Surprise Cast

Surprise Cast #67 Mark Pellington

Welcome back to Surprise Cast, where we shine a spotlight on the luminaries who redefine our cultural landscape within the visual and performing arts. Today, we're diving into the visionary world of Mark Pellington, a name synonymous with innovation in the realms of directing, producing, and writing. Mark's career, marked by its diversity and depth, has left an important imprint on both the music and film industry. His work is not just viewed, it is immersive and experienced, leaving a lasting impact on audiences worldwide.
In this episode, Mark discusses his iconic contributions, including the groundbreaking music video for Pearl Jam's "Jeremy," which pushed the boundaries of music video production in the early 90s. ("Eddie Vedder's performance and just the timeless quality of his performance") We explore his creative journey, marked by bold risks and artistic triumphs that span various genres and mediums, each project reflecting his relentless pursuit of storytelling that challenges, entertains, and provokes.
Mark shares intimate reflections on his personal life, including the profound impact of family photographs ("It keeps them in my life") and the loss of loved ones ("for me are the incredible reminder of my love for them and the experience that we had. They're everything to me" ), which deeply influence his work. He opens up about his creative process, beginning from his days at MTV ("just blew my mind and opened my eyes and ears to a lot of different experiences") in the early '80s to his experiences directing feature films such as "Arlington Road." He also delves into his approach to filmmaking, his thoughts on creativity, and his unique perspective on balancing technical precision with emotional depth in his art.
The conversation also touches on Mark's recent and upcoming projects, including a documentary titled "This Was Buzz," and a book release slated for 2025, and his views on the evolving landscape of music videos and the film industry. Mark candidly shares his thoughts on the importance of staying true to one's creative instincts amidst changing cultural trends. ("They want the TikTok influence...that's the culture")
Join us for an insightful and heartfelt discussion with Mark, as we explore the intersections of creativity, memory, and the human experience. This episode promises to inspire and provoke thought, offering a deep dive into the mind of a creative visionary who continues to shape the world of visual storytelling in "31 flavors" of imagination! Follow Mark Pellington:https://www.markpellington.com/
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https://www.instagram.com/markpellington
https://vimeo.com/markpellington
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Surprise Cast #66 Chloe Manon (Graveface Records/Museum)

Welcome to a riveting episode of Surprise Cast, where we dive into the artistic journey of Chloe Manon. Join us as we explore the life and creative mind of this talented artist, who has made significant contributions to the art world through her unique and eclectic works.
Chloe Manon shares her early life experiences growing up on the east coast of Canada, where her passion for creating began. From crafting and knitting to sewing clothes for her Barbies, Chloe's childhood was filled with artistic exploration. "Constantly creating little things...always wanting to make something different..." She opens up about her family's influence and how her parents' separation led her to channel her energy into art.
In this episode, we delve into Chloe's teenage years, where she discovered her love for visual arts and photography. She recounts her experiences moving between schools and how this constant change shaped her social interactions and artistic pursuits. "I was always the weird kid." Chloe also discusses the impact of her mentors, especially her high school photography teacher, who encouraged her to push boundaries and explore new creative avenues. "She was super encouraging...pushed me to experiment."
Chloe's journey into the world of tattooing is both fascinating and inspiring. "A lot of touring around the US...it was quite a bit of fun" She takes us through the process of becoming a tattoo artist, from practicing on "light table...have steady long lines", pigskin and grapefruit to opening her own studio. She shares valuable insights for aspiring tattoo artists and discusses the evolution and normalization of tattoos in society. "Just practice...it gives you a feeling of what other people are feeling...learning by experience." 
The conversation then shifts to Chloe's significant role at Graveface Records("almost 200 releases, variety of bands/genres.") and Museum(Savannah, Georgia) where she collaborates with her husband, Ryan. She also provides a glimpse into the intriguing exhibits at the Graveface Museum, which features artifacts from true crime, cults, sideshow history, aliens, roadside attractions and more. 
Listeners will be captivated by Chloe's reflections on the mysterious and macabre elements that influence her art, her thoughts on the impact of AI on creativity ("it's sad"), and her future projects, including exciting releases from Graveface Films and a docu-series on the John Wayne Gacy case, "a larger story to be told...too many lingering unanswered questions."
Chloe details her meticulous work on the band, Beachy Head, self-titled album, "started to get into collaging...one of my favourite mediums". She tells us that she draws everything by hand. The old school method. 
Tune in for an insightful and engaging discussion with Chloe Manon, a true creative maverick who continues to push the boundaries of art. Hey Chloe, the Surprise Cast celebrates your weirdness...it makes our world far more interesting and thought provoking. Big Time!Follow Chloe Manon and Ryan Graveface:https://graveface.com/
https://linktr.ee/graveface
https://www.patreon.com/graveface
https://graveface.bandcamp.com/
https://www.instagram.com/chloemanon__/
 
