In episode #143 of The XS Noize Podcast, Mark Millar meets Joel Stoker, frontman of The Rifles, to discuss his debut solo album 'The Undertow.'

As frontman of The Rifles, Joel Stoker has released many acclaimed albums, playing numerous riotous sold-out tours and picking up famous fans, including Paul Weller, Madness and Ian Broudie. Now, Joel introduces an entirely different side of his creativity with the release of his debut solo album, The Undertow.

The Undertow sees Joel raising his artistic bar to a whole new level. Both effortlessly melodic and unflinchingly honest, its eleven tracks see him entering completely new sonic territory, the '70s funk-flecked grooves, festival bangers and fiddle-assisted stomps reflecting touchstones ranging from Bob Marley and Fleetwood Mac to Dexys through to Arcade Fire and Michael Kiwanuka. Thematically, Joel's lyrics hold nothing back as he reveals his experiences with anxiety and mental health issues, his overwhelming struggles with OCD dating back to childhood.

In this interview, Joel Stoker talks about writing and recording The Undertow, supporting Liam Gallagher, upcoming live shows and what's next for The Rifles. Listen to episode #143 of The XS Noize Podcast with Joel Stoker – BELOW:

Previous XS Noize Podcast guests have been John Lydon, Matt Goss, Billy Nomates, Tom Meighan, Toyah Wilcox, Midge Ure, Travis, New Order, The Killers, Tito Jackson, Simple Minds, Divine Comedy, Shaun Ryder, Gary Numan, Sleaford Mods, and Nik Kershaw.

Listen via YouTube | Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher | RSS – Find The XS Noize Music Podcast's complete Archive of episodes here.