**Disclaimer - contains some adult language**

*This episode contains excerpts from 3rd paty music*

Welcome to Episode 79. In this edition we talk to Midlands Actor, Writer Chris Jury, famed mostly for his appearance in the much loved series Lovejoy, which although screened through the early 90s, it was actually created when series 1 aired in the 80s having been indirectly cancelled in the clutches of red tape, before returning for a very successful run.

Chris speaks to us about his roles in Grange hill, Doctor Who amongst other jobs, with a narrative that very much pinpoints when working class drama changed in this country in a line with the Thatcher era government.

With some very unique 80s music selections, Chris chatted with honesty and humour and was a pleasure to have on as a guest - DA

Music played in this episode : Talking heads 'Once in A Lifetime' (Byrne, Eno, Frantz, Harrison, Weymouth), Van Morrison 'Wavelength (Morrison) / Hugh Masekela 'Zulu Wedding' (Masekela) / B.A.D 'Medicine Show' (Jones, Letts) / Bob Dylan 'Positively 4th Street' (Dylan) / Hothouse Flowers 'Don't Go' (O'Maonlai, O'Braonain, O'Toole)

**This episode contains excerpts of 3rd party musical content**

In this episode we welcome classically trained from a young age, Steve Nichol, keyboard player and composer with UK 80s soul sensation, loose Ends.

Steve tells us all about his full and colourful career working in America surrounded by incredible talent and it all started outside the post office in Peckham!!

3 facts about Loose Ends that we learned, Steve played in the The Jam's brass section, Loose Ends knocked Prince off the no.1 spot in the US and the band are not from Romford! - DA

Steve chooses his five 80s tracks for us to enjoy. The music we played in this episode is as follows: LooseEnds 'Hangin On A String' (Eugene, Nichol, McIntosh) / Alexander O'neal & Cherelle 'Everything I Miss At Home (Harris, Lewis) / Patrice Rushen 'Haven't You heard' (Brown, Chapman, Bright, Swoop, Harris) / Debarge 'I Like it' (W Debarge, E Debarge, E Debarge) / Cameo 'Candy' (Blackmon, Jenkins, Toby, Smith) / Michael jackson 'Rock With you' (Temperton) / Loose Ends 'Dial 999' (Eugene, Nichol, McIntosh)

**This episode contains excerpts of 3rd party musical content**

In Episode 69 we had a great chat with the wonderful and humble actor Clive Mantle. Clive talks about his career starting way back in the British Youth theatre, an early John Smiths commercial to working on the cult classic British movie Party Party to starring along side both Clint Eastwood and Michael Cain. Clive was also part of the largely English cast in Alien 3 and was also involved in Superman IV.

His list of TV credentials is endless including Minder, Dempsey & Makepiece, but Clive is most well known for his character Mike Barratt in Casualty. Unsurprisingly, hugely supportive of the NHS with the view that it should indeed be protected.

Now the author of a series of Freddy Malone adventure books for children, with a new release coming in 2025.

Clive chooses some great tracks from the 80s for us - DA

**This episode contains excerpts of 3rd party musical content**

Welcome Kevin R McNally, prestigious English actor talks to us about his career. From his early roles in the 70s in The Last Good Friday, I-Claudius, Spy Who Loved me ("I was a sonar operator, I wasn't fed a line, but Roger Moore handed me a gun and I shot a man in an orange tabbard!!"), to his work on Dr. Who under Colin Baker's tenure, and his character in the Pirates Of The Carribbean franchise.

Charming, funny and generous, Kevin chooses some great tracks from the 80s marking his love of Tina Turner, Pink Floyd and The Who - DA

In this episode we welcome Bathgate boy Martin Metcalfe, the front man to one of Dave's favourite 80s bands, another of Scotland's many outfits that should have been garnered far greater success - Goodbye Mr.MacKenzie!

Martin explains the sprawl of friends and acquaintances that formed GMM's troupe. He talks in detail about his love and relationship with music with all the romance for Punk and Rock n Roll history. Martin and the band were thrust into the music industry at a time when money and the commercial machine had unfortunately taken over and in turn clouded Martin's initial ideals.

A track record of some exciting singles, well received by the press, a reputation for delivering eclectic cover versions in live sets educating the adoring fanbase, The Mackenzies eventually imploded on a huge US tour. Keys player and singer Shirley Manson went off to create what Garbage became with Butch Vig and Martin came back to England to get sober - DA

Still working; producing with Richard Jobson on projects, gigging with The filthy Tongues and putting on Goodby Mr.MacKenzie shows.

Catch GMM live in 2025: APRIL 4TH @ 100 CLUB, OXFORD STREET, LONDON APRIL 5TH @ HAIRY DOG, DERBY AUG 1ST @ BACK DOUNE THE RABBIT HOLE, STERLING *AND* THE STONE VALLEY SOUTH, NORTH & MIDLANDS FESTIVALS in the UK this Summer

https://www.songkick.com/artists/212832-goodbye-mr-mackenzie/calendar

Music played in this episode is as follows: Goodbye Mr.Mackenzie 'Now We Are Married' (Metcalfe) / Goodbye Mr.Mackenzie 'Amsterdam' (Schuman, Brel) / Jesus & Mary Chain 'Some Candy Talking' (Reid, Reid) / Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds 'Tupelo' (Adamson, Cave, Harvey) / Pixies 'Monkeys Gone To Heaven' (Black) / Skids 'Hurry On Boys' (Jobsob, Adamson, Webb, Baillie)

*this edition features excerpts of 3rd party musical content*

In Episode 58 We welcome Mark Bannister from Kent based Ska and Punk outfit The Larks.