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Surprise Cast #65 The Hanging Stars

The Hanging Stars have carved out a unique space in the music scene, combining the ethereal quality of cosmic country with the earthy roots of folk to create a sound that's both nostalgic and refreshingly new. Based in London, a city not traditionally known for its country or Americana music scene, the band brings an intriguing blend of influences that span across the Atlantic, infusing British folk pastoralism with the deep, resonant tones of 60s Americana. They recently released a gorgeous album entitled On a Golden Shore, featuring 11 songs of sweeping sounds that lead the way into new skies of sonic arrangements. 
In this episode, we are honored to welcome Richard Olson, singer-songwriter for The Hanging Stars. Richard shares his excitement about the release of On a Golden Shore, an album that has received favorable reviews. He reflects on the process of creating the album, the emotions involved, and how he hasn't yet had the chance to fully reflect on its impact due to the ongoing whirlwind of live performances and new projects.
The conversation takes an interesting turn as Richard delves into his childhood experiences, including his energetic nature and how he thrived on the energy of people around him. He shares anecdotes from his school days, his early musical influences, and the moment he first fell in love with music, mentioning bands like The Stone Roses ("blew my mind...feels like anything was possible with these melodies")  and Depeche Mode as pivotal in shaping his musical journey.
Richard also opens up about the rituals and routines that played a role in the making of On a Golden Shore. He describes the serene and inspirational environment of Edwin Collins' Clashnarrow Studio in the Scottish Highlands, where the album was recorded. The daily rituals of morning walks, coffee, and the creative energy of the studio contributed to the album's unique sound and feel.
The discussion then shifts to the themes and compositions of the album. Richard talks about specific tracks like "Happiness is a Bird" and "Silver Rings," providing insights into their lyrical content, musical arrangement, and the personal stories behind them. He emphasizes the importance of creating a world for listeners to step into and how the band's collaborative efforts brought the album to life. "I surround myself with these incredible people and players with incredible ability..."
In a heartfelt segment, Richard addresses deeper topics such as grief and how it has influenced his life and music. He shares his thoughts on the inevitability of pain and how it shapes one's identity and creative expression. This introspective discussion provides a glimpse into Richard's personal journey and the resilience that fuels his artistry. The episode concludes with some lighthearted fun, including a lightning round of questions and Richard's recommendations for albums that have influenced him. As we wrap up, Richard hints at exciting plans for The Hanging Stars in 2024. He expresses his gratitude for the deep and insightful questions, and leaves listeners with a sense of anticipation for what's to come. Join us for this engaging and enlightening conversation with Richard Olson, where we explore the music, the stories, and the heart behind The Hanging Stars' latest album, On a Golden Shore. ("Nothing has changed...lots of ways...everything has changed") - the true spirit of the band...they keep chasing that rush!Follow The Hanging Stars:https://www.thehangingstars.com/
https://www.instagram.com/thehangingstars/
https://soundcloud.com/thehangingstars
https://www.youtube.com/@thehangingstars
https://thehangingstars.bandcamp.com/album/on-a-golden-shore
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Surprise Cast #64 Newmoon

