What makes this band from Reading, England so unique? In this engaging episode of Surprise Cast, we delve into the fascinating world of Blueboy, a band synonymous with the vibrant Sarah Records era. Join us as we speak with key members Paul Stewart and Gemma Townley, who share their inspiring journey of reformation and their experiences in reviving the band's magic after years of hiatus. The conversation takes us through their recent endeavors, from intimate gigs in Paris to the exhilarating performance at the Joyland Festival in Indonesia. Listen to their appreciation for these unforgettable experiences. We explore their thoughts on music creation, the aspects to reuniting, and the unexpected global appreciation for their work that has propelled them into a thrilling new chapter. Listen to the lively exchange as Paul and Gemma reminisce about their early influences from the indie pop label Sarah Records, which boasted talents like The Field Mice and Heavenly, to their interpretation of Blueboy's sound evolution. In addition, hear them speak about Cocteau Twins and Dexys Midnight Runners. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to their tweepop charm, this episode promises to provide valuable insights into the art of creating music, the joy of reconnecting with audiences worldwide, and the undying spirit of indie pop. It's a must-listen for anyone interested in the timeless allure and resurgence of classic band narratives. They truly understand and appreciate the joy of living life to its fullest. Follow Blueboy:https://blueboy.bandcamp.com/https://x.com/officialblueboyhttps://www.instagram.com/blueboy_band/ Follow H.I. Art on the Edge/Surprise Cast Amazon, Apple, iHeart, Podbean, Spotify Facebook, Instagram, X, and YouTube

How in the world does he juggle all of the business balls in the air? In this episode of Surprise Cast, I sit down with Nico Wardell, the musician and creative force behind Beatastic and the head of Shore Dive Records. Broadcasting from Brighton, England, Nico shares his journey from his childhood in Paris to becoming a prominent figure in the music industry. Nico shares his fascination with music, recalling how an early encounter with rockers Bon Jovi sparked his lifelong passion. He discusses his eclectic music tastes that range from Nirvana to The Smashing Pumpkins, and how these influences have shaped his distinctive sound and approach to music. You'll definitely hear the appreciation in his voice. Beyond music, the conversation explores Nico's unique perspective on creativity, ambition, and the importance of boundaries. He candidly discusses the decision to end his Beatastic project, the challenges of running a record label, and his vision of supporting artists by chipping away daily through guidance and opportunities. This episode provides a thorough insight into the dynamic world of Nico Wardell, offering valuable lessons on creativity, resilience, and community in the music industry. Oh yeah, he's a master of exploring the "Why" part of life. Follow Shore Dive Records:https://shorediverecords.bandcamp.com/ https://linktr.ee/shorediverecords Follow Surprise Cast: Amazon, Apple, iHeart, Podbean, and Spotify Follow H.I. Art on the Edge: Facebook, Instagram, X, Bluesky, and YouTube

Did you know that San Francisco is going through a massive indie/jangle pop resurgence? In this fun episode, we peek inside the world of the indie band, Ryli, featuring Rob, Yea-Ming, Luke, and Ian. Yea-Ming shares about the band's origins, revealing how a suggestion from Bobby Martinez at Dandy Boy Records inspired them to embrace the Mazzy Star sound, which eventually led to the formation of Ryli. The band members reflect on their diverse musical influences, the merging of their backgrounds, and their excitement for their upcoming record in 2025. So exciting! Throughout the episode, the members highlight the importance of creativity, collaboration, and remaining true to their artistic vision. They discuss the challenges of balancing multiple musical projects and how their joint experiences enrich Ryli's music. We also explore thoughtful themes of vulnerability, criticism, and authenticity that punctuate their journey. The episode also covers the band's creative process, insights into their songwriting, and the making of their catchy track and video "I Think I Need You Around." The insightful dialogue touches on how the band navigates the music industry landscape, deals with social media, and the excitement of bringing their disciplined sound from studio to stage. Listeners are left with a great taste of Ryli's philosophical approach to music, glimpses into their dynamic and lovable camaraderie, and a forward-looking anticipation of their soon-to-be-released album. With a breath of great experience and ears for melodies and hooks, it's easy to understand why they'll be a big contributor to the indie scene that's truly thriving in the Bay Area. Follow Ryli: https://dandyboyrecords.bandcamp.com/track/i-think-i-need-you-around https://linktr.ee/rylithebandFollow Dandy Boy Records:https://dandyboyrecords.bandcamp.com/ Follow Surprise Cast: Amazon, Apple, iHeart, Podbean, and Spotify

