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Ep 69 - Darklands' producer Dan Doherty
11 Dec 2025
00:50:11
Recording in his Dublin Darklands studio, Dan Doherty is one of Ireland's most in demand producers. Before that he was in two well known Irish bands - Ghosts Estates and SICKBOY. He has recently picked up his drumsticks again to play with Galway chaos merchants Slyrydes.
Many people might know him for his work on the first three Fontaines DC singles, however his list of credits is incredible, ranging from established artists such as The Jesus and Mary Chain, Hope Sandoval and Denzel Curry to raw, young talent bringing the latest rap, post punk or hip hop.
P.S. if you do listen, sick boy is a lyric from The Stooges' Death Trip - no need to send a postcard!!
The podcast opens with October and closes with Wake Up both by Ghosts Estates
Ep 68 - Galway post punk band In Athens discuss their debut EP Mirrorism
20 Nov 2025
00:55:24
In this episode we are delighted to be joined by all four members of Galway band In Athens who recently released their debut EP Mirrorism, four tracks laced with notes of post-punk, shoegaze and fuzzy, experimental rock.
We discuss all things In Athens related, who does what, how many other bands they have been in, Galway weather and whether or not drummer Mosey is a heavy hitter.
"It's just a punk record with me shouting my head off"
Meryl Streek understates his impact as his outspoken oratory, delivered over a mix of melodic electronica and punk, blasts his chosen targets - the catholic church, cover-up culprits and capitalism. His new album Songs For The Deceased hits just as hard as 2022 debut 796 and is earning him swathes of new fans as well as critical acclaim and radio play.
He's on great form as we sit down before his upcoming UK tour and discuss what inspires him and makes him angry, and why he chose to perform using only a laptop, a microphone and a torch. We also discover he has never liked his voice and that 796 originally wasn't meant to have any vocals on it. Listen in for more great stories from the man behind the contact lenses as he completes his third album.
Gambling Death Full Of Grace Counting Sheep Dogs Dear James by Burnt Out - check it out on YouTube
Ep 58 - deep dive into the iNNUENDO 'on occasion' EP
16 Sep 2024
00:54:44
Dublin art rock four piece iNNUENDO have released their debut EP 'on occasion' and to mark the erm.. occasion we are joined by frontwoman and pianist extraordinaire Nora Ronan along with drummer Daniel Dennehy who also plays piano along with several other instruments. We are not worthy!
Listen in as we play the tracks and go for a deep dive into the making of the EP - their reflections, the inspirations, the bumps in the road and a great story about the string quartet which became a duo.
Tracks played clear motion don't ask away astros blue brake faster on occasion
Ep 57 - His Father's Voice debut album deep dive
05 Sep 2024
00:36:32
Never ones to shy away from diving into deep waters, in this episode we delve into Black Poison Morning - the debut album from Limerick's His Father's Voice.
They offset dark lyrics and edgy instrumentation with soaring pop melodies and epic crescendos. The band comprise singer/guitarist Ash O’Connor, lead guitarist James Reidy, and rhythm section of Laya Meabhdh Kenny on bass and Cian McGuirk on drums.
Ash and James join us for the podcast in which we go through the album track by track for lyrical and musical insights and inspirations - "lyrically it's purposefully quite dark with obnoxiously dark titles"
Tracks played The Blues Night Terrors Through The Thorns Forgot To Feed Interior Decorator Breathless Arm's Length Emotional Embargo
Ep 56 - Rob Dalton from SCATTERED ASHES
14 Jun 2024
00:44:02
SCATTERED ASHES are an angular, abrasive post punk foursome originally from Dublin but now based in the UK. They have released their second EP All That Is Solid Melts Into Air and we chatted to frontman Rob Dalton and went through the EP track by track.
Despite suffering from a heavy cold, he gave us great background and insights into this essential listening EP. You will also find out which track was inspired by The Eye Of The Tiger, who Rob’s favourite drummer is and what the hell the X-files have got to do with it.
At times angry, defiant, reflective, sad and optimistic, this EP finds them taking on the world. Incorporating guitars, samples, synths and sequencers, their expanded audio arsenal has melodies to match and attitude in abundance.
Dublin slowcore four piece of all living things have released their second EP Cold Plunge.
We chatted to Eunice and Danilo from the band on the day they played a support slot for English Teacher in Dublin, in preparation for their own headline tour supporting the May 31 release.
