In this episode of Surprise Cast, I go deep into the world of electronic music with a very special guest, Shannon Hemmett. The frontwoman of Leathers and a member of the acclaimed Vancouver post-punk darkwave band Actors. 

The conversation kicks off with a glowing review of "Ultraviolet" penned by online friend, Jason Rogers, highlighting the album's sleek, synth-driven sound that evokes images of nighttime drives and future noir cityscapes. Shannon reflects on the comparisons to iconic bands like Eurythmics and The Passions, expressing her admiration for Annie Lennox.

Throughout this three-part discussion, Shannon opens up about various facets of her life and career. She talks about her childhood, family influences, and the significant impact of her school's photography program ("we had a dark room, which wasn't common...magical experience") which sparked her passion for both music and visual arts. She also shares stories about her upbringing in a blue-collar family, her father's long career in aircraft maintenance ("40+ years" working on jets"), her mom doing volunteer work at school, and the creative encouragement she received from her parents. ("maybe I can have a profession that I'm inspired by").

In the segment on "friend-torships," Shannon discusses the pivotal role of Jason Corbett, her bandmate and producer, in her musical journey via Vancouver. ("Are you in a band...you have a nice singing voice"). She explains how their collaborative partnership has been instrumental in shaping Leathers' sound and how their combined strengths have led to the success of both Leathers and Actors. ("Having Jason in my corner...it's pretty special"). 

As the conversation shifts to the themes and inspirations behind "Ultraviolet," Shannon delves into the album's exploration of fantasy versus reality, drawing literary inspiration from J.G. Ballard's novel "High Rise." ("The response to the album has been really lovely"). She also candidly discusses personal experiences, such as a life-changing car accident, and how these events have influenced her songwriting. 

To wrap up, Shannon shares her thoughts on performing live, future tour plans for Leathers and Actors, and some of her favorite albums that have shaped her musical taste. The episode concludes with a series of rapid-fire questions, offering listeners a glimpse into Shannon's personal preferences and inspirations. Fun stuff!

Join us for this insightful and inspiring episode as we uncover the layers of creativity and passion that define Shannon Hemmett and the mesmerizing soundscape of "Ultraviolet." 

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In this eye-opening episode, I welcome a special guest, Nalinee Darmrong, an esteemed photographer with a keen eye for talent in the music industry. Tuning in from a suburb of Washington, D.C., she shares her fascinating journey from a young music enthusiast to a celebrated photographer whose work has captured the essence of iconic bands like The Smiths.

The conversation begins with light-hearted icebreakers, revealing her unique ways to unwind, from playing pinball ("I joined a league")l to her love for various music genres. ("pending on my mood...ambient to rock") As the discussion deepens, she reflects on her upbringing in Maryland and the impactful experiences that shaped her as a person, including a humorous yet formative childhood biking mishap and the influence of a memorable elementary school teacher.

Nalinee jumps into her early exposure to music, sharing anecdotes from her time at the legendary Yesterday and Today record store ("that was my rock n roll education") and the vibrant D.C. music scene. Her stories are peppered with encounters with music legends and the profound impact these experiences had on her career.

Listeners are treated to insights into her creative process, as she discusses her approach to photography and the challenges of transitioning from film to digital. She shares her admiration for various cameras, from classic 35mm to modern DSLRs ("are my staples"), and how her musical background enhances her photographic work. (The Smiths helped me launch my work as a photographer").

Join us for an inspiring episode that celebrates the power of music and photography, and discover how Nalinee's lens has captured some of the most unforgettable moments in music history. Listen to how she gives 150%" to her craft and just knows the "cadence" of living life. 

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Welcome to this episode of Surprise Cast! Join us as we dive into an engaging conversation with Emma Anderson, singer-songwriter (Lush/Sing-Sing) and as a solo artist. We explore the intricacies of family life, friendships, and professional endeavors. Inspired by Arthur C. Brooks' book, Build the Life You Want: The Art and Science of Getting Happier, Emma shares her sharp insights and experiences across these three pivotal pillars of life.

