The XS Noize Podcast

In this episode of the XS Noize Music Podcast, host Mark Millar is joined by Paul Connolly, frontman of incendiary Derry alt-rock band The Wood Burning Savages, to discuss their explosive new album 'Hand To Mouth'.

Renowned for their guitar-driven political rock and blistering live performances, the band returns with their long-awaited second album — the powerful follow-up to their 2018 debut 'Stability', which beat out the likes of Snow Patrol, Ash, and Bicep to win Northern Ireland Album of the Year. They also took home the award for Best Live Act.

️In this episode, Paul discusses the writing and recording process behind "Hand to Mouth," The stories and emotions that fuel the new songs, recovering from a life-altering illness while on tour, channelling personal and political unrest into raw, urgent rock, career highlights including playing Glastonbury and much more.

If you're a fan of fearless, high-octane rock with heart, fire, and social conscience, this is an episode you don't want to miss. Listen to episode #224 of the XS Noize Music Podcast with Paul Connolly – 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 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.

On this week's episode of the XS Noize Music Podcast, Mark Millar is joined by acclaimed singer-songwriter David Gray to discuss the early days of his career, his upcoming Greatest Hits collection, and his first live shows in over two years.

David Gray has announced his long-awaited return to the UK stage with a series of intimate acoustic solo performances in support of his forthcoming Greatest Hits release. Titled An Evening With David Gray, the tour begins at Manchester's Albert Hall on December 11 and includes a special two-night run at London's Cadogan Hall on December 13 and 14. The Best Of collection – arriving 25 years after the start of Gray's remarkable recording career – is set for release on October 28, just ahead of the live dates.

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.

Acclaimed British singer-songwriter Tom Hickox joins Mark Millar on the latest episode of the XS Noize Music Podcast to delve into his highly anticipated third album, The Orchestra of Stories, out 25 April 2025 via Family Tree Records.

Marking his return after a four-year hiatus, Hickox unveils a sweeping, cinematic collection of songs that fuse myth, memory, history, and heart. In this in-depth conversation, he discusses the emotional and historical inspirations behind standout tracks like "Chalk Giants," "The Shoemaker," "The Clairvoyant," and "The Failed Assassination of Fidel Castro."

Listeners will also hear how his background in composition helped shape the album's orchestral sound, and how family legacies, personal memories, and real-life events sparked the storytelling behind the music.

Whether you're drawn to storytelling in music, cinematic songwriting, or artists like Scott Walker, this episode is essential listening. The Orchestra of Stories is Hickox at his most ambitious—an album that elevates narrative songwriting to stunning new heights.

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.

In this episode of the XS Noize Podcast, Mark Millar chats with Saint Leonard—the visionary artist formerly known as Kieran Leonard—about the extraordinary journey that led to his third and most ambitious album, The Golden Hour.

From recording his debut, Good Luck Everybody, at Stanley Kubrick's historic home to headlining sold-out shows at London's The Windmill and Third Man Records and supporting The Libertines on tour, Saint Leonard has built a reputation for fearless reinvention.

In this fascinating conversation, Leonard shares the wild and deeply personal story behind The Golden Hour—an album shaped by Wild nights in Berlin's underbelly, Spiritual awakenings in India, Isolation in a GDR-era apartment during the pandemic, and Collaborations with Brian Eno and members of Fat White Family.

Recorded at the legendary Hansa Studios in Berlin and Paul Epworth's Church Studios in London, The Golden Hour blends electronic textures, techno pulses, and Weimar cabaret flair—all woven together with Leonard's surreal storytelling and dark wit.

Highlights include:

Meeting Fat White Family by chance in Berlin and forming a band overnight

Collaborating with Brian Eno and how it reshaped his sonic vision

Wrestling with identity, paranoia, and rebirth during lockdown

Using music to capture the absurdity of existence—with a wink

The Golden Hour is not just an album—it's a full-blown experience: cinematic, unhinged, and unforgettable. Listen now for a deep dive into the madness, magic, and music of Saint Leonard.

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 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, John Lydon, 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.

In this explosive new episode of The XS Noize Music Podcast, host Mark Millar welcomes back punk rock legend John Lydon — best known as Johnny Rotten, frontman of the iconic Sex Pistols and founder of the groundbreaking Public Image Ltd (PiL).

Now making his third appearance on the podcast, Lydon returns with even more fire. He reflects on his influential career and opens up about deeply personal moments.

In this episode, John Lydon discusses:

His outspoken take on the Sex Pistols reunion, His complex relationship with Malcolm McLaren. Coping with the loss of his beloved wife, Nora and best friend/manager, Rambo. His current projects are a bold spoken word tour, a powerful new PiL album, and upcoming live shows.

This is a raw, fearless, and deeply honest conversation with one of music's most outspoken and iconic figures. Whether you're a lifelong fan or discovering him for the first time, don't miss this candid insight into the mind of John Lydon.

Are you a fan of the Sex Pistols or Public Image Ltd? Then this episode is essential listening. Join punk icon John Lydon on The XS Noize Podcast – Episode #221 as he shares raw, unfiltered stories from his legendary career and current projects.

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 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, John Lydon, 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.

In this episode of The XS Noize Podcast, host Mark Millar sits down with Will Sergeant, the legendary guitarist of Echo & The Bunnymen, to discuss his pioneering contributions to post-punk and alternative music.

Will's distinctive guitar sound helped shape timeless albums like Crocodiles, Heaven Up Here, and Ocean Rain, influencing generations of musicians with his atmospheric, hypnotic, and cinematic playing style.