Cold Plunge has a slower more intense and emotional feel than their debut On Familiar Ground;as we go through and play the EP track by track, we learn why that is, how they felt during the recording process and what inspired their songwriting.
Nixer are Seán Keenan and Simon Gardner and they deliver dancefloor friendly, uptempo and visceral electro synth wave which is delicately balanced with the perfect amount of pop sensibilities.
On the day that their new EP I hit the town and the town hit me back was released, we had the craic with Seán and went through the EP track by track. It was recorded, produced and mixed in bedrooms in London, LA, and New York City (and Drogheda as we find out). This deep dive gives us the skinny on the inspirations, recording processes and feelings (some good, some bad!) about the songs - all in Seán's unique, high energy style. Highly recommended.
1. Hit The Town 2. Second Hand 3. Voices 4. The Book 5. Saccharine Smile 6. Fast One 7. Hit Me Back
Ep 53 Rob Flynn aka Rob Rua from Galway DJ collective Ar Ais Arís
23 Apr 2024
00:51:52
What a delight to talk to Rob Flynn aka Rob Rua in episode 53 of the Blowtorch Records podcast. Rob is our guide to all things heavy bass and his passion, which was ignited by the arrival of dubstep in the 00s, shines through.
With no less than four record labels (Rua, Spheres, Foxy Jangle and latest Ar Ais Arís) and a thriving club night in Galway, we were lucky to pin him down for an hour!
The brilliant artwork for this episode is by DJ Egg. The opening track is Laced Up by Doubt from the new Ar Ais Arís Volume 1 release on their Bandcamp page.
Ar Ais Arís - Big soundsystems. Big energy. Small safe spaces. Run by Alannah, Hannah, Robin & Rob
Ep 52 Michael Smyth from Virgins and their debut album
10 Apr 2024
01:11:48
Michael Smyth from Belfast's Virgins guides us track by track through the band's debut album nothing hurt and everything was beautiful.
Virgins have quickly become one of Ireland's most promising bands, flying the flag for Irish shoegaze since their sold out and critically acclaimed debut EP transmit a little heaven in 2023.
The eagerly anticipated debut album is out now digitally and on a pressing of 300 starburst vinyl. The album finds the band exploring a wider sonic palette, seamlessly moving between the gaze-pop of first single slowly long and disappearer, to the dance influenced softer and the heavy, expansive and ethereal pale fire and tend.
Virgins on this album were Michael Smyth, Rebecca Dow, David Sloan, James Foy and Brendy McCann. It was recorded at 1980 studios with producer/mixer Jonny Woods and mastered by Jon Moorehead at Moosetronix Mastering.
Ep 51 Rob Smith from Swedish Railway Orchestra
03 Apr 2024
00:54:06
Here at Blowtorch Records we love a deep dive and episode 51 is devoted to the divine sounds of The Swedish Railway Orchestra's new album Once Upon A Time...
Rob Smith is the man behind the project and he is our guide as we go through the album track by track and hear the influences and inspirations behind the project as a whole and the tracks individually.
The Chelsea Hotel Forever And A Day You'll Never Take Me Alive Obelisco Once Upon A Time In Palestine I Saw The City People Will Let You Down Motions Of The Tone Circus
Ep 50 Dave Harvey from Seabass Vinyl
24 Mar 2024
00:56:38
Seabass Vinyl is Scotland's first ever, and currently only, vinyl pressing plant. As vinyl is our favourite obsession there's no better subject for the half century of Blowtorch podcasts than Seabass co founder Dave Harvey.
Dave and his wife Dominique have setup a state of the art pressing plant 20km from Edinburgh which aims not only to deliver short vinyl runs to up and coming bands (and Taylor Swift if she asks nicely) but also be the most sustainable facility in the world.
We pressed our recently released Swedish Railway Orchestra album with Seabass and were delighted with the result. So here's our chat covering everything you wanted to know about vinyl production but were afraid to ask.
Beaming in from his Orc's Lair studio is Darragh Hansard, one half of funky psych pop duo Unique Freaks, along with his partner in space/time Beth Doyle. With a recent name change from Thee UFO and a brand new album to obsess over (Enjoyment Planted) there's plenty for us to chat about. For example, previous albums Beaming A Moments Reflection and Ponderous Fug; snails; production and mastering work for the likes of Search Results, The Daisy Chain, DUMB POSH HIPPIES and Puck; and err ... glasses.
Tracks played:
Junk Funk Garbage
Surveyor
Unconditionally Loving Pets
Somebody Special (not Something Special as I said a couple of times - sorry!)
