Graham Crabb from Pop Will Eat Itself joins me on the podcast this week.

Graham discusses the early days of PWEI, playing iconic music show Top Of The Pops and his memories of touring with legendary hip-hop act, Run-DMC and Nine Inch Nails.

The group, who formed back in 1986, still features much of the original line up.

PWEI were way ahead of the curve, when they first burst into the scene, fusing punk rock guitars with hip-hop samples and electronic beats.

Some great stories In this one!

http://www.popwilleatitself.net/pwei/

Truly thrilled and honoured to be joined by Kathy Sledge from legendary group, Sister Sledge on the Synthetic Dreams podcast this week.

Formed in the early 70’s, the group, which featured Kathy Sledge and her sisters Debbie, Joni and Kim, achieved massive, world-wide success during the height of Disco in 1979.

Their breakthrough album "We Are Family' peaked at number three on the American Billboard charts and included the hit singles ‘We Are Family’ and ‘He’s The Greatest Dancer’, both of which Kathy sang lead vocals on

Kathy’s excellent new single Promise Me is out now, available on all streaming platforms.   

This Sunday, 15th September, Kathy headlines the Uptown Festival at Bute Park Cardiff.

For more information & Tickets : www.uptownfestival.co.uk Line up also includes Maxi Priest, Aswad, Desmond Dekkers Ace’s, Captain Accident & The Disasters.

https://www.kathysledge.com

Kathy Sledge - 'Promise Me' - live at BBC Radio 2 in the park

Sister Sledge -'We Are Family' official video

Sister Sledge - 'He's The Greatest Dancer'

Synthetic Dreams is presented and produced by Scott Zverblis Synthetic Dreams on ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠ Synthetic Dreams title music by Chris Ibbott

Today’s episode features an in-depth and fascinating interview with Armenian-American vocalist, songwriter and composer, KÁRYYN

KÁRYYN talks to me about the making of her latest three- track, EP Calm KAOSS! Which was co-produced by James Ford, one of the UK's biggest record producers, previous guest on Synthetic Dreams and one-half of Simian Mobile Disco.

KÁRYYN also speaks about her time at Mills College in Oakland, where she was exposed to experimental music through teacher-composers like Pauline Oliveros and Maggi Payne. 

We also discuss sexism in the music industry and the challenges she has faced as a female musician. She discusses these experiences in a frank and open way, but with a good deal of humour.  

Calm KAOSS! Which also features two fantastic remixes, is out now on the always excellent Mute records, a label we both love 

Today's episode features the second part of an in-depth and fascinating conversation with electronic pioneer, Morton Subotnick.

This week's exceptional episode of Synthetic Dreams features the legendary American electronic musician. Morton Subotnick.

In 1967 he released the seminal album ‘Silver Apples of the Moon’ - a record that showcases the sound of the Buchla 100 invented by the late and very great, Don Buchla.

This groundbreaking and hugely influential record was the first electronic composition composed exclusively for the album format

This year sees the release of 'Subotnick - Portrait of an Electronic Music Pioneer' a brand new documentary about his career , which has already received some fantastic reviews.

The film, which has yet to have a UK release date, is currently screening in the US.

This interview is part one of two interviews with this great man, who at 91 years of age, is showing no signs of stopping. 

Todays fascinating episode of Synthetic Dreams features Ivor Novello winning musician, producer and co-creator of popular electronic act, Goldfrapp.

In 2005, Will formed The Will Gregory Moog Ensemble  - a group of talented musicians, who all perform with analogue synthesisers. 

We discuss the formation of the Moog Ensemble and  recording of their excellent debut album, ‘Heat Ray’ which is out on June 14th via Mute Records.

Will also talks about his vast collection of analogue synths, his earliest musical passions and love of Wendy Carlos and her album, ‘Switched-On-Bach’. A hugely influential electronic album, which was truly groundbreaking at the time of its release back in 1968. 

The Moog Ensemble are playing a few live dates later in the year, including a headline slot at the Hidden Notes Festival on 21st September.

