The XS Noize Podcast

In Episode #244 of the XS Noize Podcast, host Mark Millar chats with Tom Smith — frontman of Editors — about his debut solo album There Is Nothing In The Dark That Isn't There In The Light, released 5 December on Play It Again Sam.

After two decades leading Editors through seven acclaimed albums and two records with Smith & Burrows, Tom is stepping into solo territory for the first time. Motivated by a desire to reconnect with the raw, acoustic beginnings of his songwriting, he set out to create something more intimate and personal — a world away from the collaborative nature of his band projects.

Produced with Iain Archer, the album blends stripped-back honesty with cinematic flourishes, moving from the nostalgic ache of Lights Of New York City to the soaring drama of Life Is For Living. Along the way, Tom explores themes of memory, resilience, and connection, balancing melancholy with hope.

In this episode, Tom talks about finding his voice as a solo artist, the stories and emotions behind these songs, and we also revisit the Editors' back catalogue that made him one of the UK's most distinctive frontmen.

Whether you've followed Tom's journey from the very first Editors record or are meeting him here for the first time, this is an intimate and revealing look at an artist entering a bold new chapter.

Previous XS Noize Podcast Guests Over 240 episodes in, XS Noize has welcomed legends and trailblazers, including:

Matt Beringer, Saint Etienne, D:Ream, Gavin Rossdale, The Farm, Snow Patrol, John Lydon, Will Sergeant, Ocean Colour Scene, Gary Kemp, Doves, Gavin Friday, David Gray, Anton Newcombe, Peter Hook, Razorlight, 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, The Divine Comedy, Shaun Ryder, Gary Numan, Sleaford Mods, Michael Head — and many more.

Find The XS Noize Podcast's complete archive of episodes here.

In Episode #243 of the XS Noize Podcast, host Mark Millar chats with Rick Nunn — vocalist and guitarist of The Milk — about the band's powerful new album Borderlands, released 19 September on WLS Records.

Formed during their school days, The Milk have spent decades honing a sound that blends soul, funk, and rock with fearless live energy. From their major-label debut Tales from the Thames Delta to the independent breakthrough Favourite Worry and the cinematic sweep of Cages, they've built a reputation for honesty, craft, and ambition. With Borderlands, they return with their most expansive and personal work yet — an album that weaves choirs, brass, and strings into stories of love, loss, and resilience.

In this episode, Rick opens up about the ambition behind Borderlands, the journey from navigating label compromises to full creative independence, and how three decades of friendship continue to drive The Milk's music. He also reflects on the band's evolution and why Borderlands feels like a defining chapter in their story.

Whether you've followed The Milk from the beginning or are discovering them for the first time, this episode offers a raw, inspiring look at a band still pushing forward with heart and conviction. Stream below.

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 include legends and trailblazers such as Saint Etienne, D: Ream, Gavin Rossdale, The Farm, Snow Patrol, John Lydon, Will Sergeant, Ocean Colour Scene, Gary Kemp, Doves, Gavin Friday, David Gray, Anton Newcombe, Peter Hook, Razorlight, 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, The Divine Comedy, Shaun Ryder, Gary Numan, Sleaford Mods, Michael Head — and many more.

In Episode #242 of the XS Noize Podcast, host Mark Millar chats with John Robb — musician, journalist, author, broadcaster, and founder of Louder Than War — about his brand-new book Live Forever: The Rise, Fall and Resurrection of Oasis.

From fronting cult punk bands The Membranes and Goldblade to coining the term Britpop and becoming the first UK journalist to interview Nirvana, John has been at the frontline of music for decades. Alongside his career as a musician and broadcaster, he has written definitive books on punk, goth, and the acclaimed biography The Stone Roses and the Resurrection of British Pop. Now, with Oasis back in the spotlight thanks to their massive Live 25 tour, he turns his attention to one of the greatest rock 'n' roll stories ever told — the turbulent, era-defining journey of the band.