In this engaging episode of Surprise Cast, I sit down with Giel and Bert, members of the Belgium-based band Newmoon. Broadcasting all the way from San Francisco, we dive into the heart of Newmoon's musical journey, exploring their creative processes, inspirations, and the evolution of their sound.
Giel and Bert discuss their roles in the band, with Giel sharing insights on his guitar playing and vocal layering, while Bert opens up about his guitar work and singing. The episode starts on a reflective note with a nostalgic walk through their past musical influences, “good at their craft” from Queen, Prince (Purple Rain album), U2, Nirvana, Radiohead and The Cure. This personal exploration reveals the artists who have shaped their musical landscape and their "Beethoven moments."
Listeners are treated to an intimate look at the band's formation and creative evolution. They recount the spontaneous beginnings of Newmoon, their first demo recordings, and the swift rise to signing with Secret Voice, a label under Deathwish. They share stories of their travels and how these experiences influenced their debut album "Space" and their latest release "Temporary Light."
The conversation delves into the band's approach to their new album, highlighting their commitment to authenticity and the importance of gut instinct in their creative process. I read excerpts from Rick Rubin's "The Creative Act," sparking discussions about awareness and the guiding principles that shaped "Temporary Light." The band reflects on their freedom to experiment and the deliberate choices that led to the album's unique sound.
Listeners get a special treat as the episode features tracks from "Temporary Light," including "Fading Phase" (it took awhile to find the balance…the opening riff took 10-15 minutes…the puzzle pieces fell into place) and "Sense of Longing," (one of the last songs we made for the record, one main riff, main chords, we wanted to have a banger, straightforward song) with Giel and Bert providing their analysis and the stories behind these songs. The band also shares their thrilling experience working with Simon Scott (He was super friendly, super opinion…he was very involved, taking pride in his work) of Slowdive for the album's mastering, adding another layer of depth to their journey.
As the episode wraps up, Newmoon's future plans are revealed, with upcoming fall and winter shows in Europe(playing as many shows as we can) and a special unreleased ninth track from the "Temporary Light '' sessions. The lightning round offers a fun and quick-paced segment where they share personal tidbits and preferences, adding a light-hearted end to a rich and insightful conversation.
Join us for this heartfelt and intelligent discussion that not only celebrates Newmoon's music but also underscores the deep friendship and creative synergy that drive the band. Don't miss out on this episode that promises to resonate with fans and new listeners alike. Check out New Moon's tour dates and support their music on their official website, Facebook, and Bandcamp. Follow Newmoon:https://linktr.ee/newmoontheband
https://www.instagram.com/newmoontheband/
https://www.facebook.com/newmoontheband
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Surprise Cast #63 Soundwire, Jetstream Pony, and Secret Shine

Welcome to another captivating episode of Surprise Cast. This episode promises an enriching dive into the world of indie music, featuring conversations with members from three remarkable bands. Joining us from various corners of the world are Scott (Secret Shine), Pete and Simon (Soundwire), and Sean (Jetstream Pony). These talented musicians share their unique insights and experiences, shedding light on what it means to be a musician in today's dynamic landscape.
Scott opens up about his journey with Secret Shine, reflecting on the band's evolution and his personal transformation from a passionate young musician to a seasoned artist who now enjoys the process without the pressure of seeking fame. He recounts the band's creative process, particularly the making of their song "Falling Again," highlighting the collaborative effort and the joy of recording in a French studio.
Pete and Si of Soundwire delve into their meticulous approach to songwriting and recording. They discuss the balance between spontaneity and precision, sharing anecdotes about their collaborative lyric-writing sessions and the influence of diverse musical tastes on their sound. They also touch on the challenges and joys of maintaining a unique musical identity amidst external influences. Check out their analysis on the wonderful tune, 'Everything is Real'. 
Sean from Jetstream Pony provides a glimpse into the band's creative process, emphasizing the importance of lyrics and melody. He shares his experiences of balancing musical pursuits with personal life and the thrill of creating music that resonates with both the band and their audience. The band's song "Look Alive," featured on the Under the Bridge compilation, exemplifies their commitment to producing fresh and engaging music. Pay close attention to when he speaks reverently about The Fall. Throughout the episode, our guests reflect on their + and - school experiences, the impact of early musical influences, and the enduring passion that drives their creative endeavors. They also discuss the significance of the Under the Bridge compilation, which brings together bands with a connection to the legendary Sarah Records, showcasing new music that continues the label's legacy. The conversation culminates with a preview of their highly anticipated show in Bristol on June 14th, a must-attend event for fans of indie music.
Tune in to this episode of Surprise Cast for an inspiring exploration of the creative pulse that drives these talented musicians. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to their music, this episode offers a wealth of insights and stories that celebrate the art of making music and friendship. Follow Soundwire:https://soundwiremusic.bandcamp.com/
Follow Jetstream Pony:https://jetstreampony.bandcamp.com/album/jetstream-pony
Follow Secret Shine:https://secretshine.bandcamp.com/
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Surprise Cast #62 Homework