For more information about the Will Gregory Moog Ensemble and the players involved visit: https://www.willgregorymoogensemble.co.uk/ 

To pre-order the album visit: https://mutebank.co.uk/collections/will-gregory-moog-ensemble

Moog Ensemble - Young Archimedes (Official Visualiser)

Synthetic Dreams is presented and produced by Scott Zverblis Synthetic Dreams on ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠ Synthetic Dreams title music by Chris Ibbott

Today’s episode of Synthetic Dreams features electronic musician, DJ, producer, remixer and record label owner, Josh Wink Born and raised Philadelphia, Josh has enjoyed several hits, not only under his own name, but also with different aliases, including "I'm Ready" (as Size 9) "Don't Laugh" (as Winx), with his absolutely amazing and timeless track, "Higher State of Consciousness," which still sounds incredible today. We discuss, among other things, his more material, including the E.Ps ‘Ci-Devant and ‘The Deepness’, earliest musical passions, the American rave scene in the early 90s and Ovum Recordings, a record label he started back in 1994 with his good friend, King Britt. This year, the label celebrates it 30th Anniversary. www.ovumrecordings.com www.joshwink.com. Synthetic Dreams is presented and produced by Scott Zverblis Synthetic Dreams on ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠ Synthetic Dreams title music by Chris Ibbott

My guest this week is musician, composter, writer and filmmaker, Barry Adamson. We discuss his excellent new solo album ‘Cut To Black’ which is out this Friday, 17h May. This is Barry’s tenth solo album. Barry, who has worked with Nick Cave and The Bad Seeds, Visage and Finnish electronic act, Pan Sonic, also talks about his brilliant memoir ‘Up Above the City, Down Beneath the Stars’, which was published in 2021, via Omnibuspress press. It’s well worth a read! We also talk about his earliest musical passions, the post-punk scene in Manchester, back in the late 70s, meeting Howard Devoto and the formation of Magazine - one of the greatest bands the city has ever produced To purchase the album or for details about forthcoming live dates visit http://www.barryadamson.com

‘Pioneer’ is a word that often gets overused in the world of music journalism, especially when describing this week’s guest, but that’s exactly what she is, a pioneer…a true pioneer of electronic music! 

Suzanne Ciani speaks to me about the time she met Don Buchla and her memories of him, as well as discussing her early career in new New York, making advertising jingles for huge companies like coca-cola.  

She also talks about the recording of ‘Golden Apples Of The Sun’ a collaboration with Parisian composer Jonathan Fitoussi, which came out last October     

Suzanne Ciani performs in China on May 24th before retiring to the UK for a couple of dates in September. For tickets visit: https://www.sevwave.com/

Synthetic Dreams title music is by Chris Ibbott 

My guest this week is Boris Blank from hugely influential Swiss electronic act, Yello.

Boris Blank formed Yello with Carlos Peron back in 1979. Charismatic singer and lyricist, Dieter Meier, joined shortly after. Boris and Dieter became a duo after Peron left the group in 1983 to pursue a solo career, and the rest, as they say, is history.  

During our conversation, which was recorded over telephone, we discussed, among other things, Blank’s third solo record ‘Resonance’. The twelve tracks that feature on “Resonance” were originally commissioned for the FORTYSEVEN thermal spa near Zurich.  

Boris also talks about the new documentary ‘Oh Yeah’ which explores the legacy of Yello’s iconic track which found international success after being featured in the closing scenes of John Hughes classic teen comedy ‘Ferris Bueller's Day Off’, which is one of my favourite films of the 1980s

For more information about the new album, or to buy a copy, visit:

https://ianrecords.com/products/boris-blank-resonance

Boris Blank - 'Resonance'

Synthetic Dreams is presented and produced by Scott Zverblis Synthetic Dreams on ⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠ Synthetic Dreams title music by Chris Ibbott

In this week’s episode of Synthetic Dreams I’m talking to DJ, and drummer, Anna Prior.

Anna, best known for her role as drummer in hugely popular electronic act Metronomy, has just released the second single from her much-anticipated EP, ‘Almost Love’, which comes out on 13th June via House Anxiety records

She also presents a monthly show called ‘Beat Palace’ on Soho Radio. https://sohoradiolondon.com/profile/anna-prior/

Anna recently collaborated with Tom Furse from The Horrors. Furse directed the video for her previous single ‘Tech Não and for her latest single ‘Fall Back’

 Anna Prior - Tech Não (Official Video)

Anna Prior - Fall Back

Delighted and honoured to be joined by Jonathan Moore on the podcast today. 

Jonathan is one-half of hugely influential electronic act, Coldcut, which he formed back in 1986 with Matt Black.

Coldcut are often refereed to as pioneers of pop sampling in the 1980s

We discuss, among other things, the recording of Coldcut’s first album. His memories of working with the late and very great, Mark. E. Smith from post-punk band The Fall and Jonathan tells a great story about the time Coldcut remixed a track by legendary French composer and pioneer of musique concrète, Pierre Henry.  