In this episode, John discusses how he approached writing Live Forever, the rise of Oasis from Manchester clubs to worldwide fame, and why the band still matters three decades on. He also reflects on his earlier work with The Stone Roses, how he balances life as a musician, journalist, and author, and why he continues to push boundaries — on stage, on the page, and online.

Whether you grew up with Oasis, followed John Robb's writing, or simply love hearing stories from those who shaped modern music, this episode is packed with insight, energy, and history.

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 include legends and trailblazers such as Saint Etienne, D: Ream, Gavin Rossdale, The Farm, Snow Patrol, John Lydon, Will Sergeant, Ocean Colour Scene, Gary Kemp, Doves, Gavin Friday, David Gray, Anton Newcombe, Peter Hook, Razorlight, 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, The Divine Comedy, Shaun Ryder, Gary Numan, Sleaford Mods, Michael Head — and many more.

In Episode #241 of the XS Noize Podcast, host Mark Millar chats with Matt Berninger — frontman of The National and acclaimed solo artist — about his brand-new album Get Sunk.

Best known for his baritone voice and evocative lyrics, Matt has spent over two decades with The National, shaping the sound of modern indie rock across landmark albums like Boxer, High Violet, and Sleep Well Beast. In 2020, he released his first solo record Serpentine Prison. Now, four years later, he returns with Get Sunk — an album he describes as "the inhale after drowning."

In this episode, Matt opens up about:

• The spark that inspired Get Sunk

• His battle with depression and how it shaped the record

• Unusual writing methods that brought the songs to life

• The "near miss" track that almost didn't make the album

• Lessons from collaboration (including with Taylor Swift)

• What's ahead on his upcoming European tour

Whether you're a longtime fan of The National, intrigued by Matt's solo work, or simply love hearing the stories behind powerful songwriting, this episode offers a candid, behind-the-scenes look at one of indie rock's most distinctive voices. Stream below.

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 include legends and trailblazers such as Saint Etienne, D: Ream, Gavin Rossdale, The Farm, Snow Patrol, John Lydon, Will Sergeant, Ocean Colour Scene, Gary Kemp, Doves, Gavin Friday, David Gray, Anton Newcombe, Peter Hook, Razorlight, 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, The Divine Comedy, Shaun Ryder, Gary Numan, Sleaford Mods, Michael Head — and many more.

In Episode #240 of the XS Noize Podcast, Mark Millar is joined by Billy Lunn and Charlotte Cooper, from The Subways, to mark the 20th anniversary of their debut album Young For Eternity and the release of their new compilation album When I'm With You.

Formed in the early 2000s, The Subways became one of the UK's most exciting indie rock bands, bursting onto the scene in 2005 with the release of Young For Eternity and their breakout hit "Rock & Roll Queen." The track went on to feature in The OC, Guy Ritchie's film RocknRolla, and on the FIFA soundtrack — catapulting the band to an international audience.

Now, two decades later, The Subways are revisiting their roots, re-recording "Rock & Roll Queen" with fresh energy, and bringing together fan favourites, deep cuts, and two brand new songs — "I Need To Feel You Closer" and "Passenger's Side" — on their 2025 compilation When I'm With You.

In this in-depth interview, The Subways discuss: The process of re-recording "Rock & Roll Queen" for its 20th anniversary, Memories from the early days of Young For Eternity and their rise to fame, How drummer Camille Phillips has brought a new dynamic to the band's sound, Career-defining gigs — from basement clubs to Glastonbury Festival, What fans can expect from The Subways For Eternity Tour 2025.

If you're a fan of indie rock anthems, 2000s British guitar bands, or the raw live energy of The Subways, this episode is packed with nostalgia, behind-the-scenes stories, and an exciting look at what's next for the band.

Listen to The Subways celebrate 20 years of Young For Eternity and discuss When I'm With You on XS Noize Podcast #240. Stream below.

