H.I. Art on the Edge

Surprise Cast #41 Montjuïc

Welcome to a heartfelt episode of Surprise Cast, where we leap into the sincere and inspiring stories of Ian Carmichael (The Orchids/One Dove) and James Hackett(The Orchids), two extraordinary artists. In this episode, we navigate the twists and turns of their creative journeys, exploring the profound impact of their early lives, personal challenges, and the fusion of their artistic paths.
Ian and James, friends with deep roots and shared experiences, open up about their formative years, shedding light on how their early life experiences and influences shaped their artistic expressions. Ian discusses how he battled horrible hayfever and channeled the anger/grief of his early years into his music, transforming pain into powerful art, while James reveals how overcoming difficult family dynamics in Glasgow helped him discover his unique musical journey. In addition, "having a complete fascination with David Bowie" helped him escape into a different world of imagination. This episode takes a deeper turn as Ian courageously speaks about his journey of coming out as a gay man, highlighting how embracing his sexuality not only redefined his personal life but also brought a new depth to his music, symbolizing the importance of self-expression and authenticity.
As we journey further, Ian and James reflect on the evolution of their music, from their past projects with One Dove and The Orchids to their exciting new venture, Montjuïc. They share the stories behind their new songs, offering listeners exclusive insights into the creative process and the emotional depth of their lyrics and downtempo sound. This episode of Surprise Cast is not just a conversation; it's an exploration of personal growth, the power of embracing one's identity, and the boundless possibilities that arise when artists boldly express themselves.
Join us in this enlightening and thoughtful episode of Surprise Cast, as we celebrate the art of Ian and James, and the beautiful music that emerges when artists stay true to themselves. Be prepared for an episode filled with exclusive sneak peeks, heartfelt stories behind the songs, and the mesmerizing sound of Montjuïc, proving once again that being "freaks" of nature is indeed a wonderful thing. "It evolves into something beyond..." Darn right!Follow Montjuïc: https://montju1c.bandcamp.com/track/your-shamehttps://linktr.ee/montjuic_https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61553851096364
Follow The Orchids:https://www.facebook.com/groups/theorchidshttps://www.theorchids.net/
https://twitter.com/the0rchids
Follow H.I. Art on the Edgehttps://www.facebook.com/H.I.ArtontheEdge
https://twitter.com/thehiart418
 
 

Surprise Cast #40 Murray Easton/Mark Rolfe

In this warm episode brought to you by Surprise Cast, listeners are invited to jump into the lives and musical experiences of Murray Easton and Mark Rolfe, two talented musicians hailing from Scotland and England, respectively. Embarking on a journey that is both personal and universal, the episode unfolds the early musical exposures and inspirations that led these artists down the path to their current successes. Murray, with his deep-seated passion for pop music shares how music has been a cornerstone in his life for not only personal enjoyment but also for fostering connections with his family. In parallel, Mark's musical voyage, ignited by the emotive power of movie scores, showcases the depths of music's influence, strengthened by cherished family moments and evolving into a significant career in music.
Throughout the episode, listeners are treated to intimate anecdotes that weave the tapestry of Murray and Mark's musical development. Murray articulates music as an essential escape, a vehicle for enhancing mental health, and a source of unadulterated fun. On the other hand, Mark views music as a therapeutic force, a means for self-improvement, and a journey of perpetual learning. These perspectives offer invaluable insights into the multifaceted role of music in personal growth and well-being.
The episode gracefully culminates with a nostalgic nod to Teenage Fanclub, a legendary Scottish alternative rock band, drawing connections to the musical endeavors of our featured musicians. This conversation not only highlights the individual and collective journeys of Murray and Mark but also shines a spotlight on their latest collaborative project, which pay homage to the lesser-known but deeply impactful works of TCS through cover versions. This exploration into the "b-sides, rarities, and deep cuts" a successful project entitled, ‘What They Do To Me’ (Winnetka Records) illuminates the profound interconnectedness of music, its enduring impact on our lives, and the unique pathways artists traverse to bring their visions to life. Join us in this extraordinary auditory exploration on Surprise Cast, where the power of music and the stories behind it are celebrated in all their indie pop glory.Follow Murray and Mark:https://www.facebook.com/everythingflows
https://twitter.com/starboardhazes?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR2YNX73r3jbp87gwmlsn8dH4z2CThFLNeVxd9WC-IICHZpp7FNYu2YcDLM_aem_AZNFCn7jtnFNIgrhAv4nZQr0px5C4h3RnqBi4wsEj7cC49slRvlmNEvaGXgpkE9biL54nHdHHqCerHxO9zFSOCgw
https://www.facebook.com/markrolfe1975
https://winnetkarecords.bandcamp.com/album/what-they-do-to-mehttps://winnetkarecords.bandcamp.com/album/what-they-do-to-me-volume-ii
https://theslowreturn.bandcamp.com/
 