We also discuss Ninja Tune, the label that he and Matt started in 1990. The label’s first release was the first five volumes of DJ Food's Jazz Brakes. Since then Ninja Tune has gone on to release albums by The Cinematic Orchestra, Bonobo, Kelis, Amon Tobin, Black Country New Road and the amazing BICEP

https://coldcut.net/

https://ninjatune.net/home

The Fall w/Coldcut - Telephone Thing

Coldcut featuring Lisa Stansfield

Synthetic Dreams is presented and produced by Scott Zverblis Synthetic Dreams on ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠ Synthetic Dreams title music by Chris Ibbott

Jonathan Donahue from Mercury Rev joins me on the podcast his week to talk about the making of the band’s wonderful new album, ‘Born Horses’ which comes out on September 6th via the always excellent Bella Union label. 

This is one of Mercy Rev’s best albums to date, a real joy to listen to. So many wonderful musical styles and textures. From the hazy sax on opening track ‘Mood Swings’ to the pulsating rhythm that drives, ‘There’s Always Been A Bird In Me’, which closes the record 

I really can’t recommend this album enough.  Already one of my favourite records of 2024. Just stunning! 

This autumn, the band head out on a UK and Ireland tour, startling in Belfast on October 27th and finishing on Nov 8th in Cambridge, For the full list of dates and tickets, visit: 

https://www.mercuryrev.com/tour

To preorder the album head over to https://bellaunion.com/

Multi-talented Danish musicians, Lisbet Fritze and Louise Foo, otherwise known as Glas, recently spoke to me about the making of their highly anticipated debut album, ‘Kisses Like Feathers‘ The album, which was self-produced by the duo and mixed by Anders Trentemøller, a previous guest on the podcast, is out now via Hamburg’s hfn music.  All lyrics, vocals and instruments were performed by Glas, and recorded in their studio. It was great to  speak to one of my new favourite bands about their excellent debut record, which I can’t recommend enough.  https://glasdk.bandcamp.com/ Glas: 'Midnight Fay' Synthetic Dreams is presented and produced by Scott Zverblis Synthetic Dreams on ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠ Synthetic Dreams title music by Chris Ibbott

Thrilled and honoured to be joined by Grammy award winning musician, composer and producer, Jan Hammer. 

Jan started his career as the keyboardist with the fusion group, The Mahavishnu Orchestra. He went on to release several critically acclaimed solo albums and has collaborated with renowned musicians like the late and great, Jeff Beck, Carlos Santana, Neil Schon of Journey and Mick Jagger.

In 1984, Jan began composing the score for Miami Vice, one of the most iconic TV shows of the 1980s. 

Jan discusses the making of this much loved TV theme and also talks about the recording of ‘Crockets Theme’, which is one of my all-time favourite songs of the 80s. 

We also talk about some of Jan’s more recent work including ‘Seasons Pt. 2’ released in 2022.  A follow up to 2018’s ‘Seasons Pt. 1’ Both worth checking out 

For more information visit:

https://janhammer.com/home

Jan Hammer - 'Miami Vice Theme'

Jan Hammer - 'Crockett's Theme' on TOTP

Synthetic Dreams is presented and produced by Scott Zverblis

Synthetic Dreams on ⁠Instagram⁠

Synthetic Dreams title music by Chris Ibbott

Delighted to be joined by guitarist Neal X on the podcast today. 

Neal was a member of 80s new wave band, Sigue Sigue Sputnik. I loved their mix of electronic sounds with punk-rock guitars. And their outrageous looks. Always thought they looked and sounded like they were from another planet. 

Since his days in Sigue Sigue Sputnik, Neal has gone on to work with some amazing musicians, including former Sex Pistol, Glen Matlock, Adam Ant and Marc Almond.

Neal discusses the making of "Love Missile F1-11" which recently celebrated its 38th year of release. I first heard this brilliant track in the opening scene Ferris Bullers Day Off, which is one of my favourite films of the 80s. Neal recalls the time when director John Hughes called him up to discuss using the track in his new film, which went on to become an all-time classic 

He also discusses his earliest musical influences and guitar heroes 

More recently, Neal formed garage rock band, The Loveless with long time collaborator and friend, Marc Almond. 

'Meet The Loveless' is out now on Cadiz Music.