Emma opens up about her childhood in central London, detailing the unique aspects of growing up in a central, adult-centric environment. (We had a flat in this big building...it wasn’t the best place for a child to grow up”) She reflects on the impact of her parents' health and generational differences on her upbringing, sharing how these experiences have shaped her approach to motherhood and her relationship with her lovely daughter.

The discussion shifts to the significance of friendships, with Emma recounting fond memories of her long-time friends, (“...brought out my jokey side”) and how their shared love for music (“we were really into The Beatles”) and humor enriched her life. She highlights the importance of maintaining meaningful connections, both past and present, and the role social media plays in contemporary friendships.

Emma also delves into her musical journey, discussing her time with the band Lush and her solo work. She shares insights into the creative process behind her latest album, Pearlies, produced by James Chapman(Maps). (“It was very enjoyable...he’s a lovely man”) Emma candidly discusses the challenges and joys of touring, Sonic Cathedral, recording, and the music industry's evolution over the years.

As the episode wraps up, Emma participates in a rapid-fire round, offering a glimpse into her personal preferences and thoughts on various topics.

Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of Emma Anderson's life and music, and explore the universal themes of “happiness” and personal growth. She brings plenty of sweetness and pearly light!

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Welcome to a special episode of Surprise Cast! This Part 1 episode marks a momentous occasion: a deep dive into the life, music, and creative journey of Ian Bickerton from the band Balloon. 

Ian Bickerton joins us from Haarlem in the Netherlands, where he has resided for over two decades. In this conversation, Ian reflects on his life, from his early years in Birmingham, Croydon, and Manchester to his experiences living in Australia and finally settling in the Netherlands. He shares poignant memories of his childhood, marked by his father's battle with cancer and the family's frequent relocations. Ian also opens up about his relationship with his siblings, especially his older brother, whose struggles with being gay and later alcohol dependency deeply influenced Ian's life and music. ("My parents...they really protected us").

Ian recounts his early love for music, spurred by his older brother's eclectic taste and the punk rock movement of the late 70s. ("an extraordinary time of change and differences...") He describes the formative years spent with his friend and bandmate David Sheppard, writing poetry and songs, and the thrill of seeing legendary bands in intimate settings. The conversation touches on the various musical influences that have shaped Balloon's sound, from the Velvet Underground to Al Green, and the unique blend of urban and pastoral elements in their music.

The discussion delves into Ian's creative process, highlighting the importance of observation, curiosity ("I was bent on being a reporter"), and the inspiration drawn from everyday life. Ian shares his approach to songwriting, often relying on stream-of-consciousness techniques and the collection of phrases and ideas from various sources. He emphasizes the discipline required to hone his craft and the serendipitous moments that can spark a song's creation. ("I just watch stuff...it just happens"). 

The episode takes a closer look at some of the standout tracks from Balloon's masterful1992 album, Gravity, including "Frightened to Death," "I Can't Leave Her," and "Tightrope Walker." Ian provides intimate insights into the stories behind these songs, which resonates deeply with listeners, including my 5th grade students who performed it in class often in 2014. Ian also reminisces about the recording sessions for Gravity in New Orleans, working with talented musicians. He also touches on the challenges and triumphs of performing live, including a humorous anecdote about a technical mishap during a performance of "Tightrope Walker."

Join us for this heartfelt and enlightening conversation with Ian Bickerton, as we explore the intersection of life, music, and creativity, and celebrate the enduring impact of Balloon's album Gravity. He is "fundamentally good and a lovely man" just like his father. 

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In this entertaining and 100th episode of Surprise Cast, we are delighted to welcome the talented singer and songwriter, Louise Quinn, known for her work with Gates of Light. Joining her is the accomplished musician and producer, Finlay Macdonald known for his Wor_kspace sounds. Together, they share their personal and professional journeys, offering listeners a deep dive into their creative processes and musical inspirations.