Can you say effervescent? I welcome Grace and Eva Tedeschi, the talented duo behind the indie pop band The Cords Hailing from Greenock, Scotland, Grace and Eva bring their splashy charm to our conversation as they discuss their wholehearted dedication to creating music. The episode leaps into their exciting journey of recording their forthcoming debut album, shedding light on their most recent gigs, including a remarkable performance in England. They share humorous insights into their childhoods, heavily influenced by music from an early age, and reveal their musical inspirations and experiences, such as attending a special Cure concert. Listeners are given a glimpse into the sisterly dynamics that fuel their creativity, as they discuss the inception of The Cords and the influences that shaped their sound. Navigating the challenges of social media, we discuss the importance of setting boundaries while staying connected with fans and the music community. The conversation also delves into the intricacies of songwriting, the power of drumming, and the experiences that inform their lyrics--just ask their dog. Bo. As the band prepares to release their new album in collaboration with Slumberland Records and Heavenly Creature Records, Grace and Eva express their excitement for upcoming performances, including a notable appearance at the Madrid Pop Fest in 2025. Woo-hoo! Throughout this warm and candid talk, the episode captures the core of what drives The Cords: a passion for music, family support, and an unwavering commitment to just being themselves. In a world that is filled with darkness, subject your ears to the sounds of indiepop de-light. It'll make you giggle and dance with delight- something Grace and Eva know quite a bit about. Oh yea, can you feel their unbreakable chemistry? Follow The Cords:https://thecordsband.bandcamp.com/album/favourite-timehttps://www.instagram.com/the.cords_band/ Follow Surprise Cast: Amazon, Apple, iHeart, Podbean, and Spotify Follow H.I. Art on the Edge: Faceboook, Instagram, X, and YouTube

How does one play the harp so beautifully? I sit with renowned harpist Mary Lattimore for an in-depth conversation about her musical journey and creative processes. From her humble beginnings influenced by her harpist mother to her present-day accomplishments, Mary shares insights into her life and career as a musician. Listeners are invited to explore Mary's recent experiences, including a successful tour across Europe and the UK, where she found joy in connecting with new audiences and visiting unfamiliar places. As a seasoned session musician, she talks about her work on film scores, collaborating with friends, and the satisfaction of balancing her artistic endeavors with personal contentment--not sure how she does it all. The episode jumps into the inspirations and challenges of Mary's artistry, highlighting her dedication to creating layered soundscapes that surface to the mind. Highlights include her reflections on the importance of "authenticity" in performance, the impact of her classical training, and the significance of collaboration—illustrated through her work with musical icon Neil Halstead of the dreampop band, Slowdive. A special segment discusses Mary's unique perspective on vulnerability and courage, drawing inspiration from contemporary thought leaders on the subject. Her candid anecdotes about life on the road, handling stage fright, and the joys of improvisation provide a window into the vibrant world of a modern harpist. Tune in to discover stories behind Mary's albums, "Silver Ladders" and "Rain on Road," and get a glimpse of her upcoming projects and aspirations for 2024 and beyond. This conversation offers a compelling look into the heart and soul of Mary Lattimore's work, which certainly tugs at the heart strings.

Who is one of the best radio documentarians in the world? Welcome to an exclusive episode featuring Ken Sweeney, a renowned radio documentary maker, and writer who shares his high-voltage energy and journey in creating the award-winning radio documentary about the Scottish indie band Trashcan Sinatras. Ken explains his unique approach to documenting the band's fascinating history. This episode covers Ken's in-depth making of the documentary, from working with the Trashcan Sinatras’ band members to recording personal conversations and performances that add a rich, authentic layer to the documentary's narrative. He also shares touching anecdotes about the band’s resilience through bankruptcy, the joy of rediscovering their fanbase through modern technology, and insights into their timeless, emotionally impactful music from albums such as Cake, I've Seen Everything, A Happy Pocket and Weightlifting. Join us for a passionate conversation that not only dives into Ken's connections with the bands he documents (R.E.M, The Go-Betweens) but also highlights the importance of bringing forward stories from the peripheral but deeply influential corners of music history. Expect an engaging discussion on creativity, the magic of radio documentary storytelling, and the adamant pursuit of truth in journalism and human connection. Tune in to explore the blend of music and art and how these elements merge in Ken's remarkable storytelling, which is just as grand as a TCS tune. Turn up the volume and feel his endless search of finding the "human story". Pure Gold! Follow Ken Sweeney:https://linktr.ee/Kensweeney?ltsid=e51fe49a-8131-435b-ab6c-137f42441f9b Follow H.I. Art on the Edge: Bluesky, Facebook, Instagram, X, and Youtube Follow Surprise Cast: Amazon, Apple, iHeart, Podbean, and Spotify