They quickly established a reputation as the kind of exciting live band that no one would want to follow on any bill. Frequently tearing the roofs off London venues like the Marquee and The Town & Country Club. It was Rolling Stones press guy who described the Larks as "... the best live band since The Faces"

The Larks garnered some interest, released some singles but by Mark's own admission, one of the things you could not accuse them of was being careerists. "We would have followed a plan, if only we had know that we had to"

Perhaps the bitterest pill they had to swallow was witnessing The Housemartins signing a deal meant for The Larks, backstage after having just supported them - DA

**Listener discretion - Features content about Mental health and addiction**

**This episode features excerpts of 3rd party music content**

We talk to the inspiring Anita Chellamah - most famed as a member of female British pop group Toto Coelo.We delve into her dancing career on the stage working with Yul Brynner and at the BBC in the Legs & Co dance troupe. From the more rock driven flavour of The Cherry Bombs through to the medal worthy work she does now, as an addiction and trauma therapist. Plus Anita chooses her top 5 tracks form the 80s - DA

**This episode contains excerpts of 3rd party music content**

Welcome Kit Clark, multi intrumentalist member of Danny Wilson, brother of lead vocalist Gary.

Kit tells us all about his early discovery of classic song arrangers, the Sinatra era, the Bowie Purchases as a kid and the band's shared love of Steely Dan.

Following a string of single releases culminating in the huge hit 'Mary's Prayer', as is often the case, the band struggled to field the record company demand to deliver replica hits, which led the guys to disband Danny Wilson and write unhindered. Still working together but under different guises. Kit has more recently been working, writing several plays.

He also chooses 5 wonderful tacks from the 80s for this episode -DA

*This episode features excerpts of 3rd party musical content but in some cases the music has been removed for legal reasons.*

We are chuffed to have spent the evening hearing the Andy Kyriacou story. A proud Greek Cypriot, something he shared in common with his friend George Michael. Andy was the drummer in the original line up of Modern Romance and remains to this day, the only original member, but now fronts the band. Once a relentless clubber, with a diary full of detail on the outfits worn and the celebrities he would meet. Now a proud father and still a dedicated musician. He has a huge appetite for music and chooses 5 belters from the 80s for our listening pleasure.
Andy puts the record straight about his Latin Jazz pop band with the party reputation, who are a collective of great players and a force to be reckoned live. Whether they would win in a fight with Blue Rondo A La Turk though remains to be seen - DA

**Advance Warning**Strong language, adult themes and discusses mental health**

*This episode contains excerpts of 3rd party music content*

In this episode, We have a frank, honest and at times overwhelming heart to heart with lots of laughter and swearing, so buckle up for a bumpy ride!!

Griff Griffths is a Croydon punk who has somehow survived a life most people wouldn't have. A drummer in signed punk & pop groups, a wealthy business entrepreneur, a pro comedian, a documentary maker, best selling author, radio show presenter, with enough anecdotes to sink a ship, like beating Dave Lee Roth in an arm wrestle!
A life long mental health sufferer, a hard worker, with a love for music & a lust for life.
Griff chooses his top five 80s cuts - DA

Biography: I was The King Of Spain: https://olympiapublishers.com/book/i-was-the-king-of-spain
Punk documentary: Are They Hostile official trailor: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dRIZc5BupWI&t=61s
Strength: The Girl For Me: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YUw7YfEz6Do

*This episode features excerpts of 3rd party musical content*

We welcome 3 members of an incredibly talented band called RoUen from Bewdley in the Midlands, who were signed to Island in 1985. A band with a huge sound and a young but extraordinarilly mature songwriter at their helm.

Countless press accolades, numerous TV show appearances, a residency at The Marquee in London, a Malcolm Garret designed album sleeve, plays on the Eastenders pub Juke box and even a shift to the prestigious EG record label, yet still this band failed to meet the success that they so rightly deserved, over many of their peers.

An absolute pleasure for John and David to have spent an evening hearing all about their journey. Enjoy - DA

*This episode features excerpts of 3rd party musical content*

In this edition We have a good yarn with photography royalty, John Stoddart, whose love affair with photography began, shooting candid images in the army at just 15 yrs old.

He moved back home and charted civil unrest on the streets of Liverpool but it was to be the setting up of his London studio as a freelancer that set his course for the big time. The phone rang giving him his first gig shooting Propaganda and the phone never stopped ringing.

From Scorcese to Schwarzenegger, from The Rolling Stones to The Krays, he has been commissioned by everyone. From Rock n Roll, to Hollywood to Erotica.

Speaking to us from his home in Athens, John chooses his tracks of the 80s our listening pleasure - DA

**This episode contains excerpts of 3rd party musical content**

In this episode, John and Dave were lucky to speak to 3 members of the band Perfect day. Kevin, Andy and Mark gave us a good picture of the landscape of their time signed to major label London Records at the tail end of the decade.

As to why this band did not explode to a higher level is beyond us all, particularly as the TV & radio promo roll out was immense and their fan base were loyal. It is felt that with the rise of dance music and the independent scenes from the North of England driving the trends in culture and counter culture from 88' onwards, that perhaps Perfect Day's Pop/ Rock flavour was mixed into the UK's music cauldron just a tad too late.

Lead singer Mark Jones left the band and went on to form the hugely successful and influential Big beat dance label Wall Of Sound.