Louise opens up about her daily routines, revealing how her special morning playlist, which includes the likes of Penguin Cafe Orchestra and Nancy Sinatra, sets the tone for her busy days. She reminisces about her school days, her early love for music, and the unique experiences that shaped her artistic journey, including her time at drama school and the formation of her first band. ("I had a lovely teacher who went on to become mayor of East Kilbride...she was a great teacher"). 

The conversation takes a nostalgic turn as Louise reflects on her childhood musical influences, from punk bands like The Clash to the melodic tunes of Joni Mitchell and The Mamas & the Papas. She shares how these diverse influences have colored her music, blending seamlessly with her mom's religious background. ("I learned like hymns...church did give me a sort of spiritual dimension").

As the discussion moves forward, Louise talks about the formation of Gates of Light, a collaborative project born out of the creative necessity of the lockdown period. She details the process of working with international talents from Glasgow, London, Paris, and New York, and the serendipitous involvement of legendary producer Kramer, who fell in love with their work and decided to release it on Shimmy Disc. ("Kramer was amazing...it was really good working with him")

Finlay then takes the stage, sharing his perspective on working with Louise and the creative synergy they discovered. He discusses the technical aspects of music production, the challenges of managing multiple projects, and the joy of seeing their collaborative efforts come to life. He also gives listeners a sneak peek into his upcoming projects under the Workspace moniker, promising more innovative and captivating music. ("I'd say her songwriting...I admire her melodic and musical economy")

This episode is a rich tapestry of musical memories, personal anecdotes, and professional insights, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the making of Gates of Light and the artistic minds driving it. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to their music, this conversation is sure to inspire and entertain you. Don't miss this insightful episode that celebrates the power of music, collaboration, and h.i. creativity :). 

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In this compelling episode, we delve deep into the intricacies of vulnerability, creativity, and personal growth. Our guest, Rachel Cogan, offers a raw and insightful perspective on the importance of embracing one's truth and learning from life's challenges. With a focus on understanding different perspectives, she emphasizes the value of empathy and problem-solving in navigating complex emotional landscapes. ("Your truth is yourself").

Rachel shares her experiences with bullying, discussing the impact it had on her and how it shaped her approach to life. She reflects on the lessons learned from movies that influenced her during her formative years, such as "Homeward Bound" and "The Land Before Time," highlighting the themes of perseverance and empathy. ("That's where I learned not to judge people"). 

We also explore Rachel's creative endeavors, including her innovative project "That Something Creative," which connects freelancers and creatives across various fields. Rachel discusses the motivation behind this initiative and the importance of fostering a supportive community for creative minds. ("It's from tiny lines to taglines to massive projects...").

As we dive into the topic of vulnerability, Rachel candidly talks about her personal struggles with health issues and how they have influenced her perception of strength and resilience. She emphasizes the significance of owning one's emotions and the power of mindfulness in managing pain and stress. The conversation takes a philosophical turn as we discuss the concepts of "Viking or Victim," examining how societal expectations can shape our understanding of strength and vulnerability. Rachel offers a nuanced perspective on the importance of recognizing and nurturing our emotions rather than denying them. ("Do I want to expose that person to that side of me...?). 

In the final segment, Rachel shares her favorite books, music, and movies that have inspired her, providing listeners with a rich array of recommendations. We wrap up with a light-hearted rapid-fire round, where Rachel's wit and humor shine through, offering a delightful end to an enlightening discussion.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in personal growth, creativity, and the transformative power of vulnerability. Join us for an engaging conversation that promises to leave you with a renewed appreciation for the art of conversation and the challenges of the human condition. Thankfully, Rachel shows us how to walk into the wilderness of vulnerability with plenty of grit and determination. She's our tour guide!

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Welcome to another exciting episode of the Surprise Cast! Today we have the pleasure of diving into an inspiring conversation with Oli Steadman, a talented musician and a member of the band Stornoway.