Sigue Sigue Sputnik on TOTP

Synthetic Dreams is presented and produced by Scott Zverblis

Synthetic Dreams on Instagram

Synthetic Dreams title music by Chris Ibbott

 

Delighted and honoured to be joined by Sian Evans on the Synthetic Dreams podcast today. Sian is the front woman and singer-songwriter of the band Kosheen- one of my favourite electronic acts.

Kosheen enjoyed a string of hit singles from their brilliant debut album ‘Resist’, most notably ‘Hide U’, ’Catch’ and ‘Hungry’. The band went on to release four more great albums.  

Sian talks about the forthcoming UK shows, which feature a live orchestra and celebrate 25 years of Kosheen.

We also discuss the art of songwriting, her earliest musical passions, being taught piano by her talented grandfather and the incredible work she has done over the years with young offenders and in youth centres

The band play Manchester Club Academy on 12th April, Bristol on the 13th, finishing this very special three-date UK tour at London’s KOKO on19th April 

For a list full list of live dates etc, visit the following sites;

 https://kosheen.live/ 

https://www.facebook.com/KosheenBand/  

https://www.instagram.com/kosheenofficial/  

https://twitter.com/KosheenOfficial   

Synthetic Dreams is presented and produced by Scott Zverblis 

Follow Synthetic Dreams on Instagram or X 

And subscribe to the show via Spotify, Apple Music and Audible. Please leave a rating or review - THANKS   

Synthetic Dreams title music by Chris Ibbott 

 

Joining me on the Synthetic Dreams podcast this week Australian musician, Karen Vogt.

Karen’s experimental and ambient solo works are based around improvisation, often manipulating her vocals to add layers of emotional depth to her works.

Vogt, who is based in Paris, spoke to me about the recording of her wonderful, improvised record ‘Waterlog’, which deals with the grief she experienced following the death of her beloved cat. It's a truly wonderful album, that’s full of depth and emotion, yet uplifting and comforting at the same time.

We also discussed her time working with legendary Cocteau Twins member, Robin Guthrie, producer of her band Heligoland, which she co-founded back in 1999.

Karen Vogt’s ‘Waterlog' is available to buy digitally and on cassette, via Penelope Trappes’ excellent record label Nite Hive 

Head over to: https://nitehive.bandcamp.com/

For more information about Karen's work, visit: https://karenvogtmusic.com/

Karen Vogt - We Coalesce

Delighted and honoured to be joined by multi-instrumentalist, Brendan Perry on the podcast this week. 

Brendan, who is one half of seminal 4AD band, Dead Can Dance, talks to me about his first band The Scavengers and the early punk rock scene in Aukland, New Zealand. His love of Bowie and early musical influences and the recording of Dead Can Dance’s self-titled debut album, released back in 1984. 

So many great stories in this one!

Listen wherever you get your podcasts. Link in bio 

Dead Can Dance are one of my all-time favourite groups, so it was a real honour to speak to Brendan about the truly wonderful music he has made with Lisa Gerrard and as solo artist

The overall sound of Dead Can Dance is tricky to define, there are elements of European folk ambient, baroque rock, classical and darkwave in their wonderful, genre-bending music. So many Dead Can Dance albums to discover, with three great solo albums from Brendan to check out too  

https://www.deadcandance.com/

Dead Can Dance - 'Opium"

Dead Can Dance - 'The Host Of Seraphim' (Remastered)

Brendan Perry - 'Song To The Siren' (live on KEXP)

 

Delighted to be joined by guitarist, producer and bandleader, Kevin Armstrong on the podcast today.

Kevin talks to me about his memoir, ‘Absolute Beginner’ and time working and performing with David Bowie, Iggy Pop, Thomas Dolby and gothic rock band, Alien Sex Fiend.

Kevin collaborated with Bowie on the soundtrack for the hit film Absolute Beginners and performed at Live Aid with him.  He also played on Mick Jagger’s and Bowie’s cover of ‘Dancing On The Streets, which charted at number one back in 1985. 

He’s due to head out on tour with the Lust For Life band, which also features Clem Burke from Blondie and ex- Sex Pistol, Glen Matlock.   