One away from the half century episode and we are chatting to Kyle Thornton, the frontman from Mayo/Galway trio, and contender for loudest band in Ireland, Nerves.
Fresh from a triumphant continental debut in Paris and with recent single Empty garnering rave reviews, Kyle is in fine form. He charts the band's trajectory, from meeting drummer Adam aged 12 to adding bass (and flute?) maestro Charlie in college to now being on the cusp of releasing their debut EP on vinyl. And being recognised as one of the most devastating live acts in the country.
With debut EP Glórach being released in March, 2024 is going to be Nerves' breakthrough year.
Ep 48 Ex Strypes drummer Evan Walsh & his new project The Savage Hearts
15 Jan 2024
01:01:28
The Savage Hearts is the new project of Evan Walsh, former drummer of The Strypes. Episode 48 finds us chatting with him deep in the Cavan countryside as he casts his mind back to his formative musical experiences and influences; and brings us right up to date with the imminent release of The Savage Hearts' debut vinyl single Gang War/Speed Kills.
Evan is passionate, enthusiastic and all about the music. Listen as he tells us about how he nearly missed out on The Letterman Show; his Dr Feelgood obsession; how for him Cavan is the Canvey Island of Ireland; find out who Eddie Cruizer is, and get the inside scoop on new single Gang War.
Ep 47 Recent & upcoming vinyl releases from Blowtorch Records
29 Nov 2023
00:19:46
There's a chill in the air as November segues into the advent season. Time to pop your headphones on, pour a glass and cosy up with our review of recent vinyl releases and lookahead to what's coming in 2024.
Tracks played:
Reggie 2 - Search Results What Is The Point? - Telebox Feel - TV People I Wanna Be Like Pete - WHY BOTHER? Bury Me - OWLS Knuckle Sandwich - Some Remain
Ep 46 Jason Mahon from Bigmoon Records in Drogheda
26 Sep 2023
00:56:00
Bigmooon Records is an independent record store in Drogheda, Ireland and episode 46 finds me chatting to owner Jason Mahon. From travelling all over Ireland for lockdown record fairs to opening a physical record shop, promoting gigs and helping to kickstart the music scene in the town, we get insights from this super sound independent music obsessive.
You can find all Bigmoon Records details on Instagram
Music played is: Thee UFO - Ponderous Fug Search Results - Panic In The Park Japanese Jesus - Tension Punching Peaches - Full Goose Guided By Voices - Bunco Men
Ep 45 The Japanese Jesus debut EP Depression Breakfast
21 Jun 2023
00:19:55
Episode 45 finds us delving deep into Depression Breakfast - the debut EP from Limerick's Japanese Jesus. It features full playback of each track with background on the band, the songs and the influences behind them.
Episode 44 and we are having the craic with Jamie, Colm & Matthew - unfortunately Leo couldn't make it - and get the Some Remain origin story. How they got together and started out with their Rumble Studios video, where the name comes from and the music scene in Sligo. We also mention transport links in Ireland; top spots in the town for shooting videos; best independent music shops in Galway and Sligo; and unexpected musicians who have played there.
All this plus a short teaser of their next single Knuckle Sandwich
Never Enough - Some Remain Walk Away - Some Remain Something Against You - Pixies Knuckle Sandwich - Some Remain
Ep 43 Welcome Adore to Blowtorch Records
21 Feb 2023
00:44:07
Adore are an Irish garage punk trio made up of Lara Minchin on guitar/vocals, Lachlann Ó Fionnáin on bass/vocals and Naoise Jordan Cavanagh on drums. And we are beyond excited to announce they are hooking up with Blowtorch Records.
They have no music on streaming platforms, no videos on YouTube and yet there is already a palpable buzz about this outfit.
To celebrate I chatted to the band in their Galway rehearsal space before they headlined a Free House gig in Áras na nGael. For the first time ever it's a 2 parter - we had to set off for the sound check so the second bit takes place in the car. In the rainy rush hour traffic, so sound effects abound. Good chat though - learn all you ever wanted to know about this noisy, melodic, thrilling and ador(e)able band. From The Beatles and Donovan to Glen Campbell and Thin Lizzy via the Breeders and The Undertones.
Ep 42 Andy Marke from Fuzzed Up and Astromoon Records
26 Jan 2023
00:45:42
Andy Marke runs Fuzzed Up and Astromoon Records as a joint venture with Ian McGlynn. He also hosts DJ nights, promotes Dublin gigs and presents a show on Near FM.