Surprise Cast #39 Miki Berenyi

In this special episode of Surprise Cast, we are honored to share the deeply personal and inspiring journey of Miki Berenyi, whose musical talents have graced the indie scene with bands like Lush and now Piroshka and Miki Berenyi trio. Our conversation with Miki unfolds in a narrative that resembles the chapters of a compelling book, each segment revealing the layers of experience that have shaped her unique perspective on life, love, and music.
Chapter 1, titled "Baby Talk Years," takes us through Miki's early days, where the blend of cultural influences and her family's dynamics laid the foundation of her understanding of the world. Through stories of her upbringing, Miki shares the dichotomy of right versus wrong as seen through the lens of American cinema, literature, and the complexities of parenting. This chapter is not just about the struggles; it's about the awakening of Miki's musical soul, where the strings of a guitar resonated with the chords of her heart, setting her on a path of artistic discovery. 
As we transition into Chapter 2, "Desiring Lines of Escapism," Miki opens up about the intricacies of love, the challenges she faced, and the escape she found in music. This chapter delves into the darker, more introspective facets of her journey, highlighting how her experiences with love, pain, and music intertwine to guide her on a path of self-discovery. Miki's openness about her adolescence, the concept of "Shenpa," and the battle with habits that shaped her, offers an unfiltered look into the transformative power of hardships and the comfort found in musical expression.
Chapter 3 - NEVER ENOUGH TIME - will be part of episode 2, which will be arriving soon.
Join us on Surprise Cast as Miki Berenyi shares her heart, hardships, and triumphs, offering listeners an intimate glimpse into the life of a musician who has lived passionately and learned profoundly. Her extraordinary story is a reminder of the power of love and all of the different colours it imbues. Follow Miki Berenyi:ttps://mikistuff.com/
Facebook
Twitter
Instagram
YouTubeFollow H.I. Art on the Edge:Instagram, Twitter/X and Facebook
 
 
 
 
 