The band will, once again, perform Iggy Pop’s classic album, Lust For Life album in it’s entirety, as well as playing songs from Blondie, Bowie and the Pistols 

The Lust For Life tour starts in Colchester on Wednesday 28th February 

For dates and tickets visit: https://www.lustforlifetour.com/tour

My guest this week is Sal Solo from legendary new wave band, Classix Nouveaux. Last year, after an absence of over 40 years, the band released a new album called ‘Battle Cry’ on Cherry Red records.  Classix Nouveaux, who were part of the New Romantic, formed out of the ashes of punk band, X-Ray Spex.  During a six-year career, Classix released three well received albums and eleven singles; the most successful of which was the single "Is It A Dream" reaching No.11 in the UK singles chart. 

My guest this week is York based electronic musician, Anton Witter, whose music I discovered on Bandcamp, a few years back.

If you enjoy listening classic synth artists like Jean-Michel Jarre, Tangerine Dream and early Numan, then you'll certainly love Anton Witter's music - highly recommend!

We discuss, among other things, his creative process, his musical passions growing up and our mutual love and respect for Mr. Gary Numan.

It seems like musical talent runs in the family too, Anton's brother Rick is the lead singer of popular indie band, Shed 7.

To find out more about Anton - or to purchase one of his albums -check out:

https://antonwitter.bandcamp.com/

My guest this week is multi-talented musician and producer, James Ellis Shaw James has worked with some of the biggest names in music and is one half of Simian Mobile Disco, who formed back in 2003. James talks to me about the making of his first ever solo record, ‘The Hum’ which came out last year on Warp Records, playing with 808 State, the formation of Simian Mobile Disco and his time as a student in Manchester We also talk a little about his work with Blur and Depeche Mode. James produced the band’s latest album ‘Memento Mori’, which is a truly fantastic record. He’s also been working with The Pet Shop Boys on their brand new album, which is due to be released in the spring  - Instagram @syntheticdreampod - Twitter @SyntheticDreamP

My guest this week is Paul Roberts from Electronic group, K-Klass

K-Klass, who formed in Manchester back in 1991, enjoyed great success in the mid 90s, scoring five top 40 hits on the UK singles chart. After 36 years, group are still going strong, regularly performing live and DJing at various festivals and club nights.

We discuss the making of K-Klass' biggest hit "Rhythm Is A Mystery”. Legendary Manchester nightclub, The Haçienda, where the guys met and what it was like recording music in a converted military bunker.

Next month the duo are performing at the Reminisce festival in Liverpool, which is now in its 10th year.

With DJ’s and Live acts across 7 stages, this popular festival is a celebration of 90’s dance and pop music 

Other acts performing at Reminisce Festival on Saturday September 7th include,  Rozalla, K Klass, N Trance, Oceanic, Alison Limerick, and Basshunter  

https://wearekklass.com

https://www.reminiscefestival.com

K-Klass - Rhythm Is A Mistery - TOTP - 1991

K-Klass - Let Me Show You - TOTP- 1993

My guest this week is James Atkin, singer of popular indie band, EMF.

We discuss, among other things, the recording of the new EMF album, 'The Beauty and the Chaos' , which is out now.

He's also made some truly excellent electronic albums, including 'Circadian Rhythms' which came out in march, 2023

James also speaks about his love of teaching, a role he has had for over 13 years now. Performing on ionic music show, Top Of The Pops and how he coped with all the attention and fame back in the early nineties.

For more information on the new EMF album and tour, visit:

https://emf-theband.com

Also, check out his Bandcamp page:

https://jamesatkinmusic.bandcamp.com/album/circadian-rhythms

My guests this week are Al Sundvall and Rob Strachan from Liverpool-based band, Bonnacons of Doom.

The band’s genre-defying music is difficult to categorise, it’s a real melting pot of influences, blending different musical styles, including experimental rock and electronica. 

Their second album, ‘Signs’ released towards the end of October, 2023 on Rocket Recordings, is one of my favourite records from last year. It’s a fantastic album!    

We discuss, among other things, the recording of ‘Signs’. The advantages and disadvantages of wearing mirrored masks onstage. Touring with Rocket Recording label mates Pigs x7, hanging out Thurston Moore and the time legendary Hawkwind dancer, Miss Stacia joined them onstage.

https://bonnaconsofdoom.bandcamp.com/album/bonnacons-of-doom

My guest this week is James Lowe, singer of American band, The Electric Prunes, who formed in Los Angeles, California, back in 1965.

The group's other-worldly sound, which included electronic elements, was characterised by innovative recording techniques, fuzz guitars and tape loops.

Will discuss, among other things, the recording of their Psychedelic masterpiece, 'I Had Too Much To Dream (Last Night)' and the recording techniques they used, what it was like touring with The Doors and hanging out with Jimmi Hendrix.