We kick off the episode by catching up with Oli about his summer adventures. He shares his travels across Canada and the US, from hiking in the Rockies and encountering elk to learning to surf in California. He also introduces us to his unique concept of a "trail dance," which combines music, mental health, nature exploration, and sport. (“I’ve really enjoyed doing in the past couple of months”).

As we navigate through the episode, we explore his deep connection with nature. He passionately discusses his favorite hikes (“very dramatic elevation”), the importance of responsible wildlife management, and his admiration for specific trees. We also touch on the impact of natural disasters, such as the Jasper fires, and how they shape our understanding of nature and conservation. (“we sing about this in Stornoway’s music”).

In a heartfelt segment, he opens up about his personal life, sharing stories of how he met his wife (“I should stay away from her because she would undoubtedly be too cool for me”), their travels, and the epiphanies they experienced along the way. He also reflects on his role as a new father, discussing the joys and challenges of parenthood. We delve into the concept of vulnerability, drawing insights from Brene Brown's book "Braving the Wilderness," and explore how these principles apply to his life as a musician, a man (if everyone’s blagging, no one is held to account...”), and a father (“it’s brilliant”).

We then shift our focus to Stornoway's music, particularly their upcoming "Unplucked" album. He gives us an inside look at the creative process behind their acoustic renditions of popular songs, including a hauntingly beautiful cover of Depeche Mode's "Enjoy the Silence." He also shares his excitement about their future projects and potential tours. (It’s the track we’ve been hiding for a few months now...it sounds up close and personal”).

This episode is a treasure trove of insights into the life of a passionate musician who finds harmony between his art and the natural world. Join us as we journey through Oli’s experiences, his love for nature, and his reflections on vulnerability and growth. He’s the real diver!

In this deeply moving episode, I engage in an intense and heartfelt conversation with special guest Rachel Cogan, founder and creative director of That Something Creative. 

The episode begins with an honest introduction to the Sandy Hook tragedy, a harrowing event that profoundly affected me as an educator. Rachel responds with her own experiences, discussing how working with children has shaped her perspective on such tragedies. She recounts an event that shook her world on October 7, 2023, which led her to question the nature of humanity and the societal response to geopolitical issues. She shares the personal impact of experiencing anti-Semitism for the first time and her struggle with the loss of faith in humanity. ("Who do we trust? Who do we not?"). The conversation then shifts to exploring possible silver linings in the aftermath of tragic events like 9-11, Sandy Hook ("not taking time for granted"), ("there's no silver lining"), and October 7th ("refine and improve the circle of community...it brought a lot of people together"). Rachel reflects on the potential for increased understanding, societal changes, and the importance of meaningful connections and community support during difficult times. 

In a lighter segment, we engage in an imaginative exercise, discussing hobbies, skills, and aspirations. Rachel shares her love for collecting Starbucks mugs, her interest in learning mechanical skills, and her desire to take a photography course ("I want things more tangible in life, more authentic"). 

The episode delves into Rachel's family dynamics, highlighting her close relationship with her parents and sister, Sarah. Rachel describes her parents as her best friends ("they are my #1 fans...they weren't pedestal parents...they're in this with me") and recounts their selflessness and support throughout her life. She also shares anecdotes about sibling rivalry, envy, and the unique bond she shares with Sarah. ("She is more stoic and an introvert...I think she found her brilliance"),

The conversation transitions to creativity, with Rachel discussing how she channels her creative energy ("a sense of self") through problem-solving and free thinking. She shares her experiences as a dancer and how dance allowed her to express herself in powerful ways. ("Dance is our way of showing our narrative without pen and paper"). 