Himself and Ian have carved out their own psych/garage/Kraut rock/shoegaze infused niche and it's a top place to spend some time with an ace lineup of bands from Ireland and further afield (Canada, Mexico...). They also have a commitment to keeping music physical with regular limited edition vinyl and cassette releases.
Maybe me and Andy were separated at birth - we have alot in common as our chat reveals. What a delight to spend 45 minutes in the company of someone who is so passionate about what he does - and all in his spare time. Listen and be inspired.
Sun Mahshene - The Righteous One Meryl Streek - Death to the Landlord
Ep 41 Unsung heroes of the Galway music scene #3 with Keith Wallace
03 Jan 2023
01:02:24
In the third of the series we talk to the head of Galway's Rusted Rail Records and Loner Deluxe founder Keith Wallace.
He reminds us of what Galway and its music scene was like when he started the label in March 2006 and guides us through the story of finding acts on MySpace, and burning and releasing music on mini CDs. The brilliant thing is that he is essentially still doing the same DIY, community-based thing albeit with updated social media and technology.
Keith also plays in several lo fi electronic/folk/psych outfits including Loner Deluxe, Moving Statues, A Lilac Decline and Cubs - all available on the Rusted Rail Bandcamp page.
The aim of this series is to shine a light on the heroes in the shadows. Those who host the small scale shows and events which encourage and develop upcoming bands and where you might see your next new musical love. Although Galway-based, the themes apply to any such place with a thriving sonic sub culture.
The quote Keith mentions is:
"The musical canon is not decided by majority opinion but by enthusiasm and passion, and a work that ten people love passionately is more important than one that ten thousand do not mind hearing"
Ep 40 OWLS and his End Me EP track by track
09 Dec 2022
01:00:18
The big four oh for the Blowtorch Records podcast and we celebrate by chatting to Emmett from Longford electronic outfit OWLS. His mantra is dark tunes you can dance to. He is searingly honest and gives us a fascinating insight into how he opens himself up and manifests his dark side through the OWLS persona into gothic tales of love and brutality. We also get the inside info on the making of the EP and the five tracks therein. One of my favourite podcast episodes.
You Are Skeleton You Bleed Me Murder Doll Why Don't You Breathe The Same As Me? I Have No Heart
Ep 66 - Emily Dollery from Cork no wave band THERAPY HORSE
24 Sep 2025
00:38:07
In this episode we are delighted to welcome Emily Dollery, bassist and lead vocalist for THERAPY HORSE. She tells us her musical story, how the band came together, how the music comes together and the story of their epic 12 hour recording session.
THERAPY HORSE are a Cork/Limerick trio bringing a terrific blast of no wave/noise rock/shoegaze energy to the Irish alternative guitar scene. They are completed by Cormac Donovan O'Neill and Eoin Schuch, who are also in Pebbledash. Their debut single LET ME BE CLEAR was released in August 2025 and second single LOVE/MERCY on September 26.
Ep 39 A deep dive with Sam Girling into his Attacca mixtape
18 Nov 2022
00:41:02
Sam Girling is an artist, producer and DJ from Bedford in the UK. He has just released his 13 track Attacca mixtape digitally and it will be available on Blowtorch vinyl in Jan 2023.
We chatted with Sam to find out more about him, how he makes his music and in particular this continuous 20 minute mix. He is literally a bedroom producer and it's a fascinating insight into the world of the DIY musician and how he, as he says, keeps the Attacca train going. Big thanks to Sam's dad for having the acid house CD!!
Music played in this episode
Sam Girling. - Take Your Time Sam Girling - Stompin' Sam Girling - Osmo Sam Girling - Overthought Intro A Guy Called Gerald - Voodoo Ray
Ep 38 Unsung heroes of the Galway music scene #2 with Jake Tiernan
09 Nov 2022
00:56:23
In the second of the series we talk to ex Turnstiles' bassist and Galway's Free House promoter Jake Tiernan.
He guides us through his journey from basic bassist to touring with Turnstiles and how the lack of a place to play prompted him to start Free House. Which I should point out does not mean it is always free to get in.
Now working with Luke Mulliez, his rhythm partner in Turnstiles and Montessori, he continues to deliver iconic nights in Áras na nGael with an eclectic line up of Irish bands & artists. Listen in to discover who's on upcoming lineups and also who he would choose for his all time Free House gig.