In this exhilarating episode of the Surprise Cast, the listeners are treated to a fun conversation with Sean Eden, the guitarist and composer renowned for his work with Luna. Known for his wizardry on the guitar strings, Sean brings his extensive experience crafting hypnotic soundscapes. He shares engaging and humorous stories from his vibrant past. Broadcasting from the beautiful island of Oahu, Hawaii, the episode deepens into Sean's admiration for iconic guitarists (Tom Verlaine, Jimi Hendrix), mixing personal anecdotes with insight into his unique atmospheric playing style that has dazzled listeners worldwide. Sean reminisces about his formative years growing up in Ontario, Canada and his artistic endeavors that took him from theater in North Carolina to the vibrant music scene in New York City. He honestly shares tales of collaboration, the challenges of the music industry, and his creative inspirations, offering a glimpse into the life of a musician navigating the complexities between art, audience, and personal growth. The episode also explores Sean's perspective on iconic venues and memorable performances. Listeners are invited on a narrative journey enriched with Sean's reflections on living a creatively fulfilled life amid distractions and the balancing act between discipline and spontaneity. Tune in to hear Sean discuss new projects, collaborations, and candid reflections on his life in music, discovering a nuanced understanding of what it means to live on the edge of high art. You'll enjoy the musical personality in him. Humble. Charming. Funny...and "in the moment"! Follow Sean Eden:https://www.seaneden.com/ https://lunamusic.com/

What words come to mind when you hear the name Antonio Zelada? In this episode of Surprise Cast, I engage in a warm-hearted conversation with the extraordinary musician Antonio, known for his work with Resplandor. The episode delves into his vast contributions to the shoegaze music scene, his role as a driving force behind the Automatic Noise Festival, and his experiences running the Automatic Records label. The episode also covers intimate aspects of Antonio's life, including his honest reflections on fatherhood, the cherished moments with his son, and the challenges of balancing family with his musical career. His stories reveal his growth as both an artist and a father, highlighting how these roles inform and fuel his artistic endeavors. Additionally, the discussion touches on his collaborative efforts with notable producer Robin Guthrie (Cocteau Twins), his sensational interactions with the goth/alternative band The Cure, and Antonio's aspirations for new projects. Get ready to be touched by his charm, warmth, and love for music. It's infectious.

In this compelling episode of Surprise Cast, we go deep into the artistic journey of Night Crickets, a band formed during the introspective period of the COVID-19 pandemic by Victor DeLorenzo (Violent Femmes), Darwin Meiners (multi-instrumentalist), and David J(Bauhaus/Love & Rockets). Known for their innovative fusion of dark alternative and uplifting experimental pop, they bring a dynamic blend of musical worlds that delivers a rich auditory experience. We explore their latest album, How It Ends(?), which demonstrates themes of freedom, loss, humor, and resilience while reflecting personal and universal stories. Through candid conversations, the band members share fun insights into their music-making process, the influences behind their sound, and their unbreakable collaborative spirit that thrives on pure discovery and spontaneous creativity. They are always pushing the envelope! The discussion explores the band's inspirations, individual musical roles, and the power of unexpected musical turns that define their sound. Guest stories weave through the dialogue, including a hilarious moment with legendary musician, Jello Biafra . Listeners will gain an appreciation for the deep connections and expressive freedom that drive Night Crickets work into a world of such creativity and uniqueness. They certainly feed off each other's strengths and energy. Chirp on! Follow Night Crickets:https://night-crickets-label51recordings.bandcamp.com/album/how-it-ends https://www.facebook.com/nightcricketsofficial https://x.com/NightCrickets