Beyond his work with Echo & The Bunnymen, Will has pushed musical boundaries through his avant-garde solo project, Weird As Fish, and established himself as an author with two acclaimed memoirs—Bunnyman: A Memoir and Echoes: A Memoir Continued—offering deep insights into his life, music, and the band's evolution.

In this episode, we discuss: ✅ Will's journey from the Liverpool post-punk scene to global recognition ✅ The inspiration behind his iconic guitar style and songwriting approach ✅ His experiences writing Bunnyman and Echoes, and what's next for him as an author ✅ His work outside Echo & The Bunnymen, including Weird As Fish and experimental projects ✅ Details on his upcoming album with Courtney Love ✅ What's next for Echo & The Bunnymen and his upcoming plans

If you're a fan of Echo & The Bunnymen, this episode is a must-listen! Tune in to The XS Noize Podcast – Episode #220 with Will Sergeant!

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 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, John Lydon, 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.

In episode #219 of The XS Noize Podcast, host Mark Millar sits down with Simon Fowler, the legendary frontman of Ocean Colour Scene, to discuss the band's incredible legacy, upcoming UK tour, acoustic shows, and exciting new music.

As one of the most successful and influential bands of the Britpop era, Ocean Colour Scene achieved three consecutive Top 5 albums—Moseley Shoals (1996), Marchin' Already (1997), and One From The Modern (1999)—along with 17 Top 40 hits and six Top 10 singles. Their anthem, "The Riverboat Song", remains a defining track of the era.

What to Expect in This Episode ️ Simon Fowler shares: ✅ Insights on Ocean Colour Scene's upcoming UK tour (kicking off in March) ✅ Details on newly announced acoustic shows this autumn with drummer Oscar Harrison ✅ Behind-the-scenes stories from their iconic albums and greatest hits ✅ An exclusive update on new music in the works

If you're a fan of Ocean Colour Scene, this episode is a must-listen! Tune in to The XS Noize Podcast – Episode #219 with Simon Fowler! Listen 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 have included 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, John Lydon, 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.

In episode #218 of The XS Noize Podcast, host Mark Millar interviews Graham Coxon and Rose Elinor Dougall, the duo behind The WAEVE. Known for their cinematic blend of British folk-rock, post-punk, and freeform songwriting, The WAEVE's music explores themes of oblivion, surrender, hope, and defiance in a turbulent world.

Following their acclaimed self-titled debut album in 2023 and their second release, City Lights, in 2024, the duo returns with Eternal, a brand-new three-track EP featuring the single Love Is All Pain. Ahead of their UK headline tour, which kicks off on March 16th in Glasgow, Graham and Rose discuss how they met, their creative process, and the inspirations behind their latest music.

Tune in to The XS Noize Podcast – Episode #218 for an exclusive deep dive into The WAEVE's world of music, collaboration, and sonic evolution.

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 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, John Lydon, Bernard Butler, Steven Wilson, Ocean Colour Scene, Travis, New Order, The Killers, Tito Jackson, Simple Minds, Divine Comedy, Shaun Ryder, Gary Numan, Sleaford Mods, Michael Head, and many more.

In this episode of The XS Noize Podcast, host Mark Millar interviews Dave Pen, one-half of the anthemic electro-prog duo We Are Bodies and a key member of Archive and BirdPen.

Dave Pen and Robin Foster, a France-based composer and multi-instrumentalist, first teamed up in 2011. Their long-awaited second album as We Are Bodies, The Love Was All We Had, started as a pandemic project and grew into a deeply emotional reflection on love, loss, and the state of the world.

In this exclusive interview, Dave Pen shares: ✅ How he and Robin Foster first met ✅ The influences that shaped his songwriting journey ✅ The creative process behind The Love Was All We Had ✅ What's next for Archive and We Are Bodies ✅ And much more!

Tune in to The XS Noize Podcast – Episode #217 for an exclusive deep dive into The Love Was All We Had, the latest album from We Are Bodies. Hear Dave Pen discuss his songwriting journey, creative process, and what's next for Archive, BirdPen, and beyond!

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 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, John Lydon, Bernard Butler, Steven Wilson, Ocean Colour Scene, Travis, New Order, The Killers, Tito Jackson, Simple Minds, Divine Comedy, Shaun Ryder, Gary Numan, Sleaford Mods, Michael Head, and many more.

In this episode of The XS Noize Podcast, host Mark Millar sits down with Gary Kemp—legendary songwriter, guitarist, and Spandau Ballet co-founder—to discuss his highly anticipated third solo album, This Destination.

As one of the UK's most successful songwriters, Gary wrote 23 hit singles for Spandau Ballet, including iconic classics "True" and "Gold"—helping the band sell over 25 million records and achieve 500 weeks on the charts. His acclaimed songwriting earned him an Ivor Novello Award for Outstanding Song Collection and the BMI Icon Award (2023), placing him alongside legends like Queen and Peter Gabriel.

Beyond his solo career, Gary co-hosts the Rockonteurs podcast with Guy Pratt and has spent six years touring globally as part of Nick Mason's Saucerful of Secrets, reviving early Pink Floyd classics.

In this exclusive interview, Gary delves into: The creative process behind This Destination The influences that shaped his songwriting journey His experience with Band-Aid and the legendary charity single Do They Know It's Christmas? His top five most significant songs

Don't miss this must-listen conversation with one of Britain's greatest songwriters. Listen now to The XS Noize Podcast – Episode #216.

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