It was a joy and pleasure to have the lads on the show, they kindly chose some fantastic 80s tracks for us as well as presenting an incredible ghost story with a twist!! - DA

Perfect Day have released some remastered demos and a selection of music which is all available to listen to now on Spotify

https://open.spotify.com/artist/5kGAgwRcCs1Jdtm4CReUOQ?si=tL4GxgkuQqmROV0J4CT8Zg

Music played in this episode is as follows: Perfect Day 'Jane', 'King of Fools', 'Bad Apple', 'Liberty Town' / Tears for Fears 'Listen' (Stanley, Orzabel) / 'Prince 'Sign Of The Times' (Prince) / Echo & The Bunnymen 'Bring On The Dancing Horses' (Pattinson, De Freitas, McCulloch, Sergeant) / Psychedelic furs 'Ghost In you' (Butler, Butler) / David Bowie 'This Is not America' (Bowie, Metheny, Mays) / Depeche Mode 'Never Let Me Down Again' (Gore) / It Bites 'You'll Never Get To Heaven' (Dunnery, Beck, Nolan, Dalton) / Japan 'Gentlemen Take Polaroids' (Sylvian) / Spandau Ballet 'Chan't no.1' (Kemp) /

*This episode contains excerpts of 3rd party musical content*

Episode 53 features special guest Mark Nevin, founder of, guitarist and composer with Fairground Attraction.

Mark talks honestly about his journey which started in Bristol, includes an escape from The Moonies residential, to being invited to Paisley park for an after show jam with Prince but being too tired to go, to writing with Kirsty MacColl, and facilitating a surreal meeting in his own front room for Morrissey and Mick Ronson with whom he joined as co writer.

But now, after 35 years, Mark and Eddie Reader have reunited the original line up of their beloved Fairground Attraction... - DA

A recent single "What's wrong with the world" https://youtu.be/7MwARAXZoEw?si=_QN0FGr_Yg1tQVCP

An album "Beautiful Happening" released on 20th September 2024

https://youtu.be/51BAPiJCk7g?si=T7NulSOs_WhQgFNc

And a UK tour which we are very excited to experience. See the links below for details

https://www.southbankcentre.co.uk/whats-on/fairground-attraction/

**This episode contains excerpts of 3rd party musical content**

In this episode we welcome Record Company heavy weight, Nick Stewart who, during his time at Island Records under Chris Blackwell's tenure, he signed Killing Joke, Julian Cope, World Party and nearly The Thompson Twins but Blackwell didn't like their name! Nick admits his finest piece of work was signing U2 -quite rightly!

We were truly under Nick's spell as he talked us through his life from Public school, semi pro cricket, his obsession with Factory records and his passion and knowledge for films which led him to appear on Mastermind!

Nick chose his favourite 80s tracks, may have had a ghost story that mentioned Oliver Cromwell, but either way, a true old school gent who was an absolute pleasure to have on as a guest - DA

Here in Episode 36 sees Singer/ Songwriter Owen Paul tell his story.

"I'll always be known as the brother of a Simple Mind!"

Owen's career as a musician began early. From the age of 15 was touring in a grass roots band, learning his craft in a bid to get to level to be noticed for his songs. And that's exactly what happened.

"I never wanted to be famous, I just wanted to make the kind of music that's true to me, but unfortunately I had a smash hit and that changed everything."

One appearance on the legendary Oxford Road Show and he got signed to CBS. A world wide smash hit single and an 8 album deal. But, disillusioned by the Record Company's desire to force Owen to be a pop object, he walked away.

what happened after has created a varied CV. From running a theatre in the West End, vocal arranger for Mike & The Mechanics, Music lecturer in the States, but more recently, a prolific recording artist making the music that remains true to himself. A mainstay on the much loved Heritage Chart.

Owen's mantra is simple, "Do Your best, Be nice, Be kind, Give It Everything You've Got" - DA

*This episode contains excerpts of 3rd party musical content*

We were lucky to spend a couple of hours with Jim, Gerry and Carmel while they spoke candidly about their Serious jazz trio born out of University, high art and the need to express themselves in an unconventional way. From recording and releasing and independent album of raw and emotional jazz in 1982 to getting signed to London Records and being thrust into a world which they didn't really want.

Finding solace and a discerning audience in France, they pursued what they call 'Operation Piaf' which allowed them to play shows the way they wanted to and to an audience that understood them. They went on to record a strong body of work which includes an unbelievable Brian Eno production. Carmel were, by their own admission, out on their own.

Between them, they choose some interesting 80s tracks from Miles Davis to Peter Gabriel to punctuate this episode.

Frankly, after falling in love with Carmel as a confused chubby kid, David is still pinching himself!! - DA.

*Audio disclaimer* Despite post editing, We apologise that this episode has some unresolved technical issues.

*Langauage disclaimer* This episode contains some strong language that may cause offense.

*This episode contains excerpts of 3rd party musical content*

* * * * * * * * * * * *

In this episode, we welcome esteemed comedy writer, journalist, author, Emmy Award winner, David Quantick.

With a bone dry approach David tells his story from the freelance work at The NME in the days when he was hanging out with Shane McGowan, to getting noticed by Armando Iannucci, which led to the opportunity to create cutting edge comedy writing with Chris Morris for On The Hour and Blue Jam. We talk about his time at Spitting image and his work in the world of Doctor Who...

Needless to say David's choice of 80s tracks and his justification for them is as robust as you would expect from an NME journalist. Let it be said the *unbleeped* anecdote about Ulrika Jonsson is painfully funny and could have got him painfully punched in public twice, but he lives to tell the tale! - DA

*This episode features excerpts of 3rd party musical content*

A secret wish came true, when hosts John & David met the beautiful Claudia Brücken and chatted about her career. From the early days in Düsseldorf band the Tripolinas with lifelong friend Susanne Freytag, to the formation of Propaganda, the creation of that incredible debut album, A Secret Wish (celebrating it's 40th anniversary) working at ZTT with Trevor Horn, Stephen Lipson & Paul Morley, to writing and recording with Paul Humphries of OMD as OneTwo and her project with Thomas leer, The Act.