Welcome to another episode of Surprise Cast with your host, W. In this special episode, we jump deep into the vibrant world of the Glasgow-based band Homework. Joining us from the band are Santiago, Lizzie, Michael, and Andrew, who share their musical journeys, inspirations, and what lies ahead for them in 2024.
 
We kick off the episode with Santiago, who discusses his role as a guitarist, vocalist, and songwriter. He shares anecdotes about his childhood in Argentina, his early musical influences like The Beatles and Nine Inch Nails, and how his love for drawing has shaped the band's visual aesthetics. Lizzie, the band's dynamic drummer, joins in to talk about her role, her inspirations like Karen Carpenter and Keith Moon, and her unique journey into drumming. Michael and Andrew also share their experiences, with Michael reflecting on his childhood between London and Aberdeen, eldest of three, and his initial resistance to learning the piano. Andrew provides a fascinating insight into his upbringing in Dumfries, his early musical influences, and playing plenty of music. The band members discuss their collaborative process, the challenges they face, and how they manage to blend their individual talents to create their unique sound.
We delve into their latest release, the Easy Money EP, exploring tracks like "Dummy Run" and "Marina Bay Sands." Santiago and Michael discuss the evolution of these songs, from their initial ideas to the final recordings, while Andrew and Lizzie share their perspectives on the creative process and the joy of performing live.
The episode also features a thought-provoking discussion on the concepts of success, experimentation, and finishing in the creative process, inspired by passages from Rick Rubin's book The Creative Act. Some members of the band reflect on whether they see themselves as experimenters or finishers, offering a glimpse into their artistic philosophies.
Finally, the band hints at what's coming up for them in 2024, including the potential for an album and more live gigs outside of Glasgow. They also share why attending a Homework concert is a unique and worthwhile experience, promising energetic performances and a genuine connection with the audience.
Join us for this warm-hearted and insightful conversation with Homework, a band that is as dedicated to their dazzling craft as they are to each other. Discover their music on Bandcamp and Spotify, and keep an eye out for their upcoming projects; this is one assignment at home or on the road you will enjoy.
 
Follow Homework:https://www.facebook.com/homeworkglasgow
https://linktr.ee/homeworktunez
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Surprise Cast #61 Closedown