The aim of this series is to shine a light on the heroes in the shadows. Those who host the small scale shows and events which encourage and develop upcoming bands and where you might see your next new musical love. Although Galway-based, the themes apply to any such place with a thriving sonic sub culture.
Music played in this episode
Fugazi - Shut The Door Beat Happening - In Between The White Stripes - Suzy Lee Silverbacks - Archive Material Belle and Sebastian - The Stars of Track & Field
Ep 37 Unsung heroes of the Galway music scene #1 with John O'Connor
02 Nov 2022
00:50:21
In the first of a new series we talk to Galway music promoter John O'Connor who runs the city's A Modern Movement.
The aim of the series is to shine a light on the heroes in the shadows. Those who host the small scale shows and events which encourage and develop upcoming bands and where you might see your next new musical love. Although Galway-based, the themes apply to any such place with a thriving sonic sub culture.
John guides us through his own not insignificant input to the night time economy and curates a personal dream lineup. Could Galway have a 'night mayor?' How will the new Irish club licensing laws affect things? Where can you get a coffee after 8pm? All that and much more besides.
All details for A Modern Movement are on their Facebook page
Music played in this episode
Frank Carter & The Rattlesnakes - Devil Inside Me Reuben - Let's Stop Hanging Out Biffy Clyro - 57 Sal Dulu - She Belongs To Roth
Ep 36 Virgins' debut EP Transmit A Little Heaven - track by track
12 Sep 2022
00:45:18
We're back! After a summer break we return with a bang, albeit one with loads of fuzz and reverb on it, as Richard talks to Michael Smyth from Belfast's Virgins about their upcoming shoegaze EP Transmit A Little Heaven. He gives us some great background on the band and the recording of the EP, and goes through each of the 5 tracks with a sneak preview of each.
The first release from the EP Signalling is out now - listen on Spotify - and the full vinyl release will be on or around October 14.
Blowtorch Records Podcast - Ep 35 with Francis Watters from Future West
29 Jun 2022
01:02:09
Back to the chats for this episode as I catch up with Francis Watters - the frontman from Dundalk's alt-fi foursome Future West. They have a new 9 track album Who Will Forgive All My Sins out August 19 digitally and on Blowtorch vinyl and we discuss all aspects of the band and how they got to this exciting point of having an album ready to release.
The band has been through several iterations - it started as a 6 piece, went to a solo project and has now settled as 4 piece with John Mellon on bass and Peter McCoy and Pauric McCrum on guitar and drums. The latter duo also form production team Pillowhead.
Listen & learn why we should all get Sony noise cancelling headphones (hello Sony - open to freebies); the story behind the artwork by David Noonan from Just Mustard; how you can get a free copy of the album by suggesting an idea for a show in Dundalk; why Francis will never work with James Murphy and what's coming next from his prolific songwriting pen.
With a new album Dance To The Drum Machine due for release in July and lead single The Ballhaus dropping on April 13, it's the perfect time to catch up with Rob. We find out the origin of that great project name; his views on collaboration and DJ botherers; tracks to rescue a dancefloor and a deep delve into his psyche with our either/or section.
The Ballhaus Northern Lights I Love You (But If you Clap When The Plane Lands I'll Leave You) The Freaks Come Out At Night Fallen Devil Stop Acting Like Bill Drummond
Blowtorch Records Podcast - Ep 31 with Arthur and Tadhg from Cork's Ash Red
21 Feb 2022
00:44:49
Episode 31 and we welcome Arthur Murray and Tadhg O'Keeffe from Cork alt-rock trio Ash Red
Hot on the heels of their recently released third single Downtown, we chat about the formation of the band, evolution to the current line up and future plans. We also get a deep psychological insight into their minds via our either/or section (this may not be entirely accurate!).
If you were wondering where the name Ash Red comes from, the inspiration behind The Stupid Song, how and where they record and who their musical heroes are then this is the podcast for you. Plus you get a sneak preview of a demo of a new track Falling Down (Around Us).
Blowtorch Records Podcast - Ep 30 Nixer go deep on their new single & EP People Feel
20 Jan 2022
01:05:55
Episode 30 - our pearl anniversary and what an auspicious edition, as for the first time we welcome back a previous guest. To celebrate the release of People Feel from their upcoming six track EP, say hello again to Nixer. They've been quiet of late and now we know why. Peggs and Seán have been busy beavering away in their South London studio, brewing up this enchanting elixir of an EP.
