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Alexandra's beverage: Raspberry Mojito

On our second to last episode of the season we have the absolutely delightful Alexandra Carlos! She happened to be in London for a gig and, lucky for us, she spent an afternoon hanging out with the podcast crew. We whipped up a truly delicious drink that you absolutely need to try at home because yes, it is that good. Alexandra bravely muddled for the first time, and as she said... she's going to stick to music.

We dove into all things music, laughed about how Lesley and Alexandra first met (you guessed it, a songwriting retreat full of creative chaos) and explored how we as songwriters can sometimes discover, years later, that we are surprisingly deep people, even if we mostly just drink cocktails and talk nonsense. We got so into our conversation that muddled mint and raspberries found their way into all the wrong places, mainly our teeth, but it was all part of the fun.

Alexandra is based in Yorkshire and is no stranger to the live stage, so make sure to check her out in person if you get the chance. And while you’re at it, listen to her latest single "Written in the Stars" and revisit "Siren," which we had a blast talking about on the pod. Full of music, laughs, and storytelling, this episode is a reminder that sometimes the best times happen offstage. Don’t miss it!

Follow Alexandra Carlos - https://www.instagram.com/alexandracarlosmusic

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Ross' Beverage: An Old Fashioned

On this week’s episode, we’re joined by the incredibly talented Ross Stewart. Our dear friend stopped by for a quick drink and a chat before heading off to play a gig in London, and it was an absolute pleasure having him with us.

As Right Chord Music describes, “Ross Stewart is quickly establishing himself as a compelling new voice in the UK music scene. His sound weaves together elements of blues, Americana, pop rock, folk soul, and country, resulting in a style that’s both genre-blending and distinct." It is the kind of music that hits you right in the chest, full of emotion and honesty.

In a relatively short time, Ross has discovered a sound that many artists spend decades searching for. His gift for guitar playing, songwriting and connecting with listeners of all ages makes him a standout talent. On top of that, he is one of those people who makes you instantly feel at ease, humble, genuine, and always great company.

We are thrilled to have him on this episode of Songs & Spirits, where he enjoys a classic Old Fashioned while we talk about his creative process, life on the road, and what lies ahead.

This episode is a special one as we near our first season's ending, and we could not think of a better guest to share it with. Please enjoy Ross Stewart!

Explore Ross Stewart - https://linktr.ee/rossstewartofficial

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Sonya's Beverage: Mezcal Margarita

On this week’s episode, we welcome the mysterious and ever-charming Sonya Titus! Born in Texas, grew up in Australia, New Zealand and Norway, and now living in London for quite a while, Sonya has packed several lifetimes’ worth of experiences into one fascinating journey. Luke first met her while he was at Malt, a cozy music venue and bar just down the road from his flat, where Sonya is the manager. When he found out she was also a talented musician, he knew she had to come on the show!

Sonya brought her signature charm and a seriously good Mezcal Margarita, to share with Luke and Lesley. (For the curious, Mezcal is a traditional Mexican spirit distilled from roasted agave, known for its rich, earthy, and smoky taste.) Lesley and Sonya quickly bonded over their mutual love of staying home and getting cozy, while all three dove into conversations about musical inspirations, the Tuesday Night Music Club, Sonya’s remarkable mother, the Egyptian army, and plenty more unexpected twists and turns.

It’s an episode full of laughter, stories, and smoky-sweet vibes - so pour yourself a Mezcal Marg and enjoy this warm, heartfelt chat with Sonya Titus!

Check out Sonya's Instagram

Check out Malt's Instagram 

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Vincent's Beverage: Warlock Teardrop

On this week's chillingly cozy episode, Lesley stops by the lair of the multi-talented Vincent Marcone, better known to the art world as My Pet Skeleton! While Luke held down the fort across the pond in bonny England, Lesley connected with Vince in Canada for a signature drink and a deep-dive conversation.

Get ready for an eclectic mix of macabre and fun as we sink our teeth into horror films, watch Vince show off his surprising skill for coining phenomenal drag names, and unpack the intriguing origin story of how the My Pet Skeleton project first came to life. We also discuss some of Vince's super cool projects and have  a thoughtful look at the complex benefits and sometimes terrifying pitfalls of Artificial Intelligence in the creative sphere.

It's a fantastic, wide-ranging chat with one of the internet’s favorite dark artists. You absolutely need to explore Vincent Marcone's incredible body of work before and after you listen!

Explore My Pet Skeleton here - https://my-pet-skeleton.myshopify.com/

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Just the Sip of a: Death in the Afternoon

Our “Just the Sip” episodes are quick little cocktail adventures! No guests, no pressure, just us, a drink, and whatever conversation bubbles up after the first sip (or two). Think of it as the happy hour version of the podcast.

On today’s spooky edition, Lesley and Luke summon up an Ernest Hemingway favorite: Death in the Afternoon! This ghoulishly simple cocktail calls for absinthe, a splash of simple syrup, and a good pour of prosecco. It’s bold, it’s a little haunting, and it’s probably not everyone’s cup of…well…green fairy. Lesley was into it right away, while Luke needed a moment (or three) but eventually grew to love it.

Between sips, they dive into the important topics: songs, Strega (the mysterious Italian herbal liqueur), the many ways they cry (spoiler: often), the eternal cookie vs. biscuit debate, and of course, the true Canadian treasure - Ryan Gosling.