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 include legends and trailblazers such as D: Ream, Gavin Rossdale, The Farm, Snow Patrol, John Lydon, Will Sergeant, Ocean Colour Scene, Gary Kemp, Doves, Gavin Friday, David Gray, Anton Newcombe, Peter Hook, Razorlight, 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, The Divine Comedy, Shaun Ryder, Gary Numan, Sleaford Mods, Michael Head — and many more.

In Episode #239 of the XS Noize Podcast, Mark Millar is joined by Bob Stanley from Saint Etienne to discuss the legendary band's 13th and final album, International.

For over 30 years, Saint Etienne have been one of Britain's most influential and inventive pop groups, fusing electronic music, indie pop, 60s influences, and modern storytelling. Now, with the release of International (out September 2025), Bob Stanley, Sarah Cracknell, and Pete Wiggs close the chapter on making albums — delivering a vibrant, celebratory record full of collaborations.

In this in-depth conversation, Bob Stanley talks about:

Why International marks the end of Saint Etienne's album-making era, The stories behind key tracks including "Glad" (with Tom Rowlands and Jez Williams), "Two Lovers" (with Vince Clarke), "The Go Betweens" (with Nick Heyward), and "The Last Time," The resurgence of their 1991 club classic "7 Ways To Love", Highlights from across their 13-album catalogue — from Foxbase Alpha to The Night, What comes next for Saint Etienne beyond the studio: live shows, films and more

If you're a fan of Saint Etienne's timeless blend of dance-pop, nostalgia, and innovative songwriting, this episode is a must-listen.

Listen to Bob Stanley reflect on the legacy of Saint Etienne and their remarkable final album, International, on XS Noize Podcast #239. Stream below.

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 include legends and trailblazers such as D: ream, Gavin Rossdale, The Farm, Snow Patrol, John Lydon, Will Sergeant, Ocean Colour Scene, Gary Kemp, Doves, Gavin Friday, David Gray, Anton Newcombe, Peter Hook, Razorlight, 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, The Divine Comedy, Shaun Ryder, Gary Numan, Sleaford Mods, Michael Head — and many more.

In Episode #238 of the XS Noize Podcast, Mark Millar is joined by Grammy-winning singer-songwriter Cam to talk about her new album, All Things Light.

From her multi-platinum hit "Burning House" to co-writing on Beyoncé's Cowboy Carter, Cam has become one of music's most distinctive voices. All Things Light — written during early motherhood and the pandemic — blends country, folk and pop while exploring life, love, and big questions about our place in the world.

Cam shares the stories behind key tracks like "Turns Out That I Am God," "Alchemy," and "Hallelujah," how motherhood shaped the record, and what it was like to win a Grammy.

Tune in for an honest and inspiring conversation about Cam's journey and the making of All Things Light.

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 include legends and trailblazers such as D: ream, Gavin Rossdale, The Farm, Snow Patrol, John Lydon, Will Sergeant, Ocean Colour Scene, Gary Kemp, Doves, Gavin Friday, David Gray, Anton Newcombe, Peter Hook, Razorlight, 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, The Divine Comedy, Shaun Ryder, Gary Numan, Sleaford Mods, Michael Head — and many more.

In this episode of the XS Noize Podcast, Mark Millar is joined by Peter Cunnah and Al Mackenzie — the pioneering duo behind D:Ream — to discuss their vibrant and defiant new album, Do It Anyway.

Best known for their iconic #1 hit "Things Can Only Get Better," D:Ream became a cultural phenomenon throughout the '90s and beyond — from chart domination and BRIT Award nominations to political soundtracking and, most recently, going viral again at Glastonbury 2024 with Professor Brian Cox back on the keys.

Now, with Do It Anyway — their first album in over a decade, out August 8 via Chrysalis — D:Ream return with a record bursting with fresh energy, clubland spirit, and sharp cultural commentary.

Do It Anyway is a genre-hopping ride through electro-pop, trip-hop, gospel, broken beats, and dancefloor nostalgia. From the title track — rooted in a long-lost Kylie demo from the '90s — to politically charged cuts like The Geek Who Rules the World and Anthem for Change, the album bridges past and present with fearless creativity and purpose.