Always writing and presenting new work, more recently with Suzanne as XPropaganda, we look forward to seeing what happens next.

Claudia chooses 5 excellent 80s tracks for this episode. We hope you enjoy this wonderful conversation - DA

**This episode contains excerpts of 3rd party musical content**

Episode 73 welcomes special guests JJ Jeczalik and Gary Langan from The Art Of Noise We discuss their journey through the decade to this point where we celebrate the 40TH ANNIVERSARY of their seminal debut album 'Who's Afraid Of The Art Of Noise'

We hear about their early days and the in roads into the music via parental Jazz, loving Yes, roadying for Landscape, and making tea for Buggles!! Enter Trevor Horn and it all kicks off. The guys talk about their toil and triumph with the infamous Fairlight system, the skills of Miss Melody - Anne Dudley, the angular thought attack of Paul Morley and the Sarm studio experiences with ZTT. We hear about Duane Eddy, Tom Jones and Dragnet.

Dave & John change the format slightly and decide to guess which guest chose which track which was a lot of fun - DA

*Featuring excerpts of 3rd party musical content*

In this episode the very talented, dry humoured Southend film maker, Andy Delaney, tells us about his very successful career as a music video director with creative partner Monty. Using his post college sales job to phone record companies, struck it lucky with a call to Rob Gretton from Factory Records, landing him his first ever job shooting "State Of The Nation" for New Order!

Coming up with his generation in the late 80s club scene, shooting Coldcut, Yazz and Soul 2 Soul promos, which led him to George Michael, Spandau Ballet and Madonna - Though he more or less turned her down.
Andy tells us about his early days in the industrial movement, part of the Test Dept. clan, as well as being a member of both 400 Blows and Band Of Holy Joy. He also once bought Mick Jones a packet of Wine Gums!
We don't need to (and shouldn't have really) mentioned Sinitta!!

Now an independent filmmaker with several new projects in the pipeline, Andy chooses a fine selection of 5 tracks from the 80s to decorate this show - DA

*Contains excerpts of 3rd party musical content*

In this episode we chat with sophisticated songwriter Jack Hues, who lead Wang Chung to big success in the U.S. in the 80s, through a series of infectious hits and important film Soundtrack inclusions and composing by commission for William Friedkin for the film To Live & Die In L.A.
A lover of music from Stockhausen to The Beatles, from Cream to Siouxsie & The Banshees.
Jack enjoys a loyal following in the pop, jazz and prog worlds across his various solo projects
but confesses that it has only been in recent years, he has accepted the love of his own music from a live audience.

Jack chooses his 5 top tracks of the 80s and tells us about the plans to remaster and repackage the Wang Chung back catalogue with bells & whistles and a tour to support it all. Keep your eyes peeled and visit: https://www.wangchung.com/

*This episode contains excerpts of 3rd part musical content*

Hosts John & David have a 2 hr conversation with music icon Tom Bailey. Charming, intelligent and generous with his time, Tom chewed the fat about the history of The Thompson Twins, being misfits, working with Nile Rogers, Alex Sadkin, Madonna, Grace Jones and still producing interesting new music, from Science Fiction to Indian Orchestras.

Touring the UK in May 2025. Please set aside some time to hear Tom's incredible journey - DA

*Features some excerpts of 3rd party musical content*

This episode see us have a super conversation with Ivor Novello nominated song writer Martin Brammer. One of the most notable Durham-born folk. Former frontman of 80s soul pop band The Kane Gang,
Martin talks us through his journey from his love of The Doobie Brothers and Steely Dan, giving up his day job to appear on TOTP, getting scarred by Thomas Dolby, borrowing Billy McKenzie's taxi in a blizzard, taking a dim view of Mantronix remixes, to being nominated for an Ivor Novello award for creating The Lighthouse Family's biggest hit and writing songs for Ollie Murs and the Wonderful James Morrison.
"Well done me!" - Martin chooses some of his favourite 80s tracks for the show too - DA

Look out for potential 40th anniversary Kane Gang action this year - well, they're thinking about it at least!- DA

*Listener discretion - contains adult language*

*This episode features excerpts of 3rd party musical content*

We bring you two more Scottish musicians from the 80s - Still friends after all these years, like magnetic dolls you might say!
Eddie Jordan and Kevin Patterson from Fiction Factory, tell us the story behind the bands' huge incredible hit 'Feels Like Heaven', the pressure from the record company to supply more of the same.

UFO sightings. The difficult second album, Kevin's subsequent work in sound engineering and Eddie's passion for theatre acting. The gents chose 5 tracks each from the 80s - DA

*This episode features excerpts of 3rd party musical content*

*Some strong language, listener discretion is advised*

In this edition we speak to comedian, actor and musician Geoff Whiting.
We discuss everything from his early days with new romantic outfit Strange Arrangement and stealing Duran Duran's support slot, to his later work with indie sensations Jim Jiminee and The Sundays.
Now working as a comedian and promoter, and not afraid to give an apparition of a deceased gentlemen a friendly nod, we found Geoff's story to be enlightening, humbling and sometimes thought provoking.
We hope you have as much fun listening to this and we did recording it - DA

*This episode contains excerpts of 3rd party musical content*

*Listener discretion - contains some adult language*

Friend of the show Will Barton has been a mainstay actor for the last 30 years, from primetime British series like Casualty and The Bill, to feature films along side Eddie Redmayne, but most notably for John, Doctor Who.
More recently he has been touring the hilarious Last temptation of Boris Johnson stage show to critical acclaim.
Will chooses 5 of his favourite 80s tracks and John tries not to soil his fanboy pants!