Now with the single released and feeling radio love from the likes of Gemma Bradley, Lauren Laverne and Steve Lamacq, Seán and Peggs open up about the making of the EP. Originally it was going to be called Afterglow and released in Summer 2021 but they decided to wait and refocus and now we have the brilliant result. We hear about the difficulties of working in different countries and the energy of now being together in the studio, collaborating with Shiv, the awkward genesis of People Feel, the tracks they were listening to, the thrill of finding Rude 66 to master the EP and the sheer joy of playing their tracks live.
There will be a 12" 45rpm vinyl release of the EP in late April. A previous track Magnolia Mouth appears on our first Blowtorch Records vinyl compilation
Nixer Tracks played
Gentrification People Feel Bad Rain ft. Shiv Decisions
Blowtorch Records Podcast - Ep 29 Recent releases Jan '22
10 Jan 2022
00:24:33
Happy New Year listeners and welcome to our first podcast of 2022 and the latest in our series which rounds up Blowtorch Records' recent releases.
It was a busy end to 2021 and 2022 is shaping up to be even busier. There's loads of quality new music coming this year along with exciting vinyl releases.
For your listening pleasure in this episode we have:
Blowtorch Records Podcast - Ep 28 Artist, producer and writer Wyse
13 Dec 2021
01:01:40
In the last edition of 2021, we welcome Wyse to the podcast and to Blowtorch Records. Hailing from Portsmouth in the UK, Wyse is a singer, songwriter and producer with a live band of the same name. She is driven by a need to express difficult truths; by a visceral need to communicate the life she lives in the time in which she finds herself.
Her music showcases poignant, compelling lyrics pitched somewhere between anger and therapy, propelled by memorable melodies, colliding rhythms, growling guitars and fat synths. It combines elements of Bjork, PJ Harvey, Hole and 80s pop into a wholesome brew of musical medicine.
Rhythm She Knows Switch Of My Controller Drown Not That Sorry
Ep 65 - Rafto and Eoin from Galway band Slyrydes
04 Sep 2025
00:52:30
As Galway's thrillingly abrasive yet melodic four piece Slyrydes release their debut album 'What Happens If You Get Happy' five years after it was recorded, we chat to frontman Rafto and bassist Eoin. This is not a inquest into what went wrong, more a celebration that this brilliant album is now available for everyone to hear.
A combination of Covid and personal issues scuppered the original release and they don't shy away from talking about the addiction and communication issues which hampered them. But now clean, sober and raring to go they look forward to live dates, a vinyl release and potentially new music. Highly recommended listening.
Blowtorch Records Podcast - Ep 27 Keeley Moss from psych pop band Keeley
30 Nov 2021
01:15:38
Keeley, the band, are fronted by Keeley Moss and describe their sound as a blissful buffet of dreampop and psychedelic rock. She describes herself as 'A sonic sorcerer like no other. True crime. True music.' Well there is nothing in this podcast to disabuse us of this and all the better for it.
It's an indie-inspired, contrarians' conversation about why she prefers to be on the fringes yet also loves mainstream pop. Ranging from Bananarama to Nirvana via The Smiths, and always with the influence of Inga Maria Hauser driving her on, it's a life-affirming story of someone finding their place in the World. Someone becoming who they are.
Tracks played
The Glitter and the Glue Never O'Clock To a London Sunrise Never Here Always There Last Words
Blowtorch Records Podcast - Ep 26 Recent releases Nov '21
17 Nov 2021
00:22:33
The third podcast in our series which rounds up recent releases from Blowtorch Records. Opening up with the title track from the brilliant new Jagged Baptist Club album Temptation Death House we continue with these singles: Half Cut - South Wales four piece The Rivers Blue Light Trails - Belfast alt-rockers Paper Tigers Billy? - new experimental punk band from Galway Punching Peaches I've Got This Feeling - Amsterdam-based Canadian Keith Mosfet Dust out of Your Disorder - Helsinki word & sound artist Liana Forte
Blowtorch Records Podcast - Ep 25 Helsinki word & sound artist Liana Forte
26 Oct 2021
00:43:52
A quarter century of podcasts! And no better way to celebrate than with our queen of European electronica Liana Forte.
Liana is a word, sound and expression artist living in Finland but originally from Kazakhstan. Since unlocking her creativity earlier this year, and inspired by her muse Kate Bush, she has crafted nine unique slabs of poetry set to an electronic backing.
