XS Noize Podcast Episode #227: Sea Fever – Phil Cunningham, Tom Chapman, and Beth Cassidy on Surface Sound, Musical Chemistry, and Honouring Denise Johnson

In Episode #227 of the XS Noize Music Podcast, host Mark Millar is joined by Phil Cunningham, Tom Chapman, and Beth Cassidy of the genre-blending band Sea Fever to talk about their powerful second album, Surface Sound.

Sea Fever is a five-piece supergroup featuring members of New Order, Haven, Johnny Marr’s band, Section 25, and Brix & The Extricated. The band returns with Surface Sound — a bold fusion of alt-rock, dance, and electronic pop across ten euphoric tracks.

In this episode, Phil, Tom, and Beth discuss:

• The creative process and sonic ambition behind Surface Sound

• How their unique chemistry has evolved since 2021’s Folding Lines

• Crafting standout singles like “Breaking Out” and “Loose Cut”

• The emotional weight of Denise Johnson’s stunning guest vocals on “Explanation”

• How their individual musical legacies shape the identity and future of Sea Fever

Surface Sound showcases Sea Fever at their most confident and collaborative, from pulsing synths to layered guitar textures and powerful lyrics. 

Or listen via YouTube | Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon Music | RSS – Find The XS Noize Podcast’s complete archive of episodes here.

Previous XS Noize Podcast guests have included John Lydon, Will Sergeant, Ocean Colour Scene, Gary Kemp, Doves, Gavin Friday, Anton Newcombe, Peter Hook, The Twang, Sananda Maitreya, James, Crowded House, Elbow, Cast, Kula Shaker, Shed Seven, Future Islands, Peter Frampton, Bernard Butler, Steven Wilson, Travis, New Order, The Killers, Tito Jackson, Simple Minds, Divine Comedy, Shaun Ryder, Gary Numan, Sleaford Mods, Michael Head, and many more.