When John asks what life was like in the beginning as a jobbing actor bumming around, Will states plainly, "How DARE you!...I haven't f****** stopped!" - DA

*This episode features excerpts of 3rd party musical content*

*Listener discretion - contains adult language*

Ipswich born musician David Titlow, initially a very young punk with a stylophone.
Bled dry by Magnet Records, in a-just-about-legal first record deal with his band Duck You sucker.
A second chance and chart success followed for David and fellow musician Duncan Millar as Blue Mercedes under Wham manager Simon Napier Bell. From recording at George Martin's Air Studios, shooting videos with Brian Duffy (Aladdin Sane) & Peter Christopherson (Throbbing Gristle) to having one of their songs covered by the sons of The Osmonds!
After a name change to Nixon, fooling the music press into good reviews and doing a remix for Blur, the 80s tale ends pretty much there.
Now a reputed professional photographer living in Brighton (www.davidtitlow.com).
Please enjoy David's story - it's full of laughs as well as 5 of David's chosen 1980s tracks.
This episode is dedicated to the memory of Duncan Millar - DA

Episode 72 is really the first of an unofficial 2 part series on ZZT and The Art Of Noise.

We welcome Ian Peel, someone who may be something of a mystery to you, but infact stands as a hugely important part of the ZTT Records story. As a fan of music and a keen writer of fanzines, a chance to curate a deep dive article on ZTT for Record Collector magazine whilst in his teens, lead to an invitation to visit and indeed join the label as their curator and archivist.

Ian is a journalist who founded Classic Pop magazine and has also had columns in numerous publications.

Ian's story ends with perhaps the most unexpected twist in that his now a visual live artist within the current Art Of Noise line up and we of course talk about the 40th Anniversary of The Art Of Noise debut album 'Who's Afraid Of...'

Next week... we continue the discussion with some very special guests.... - DA

"We Wanted To Be Radical"

This episode presents a marathon chat with Brummie starlet Maggie K De Monde, who during the 80s fronted both Swansway & Scarlet Fantastic.
Refusing to be pidgeon-holed as new jazz, Swans Way threw slogans at the press making marketing complicated...."All the other bands are farting in a vacuum, but we are pissing in the desert..."
Maggie has travelled the world and has loved with her heart on her sleeve, collecting tales along the way. From working in the Wombles studio, to going for a curry with Bryan Adams. Dancing to FGTH in the Himalayas with Russian gypsies, to recording her finest achievement - an album with her late husband as a healing mission with music.

Maggie also chooses her top five 80s tracks

There's a lot of lovely chat here , so listen, laugh & enjoy, but It's worth mentioning in advance that John told 4 properly shit jokes - only 2 made the edit! -DA

*This episode features excerpts of 3rd party musical content*

*Listener discretion - adult language*

*This episode contains excerpts of 3rd party musical content*

This time we talk to London Born Chelmsfordian art punk, Chris Piper as he tells his story about navigating through various punk bands, using his influence to becoming the first manager of a then teenage band, Nitzer Ebb. Wading through reasonably uninterested Essex audiences but leading them to a publishing deal. After releasing their manager, the band marched onward into the wild, and eventually to Depeche Mode's label Mute Records and world recognition from Ibiza, to Berlin, to Detroit as game changing Techno Funk pioneers.
Chris chooses a very clever selection of 80s cuts for this episode - DA

"Of Course Punk Mattered. It Paved The Way...for The Industrial Movement"

*In this episode we use excerpts of 3rd party musical content*

*Adult language discretion required*

White China's debut 12" single 'Smiles & Jokes' goes for £160 these days, luckily
Composer Jeff Bernstein still has a copy in his loft!

Soundtrack connoisseur & keyboard player in Scottish synth/ rock band White China, tells us his story about the tribes in his local pub, looking like a scene from Star Wars, recording in a haunted manor house, nearly touring with The Thompson Twins, a long friendship with Big Country and his heart melting masterpiece Solo album, 'Requiem For The Flawed'

Jeff chooses 5 of his favourite 80s cuts and states Talk Talk's Colour of Spring as a perfectly crafted album, without fault. David does not disagree! - DA

Website : https://www.jeffbernsteincomposer.net/
Bandcamp: https : //jeffbernstein.bandcamp.com/
White China website : https://www.white-china.com/
Smiles & jokes video : https://youtu.be/EgKeKtETdsw?si=srlMOvE7kRO75Ziq
Real Word video : https://youtu.be/GiKgkFYPtHw?si=5B3R8cZjgjn6KyOb

*Contains excerpts of 3rd party musical content*

In this episode we have a lovely heartfelt, spirited chat with the hugely underrated Scottish singer, songwriter Ian Donaldson, originally the front man of 80s synth pop act, H20.
A thoughtful and well measured artist, songwriter, author from the Scottish shipbuilding town of Govan, who followed his own path in an all too familiar story, as the outsider with a dream, that lead him to Top Of The Pops, which was not wasted on him. Picking up admiration from Ray Bradbury and Scott Walker along the way.
"It's Better To have Good Hope, Than A Bad Possession" - DA

*This episode contains excerpts of 3rd party musical content*

**Content warning** - This episode contains adult language and subject matter which may trigger anxiety**

We have a long rollercoaster of a chat with Alan Rawlings, the guitarist in mid 80s prototype pop band Spelt Like This.
Alan recalls with a trusting honesty, his time in a manufactured band from audition to studio after studio via Stock Aitken & Waterman and a no limit promotional budget, which ended with a £9m debt and a homeless status *THIS IS A TRUE STORY*
Alan also chooses his top 5 songs from the 1980s that resonate with him as a musician.