Surprise Cast #38 Keeley Moss

In the extremely heartfelt continuation of our exploration into Keeley Moss's artistic journey, "Floating Above Everything Else" emerges not just as an album but as a narrative deeply intertwined with the artist's soulful odyssey. Keeley's candid reflection on the profound impact of Inga Maria Hauser's tragedy reveals the layers of empathy, sorrow, and ultimately, artistic transformation that have shaped her music. As Keeley writes, "So many twists and turns have occurred in the case throughout this time, hopes have been raised and dashed so many times, all manner of strange mutations have seen this case wind it’s way to it’s current status, and yet the mystery surrounding the precise circumstances of Inga’s death remains exactly that – a mystery. This episode delves into Keeley's introspective process of converting personal and historical grief into compelling musical expressions, offering listeners a rare glimpse into the emotional and intellectual depth behind her work.
With tracks like 'The Glitter and The Glue' and 'To a London Sunrise,' listeners are invited to traverse the emotional landscapes that KEELEY band navigates in the songwriting. 'The Glitter and The Glue' encapsulates the dichotomy of resilience and vulnerability, a theme that resonates throughout the album. A song that "wrote itself, very direct, and quite punky." Meanwhile, 'To a London Sunrise' serves as a poignant homage to Inga Maria Hauser, translating the gentle whispers of her story into a serene yet stirring melody. "It opens a window to a side of Inga's story." The episode enriches our appreciation for the album by unraveling the intricate layers of production and lyricism that make each song a tapestry of human emotion, fragility, and an immersive experience.
As the episode unfolds, Keeley's playful engagement with the legacy of iconic Britpop bands adds a lighter tone, showcasing her amazingly broad musical influences and affable personality. Her mind is an encyclopedia when it comes to the history of this influential period in British life and culture. Yet, it's her forward-looking vision that captivates the listeners, teasing the prospect of a live album at the legendary 100 Club and other cool ideas. Maybe "releasing 1 album a year, every year...to create the sonic story."Keeley Moss's journey is a testament to the power of music as a vessel for emotional healing, storytelling, and profound connection, inviting listeners to not only appreciate her artistry but also to find reflections of their own stories within her melodies. This episode stands as a tribute to the enduring spirit of creativity and the unbreakable bond between an artist and her muse. What brave warriors!Follow KEELEY band:https://twitter.com/KEELEYsound
https://keeleysound.com/
https://www.facebook.com/keeleysound
https://www.instagram.com/keeleysound
https://www.patreon.com/keeleysound
Follow H.I. ART ON THE EDGE:https://www.facebook.com/H.I.ArtontheEdge
https://www.instagram.com/h.i.artontheedge/
https://twitter.com/thehiart418
 

Surprise Cast #37 David Newton (The Mighty Lemon Drops)

In this riveting episode of the Surprise Cast, we dive deep into the heart of the 80s alternative rock scene with a special focus on the 1992 'Ricochet' album by the iconic Mighty Lemon Drops. Our journey is enriched by an intimate conversation with the band's guitarist and songwriter, David Newton. Through his eyes, we explore the vibrant punk rock scene that captured his imagination and set him on a path to musical stardom. Newton's story is one of passion, from his early days writing for fanzines and experimenting with sounds in high school punk bands to the formation of The Mighty Lemon Drops, a band that would leave an indelible mark on the music industry.
As we navigate through Newton's career, we uncover the trials and triumphs faced by the band. The Mighty Lemon Drops' rise to fame was not without its hurdles, yet their dedication to their craft saw them s-h-i-n-e through. Newton shares his perspective on songwriting, revealing the intricate process behind creating albums like 'Ricochet'. His keen insights into overcoming criticism for their previous album, ‘Sound’ and staying true to their musical vision offer a fascinating glimpse into the band's creative process. The story of 'Ricochet's' creation is particularly compelling, from the hurdles of recording to the thoughtful design of its album cover by Keith Rowley and the profound depth in writing songs like 'Nothing' and 'From the Sky'.
In a candid reveal, David Newton discusses the behind-the-scenes of 'Ricochet', from its initial recording sessions to the exciting news of its upcoming re-release on vinyl. Fans of the Mighty Lemon Drops and newcomers alike will be captivated by the dedication and inspiration that fueled the creation of 'Ricochet'. This episode not only sheds light on Newton's musical journey and the influences that shaped his career but also offers a sneak peek into his future projects.
Join us on the Surprise Cast for an unforgettable exploration of David Newton's legacy in the music industry, from his humble beginnings in Wolverhampton to his enduring impact on the world of alternative rock.
FOLLOW DAVID:https://www.facebook.com/davidnewtonandtheemightyangels/
https://twitter.com/theemightyangel?lang=enhttps://www.facebook.com/themightylemondrops
 
 