Enjoy my conversation with renowned film critics Alonso Duralde and Christy Lemire in this engaging episode of Surprise Cast. The conversation takes listeners on a journey through the intricacies of film criticism and the strong chemistry between longtime colleagues. We dive into the essence of film criticism, exploring how they craft their reviews with intelligence and accessibility. She also shares her journey from sorority life at SMU to becoming a co-host of the well-loved series, 'Breakfast All Day.' At the same time, Alonso reminisces about his early days at Vanderbilt and his deep-rooted love for cinema. The two also discuss their passion and inspirations, touching upon an influential critic like Roger Ebert and the challenges they face in separating personal biases from professional critique. In addition, they share their favorite seasonal films and offer insights into Oscar potential films. Discover the unique preparation that goes into each episode of 'Breakfast All Day', along with the personal anecdotes and life lessons that have shaped their lives. Whether it's navigating the impact of powerful cinema, sharing their connections to film, or the delightful banter that highlights their deep and tightly threaded friendship, this episode offers a captivating listen for film enthusiasts. Lights! Camera! Action!

In this friendly episode of the Surprise Cast, we swim inside the world of art and personal identity with exceptional artist Sinéad Smyth. Hailing from the scenic peninsula of Inishowen in Donegal, Sinéad's art uniquely captures landscapes and seascapes as places of memory and deep connection. Her work vividly celebrates these natural environments, reflecting their nurturing influence on the human spirit. Throughout the conversation, Sinéad offers a clear and thoughtful window into her life and artistry, sharing poignant personal stories and insights. She recounts her childhood growing up during the Troubles in Ireland, exploring how her parent's influence and the natural landscape of Inishowen shaped her artistic vision and personal beliefs. Additionally, she discusses the profound impact of literature, particularly Mark Twain's Adventures of Tom Sawyer and Huckleberry Finn. The episode also navigates Sinéad's challenges, including her recent battle with breast cancer. The discussions reveal how her experiences have infused her works with new color palettes and themes, incorporating elements of self-love, healing, and reflection. Further enriching the episode, the collaboration between Sinéad and musician Oisin Leech is highlighted, including her artwork for his album cover, 'The Cold Sea,' and its role in enhancing the music's emotional landscape. Don't miss this episode as we explore themes of loss, healing, conflict resolution. Step inside her classroom of amazing kindness, intelligence, and creativity. It's really easy to feel Sinéad's endless warmth and Irish charm.

In this special episode of Surprise Cast, we leap into a delightful conversation with Paul Court and Tracy Tracy from the iconic alternative indie pop band, The Primitives. Known for their shimmering melodies and distinct sound, The Primitives have left an indelible mark on the music scene for almost 40 years! Excitingly, listeners are transported into a lively discussion as Paul broadcasts from Coventry and Tracy joins from the vibrant city of Barcelona. The two reflect on their musical journey, touching on significant milestones, including their initial formation, breakthrough tracks like "Crash," and the unique experiences of recording albums such as "Lovely," "Pure," and "Galore." It's a beautiful stroll down memory and detail lane. Using Rick Rubin's quotes, the conversation unveils fascinating insights into their creative processes, tackling subjects like the completion phase of their music, influences, and the sometimes daunting impact of AI on the arts. With anecdotes about encounters with other renowned musicians such as Ian Broudie of the Lightning Seeds and Peter Gabriel, behind-the-scenes stories of recordings, videos, and live tours, the listener gets a real sense of their history and approach to their impeccable craft. This conversation is a deep dive into what makes The Primitives such a special band revealing the human element behind the music, their stories of resilience, and the excitement surrounding the band's future endeavors. Nothing seems to be slowing them down. Their sound still crashes with pure pop perfection! Follow The Primtives:https://linktr.ee/theprimitives? https://www.facebook.com/ThePrimitivesOfficial https://x.com/PRIMITIVESband https://www.youtube.com/@theprimitives Follow H.I. Art on the Edge: Facebook, Instagram, Bluesky, and X Follow Surprise Cast: Amazon, Apple, iHeart, Podbean, and Spotify