Some great stories in this one!

 'I Had Too Much To Dream (Last Night)' official video

My guests, for the first episode of 2024, are Wolfgang Flür and Peter Duggal

Wolfgang Flür, a true legend of electronic music, needs little introduction. He was a member of Kraftwerk, one of the most influential acts of all-time, from 1973-1987.  He played electronic drums on Kraftwerk’s best known albums, including ‘Autobahn’, ‘Trans Europe Express’ and ‘The Man Machine’  

Peter, who has worked with a number of artists over the years, including Apache Indian and electronic musician, MAPS is a musician and producer based in Hebden Bridge, West Yorkshire. Peter’s first single ‘‘Psyche’ released in 1990 achieved chart success in the UK Dance and Indie charts 

Peter and Wolfgang talk to me about the making of their album ‘Magazine 1’ which came out in 2022 on Cherry Red Records. This excellent album features a number of guest musicians, including Claudia Brücken from Propaganda and legendary bassist, Peter Hook (Joy Division/New Order 

For more information on Peter Duggal's work visit: https://www.peterduggal.com

Synthetic Dreams Christmas Special (of sorts!)

The return of Gerald Casale from legendary band, Devo

We discuss, among other things, consumer anxiety around Christmas time, the making of the new 4D video for 'Lounge:Pay U Back', the future of virtual reality and AI created music

Gerald also talks about the analog synths Devo used back in the 1970's

Some really great stories in this one

DEVO "Very Merry Something To You"

Gerald V. Casale "Lounge: Pay U Back" [Official Music Video]

My guest this week is singer, songwriter and record producer, Nik Kershaw. 

Nik rose to fame back in 1984 and enjoyed massive chart success with songs such as. ‘Wouldn’t Be Good’, Dancing Girls’, ‘I Won’t Let The Song Go Down on Me’ and ‘The Riddle’

Nik talks to me about next years 1984 tour, what it was like performing at Live Aid in 1985 and his memories of the day, performing on Top Of The Pops, songwriting and much more. 

The 1984 tour, which kicks off in Lincoln on 3rd October 2024, will see Nik perform tracks from his first two albums, ‘Human Racing’ and ‘The Riddle’ both released, you guessed it, in 1984.

The full list of dates are as follows:

Oct 3 | Lincoln Engine Shed   

Oct 4 | Sunderland Fire Station  

Oct 5 | Edinburgh Queen’s Hall 

Oct 6 | Holmfirth Picturedrome  

Oct 8 | Cambridge Junction  

Oct 9 | Manchester Academy  

Oct 10 | New Brighton Floral Pavilion  

Oct 11 | Wolverhampton The Halls  

Oct 12 | Cardiff Tramshed  

Oct 14 | Bath Komedia  

Oct 15 | Portsmouth Guildhall 

Oct 16 | London O2 Shepherds Bush Empire 

Tickets for all of Nik’s upcoming UK shows are on sale now, from https://www.nikkershaw.net/.

Nik Kershaw on Top Of The Pops

Do They Know It's Christmas on Top Of The Pops

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Music for the show by Chris Ibbott

Today I am joined by Ben and Dottie from one of my favourite new bands, Deary.

Their excellent self-title E.P came out last month via Sonic Cathedral

We discuss, among other things, the recording the E.P, musical influences, supporting Slowdive and their plans for 2024.

https://deary.bandcamp.com/

Fairground official video via Youtube

Delighted and honoured to welcome, Neil Barnes on the podcast today.

We discuss, among other things, 'This Is What We Do. Version Excursion' which came out earlier this year. Our love of post-punk music, muddy festivals, Top Of The Pops and Neil's charity auction for the Kindness Christmas Dinner appeal.

More details about this fantastic auction on The Golden Lion's Facebook page : https://www.facebook.com/goldenliontod.

Leftfield are due to play a sold-out show at The Forum Kentish Town on December 16th 2023. For details on forthcoming shows, news, releases visit: https://www.leftfieldmusic.com

Leftfield live at The Glastonbury Festival 2023

Leftfield featuring Toni Halliday on Top Of The Pops 1995

Synthetic Dreams Podcast on Instagram

Thanks again to Chris Ibbott for the music

My guest this week is composer, producer and experimental musician, Claire M Singer Claire spoke passionately about her love of the pipe organ and the current campaign to save the organ in the Union Chapel which is in urgent need of repair. More details about the campaign and how you can here: https://unionchapel.org.uk/whats-on/organ-stops--saving-the-king-of-instruments We also discussed her brilliant festival 'Organ Reframed' and what it was like winning an Oram award for innovation in sound and music

This week I am joined by Sarah Blackwood and Chris Wilkie from Dubstar.

