oli provides insights into the band's creative process, the challenges of lyric writing, and the evolution of their harmonious sound. The episode wraps up with a fun lightning round, giving listeners a glimpse into Oli's preferences and personality.
Don't miss this enlightening conversation filled with personal anecdotes, musical insights, and the essence of what makes Oli such a unique and creative person. His words will draw you in, hook, line, and sinker!Follow Oli Steadman:https://www.stornowayband.com/https://www.instagram.com/olikizuki/
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/4hkqdLRXDnfkqr1H0iCqEZ?si=8ZNaPzHcRxmpHVnW9XUpxQ&nd=1&dlsi=13fd4f9a55ca48e8
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