We hear how she had no choice but to study music once her dancing was cruelly cut short; how her father's vinyl collection, although technically off limits to her, fired her love of Western music; how Asian folk music influences her and we discuss Berlin and Kraftwerk. All this with our new in-depth either/or section.
If I could Disorder Me And My God i'm programmed Dust Out Of Your Disorder
Blowtorch Records Podcast - Ep 24 Galway psych punk trio Punching Peaches
22 Sep 2021
01:03:58
Punching Peaches recently joined Blowtorch Records and so you can get to know the three of them (Naoise, Jack & Conor), their roles in the band and what makes them tick, here's a handy guide all wrapped up in episode 24 of the podcast.
It features their two singles to date (Wristwitch and Maggots), a track from the previous incarnation of the band Fro (Stacy), and some unreleased demos.
All this plus an in-depth interrogation in our new either/or segment; details on a new release and Galway gig; insights into their songwriting process and why Jack is barred from Monroes. Essential listening.
Maggots Wristwitch Stacy (by Fro) Full Goose (demo) Unknown (demo)
Blowtorch Records Podcast - Ep 23 Recent Releases Sept '21
14 Sep 2021
00:21:06
The second podcast in our series which rounds up recent releases from Blowtorch Records
Opening up with a short excerpt of Wristwitch, the first single from new signing Punching Peaches, you'll then hear these mighty tracks:
Vows - new Belfast shoegaze band Virgins Shallow Minds - Dublin melodic post punk TV People Haunted By The Night - LA based noise merchants Jagged Baptist Club i'm programmed - Helsinki word & sound artist Liana Forte Prints - North Wales psych rock outfit Moondog
and a short clip of Cian O'Dowd's upcoming release She Don't Care
Something different for episode 22 - no music it's The Talkies only. Our guest is Daniel Fox from Dublin's avant garde art noise makers Girl Band.
I talked to Daniel in a Dublin thunderstorm and our chat is shot through with the sound of seagulls, rain and thunder. Also with many thoughtful and insightful views on his influences, how Girl Band come up with their songs and his work as a producer for the likes of Sprints, Turnstiles and Bullet Girl.
From being scared as a kid by The Prodigy's Firestarter, through his first Strokes-alike band to opening the door to an arsenal of new sounds on their albums Holding Hands With Jamie and The Talkies, it's a fascinating listen. You'll also hear about his bad clarinet playing and why he has an unusually high number of Emerson, Lake and Palmer albums.
They are working on new tunes and have gigs coming up in September in the UK - in the meantime listen in for your Girl Band fix.
Dublin's TV People are killing it on all channels at the moment as they announce their new EP (digital August 26, vinyl on pre-order now), a return to live gigs and inclusion in Ireland's prestigious Music Week in October.
So no better time than now to catch up with Paul and Brendan from the band for episode 21 of the podcast. We discuss how they get the signature TV People sound; why putting themselves under pressure works for their songwriting; the music that influenced and inspires them; working with producers such as Dan Doherty and Caesar Edmunds, and floating around in a deflating dinghy on the River Liffey. All in a day's work for a band that's going places.
Nothing More String Kitchen Sinking Out of the Silence Shallow Minds
Blowtorch Records Podcast - Episode 20
07 Jul 2021
00:20:10
For episode 20, we've started a new strand in the podcast. Rather than chatting to a guest, we have done a review of recent releases on the label. There's some extra inside info chucked in - and a sneak preview of an upcoming release. Each track is played in full too as Eric B and Rakim nearly said.
It's short and snappy at 20 minutes - just the right length to get your new music fix while enjoying a cuppa and a cig.
In a first for the Blowtorch podcast, this edition finds me talking to an Emmy winner. Anthony Wall is a musician, published songwriter, audio engineer and podcaster based in Sligo, Ireland. He was a member of the Emmy Award winning studio crews for NBC's broadcasts of the London 2012 and Sochi 2014 Olympic games.
Milk Harbour is his current project which, as Anthony says "is me reclaiming my love of music after years of burnout from the disappointments of my early attempts to make music more than a hobby."
In a wide ranging chat we cover the new democratic music model and the egregious major labels; being on the lineup when The Script got signed; how moving back to Ireland and a Julia Jacklin track fired his creativity; and his recently released album Milk Harbour vol. 1.
Vol.1 is a beautifully crafted and produced set of songs with some real standout moments and a couple of surprise twists. And the lyrics are deliciously dark and thoughtful throughout as you'll hear from the featured songs.