In this wide-ranging conversation, Peter and Al open up about reconnecting with the rave-fuelled energy that first brought them together — and how they've kept that spark alive through decades of transformation. They explore the club culture that shaped their early sound, the stubborn creative drive that still fuels them, and the joy of collaborating with voices like Lisa Moorish, Ella B, TJ Davis, and Gemma Doherty.

Tune in to Episode #237 of the XS Noize Podcast for a candid, funny, and inspiring deep dive into D:Ream's legacy, evolution, and bold new chapter.

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 include legends and trailblazers such as Gavin Rossdale, The Farm, Snow Patrol, John Lydon, Will Sergeant, Ocean Colour Scene, Gary Kemp, Doves, Gavin Friday, David Gray, Anton Newcombe, Peter Hook, Razorlight, 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, The Divine Comedy, Shaun Ryder, Gary Numan, Sleaford Mods, Michael Head — and many more.

In this episode of the XS Noize Podcast, Mark Millar is joined by Gavin Rossdale — the iconic frontman of Bush — to discuss their powerful new album, I Beat Loneliness.

Since bursting onto the scene in the early '90s with Sixteen Stone, Bush have become one of the most defining bands of the post-grunge era, selling over 20 million records worldwide and headlining stages across the globe. Now, on their 10th studio album, Gavin Rossdale and the band deliver some of their most urgent and personal work to date.

I Beat Loneliness is a raw, defiant record that dives deep into themes of isolation, emotional endurance, and ultimately finding strength in vulnerability. From the fierce opener "Scars" to the anthemic title track and the poetic, socially charged "The Land of Milk and Honey," the album showcases Bush's classic intensity while embracing new sonic textures and deeply personal storytelling.

In this wide-ranging conversation, Gavin opens up about the emotional battles behind the songs, the cathartic power of turning pain into beauty, and the creative fire that keeps Bush evolving after nearly three decades. He also reflects on pivotal moments in his career and the excitement of embarking on a massive world tour with the new record.

Tune in to Episode #236 of the XS Noize Podcast for an in-depth look at Bush's latest chapter — a story of resilience, reinvention, and the unwavering drive to connect through music.

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 include legends and trailblazers such as The Farm, Snow Patrol, John Lydon, Will Sergeant, Ocean Colour Scene, Gary Kemp, Doves, Gavin Friday, David Gray, Anton Newcombe, Peter Hook, Razorlight, 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, The Divine Comedy, Shaun Ryder, Gary Numan, Sleaford Mods, Michael Head — and many more.

In this episode of the XS Noize Podcast, Mark Millar is joined by Scottish singer-songwriter Amy Macdonald to discuss her powerful new album, Is This What You've Been Waiting For?

With over 12 million records sold worldwide and countless arena shows under her belt, Amy has become one of Scotland's most beloved artists. On her sixth album, she explores bold new sonic territory while staying true to her signature emotional honesty.

Is This What You've Been Waiting For? is a defiant, uplifting record that tackles themes of survival, toxic friendships, and the courage to move forward. From the anthemic title track inspired by a moment of awe in Las Vegas, to the Springsteen-flavoured optimism of "Forward" and the fresh, danceable energy of "Can You Hear Me?", the album reveals Amy at her most fearless and authentic yet.

In this wide-ranging conversation, Amy opens up about her songwriting evolution since This Is The Life, staying connected to her fans across generations, and the excitement of returning to the stage for two massive hometown shows in Glasgow.

Tune in to Episode #235 of the XS Noize Podcast for a deep dive into Amy Macdonald's new era — a story of growth, resilience, and unapologetic self-expression.

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 include legends and trailblazers such as The Farm, Snow Patrol, John Lydon, Will Sergeant, Ocean Colour Scene, Gary Kemp, Doves, Gavin Friday, David Gray, Anton Newcombe, Peter Hook, Razorlight, 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, The Divine Comedy, Shaun Ryder, Gary Numan, Sleaford Mods, Michael Head — and many more.