Join us for an intimate conversation with the incredibly talented Lotte Kestner (Ormonde, Trespassers William), known for her ethereal voice and captivating songwriting. In this episode, we explore her musical journey and enter her world as a musician and mother living in Redmond, Washington. She shares her sharp insights on embracing vulnerability in her lyrics, motherhood, loss of some hearing, and the ongoing dance between her personal and creative life. She opens up about her musical influences, her experiences growing up in a traditional family, and balancing her artistic aspirations with parental responsibilities. We also listen to and discuss some of Lott's remarkable songs, including her rendition of Trashcan Sinatras' "Earlies," and Trespassers William's "Alone," highlighting her unique ability to bring new life and authenticity to the songs she touches. Filled with incredible honesty and introspection, this episode unveils the heart and soul of Lotte Kestner, offering listeners a profound look into her creative process and life's themes that inspire her work. Tune in for a special episode that explores the joys and struggles of creativity and parenthood in a raw and inspiring dialogue. Being vulnerable, creative, and authentic are just some of her superpowers...she's also really good at pushing through life! Follow Lotte Kestner:https://www.facebook.com/lottekestner https://lottekestner.bandcamp.com/ https://www.instagram.com/lottekestner/ Follow H.I. Art on the Edge: Blueksy, Facebook, Instagram, and X Follow Surprise Cast: Amazon, Apple, iHeart, Podbean and Spotify

In this friendly episode of Surprise Cast, I welcome Daniil Levshin, the talented guitarist and synth player from the renowned shoegaze/dreampop band, Blankenberge. It's been two years since our last conversation, and a lot has changed since then. Join us as Daniil shares insights into his musical journey, the creative process, and life in Serbia, where he resides with his wife, Iana Guselnikova, the band's vocalist. The episode jumps into Daniil's passion for creating music, discussing how the band has evolved over the years. He reveals details about Blankenberg's latest projects, including their new song "New Rules" and the exciting upcoming album set to release in 2025. Discover how Daniil combines synthetic sounds with dreampop/post rock melodies and shoegaze aesthetics to forge Blankenberg's unique sound. Listeners will gain a glimpse into Daniil's life beyond the music scene as he shares his experiences living in Serbia, trips to the underground record store, and his connection to his roots in Russia. Learn about his admiration for bands like Metallica, Slowdive, Depeche Mode, and The Cure, and his artistic ventures in creating album artwork and music videos. He also touches on the joys of maintaining a connection with fellow musicians like his good friend, Antonio Zelada from Automatic Music, and the band Resplandor. Enjoy this heartfelt and inspiring episode filled with music and cultural exploration. You should be able to feel Daniil's kindness and his excitement for Blankeberge's future. I certainly am. *don't forget about the trivia ? :). Follow Blankenberge:https://www.blankenbergeband.com/ https://www.instagram.com/blankenbergeband/ https://www.youtube.com/blankenbergeband Follow H.I. Art on the Edge: Facebook, X, Instagram, and Bluesky Follow Surprise Cast: Amazon, Apple, iHeart, Spotify, and Podbean

In this engaging episode, we walk into the vibrant world of Vaughn George, a renowned name in the electronic and synth-pop music scene. Vaughn shares his profound appreciation for these music genres as a fan and educator on his popular YouTube channel. With a blend of insightful analysis and humorous commentary, he dissects albums and offers tutorials, making complex music concepts accessible to new and seasoned listeners. The episode starts interestingly as Vaughn talks about his love for Estonia. He passionately extols the virtues of this technologically advanced nation, free from many of the problems facing western countries today. From its rich history and friendly populace to its affordable living, Estonia holds a special place in his heart. Vaughn also opens up about his personal and professional journey, discussing his insights from industry giants like David Bowie. His thoughts on the controversial role of AI in music and his struggles with self-competition provide listeners with a deeper understanding of his artistic philosophy based on the work of Rick Rubin, the legendary music producer. Adding to the rich tapestry of this episode, Vaughn reminisces about his association with the legendary British photographer Brian Griffin. He shares poignant memories, highlighting Griffin's influence on his life and work. What a friendship, indeed! Vaughn's vulnerability and honesty in these moments offer a touching glimpse into his world. As the conversation draws to a close, Vaughn reveals his upcoming projects for 2024 and beyond. He discusses his piano and microphone shows featuring Depeche Mode interpretations, offering a sneak peek into his creative process. For fans and new listeners alike, this episode provides a captivating exploration of Vaughn George’s multifaceted life and career. Like Bowie, he "speaks with such wisdom". He's all about v-i-b-e and doesn't sound like any other artist out there. Follow Vaughn George:https://www.vaughngeorge.com/ https://www.youtube.com/vaughngeorge Follow H.I. Art on the Edge: Facebook, Instagram, X, and Bluesky Follow Surprise Cast: Amazon, Apple, iHeart, Podbean and Spotify