For more information click here: https://www.stockaitkenwaterman.co.uk/spelt-like-this

Watch the video Stop This Rumour here: https://youtu.be/M-ET4aHw2fI?si=lpn1X7ZpktIUGnCB

Watch the video to Contract Of The Heart here: https://youtu.be/ponflMja2h8?si=toI8ju2zIU-bfIE3

*This episode features excerpts of 3rd party musical content*

**Advance warning - this interview contains some adult language and touches on themes that may be cause or trigger distress**

We have a lovely chat with one of the best male singers of the decade - Terry Sharpe from stunning Irish rock/ pop band The Adventures. Terry talks about his early punk days in The Starjets, to living in London with Banarama and Stiff Little Fingers, being on the road with Fleetwood Mac and Tears For Fears and the recording of the seminal album, The Sea Of Love.
Terry chooses his 5 most poigniant tracks from the 80s decade (Listed at the bottom).

Watch The Adventures videos to Broken Land and Drowning In The Sea Of Love here:

Broken Land: https://youtu.be/Z4vT2uaWf8w?si=NFuYBs-lt_ol3ts8

Here's a link to Spit Records which has a good archive on Terry's punk band Starjets.
https://www.spitrecords.co.uk/starjets.htm

Shoow opener : The Adventures - Broken Land

1. Prince - Take Me With U

2. Fleetwood Mac - Everywhere

3. Tears For Fears - The Hurting

Mid Show hosts choice : The Adventures - Drowning In The Sea Of Love

Accompanying Terry's ghost story : Japan - Width Of A Room

4. David Bowie - Ashes To Ashes

5. Bananarama - Venus

Show Closer : The Adventures - Trip To Bountiful

In this episode We have a good chat with the lovely chap and esteemed drummer Crispin Taylor from Push - the masters of Rare Groove, covering his early years with 80s alternative band The Flips to the Acid jazz boom in Galliano through to his current work with The Blow Monkeys and his animation project. Crispin chooses his 5 favourite tracks from the 1980s (listed at the bottom).

Here is a link to Crispin's band Push : http://www.pushband.com/
Here is a link to The Blow Monkeys : https://www.theblowmonkeys.com/
Here is a link to Crispin's animation project : https://talesofborrowedtime.com/

Here's a link to the video of 1980 They by Crispin's first band The Flips : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fTHifHnxPx0
Here's a link to the Galliano video "Long Time Gone" : https://youtu.be/UCZFK6DaVrs?si=XBPrfwj_IA2PLLjZ

Show opener : The Flips - 1980 They (Crispin's first band)

1. The Specials - Ghost Town

2. Grandmaster Flash - The Message

3. Phil Collins - In The Air Tonight

Accompanying Crispin's ghost story - Japan - Width Of A Room

4. Grace Jones - Pull Up To The Bumper

5 Soul II Soul - Fairplay

Show Closer : Push - Cut Me Loose (Crispin's Acid Jazz Funk band)

**DISCLAIMER WARNING** This conversation may contain sensitive subjects including drugs, alcohol, mental health issues and death**

*This episode contains excerpts of 3rd party music*

Episode 2 brings us the charming, gifted, funny musician, writer, model and friend to the superstars, Ty Jeffries.

Having had to process band width glitches, it might seem that Ty had a gin fizz or two, but we can assure you, we were all sober.

"When I Was Young & Beautiful"
Generously, Ty offered us a whirlwind chinwag on everything from Vangelis' cinema studio, fearless living in the NYC club scene with Keith Haring, Sunday lunch which Chaka Khan, seeing Victorian ghosts in his garden to the triumphant creation of Miss Hope Springs. Ty chooses the soundtrack of his 80s journey (listed below).

Show opener : Carol Kenyan - Warrior Woman (produced and co-written by Ty Jeffries)

1. Chaka Khan - Through The Fire

2. Christopher Cross - Arthur's Theme

3. Sade - Your Love Is King

Accompanying Ty's Ghost story : Japan - Width Of A Room

4. Gwen Guthrie - Ain't Nothing Going On But The Rent

5. Donna Summer - State Of Independence

Show closer : Heaven 17 - Temptation (Feat. Carol Kenyan on vocals)

Welcome to Episode 1 of The Eighties Archive Podcast.
For our debut interview episode we have a lovely insightful chat with the very charming and multi talented Adrian York, who was once the keyboard player in rockin' Jazz Swing Pop outfit, Roman Holliday. Adrian chooses his 5 most poignant tracks from the 80s decade (listed below) and talks us through his rich and varied musical timeline from his teens to date - DA

Show opener : Roman Holliday - Don't Try To Stop It

1. The Human League - Don't You Want Me

2. Donald Fagen - Nightfly

3. Cameo - Word Up!

Accompanying the ghost story : Japan - Width Of A Room

4. Prince - When Doves Cry

5. Scritti Politti - Wodbeez (Pray Like Aretha Franklin)

Show closer : Roman Holliday Motor Mania.

*This episode features excerpts of 3rd party musical content*

Boo began his story working in a record shop, much the same as host David!!

Rather interestingly Boo's formative years in bands Placebo Thing & The Great Divide both led to record company interest and deal offers including Ensign.

By the mid 80s The Bible blossomed and Chrysalis signed them. We talk about the debut album Walking The Ghost Back Home and the Steve Earle produced second album Eureka.

Boo has had a great creative relationship with Eddie Reader over the years culminating in an Ivor Novello award, as well as producing artists between the genres of folk, pop and rock, being very happy operating on the fringes of the industry .