Surprise Cast #36 Retina Sky

Join us on Surprise Cast for an entertaining encounter with the indie rock band, Retina Sky based out of Chicago. In this episode, we explore the intimate journey into the musical lives of band members Danny, Nathaniel, and Krystle, uncovering their individual stories, shared passions, and the unique challenges they've faced in the music industry.
Dive into how Danny transformed from a 'weird' improvising kid to an accomplished guitarist and visual artist whose imagination “would go all over the place.” Discover Nathaniel's passion for music that began at an early age with a voice so loud it would shake the neighborhood. “Not much of a talker, but I loved to sing!” his way of connecting to people. Meet Krystle, a self-professed “loner” whose unique trait fueled her journey from reluctant orchestra member to the heart and soul of the band's rhythm section, the drums. “I can be messy, I can be myself!”
We leap into the band's musical evolution, influenced by a broad range of artists and fond family memories tied with music. Hear them recall the impact bands like Green Day, My Chemical Romance, Pink Floyd, Rage Against the Machine, Incubus New Order, Lincoln Park and learn how the emergence of file sharing and online platforms ignited their early interests in music. “Trying to find anything and everything...” Incubus “was the common thread” that brought the band closer together.
This dynamic chat with the key figures of indie rock band Retina Sky delves into their origin story, the evolution of their music, and their aspirations for the future. Learn about how the band navigated through lineup changes, used online platforms for recruitment, and maintained their shared joy of creating music together.
Get an insight into their artistic process of song creation and evolution, and how they encourage feedback to constantly improve their performances. Hear about their views on success, their approach towards writing and composing music, and how their four-song EP 'Without Hope We Wither' EP came into being.
The episode also sheds light on the individual journey of each member and how it adds to the larger narrative of the band and its evolving identity. Featuring enlightening discussions about their live performances, the nuances and challenges they face, and the lessons learned, this episode leaves no stone unturned in presenting the riveting story of Retina Sky. This band is fully clicking and firing on all cylinders. Chicago style!https://linktr.ee/retinasky
https://www.instagram.com/retinasky/
https://www.tiktok.com/@retinaskymusic
https://twitter.com/Retinaskymusic
https://retinasky.bandcamp.com/album/without-hope-we-wither
 

Surprise Cast #35 Masal

In the latest Surprise Cast episode, we jump into the captivating world of Masal, a music duo composed of Alastair Johnson and Ozlem Simseck. They are joined by the artistically adept companion, Suezy Johnson. This trio takes listeners on an auditory expedition, tracing back to the roots of their musical entanglement and the unique blend of influences that mold their distinctive sound. The episode is impregnated with incredible narratives. Listen to Oz's vivid recounting of her Turkish upbringing and mom’s influences. She discusses the importance of “an amazing library teacher” and experience at music school. Al's contrasts his experiences of finding an outlet in music amidst the suburban “boring” landscapes of Essex. Getting into “shenanigans” and discovering bands such as Tangerine Dream and Bauhaus. Listen to his “bizzare” medical experience. Hear Suezy’s experience studying art, meeting Al, and becoming husband and wife. “My journey with Al has been pretty incredible”!
Listeners are treated to a deep dive into the personal journeys that shaped these artists, with Suezy shedding light on Al's eclectic soundscapes. Through their stories, we uncover how disparate musical backgrounds can converge to create a harmonious blend that resonates on a global scale. Oz talks about her tenacity to make music. She brings her voice as a “layer” and “texture”. Suezy shares her tales about getting into music through guitar lessons taught by “a wonderful man”. She joined an alternative goth band by supporting a band called Stump. David Bowie, The Cure, and Kate Bush caught her attention. Al talks about his experiences at a school that was “a total mess”. Sitting around listening to Talk Talk, Human League, Visage, Depeche Mode, Cocteau Twins, “fed into my peripheral vision”. Oz gives a compelling backstory to her love for the harp and how it became part of her personality.
The journey with Masal doesn't stop at their origins; it ventures into their creative process and the evolution of their sound, from traditional instruments to the realms of electronic music. The episode provides an intimate look at their collaboration with the legendary Andy Bell and Mark Gardener of RIDE and the creation of their album, "The Galloping Cat." Beyond their music, Al, Oz, and Suezy reveal the depth of emotion and connection that fuels their artistic endeavor, sharing their aspirations to create music that not only touches the soul but also bridges cultures. Ending on a jokey note as delightful as their shared affection for cats, this episode is a heartwarming saga of music, creativity, and the interwoven lives of those behind Masal. Purrrrfect!Follow Masal: https://masalbanduk.bandcamp.com/album/the-galloping-cat
https://www.facebook.com/masalbanduk
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=94rwItyWbNk
https://linktr.ee/masalbanduk?utm_source=linktree_profile_share&ltsid=d48036bd-ab12-43bb-a84b-f9ed8d248938https://www.instagram.com/suezyburridge/
 