Welcome to another entertaining episode of Surprise Cast! This one brings together the talented members of the Toronto-based band, SWiiMS, alongside DJ extraordinaire and music aficionado Simon Leclerc from DKFM Radio. Simon shares his experiences in the music industry and his passion for curating playlists for his DKFM show, 'Melomania Safety Zone'. The discussion explores the nuances of song sequencing and the impact of "context" on musical experiences, drawing insights from Rick Rubin's special philosophies. The band members, Mai Diaz Langou, Cian O'Ruanaidh, and Colin Thompson, share personal stories about their musical inspirations, favorite concerts, and the interesting dynamics within SWiiMS. They discuss the creative process behind their music, emphasizing the importance of collaboration, experimentation, and maintaining momentum in their projects. Their friendship is strong! Looking ahead, SWiiMS is gearing up for an exciting live performance at the Baby G in Toronto on November 23rd, alongside other talented bands. The band members express their enthusiasm for live shows, their dedication to delivering high-octane performances, and their plans for future projects. Exciting! The episode wraps up with fun rapid-fire questions and recommendations from each guest, offering listeners a glimpse into their interests. Tune in to discover cool new music, and gain insights into the creative minds of SWiiMS and Simon Leclerc. You'll be enchanted by their respect for one another and endless love for music. Great chemistry, indeed! Follow SWiiMS:https://www.swiimsmusic.com/ Follow Simon Leclerc:https://decayfm.com/members/simon-leclerc/ Follow H.I. Art on the Edge: Facebook, Instagra, X, and Bluesky Follow Surprise Cast: Amazon, Apple, iHeart, Podbean, and Spotify

Welcome to this friendly episode of Surprise Cast! I enjoy a heartfelt conversation with Stephen Douglas, the talented and kind drummer from the renowned indie band, Trashcan Sinatras. Listeners will be taken on a journey to Stephen's musical beginnings, as he recounts his formative experiences, from tapping along to records in his youth to playing in a cramped room with a drum kit. He describes the nuances of drumming, his preference for hi-hats, and certain sticks whilst playing. The episode also explores the dynamics of band life, shedding light on the joys of working alongside his bandmates, including his brother John. Stephen reflects on the band's success, the significance of their body of work, with a focus on the sparkling album, 'I've Seen Everything' + 'The Perfect Reminder' book (fantastic!) and the attention to detail that defines their music. Our conversation ends with a fun segment, featuring icebreaker questions, drummer jokes, and a playful challenge involving guessing a mystery album. Tune in to this episode for an engaging mix of music, life experiences, and wholesome laughter, as Stephen shares his journey and perspectives with the listeners in such a warm and inviting manner. His words land with charming and perfect pop! Follow Trashcan Sinatras:https://trashcansinatras.com/ https://x.com/thetrashcans https://www.facebook.com/thetrashcansinatras https://www.instagram.com/thetrashcansinatras/ Thank you for following H.I. Art on the Edge: Facebook, Instagram, and X Thank you for following Surprise Cast: Amazon, Apple, iHeart, Podbean, and Spotify

Welcome to another dazzling episode of Surprise Cast! Today, we dive deep into the musical world of Meadowlake, the talented band hailing from the Netherlands. Join us as we explore their latest album, "Where the Mountain Meets the Sea," a breathtaking journey through soundscapes inspired by the natural beauty of Topanga, California. It's truly a stunning body of work. As we delve into their artistic journey, we begin with some light-hearted icebreaker questions that reveal personal insights about the band members. I appreciate how deep they go with their connections. The conversation transitions into a deeper exploration of their childhood memories and how these experiences have shaped their music. Tjeerd shares his positive upbringing and the supportive environment provided by his parents, while Yarno recounts his musical influences and the impact of his father's music collection. Olivia opens up about her father's unique taste in music and the profound effect of her mother's passing on their art, highlighting themes of grief, loss, and resilience. A testament to the human spirit. The episode also features an engaging discussion on Meadowlake's creative process, guided by insights from Rick Rubin's book, "The Creative Act: A Way of Being." The band members reflect on experimentation, inspiration, and the lightning bolt moments that spark their creativity. They discuss their journey to sunny California, where they recorded their album live, embracing imperfections and capturing raw, authentic sound. Join us for an unforgettable episode that celebrates the beauty of imperfection, the power of music, and the heartfelt connections that Meadowlake creates through their art and, most importantly, their friendship. This episode will make you smile because it's easy to root for all three musicians. They're hardworking and kind. Follow Meadowlake:https://meadowlake.bandcamp.com/album/where-the-mountain-meets-the-sea https://www.facebook.com/meadowlakeband Follow H.I. Art on the Edge / Surprise Cast Amazon, Apple, iHeart, Podbean, and Spotify