The resurgence of Closedown, with the re-release of their iconic album 'Nearfield', now aptly renamed 'Dissolve', marks a significant moment for aficionados of the dream pop and shoegaze genres. This LA-based group, originally merging in the early 1990s, has always possessed a distinctive sound that set them apart from their contemporaries. Their music, a lush tapestry of ethereal soundscapes, encapsulates the essence of Shoegaze with its dense layers of guitar and haunting vocals. The addition of the previously unreleased track Skywards to their re-release not only enriches the album but also offers fans and new listeners alike a glimpse into what might have been.Closedown's music continues to resonate because it captures a timeless quality, an echo of longing that feels as relevant today as it did in the 90s. With Dissolve, Closedown invites us to lose ourselves once again in their dreamlike soundscapes, proving that some visions only grow more potent with time.
In this episode of Surprise Cast, we welcome Jerry, James, and Scott from the band. They share their insights and stories about the band's origins, their creative process, and the journey of re-releasing their seminal album. "We all had the same mindset...we all thought the same fashion." Listeners will learn about each member's role in the band and their personal backgrounds, providing a deeper understanding of what shaped their unique sound.
The discussion also delves into the band's challenges and triumphs, including their experiences with recording, working with the wonderfully talented, Simon Scott (Slowdive/Three Quarter Skies), "he's an awesome guy", the influence of other bands like Slowdive, and the significance of their live performances. The band members share their thoughts on the evolving music industry and the technological advancements that have impacted their music-making process. "It was all very romantic and we were pushing the boundaries!"
Join us for an intimate and revealing conversation with Closedown as they reflect on their past, celebrate their present, and look forward to their future. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to their music, this episode offers a comprehensive and engaging look into the world of Closedown. Don't miss out on this deep dive into the ethereal and timeless soundscapes of one of shoegaze's most intriguing bands. Tune in and let the music of Closedown transport you. Feel the power of their incredibly long lasting and tight as a snare drum friendship!
Follow Closedown:https://paintedair.bandcamp.com/album/dissolve
https://www.instagram.com/painted_air/
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Surprise Cast #60 Waves Crashing

Emerging from the indie music scene of Seattle, Washington, Waves Crashing has swiftly carved out its niche within the alternative/shoegaze music landscape. With a distinctive approach that weaves together the rich tapestry of 80s and 90s alternative sounds, this group has managed to breathe new life into the genre. Their music, characterized by lush soundscapes and fresh melodic hooks, reflects a deep reverence for the past while boldly pushing forward into the uncharted territories of sound. Waves Crashing is undoubtedly a band to watch in the burgeoning alternative indie music scene.
In this episode of Surprise Cast, host William welcomes Josh Calisti, the frontman of Waves Crashing. Josh shares his journey from growing up in New Jersey, to becoming a pivotal figure in the alternative indie music scene. He also discusses the unique character of Olympia, its rich musical history, and how it influenced his musical career.
Josh delves into his role in the band, revealing how he balances singing, playing guitar, and managing the band. He recounts a life-changing concert experience seeing Paul McCartney, which left him with an indelible impression and reinforced his passion for music.
Listeners will get a glimpse into Josh's school life, his struggles with self-esteem, and how these experiences have shaped his music. He talks about the profound impact of his early musical influences, including the Smashing Pumpkins and Bush, and how they steered him toward creating his unique sound.
The conversation also covers the creative process, with Josh sharing his methods for overcoming writer's block and the importance of stepping back when feeling forced. He explains how different environments and inspirations, such as travel and film, can reignite creativity.
Josh provides insights into the dynamics of Waves Crashing, highlighting the strengths and contributions of his bandmates, Bryce and Josh (number two). He emphasizes the importance of genuine collaboration and the value of each member's unique skills in shaping the band's sound.
The episode features an analysis of two standout tracks, "Life on Display" from the EP 'The Viewing' and "Wish" from the EP 'Ancora.' Josh breaks down the songwriting process, the inspiration behind the lyrics, and the evolution of these songs within the band.
This episode is a must-listen for fans of Waves Crashing and anyone interested in the inner workings of the indie music scene. Josh Calisti's candid and thoughtful responses provide a deep understanding of the passion and dedication that drive his music.
 