The duo discuss the making of their excellent album 'Two', which came out last year on Northern Writes records.

We also discuss life on the road, performing on Top Of The Pops, Brit Pop, mental health and the pressures of fame.

https://www.dubstarofficial.co

This weeks episode of Synthetic Dreams features former Tangerine Dream and Steamhammer member, Steve Jolliffe

Steve was an early member of legendary electronic act, Tangerine Dream and as well as playing, amongst other things, flute, bass clarinet, synthesizers, grand piano, electric violin etc, he also wrote the lyrics and provided vocals for the album ‘Cyclone'

We discuss all manner of things, what it was like working with Edgar Froese, who was the founder of Tangerine Dream, his soundtrack work and meeting David Bowie, who dropped into the studio while Tangerine Dream were recording a session for ‘Cyclone’. Bowie was keen to collaborate with Edgar Froese, but things didn’t go exactly to plan!

In-between making solo records, plus various soundtrack scores, Steve also worked on a very famous sci-fi film, not in a musician role, but as a model maker no-less. Was great hearing how he got involved with this all-time classic film.  

Vince Clarke joins me on the podcast today to talk about the making of his first ever solo album 'Songs Of Silence'. which comes out on November 17th via the always excellent Mute records.

Clarke is true electronic music legend. Co-founder of Depeche Mode, he wrote many of the band's early hits including, 'New Life', 'Dreaming Of Me' and 'Just Cant Get Enough'.

After leaving Depeche Mode, Clarke teamed up with singer Alison Moyet to form Yazoo. The duo achieved a number of top five hits in the 80s.

He then formed The Assembly and collaborated with a number of talented musicians, including Undertones singer, Fergal Sharkey

In 1985, Vince formed synth-pop act Erasure with Andy Bell and from 1986 to 2007, the pair achieved 24 consecutive top-40 entries in the UK. They are still releasing chart topping albums to this day. Their latest album 'Day-Glo (Based on a True Story) released in 2022, received great reviews.

Oh, and not's not forgot all the remixes and production work he's done over the years

Impressive stuff!

You can pre-order the album here: https://mutebank.co.uk/collections/vince-clarke

Delighted to be joined by Radiohead drummer, Philip Selway on the Synthetic Dreams podcast We discuss, amongst other things, the making of his excellent third album, 'Strange Dance' which came out earlier this year via the always excellent Bella Union label. Philip, who is about to head off on a UK tour with Lanterns On The Lake, releases his first ever live album on December 8th https://www.bellaunion.com/artist-page/philip-selwayhttps://www.bellaunion.com/artist-page/philip-selway

Stuart Braithwaite, founder member of the much-loved Scottish group, Mogwai, joins me on the podcast today to talk about another band he is involved with, Silver Moth, who are about to embark on a seven date UK tour, starting on November 5th. For the list of date, and to book tickets, visit: ⁠https://www.silvermoth.co.uk⁠ We discuss, the making of their album 'Black Bay', Stuart's love of The Cure and about writing his excellent book 'Spaceships Over Glasgow' which came out last year via White Rabbit books

My guest this week is arguably one of the greatest drummers ever, Mr. Clem Burke, who I've wanted on the podcast since day one! Clem, best known as the drummer for legendary new wave band Blondie, is back on the road later this month with his band the Split Squad for some UK shows, before returning in the new year as part of the Lust For Life Tour, which also features Glen Matlock, Kevin Armstrong and Katie Putrick. For more information about this very special tour and to book tickets, visit: https://www.lustforlifetour.com

My guest this week is singer, songwriter and musician, Colin Blunstone

In a career spanning over fifty years, The Zombies rose to fame in the mid 1960s and enjoyed a string of hits, including She’s Not There, Tell Her No, She’s Coming Home and Time Of The Season.

A documentary about the group. 'Hung Up On A Dream' gets its UK premiere on November 04th at London's Barbican, as part of the Doc 'n' Roll Festival.