Basically, if you like cocktails, questionable opinions, and a few unexpected tangents, this one’s for you.

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Jemma's Beverage: Strawberry Daiquiri

This week we’re joined by the quiet force that is singer-songwriter Jemma Johnson — quiet, that is, until she opens her mouth to sing and suddenly you’re rethinking every life choice you’ve ever made. She’s a soon-to-be pop star with a voice so good it should probably come with a warning label. Based out of Derby in the UK, Jemma has built a loyal following of over 65,000 YouTube subscribers and racked up millions of streams on Spotify — proof that people all over the world can’t stop hitting repeat.

Her sound is hard to pin down, but imagine Britney Spears at her most “Toxic” colliding with moody alt-pop drama — stomping beats, dark energy, and melodies that haunt you in the best way. In short: dangerously catchy tunes.

We sipped on daiquiris and chatted about everything from gigging in the UK to French songwriting retreats, her latest projects, and the new music you absolutely need to hear. Make sure to check out her latest single “So Dramatic” along with some of our personal favorites, “Good Guy” and “Come to the Dark Side.”

Jemma Johnson's Website: https://www.jemmajmusic.com/

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Dave's Beverage: Whiskey Sour

Part Dos! We couldn’t bring ourselves to cut anything out of this one, and since we know our listeners prefer episodes that run around an hour or less, we thought—why not split it up? Two Dunwells, two parts! In this second half, we mixed up a delicious Whiskey Sour with David Dunwell and kept the stories rolling. Along the way, we discovered Joe’s genuine admiration for his brother and even heard about his lifelong dream of becoming a postman. If you haven’t already, make sure to check out Part 1 first so you can enjoy the full story of these two incredibly talented and down-to-earth musicians. Sit back, pour yourself something good, and enjoy Part 2 with The Dunwells!

The Dunwells consist of Joseph and David Dunwell brothers turned bandmates. They are a successful Leeds based Indie-folk / Americana band with strong vocals, powerful melodies and heartfelt lyrics. Their debut album “Blind Sighted Faith” was released in 2012 following which they have released a further 6 albums / EPs.

The Dunwells have found favour with audiences across the world having toured extensively in the USA, Europe and the UK as well as having supported artists including Mumford and Sons and Elbow on UK tours. They are passionate and prolific singer-song writers having written material for joint collaborations as well as other high profile up and coming artists.​

The Dunwells will be at St. Pancras Old Church (supported by our very own Lesley Pike!) on 10 October, 2025! Grab tickets here! (if there are any left!)

Find out more about the Dunwells - https://www.thedunwells.com/

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Joe's Beverage: Maple Old Fashioned

This week on the podcast we’re joined by the very dashing and endlessly talented musical duo, The Dunwells! We had such a joy-filled conversation with Joe and Dave Dunwell. Lesley has known these two for years and years, while Luke only recently had the pleasure of meeting them but it instantly felt like catching up with old friends. The Dunwells are not only extraordinary musicians and songwriters, but also true storytellers, weaving heart and soul into every word and melody. Beyond their talent, their humility of spirit shine just as brightly. We ended up talking late into the night, sharing laughs, stories, and insights about music, life, and everything in between. It was one of those evenings that reminds you why conversations around music matter so much, and we can’t wait for you to hear it.

The Dunwells consist of Joseph and David Dunwell brothers turned bandmates. They are a successful Leeds based Indie-folk / Americana band with strong vocals, powerful melodies and heartfelt lyrics. Their debut album “Blind Sighted Faith” was released in 2012 following which they have released a further 6 albums / EPs.

The Dunwells have found favour with audiences across the world having toured extensively in the USA, Europe and the UK as well as having supported artists including Mumford and Sons and Elbow on UK tours. They are passionate and prolific singer-song writers having written material for joint collaborations as well as other high profile up and coming artists.​

The Dunwells will be at St. Pancras Old Church (supported by our very own Lesley Pike!) on 10 October, 2025! Grab tickets here! (if there are any left!)

Find out more about the Dunwells - https://www.thedunwells.com/

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Today's Beverage: Aviation

This week, Lesley and Luke reunite after some much-needed travel and family downtime! To mark the occasion, they shake up an Aviation, a classy little cocktail that’s equal parts elegant and divisive. Made with gin, maraschino liqueur, crème de violette, and some lemon juice, it’s the kind of drink you either swear by or swear off. (Think of it as the cilantro of cocktails.) If you can track down crème de violette, it’s definitely worth a try - if only to feel like a 1920s pilot for an evening.

With drinks in hand, the conversation takes off in all directions: from Vin’s Night In with our good friend Vin Goodwin and our love for the ever-charming Martha Phillips, to the ups and downs of living with anxiety, to… well, not much about music at all. (But hey, sometimes the best chats are the ones that drift off course, right?)

So buckle up for a laid-back, laughter-filled episode that proves not every landing has to be on the music runway. Cheers! And don’t forget to follow, rate, and download all our episodes so you never miss the next round!

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Just the Sip: Cosmopolitan 

A quick pour, a quick chat. In this mini-segment, Lesley and Luke mix up a drink (and its mocktail twin) and take a short detour into conversation while they taste it. This time, it’s a Cosmopolitan—with all the classic flair—and a no-proof version that’s just as good we dubbed the Mockmopolitan (working title). Think of it as a sip-sized break from the main show. Hope you enjoy and be sure to check out all the other episodes that came before!

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