Desperate Twins Francesca (Undercover Martians) Self Destruction (Hitchcock Blondes) All Things To All Men Butterfly 1981 The Preacher's Daughter Acoustic (Hitchcock Blondes)
Blowtorch Records Podcast - Episode 18
09 Jun 2021
00:51:10
Episode 18 finds me chatting to Marc Raftery, the frontman from Galway fire starters Slyrydes. Starting out in 2019 Marc, Mark, Eoin (Fuz) and Paul have released a clutch of brilliant singles and built up a rabid following with incendiary live shows.
Forthright, funny, passionate and empathetic, Marc delivers his opinions on everything from mental health provision in Ireland, politics and national broadcasters to country music, The Coronas and Connemara TDs.
He clearly thinks and cares deeply - including about Slyrydes which for the four members seems to be as much a mission as a band.
They have a vinyl single coming soon (update from the recording - test pressings have arrived!) comprising Boy In The Debs Suit and I Claim To Be Intelligent. Later this year, not only can we look forward to seeing them live, we will hear their debut album What Happens If You Get Happy. Oh yeah!
Taking time out from a busy schedule as the band rehearse for the recording of their debut album, accordion maestro Finn Ó Mainnín guides us through all things Cardinals. A Cork band with heart, soul and principles.
They continue to develop their unique sound on latest single 'Big Empty Heart' and look forward to a big festival Summer including supporting Fontaines DC. Then it's an Autumn tour taking in the UK, USA, Canada and Australia. Flying high and unionising romance.
It's almost summer so where better to head than to our Celtic cousins in Cornwall? Home of surfing, pasties, tin mines and ferocious yet melodic noise duo WAXX.
They line up as Lee Matthews on vocals & bass/guitar and Bubs Taylor on drums & vocals. They have been described as 'indie rock with a twist of dance and chants’ and 'a supersonic landscape of sound'. Listen for yourself - it's true!
I had a great chat with Lee who tells us how they get their supercharged sound, lets us into some WAXX secrets and their plans for new releases and gigs. As always great music guaranteed.
The live-recorded video Lee mentions is on YouTube
Rather than music, we're on a photography tip for this episode. I had a great chat with award winning Galway photographer Enda Burke who produced his brilliant 'Homebound With My Parents' series during the various lockdowns in Ireland.
Originally a street photographer, he was forced by the pandemic to pivot to a more (home) studio-based approach. This fostered his creative, kitsch side and resulted in the lockdown series and a collaborations with Galway publishers Coffeewerk + Press; an article in Italian Rolling Stone magazine; and photoshoots with Galway dream popsters NewDad.
Enda tells us how it all started, offers insights into some of his working methods and also shares some of his musical inspirations. Barbie Girl by Aqua - who'd a thunk. As the series draws to a natural close, we hear what this talented lensman has lined up as a bright future beckons. His parents are hoping it doesn't involve more rearranging of their living room furniture.
It's episode 15 folks and to celebrate this milestone we bring you our first podcast recorded in person. Not a Zoom call in sight. Could this be the future?
In this edition, we're delighted to be chatting to Galway musician Rory Ryan. Once a purveyor of guitar-based indie rock with Bob Skeleton, he has now returned to his native keyboards and delivered his debut release - EP1. Eschewing the tropes of most modern pop, he has delivered a set of intelligent, slightly world-weary yet uplifting tracks reminiscent of Pet Shop Boys, Tame Impala or MGMT.
He reveals how came to produce shimmering dreamy pop songs, some of his song writing secrets and how sharing a rehearsal space with the likes of NewDad can be an inspiration. And we definitely get to the bottom of what post-punk is! All that and great music guaranteed.
Connect with Rory on Instagram here and on listen on Spotify here
Blowtorch Records Podcast - Episode 14
11 Apr 2021
01:06:26
In this episode, something slightly different as I chat to Peter Jones from Rotator Vinyl in Dublin. Peter is a fascinating character who has lived his life by the DIY ethos of the anarcho punk scene which was spearheaded in the 70s and 80s by bands such as Crass and Zounds.
He now runs Rotator Vinyl as a one-stop shop for almost anything merch-related, with a particular penchant for vinyl and demystifying the production process for bands. He also plays in his own band Paranoid Visions and thus has great insights from both perspectives.
He shares his background and experiences in the music industry and has some valuable thoughts on how young bands can survive and thrive in the digital era.
As ever great music including Crass, Turnstiles, Paranoid Visions and The Radiators From Space