Welcome to another exciting episode of Surprise Cast. In this episode, we enter the mesmerizing world of Deary, a London-based band that has been captivating the hearts and minds of music lovers globally with their unique blend of dream pop, shoegaze, trip hop and indie melodies. Our special guest, Ben Easton, provides an insightful look into the band's journey, sound, and creative process. Currently residing in Kingston, just outside of London, he shares his experiences and inspirations as a musician. From his admiration for Nick Cave ("probably the best performer I've ever seen") to his formative years growing up in Kent, Ben reflects on the influential moments that have shaped his musical journey. He discusses the importance of perseverance and the pivotal role family and personal experiences play in his life and music. The conversation takes a deeper dive into Deary's creative process, exploring the essence and spontaneity of their music. Ben elaborates on the band's latest work, including their upcoming EP 'Aurelia', and the evolution of their sound. He shares anecdotes about the band's live performances and the dynamics of working alongside Dottie, his creative partner. ("She's phenomenal") Listeners will also gain insights into the broader music community, including the role of Sonic Cathedral, a label that has fostered a sense of community and support for emerging bands like Deary. Ben highlights the invaluable contributions of individuals like Simon Scott (Slowdive/Three Quarter Skies) who has been instrumental in mastering Deary's work, ("he brings to our music...an inherent knowledge of the sonic sphere"). In the spirit of sharing and discovery, Ben offers recommendations for music, books, and films that have inspired him, including the dystopian novel 'Brave New World' by Aldous Huxley. The episode concludes with a fun segment of rapid-fire questions, revealing fun and personal tidbits about Ben. Join us as we explore the sonic depths with Ben Easton, gaining a deeper understanding of the artistry and passion that drives Deary's music. Tune in and discover why this band is poised to inspire and connect with fans for many years to come. The role of the "fixer" helps solidify him as one highly talented musician that understands the marriage of emotion and music! Follow Deary:https://deary.bandcamp.com/album/dearyhttps://linktr.ee/dearyband Follow H.I. Art on the Edge: Facebook, Instagram, and X Follow Surprise Cast: Amazon, Apple, iHeart, Podbean, and Spotify

In this charming episode of "Surprise Cast," we jump into Jason Booth's and John Wellby's artistic journey from the band Last Tourist. They share cool insights into their lives as musicians, their creative processes, and the stories behind their sensational music. We start with some fun icebreakers. The conversation takes a deeper turn as John shares how his love for music began with a serendipitous raffle win ("ended up buying my first guitar"), uncovering musical roots in his family history. Jason reflects on his school days in Sheffield and his defiance against mainstream trends, drawing parallels to my experiences. ("everyone was into poodle rock...I saw a kid with a James t-shirt on...I've always enjoyed not doing whatever everyone else is doing"). The episode explores the essence ("a slip or a mistake can add to the artwork") of creativity, as inspired by Rick Rubin's book, "The Creative Act." John and Jason discuss how spontaneity and energy ("a blessing and a curse") influence their music, sharing anecdotes of "happy mistakes" that led to the creation of songs like "Black Raven" and "Spiritual Cove." (The essence of the album). They emphasize the importance of balancing structured writing with moments of improvisation, both in the studio and during live performances. The discussion also touches on the challenges and joys of being part of a band, including the collaborative dynamics with other members and the impact of live audiences on their performances. As they look to the future, John and Jason tease upcoming projects, 1991 Recordings, including a new single, a couple of gigs, and collaborations with notable artists like Maps (James Chapman) and Paul Kehoe (Peter Hook and the Light). Fantastic! Listeners are invited to engage in a fun guessing album game and rapid-fire questions, revealing Jason and John's playful side. Tune in to discover the creative essence of Last Tourist and the exciting projects they have in store. They keep pushing the boundaries and we're better off with that approach. Follow Last Tourist:https://lasttouristband.bandcamp.com/ http://www.lasttourist.co.uk/ Follow 1991 Recordings:https://linktr.ee/1991recordings? Follow H.I. Art on the Edge: Facebook, Instagram, X, and YouTube Follow Surprise Cast Amazon, Apple, iHeart, Podbean, and Spotify