Surprise Cast #59 Andrew Rose

Welcome to another engaging episode of Surprise Cast! In this special installment, I sit down with the talented Andrew Rose, a musician, and mastering engineer, to delve into his fascinating life and career. Broadcasting from a picturesque village in southwest France, Andrew brings a unique blend of stories and insights from his diverse experiences.
Listeners will be captivated by Andrew's anecdotes about his childhood, his early musical inspirations ("My mum was very musical, that meant there was music in the house...we had a piano which I learned to play") from late-night BBC radio shows (John Peel), and his initial forays into songwriting. He shares touching stories about his supportive parents ("they didn't object to me going on and studying music at university"), his musical endeavors with a childhood neighbor, and the pivotal moments that shaped his career.
Andrew shares his journey from working at the BBC in London to living in a serene French village for the past 20 years. He reveals his deep connection with music, stemming from a childhood filled with musical influences, and his evolution into a musician and mastering engineer. The episode takes a deep dive into the Art and Science of Happiness, written by Arthur C. Brooks and Oprah Winfrey's book, "Build the Life You Want." Focusing on three pillars of happiness—family, friendship/collaboration and work—Andrew reflects on his personal and professional life.
The conversation transitions into Andrew's thoughts on collaboration and friendship within the music industry. He highlights the importance of supportive relationships, recounting memorable collaborations and/or conversations with friends like Mary Wayer (Even As We Speak), members of Slowdive, and Robin Guthrie (Cocteau Twins).
The episode delves into his Callière recent work, including the latest album "Fade," which was born out of a period of intense personal reflection and creative exploration. Andrew candidly shares the emotional journey behind the album, discussing how a misdiagnosis led to a burst of creativity and introspection. He provides insights into the recording process, the challenges he faced, and the triumphs that emerged from this deeply personal project.
Listeners are treated to an exclusive listening session of two tracks from "Fade"—the hauntingly beautiful title track and the epic closing song "Open My Eyes." Andrew provides the backstory and creative process behind these tracks, offering a glimpse into his artistic mind.
Join us for this intimate and inspiring conversation with Andrew Rose, where music, emotion, and creativity intertwine to create a compelling narrative. Check out his work on Bandcamp and Spotify, and immerse yourself in the sonic landscapes he crafts with such passion and dedication. "And you kind of get that respect that people know what you're talking about." He certainly does...not a false note in his remarkable stories.
 
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Follow Andrew Rose:
https://www.pristineclassical.com/
https://www.facebook.com/andrew.rose.pristine
https://calliere.bandcamp.com/
https://www.instagram.com/andrewrosepristine/
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Surprise Cast #58 Air Formation

Air Formation, hailing from the vibrant city of Brighton, has swiftly carved a niche for themselves in the expansive realm of dream pop and post-rock music. Composed of five talented individuals—Matt Bartram on vocals and guitar, Ben Pierce on bass, Richard Parks on keyboards, Ian Sheridan on guitar, and James Harrison on drums—their collective sound is a mesmerizing blend that echoes the depth and intensity of their influences. Their music often evokes a sense of haunting beauty, drawing listeners into a world where ethereal melodies and powerful instrumentals intertwine seamlessly.
In this episode, we dive into the world of Air Formation, exploring their journey, influences, and the unique sound that draws inspiration from the likes of Mogwai and Explosions in the Sky. We welcome Matt and Ben to discuss their roles in the band, their experiences growing up, and how they have maintained their friendship and musical collaboration over the years. The duo shares insights into their creative process, highlighting the importance of mutual respect and understanding in crafting their distinct sound. Their stories paint a vivid picture of their evolution as musicians and the unbreakable bond that fuels their artistic endeavors.
We'll also delve into their latest self-titled album, breaking down tracks like "Only So Much Light" and "The Final Wave" and working with the legendary Simon Scott(Slowdive/Three Quarter Skies)"He knows what our sound is..." Discover the stories behind the music, the challenges they've faced, and the joys of creating art together. Join us for an engaging conversation that highlights the importance of friendship, family, and the enduring power of music. Tune in to hear more about the band's upcoming projects, cool album recommendations, live performance audience connections ("we're in the crowd with everyone else watching the band we're supporting...I don't think we hide")and what the future holds for Air Formation. Don't miss this insightful episode that celebrates the essence of originality and depth in music, offering a deeper appreciation for the intricate layers that define Air Formation's sonic landscape.Follow Air Formation:https://airformation.bandcamp.com/album/air-formation
https://www.facebook.com/airformation/
https://www.instagram.com/airformation?igsh=ZDhsczEycHVvZjlx
https://x.com/AirFormation?t=AJww2_sWSXExFiPUenZ46g&s=09
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