With an extensive solo career and production credits, Boo now works on songwriting events.

Oh and by the way, Boo is not actually Scottish! - DA

*This edition features excerpts of 3rd party musical content*

In episode 70 we welcome Roy White. Another of Liverpool's sons who saw his future in making music and little else. Working his way up from tea boy in a local studio to eventually getting signed numerous times with various projects. A regular face at the infamous club Eric's and also responsible for drum machine programming on Echo & The Bunnymen's debut album Crocodiles.

We first discovered Roy through the wonderful duo White & Torch, who wrote epic songs together for a number of years, and by aiming for and achieving such directive goals as "The Walker bros. covering Patti Smith's (& Springsteen's) 'Because The Night' "

We think They should have been hugely successful. We talk about Roy's journey and he chooses 5 great tracks form the 80s - DA

*This episode contains excerpts from 3rd party music*

Welcome Hull son, Henry Priestman. A keyboard player who has worked with many acts over the years and was something of a keys player for hire in Liverpool in the 80s.

Henry's career began in Yachts (77-81) who enjoyed success in America, with airplay on US college radio and extensive touring. A sliding doors moment led him into It's Immaterial, where he enjoyed the role of playing and contributing without the responsibility of songwriter. Henry was also a touring member of Wah! and Bette Bright's Deaf School-esque troupe The Illuminations.

The Christians were recruited by Henry to sing harmonies on It's Immaterial's hit 'Ed's Funky Diner' after which, 3 of the 5 Christian brothers joined forces with Henry (middle name Christian!!), and went on to score hits and several multi platinum selling albums for Island Records.

Henry rather enjoyed our slapstick approach to podcasting and was a pleasure to have on. His chosen 80s tracks were solid and much fun was had by all - DA

* The Yachts 3 CD set 'Suffice To Say' on Cherry Red tells their full story.

https://www.cherryred.co.uk/yachts-suffice-to-say-the-complete-yachts-collection-3cd-box-set

* You can also catch The Christians on a co headline tour with The Blow Monkeys in October 2025

https://www.aegpresents.co.uk/event/the-blow-monkeys-the-christians/

Music played in this episode: The Christians 'Harvest For The World' (Jasper, Isley, Isley, Isley, Isley, Isley) / 'Forgotten Town' (Priestman) / Yachts 'Ghost In My House' (Holland, Dozier, Holland, Taylor) / Joy Division 'Love Will Tear Us Apart' (Curtis, Hook, Morris, Sumner) / Talk Talk 'I Believe In You' (Hollis, Friese-Greene) / Associates 'Party Fears Two' (Mackenzie, Rankine) / Robert Wyatt 'Shipbuilding' (Costello, Langer) / It's Immaterial 'Driving Away From Home' (Whitehead, Campbell) / Echo & The Bunnymen 'Lips Like Sugar' (McCulloch, Sergeant, De Freitas, Pattinson) / Klaus Dinger 'Mon Amour' (Dinger)

*This episode contains excerpts from 3rd party music*

In this episode we welcome Dave Formula, who we know from his pioneering work on the keyboards in both Magazine and Visage, but we hear the fascinating tale of Dave's career which began in the 60s with a TOTP appearance in R&B outfit, St.Louis Union. In time this lead Dave to head up a touring band, becoming the musical director for Motown artist David Ruffin when touring the UK, long before he was part of any Punk, New Wave, or New Romantic movement.

Dave also chooses 5 tracks from the 80s that mean something to him and tells a ghost story that centres around Alfred Hitchcock. Enjoy our chat with this humble legend -DA

Dave's band Affection place will be playing Chelmsford's Hotbox on May 2nd.

https://dice.fm/event/k63lg8-affection-place-ft-dave-formula-metroglow-2nd-may-hot-box-chelmsford-tickets?lng=en

Music used in this Episode :

Visage 'fade to grey' (Currie, Payne, Ure, Strange) / Visage 'Visa Age' (Strange, Ure, Currie, McGeoch, Egan, Tomlinson) / Chaka Khan 'I Feel For You' (Prince) / Magazine 'ASong From Under The Floorboards' (Adamsom, Tomlinson, Devoto, Doyle, McGeoch) / Magazine 'Definitive Gaze' (Devoto, McGeoch) / Herbie Hancock 'Rockit' (Hancock/ Laswell/ Beinhorn) / Visage 'Night Train' (Strange, Ure, Egan, Currie, Tomlinson) / Aretha Frankin 'Whose Zoomin' Who?' (Franklin, glass, Walden) / Cameo 'She's Strange' (Blackmon, Jenkins, Leftenant, Singleton)

*This episode features excerpts of 3rd party musical content*

We welcome legendary producer Stephen Lipson. A man who's dry approach had us on our best behaviour!

Stephen covers the history from his early engineering days, right up to the current times, working with Hans Zimmer, via the much celebrated Sarm studios and the ZTT rosta of amazing 80s bands. For a man whose career has included working with everyone including The Beatles & The Stones, Stephen's is a very humble narrative, but a fantastic and funny episode - DA

*This episode contains excepts from 3rd party music*

It was a pleasure to welcome Pat, front man and one of Hue & Cry's two Kane brothers to the podcast.

Pat has become - in his own words, 'something of a wee scholar' in later life, but this conversation was all about Hue & Cry, their inception, their rise and road to stardom, which included amongst other things, getting a support slot with Madonna, after some midwife duties swung it for them!