Rachel tackles the complex topic of truth and how it intersects with personal beliefs and actions. She explores the idea of understanding and respecting different perspectives while maintaining one's values. She emphasizes the importance of knowing oneself and the dangers of imposing one's truth on others through harmful actions. This episode is a compelling exploration of tragedy, family, creativity, comedy, and the human experience, offering listeners a chance to reflect on their own lives and the connections that shape them. Alanis Morissette said, 

"You pray you learn, you ask you learn

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In this intimate episode of Surprise Cast, I'm thrilled to welcome Oisin Leech, the exceptional Irish singer whose latest album, "Cold Sea," has been making waves in the music world. He takes us on an in-depth journey through his aural masterpiece, offering listeners a blend of heartfelt lyrics and enchanting melodies that echo the raw beauty and wonder of Ireland.

Released in March 2024, "Cold Sea" has quickly connected with audiences worldwide ("Having great fun touring it"). He shares his experiences touring and meeting fans who have resonated deeply with his music. Before diving into the album, our conversation is structured around three pillars inspired by Arthur C. Brooks and Oprah Winfrey's book, "Build the Life You Want": family, impactful experiences, and friendships.

Oisin recounts his musical upbringing, with fond memories of his grandmother's melodies from an old dance hall in Donegal ("she worked, in 1950s dance hall...she would be making tea, soundcheck...she would be playing in the corner the piano") and his father's beautiful singing voice. He delves into how his childhood in Navan, Ireland, surrounded by music and theater, shaped his passion for the arts. We discuss his early influences, from Beck, Nirvana ("we loved Unplugged"), Bob Dylan ("I love all of Dylan's work"), and Woody Guthrie, and the pivotal moments that steered him toward a musical career.

In a heartfelt tribute, he reflects on the impact of artists like Sinead O'Connor ("she was a remarkable artist") and the support he has received from friends and mentors along the way. He shares valuable advice for aspiring musicians ("Once you do a gig, don't dwell on it in a negartive way") and talks about the importance of staying connected to one's music amidst the chaos of the modern world ("nurture it"). 

As we explore the making of "Cold Sea," Oisin reveals the inspiration behind the album's natural landscapes and the serendipitous collaboration with producer Steve Gunn ("I sent him a demo of October Sun and he wrote back and said I'm in"). He describes the creative process of recording in a remote cottage in Donegal and the importance of capturing the essence of the songs without overproduction. We also discuss the therapeutic nature of his music and how it has helped him navigate his own life.

Listeners are treated to insights into specific tracks from the album, including "Empire" ("and now I've got a record") and "Color of the Rain," as he explains the stories and grooves that define these songs. He emphasizes the open-ended nature of his lyrics, inviting listeners to bring their interpretations to his work. ("I've left the door open"). 

In addition to discussing his current projects, including his radio show "Caravan Radio" and upcoming tours, Oisin shares his favorite albums and offers rapid-fire answers to fun, personal questions. Dive into the world of "Cold Sea" and let Oisin's warm-hearted melodies carry you away into a world of great introspection which draws us closer to the human connection. 

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We kick off the episode with introductions, as Ryan Lescure, John Conley, and Becky Cale share their roles within their respective bands. Ryan, the primary songwriter, rhythm guitarist, and vocalist for Lavender Blush, John, the singer and rhythm guitarist for Desario, and Becky, the bassist and vocalist for Soft Science, share their opinions on some interesting passages from the popular book, The Creative Act: A Way of Being, written by Rick Rubin, legendary music producer. 

As the episode progresses, anticipation builds for an upcoming show in San Francisco organized by Ryan ("I'm starting an enterprise...record label and Bay Area concert promoter") He reveals his plans for a series of theme nights celebrating legendary bands, starting with The Jesus and Mary Chain. John and Becky share their excitement for the show, hinting at special setlists and new merchandise. The episode wraps up with my call to action for listeners to attend the show and experience the vibrant SF music scene.

Join us for this engaging episode filled with music, memories, and insights. Whether you're a longtime fan of The Jesus and Mary Chain, shoegaze, dreampop or indie music this discussion is sure to resonate and inspire --it's good for the soul!

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