Follow H.I. ART THE EDGEhttps://www.facebook.com/H.I.ArtontheEdge
https://www.instagram.com/h.i.artontheedge/
website

Surprise Cast #34 Peter Duggal

The musical journey of Peter Duggal is nothing short of remarkable, blending rich flavours of cultural influences with a boundless creativity that has marked him as an innovative force in the electronic world. Born and raised in Birmingham, Peter grew up in an environment where diversity, music, and open-hearted hospitality were the norms. This multicultural upbringing, characterized by a "real party house" atmosphere, laid the foundation for his deep connection to music. It was within these walls, amidst the continuous flow of music and people energy, that Peter found his solace and inspiration, transforming the mundane into extraordinary musical landscapes.
Peter's foray into the music scene was as unique as his background. His initial recordings, heralded by the ambient sounds of a shouting “archetypal” teacher and a distinctive tape using a Sony Walkmen, quickly catapulted him into public acclaim by writing a track that was sent in “as a joke”. Experimental fun! Tyrannical teachers take note! His musical evolution from the early days of Psyche (“so pure...it all just happened”) to the pulsating beats Electro Music (“the world is going to be taken over by robots”) to Acid House (“minimalist acid music was interesting...heavy Kraftwerk influence”) which reflects a journey of deeper exploration and identity. The creation of his dual personas, Doggy and Demonik, serves as a testament to his versatility and willingness to dive into different realms of creativity. Each alias encapsulates a distinct facet of his artistic exploration, showcasing his ability to traverse genres and moods with great ease whilst receiving support from his parents.
As Peter's career progressed, his engagement with the rave scene (“illegal raves out in the sticks, voice mail telling people were to go”) and live audiences fueled his creative dynamism at the tender age of 17-18, further shaping his approach/confidence to music making and entertaining collaborations circa 1992 with giants like Nintendo and Sony Playstation during the 90s carved a niche for him in the video game music scene, blending his love for electronic music with the burgeoning world of gaming. His latest EP, "Lozell's Drone Survey," is a personal ode, weaving together memories and experiences into melodious electronic narratives that resonate with listeners. With plans for an upcoming tour and anticipated collaborations with Wolfgang Flür, Magazin 1, Peter Duggal continues to influence the music industry, embodying innovation, nostalgia, and a profound connection to his electronica roots. This episode pays homage to Peter, a true artist who is always chasing after the “essence” and knows how not be “over-confident”. Let’s not forget that music will always be his “release valve”. Lucky us!Follow Peter Duggal:https://www.peterduggal.com/
https://soundcloud.com/peterduggal/sets/selected-recent-tracks
https://www.facebook.com/selfmodifier
https://www.instagram.com/peterduggal/
https://twitter.com/peterduggal
Follow H.I. Art on the Edgehttps://www.facebook.com/H.I.ArtontheEdge
https://twitter.com/thehiart418
https://www.instagram.com/h.i.artontheedge/
 