A huge fan of music and full of knowledge about it, Pat chose 5 great tracks from the 80s - DA

Music played in this episode :

Hue & Cry 'Labour Of Love' / 'I Refuse' / 'Looking For Linda' (Kane, Kane) / The Specials 'Ghost Town' (Dammers) / Madonna 'Material Girl' (Brown, Rans) / Prince 'Girls & Boys' (Prince) /Scritti Politti 'Wood Beez' (Gartside) / Talking Heads 'Once In A Lifetime' (Byrne, Eno, Frantz, Harrison, Weymouth) Defunkt 'Razors Edge' (Gat, Bowie)

*In this edition we use excerpts of 3rd part musical content*

Our guest in this episode is Jeremy Gluck, Canadian son, one time journalist in the punk era and of course, the front man of The Barracudas.

A lifelong fan of 60s Psyche, Garage and West coast surf scenes, with an extraordinary record collection containing all the cool and correct albums one would expect from such a well read musician.

Jeremy's selection of 80s tracks in this show play as an education, allowing him to proclaim his love of NYC punk outfits Suicide and The Ramones. We found Jeremy's intelligent dry wit quite infectious! - DA.

*In this episode there are excerpts of 3rd party musical content*

A great conversation with exprimental jazz trumpeter, Andy Diagram. A London born, but Manchester made musician, who has played with the Pale Fountains, The Diagram Brothers, Dislocation Dance, The Honkys, Spaceheads, Pere Ubu, A Certain Ratio, Durutti Column and James.
Having dabbled with pop, freeform jazz and experimental loops n beats, with released works on Manchester's cassette label, Bop.
He has toured both ends of the spectrum from the hard but fun road of the European Jazz Squat circuit to huge arenas whilst having avoided the corporate machine.

Andy chooses 5 personal faves from the 80s for us to play and states that The Fall had the true attitude of Manchester, whilst Miles Davis & Lester Bowie taught the freedom of playing his instrument.

We hope you enjoy Andy's story - DA

*This episode features excerpts from 3rd party musical content*

We had a very long distance chat with Sal Solo in Los Angeles, the towering figure of 80s New Romantic Synth Rockers Classix Nouveaux who formed from the ashes of X-Ray Spex. Sal talked us through his journey from the beginnings in "ugly Hatfield", his first signing as The News, his role as vocalist in Italian based French band Rockets, to being dubbed as "Nosferatu" by music journalists and appearing to be one of the figureheads of what was to become the New Romantic scene.
After spending years working in the Christian youth ministry, with a body of work as a solo artist, Sal & Classix Noveaux found themselves in the unimaginable position of responding to their fans demand for a new album, so they delivered 'Battle Cry' in November 2023 - their first new work in 30 years.
Sal chooses 5 tracks from the 80s, hailing Vince Clarke as a musical genius, as well as admitting that he recently decided to attend an American Halloween party as himself - cape, make up, the lot! - Still a little bit of Nosferatu in there after all! - DA

*This Podcast contains 3rd Party musical content, excerpts of which are used where ever possible*

In this episode we speak to another of Island Records' chiefs who has not only signed up some of the most important British artists of all time, but has also run a management agency representing some of the biggest names in entertainment and sport.

We talk about Marc's humble beginnings in Publishing and his love of Prog as a musician.

There is detail on U2, The Waterboys, PJ Harvey, NWA as well as loving the music supervision role for some huge film soundtracks. There are many anecdotes that include, 'giving somebody a lift that led to breaking the Cranberries in this country!'. A Proud moment in getting the law changed around freedom of speech on recordings.

Marc was and still is incredibly grateful for Chris Blackwell's investment in him and recalls a direct thank you moment from Chris in the form of an arranged birthday lunch with Andy Warhol & Jean-Michel Basquait. Ironic perhaps that Marc himself now has a very driving role in the art world with his own unique Augmented reality 2D work.

We say it often, but we really don't think we even scratched the surface!! - DA

*In this episode there are excerpts of 3rd party musical content*

In this edition we spoke at length to Brummie lad Andy Lloyd, who made several inroads into various areas of music as a writer, musician and singer.
From his beginnings as a reluctant teen heart throb with a single on Hansa Records, to fronting a popular Birmingham Mod band, which became The Bloomsbury Set, who toured with Duran Duran and had a track produced by Andy Taylor.

"It was as if the powers that be, closed certain doors on us"

Amidst tales of The Rum Runner and Romulous club years and witnessing first hand the studio discipline of Kevin Rowland & DMR,
We find out about Andy's contracted work recording interpretations/covers culminating in 8 albums of what he describes as his 'busking years'. Eventually fulfilling his desire to blend reggae & pop with the Popman & The Raging Bull project, gaining a release on the respected Greensleeves label.
This is Andy's first interview in 30 years. We are very humbled that it was with us. His five 80s choices are great too - DA

*This episode features excerpts from 3rd party musical content*

This is an in depth chat with experienced musician Nevil Kiddier, whose career began with the 70s Pub rockers Glyder and continued with power pop band The Pinkees at the top of the 80s, who were more than happy with the comparisons to The Beatles.
Dalliances with Top Of The Pops, The UK Singles chart and quick success in both those bands shaped Nevil into a professional and reliable musician who cared more about his craft, than developing an ego - which is very refreshing!

"They sound very Beatlesy!" - Mike Read ... "Yeah, I'll Take That!" - Nevil Kiddier.

Now the bass player in master talented Americana band The Ugly Guys, who took YouTube by storm with their honest, original cover of Adele's 'Rolling In The Deep', landing them an indie album deal, Nevil is reminded, that despite age, trends, and the ever changing music industry, you can still do good work, and entertain, because music really matters to people.
Nevil chooses five 80s tracks that matter to him.

Oh and you can hear Nev's daughter make an appearance in the final minutes, giving us the title of this episode! - DA