Surprise Cast

Surprise Cast #186 Heavenly

What makes this dynamic duo such a fabulous team?We delve into the lives and minds of two influential musicians, Amelia Fletcher and Rob Pursey, members of bands like Heavenly, Swansea Sound, and The Catenary Wires. They provide a personal reflection on historical events, political perspectives, the Heavenly reformation, and concerns about A.I. Rounding off with exciting updates, the duo talks about their recent and upcoming releases, including the reissue of Heavenly's 'Operation Heavenly' and their latest singles. Amelia and Rob pack the conversation with intelligent insights and humorous tales. Follow Heavenly: https://www.facebook.com/HeavenlyGroupOfficial
Purchase from Skep Wax Records: https://www.skepwax.com/
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Surprise Cast #185 Matt Aston

What makes a die hard Wedding Present fan? This episode explores the fascinating journey from concept to reality as Matt shares his experience of bringing the TWP music to life on stage. He recounts his own journey from being a music fan to directing theater productions, detailing how university life opened his eyes to new ways of thinking and ultimately led him into the theater world. Matt discusses the challenges and triumphs of creating a musical based on The Wedding Present's music. He opens up about working closely with the band's frontman, David Gedge, receiving his blessing, and the meticulous process of curating songs for the show. Showtime!Follow: https://www.weddingpresentmusical.com/
Follow: https://www.scopitones.co.uk/
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Surprise Cast #184 Catherine Laura (Photographer)

How does Catherine "find the magic"?We dive deep into a conversation with the talented photographer, Catherine Laura. Broadcasting from her quaint town in northern England, she shares her unique journey as an artist, mother, scuba diving enthusiast, and creative photographer. Her personality is as warm and infectious as a La's tune!Follow Catherine: https://www.catherinelaura.com/
Follow Surprise Cast: Amazon, Apple, iHeart, Podbean, Spotify, or YouTube*Additional music by Ocie Elliot, Kirsty Almeida, and Six Pence None the Richer

Surprise Cast #183 Bobby Martinez (Dandy Boy Records)

Who has the pulse on the heartbeat of the Bay Area's music scene?Bobby Martinez, founder of Dandy Boy Records, joins me for a journey through music, memories, and the vibrant culture that shapes underground music. He shares his music-rooted life story, reminiscing about his early days and experiences that ignited his love for punk rock. He takes us on a tour through the legendary Gilman Street in Berkeley, a special venue that remains a beacon for underground music enthusiasts. We explore his passion for writing about music and the evolution of his record label, Dandy Boy Records, which supports artists often seen as 'awkward kids' in the music realm. We uncover the stories behind a gentleman who gives us panoramic insights about the bones of East Bay music culture. Go forth with the podcast adventure. 
*music courtesy of Grey Causeway, Kelly Stoltz, RYLI, The 1981, Smile Too Much, Whitney's PlaylandFollow Dandy Boy Records: https://dandyboyrecords.bandcamp.com/
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Surprise Cast #182 Philip Ekström (The Mary Onettes)

What does it mean to live creatively and authentically?Philip Ekström from the band The Mary Onettes broadcasts from his hometown of Gothenburg, Sweden. He shares insights into his life and music, offering listeners a rich tapestry of personal ideas and artistic thoughts. The episode explores his life as an artist and a highly dedicated father. Philip shares thoughtful reflections on his upbringing, deep love for literature, The Sundays, and physics. Get ready for some inspiring insights from a gentleman who seems to have his ears and eyes open to life's possibilities. Follow The Mary Onettes: https://themaryonettes.bandcamp.com/track/eyes-open-feat-maja-milner
Follow Surprise Cast: Amazon, Apple, iHeart, Podbean, or Spotify*Extra music courtesy of The Frank and Walters and The Sundays. 

Surprise Cast #181 Pete Paphides

Did you know that Pete is more than just a music journalist?He shares insights that extend beyond his profession, delving into his Greek heritage and how it has shaped his life and career. Pete reflects on his dynamic relationships with friends, formative musical influences, and his childhood experiences that imbued him with emotional intelligence and resilience. Enjoy some very poignant insights from a gentleman that is filled with enriching philosophies on life. Follow Needle Mythology: https://needlemythology.com/
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Surprise Cast #180 The Julies

What is the importance of lifelong friendship, faith, and music?I sat down with Chris Newkirk and Alex Yost from the alternative indie band, The Julies. We explore the dynamic blend of 80s post-punk, 90s shoegaze, and other influences that shape their unique sound. They share personal narratives about their roles in the band, their creative processes influenced by deep-rooted faith, and a shared love for timeless music, particularly The Cure. Appreciate how they discuss the impact of family and friendship. This is a compelling episode filled with the essence of the healing and transformative power of l-o-v-e. Feel the weight of their Philly authenticity!Follow The Julies: https://thejulies.bandcamp.com/track/black-metalFollow Surprise Cast: Amazon, Apple, iHeart, Podbean, or Spotify

Surprise Cast #179 Newmoon

How many great shoegaze/alternative bands come from Belgium?Enjoy my second conversation with Newmoon's front man, Bert Cannaerts! We discuss profound themes from Ethan Hawke's book, 'Rules for a Knight,' guiding conversation on inner conflict, kindness, humility, and pride through metaphorical reflections on wolves and knights. So fun!This episode is filled with heartfelt dialogue and tremendous honesty. Bert's answers are quite stellar!Follow Newmoon: https://linktr.ee/newmoontheband
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Surprise Cast #178 Mina Tindle

What makes Mina's story so extraordinary?I have a heartfelt conversation with the talented singer-songwriter Mina Tindle, who joins me from the beautiful part of France. She opens up about her creative journey, personal inspirations, and the compelling experiences that have shaped her art. We explore her childhood memories, the influence of her family, her collaborations with her husband, Bryce Dessner of the indie band, The National, new songs, and motherhood.Enjoy her emotional truth and feel a heartbeat that resonates with confidence and artistic integrity!Follow Mina Tindle: https://www.minatindle.com/Follow Bryce Dessner: https://brycedessner.com/
Follow The National: https://www.americanmary.com/
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Surprise Cast #177 Kirsty Almeida & Matt Owens

How do Kirsty and Matt bring such harmony to our ears!
We leap into the creative journey with special guests, Kirsty Almeida and Matt Owens. Matt, with his roots in jazz and a passion for innovative compositions, softly and intelligently shares his perspectives behind the new work for the album, "Keys". Kirsty, known for her authentic vocals and highly creative spirit, discusses her integral role in the album, infusing it with her angelic voice and emotional weight. The conversation touches on her contributions to the album, and the stories and emotions that guided their creation as a unified team.  Get a better sense of their collaboration and how they strike the perfect balance that allows them to capture such energy. This episode is rich and insightful. It's a harmonious blend of amazing craftsmanship, friendship, and wonderful spontaneity. What gifts they provide that are natural and quite impactful!Follow Kirsty Almeida: https://www.instagram.com/kirstyalmeida/
Follow Matt Owens: https://www.mattowens.co.uk/Follow Surprise Cast: Amazon, Apple, iHeart, Podbean, or Spotify.