Surprise Cast #33 David John Sheppard

In this captivating episode of our podcast, I'm honored to welcome the incredibly talented David John Sheppard, a name synonymous with innovation and creativity in the music industry. Our journey with David begins in the warm embrace of nostalgia, tracing back to his earliest memories with a simple orange plastic Beatles guitar. This modest instrument sparked a profound love for music, setting David on a path from classical music, to the raw energy of punk(The Ramones, The Clash, Television) which he states are “tablets of stone”.
England in the early 80s, with its pulsating creative heart, “thriving music press”, plays a pivotal role in David's story. The city of Sheffield, known for its rich history of music and arts, set against the gritty backdrop of Thatcher-era politics, provided fertile ground for a musical revolution. David shares tales of this vibrant community, where experimentation and radical arts flourished, shaping him and many others into the artists they are today. “we did bands and art projects...fabulous time to be alive”. He talks about his early experiences with cinema on Oxford Street in London, watching 2-3 films every day, being introduced to film noir, and Russian films, “Wow, this is something else.” + his admiration for Nicolas Roeg. He dives into his collaboration with Ian Bickerton(songwriter) as they formed the band Balloon in the early 90s, “kicking around...let’s do something”. Nick Drake’s rereleases, Bob Dylan, and obscure punk stuff inspired their work for the ‘Gravity’ album. Going into Ian’s basement, which was the early seed, they went a bit “folky”. It's a conversation that takes us from the DIY ethos/demos of a Brixton studio to being signed by Dedicated Records. Getting a producer, Michael Brooke known for his work with Brian Eno and Nusrat Fateh Ali Kahn brought excitement. Many of the “Gravity” songs were created in West London. Finishing up the album in New Orleans with Daniel Lanois, Michael Brooke, and a visit and collaboration with an artist by the name of Sarah McLachlan providing fond memories.
The episode takes a deep dive into David's relationship with music titan Brian Eno, exploring how Eno's mentorship and philosophy on music production. He pays his respects to Eno’s album, ‘Another Green World’ and the production work of Talking Heads’ seminal album, ‘Remain in Light’, the process having a big influence on David’s work. Sharing traveling experiences in the making of his solo album, ‘Vertical Land’ in terms of sonic scapes and sketches inspired by Afro-Beat. He analyzes a few of the rhythmic tracks including “Mountain Time”. This episode is not just a reflection on David John Sheppard's musical journey but a broader exploration of the artistic process, the importance of music, and the enduring power of creativity and connection. Join us for this educational conversation into the intelligent world of music with David. He knows what it means to be alive!Follow David's work:https://www.marmosetmusic.com/artists/david-john-sheppard
https://music.apple.com/us/artist/david-john-sheppard/989260120
https://davidjohnsheppard.bandcamp.com/album/vertical-land
https://www.instagram.com/davidjohnsheppard/
 

Surprise Cast #32 The Zephyrs

Welcome to another episode of Surprise Cast, where we leap into the heart and soul of music with none other than the members of The Zephyrs, Robert Dillam and Stuart Nicol. This episode is a treasure trove of personal stories, insights, and revelations from two of the music industry's most passionate artists. Their journey from budding musicians to established names in the industry is not just inspiring but filled with moments that are as relatable, humorous, ear-opening!
Robert and Stuart share their contrasting yet complementary perspectives on music, making this conversation a riveting listen. Robert's description of his deep, almost spiritual connection with music contrasts beautifully with Stuart's view of music as a sanctuary, a place to escape and heal. These differing viewpoints provide a rich, multi-dimensional understanding of what drives an artist in their craft. Their stories of early struggles, the exhilarating highs of performance, and the sometimes challenging dynamics of working closely with others in a band paint a vivid and authentic picture of the life of musicians.
Beyond personal stories and philosophical musings about music, this episode takes listeners on a behind-the-scenes journey into The Zephyrs' creative process. From laugh-out-loud anecdotes from their tours to heartwarming tales of friendship and resilience, Robert and Stuart offer a candid look at the realities of the music world. Their discussion about the making of 'For Sapphire Needle' and their excitement about connecting with audiences in small, intimate venues underscore their dedication to the art of music-making. For anyone enchanted by the magic of music, this episode with Robert and Stuart is an enlightening glimpse into the lives of two artists who live and breathe their craft. I Tell You What - you don't wanna miss this conversation. Follow The Zephyrs:https://linktr.ee/thezephyrs
https://links.altafonte.com/jxdkxjhttps://twitter.com/thezephyrs?t=kjVnPVKTj0OQ_xOQStsl3w&s=09
https://www.instagram.com/_thezephyrs/?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y%3D
Follow H.I. Art on the Edge:https://www.facebook.com/H.I.ArtontheEdge
https://www.instagram.com/h.i.artontheedge/
https://twitter.com/thehiart418