For more more information and to book tickets visit: https://www.docnrollfestival.com/films/hung-up-on-a-dream-the-zombies/

The band have a very special homecoming event at St Albans Museum and Gallery on November 10th. For tickets visit:

https://www.stalbansmuseums.org.uk/whats-on/zombies-come-home-conversation-and-acoustic-set

The Zombies performing at their Rock 'n' Roll Hall of Fame induction:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ks1agImDmAk&themeRefresh=1

My guest in this very special bonus episode is Irmin Schmidt

Irmin studied composition, piano and conducting under legendary composer, Karlheinz Stockhausen.

Between 1968 and 1978 he was the keyboard player and co-composer of the hugely influential German band Can.

Irmin has released several critically acclaimed solo albums and has written more than 120 film scores. Impressive stuff!

It was a real honour to have a such a legend of electronic music on the podcast.

For more information on Irmin's work, visit: https://www.spoonrecords.com

My guest this week is Eddie Shaw, bass player from The Monks The group's only studio album, 'Black Monk Time' released back in 1965 and described as "A lost classic" by Julian Cope of the Teardop Explodes has been a great influence on bands such as The Fall, The Dead Kennedy's, The Beastie Boys, The White Stripes and many, many more.. Check out some of the live videos of the band to see just how far ahead they were for their time. Punk-rock, ten years before Punk was even a thing! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bic0lgcEjY4&themeRefresh=1 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3H-fmmNmrRs

My guest this week is Angus Andrew, founding member of experimental rock band Liars, who joins me on the podcast to talk about the band’s sixth album ‘WIXIW’ the latest in the band’s catalogue to be released on limited edition recycled vinyl as part of an ongoing series.  

As well as discussing this truly great album, also talk about running a record label, the New York music scene of the early 2000s. His time living in Berlin, and the making of ‘Apple Drop’ one of my favourite albums of 2021.

The recycled vinyl edition of ‘WIXIW’ is out on October 6th via Mute records. https://mutebank.co.uk/collections/liars

My guests this week are Mick Harvey & Amanda Acevedo, who join me on the podcast to talk about their forthcoming collaborative album, Phantasmagoria in Blue, which is out via Mute records on 1 September 2023.

Harvey, who was a founding member of Nick Cave And The Bad Seeds and The Birthday Party, has worked with a number of hugely talented artists over the years, including PJ Harvey. This is his first collaboration with Mexican artist Amanda Acevedo

For more information or to purchase the album visit: https://mutebank.co.uk/collections/mick-harvey

Check out their excellent cover of 'Love Is A Battlefield' here:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qaNdemwGXXU

 My guest this week is multi-talented musician Steven Mallinder, who joins me on the podcast to talk about his wonderful band Creep Show, which also features singer-song writer, John Grant and fellow Wrangler members, Phil Winter and Benge. Steven, who was a founding member of seminal and highly influential Sheffield group, also teaches Digital Music & Sound Art at the University of Brighton. We discuss everything from, sci-fi to synthesizers, his first encounter with John Grant and the vinyl loving Taylor Swift fan that was freaked out by Cabaret Voltaire.  Creep Show’s latest album ‘Yawning Abyss’ is out now on the excellent Bella Union label. https://www.creepshowmusic.com https://www.bellaunion.com https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GVsftO6b3a0 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sAJMRk_bxT8    

Today’s episode of Synthetic Dreams features a fascinating conversation with singer, Jonathan Higgs and guitarist, Alex Robertshaw from the band, Everything Everything, who formed in Manchester back in 2007

Fair to say that music the band make is truly eclectic. A brilliant mix of catchy guitar hooks, funky bass lines and strong electronic beats, which sit perfectly with Jonathan’s wide ranging vocals.

The band has released seven albums to date, including the brilliant ‘Mountainhead’, which came out in March this year.

As well as having an extremely loyal and dedicated fanbase, something we discuss in the interview, it seems that the band are also loved by the industry. Their debut album, ‘Man Alive’ was shortlisted for the Mercury Music Prize and the band have received five nominations for Ivor Novello Awards. Impressive stuff! 

As well as making some truly brilliant and critically acclaimed  albums, the band are also known for their awesome live shows and If you haven’t been to an Everything Everything gig yet, I highly recommend you catch them at a festival this summer or on their next tour, as it’s an incredible live experience. 

My guests this week are Dave Brock and Doug Mackinnon from legendary space rock band, Hawkwind.

Dave formed Hawkwind back in 1969, and although there have been several line-up changes throughout the years, he remains at the helm today. Doug, who is the relatively new guy in the band, joined the good ship Hawkwind in 2021.

We discuss the latest album 'The Future Never Waits', the early days of the group and the excellent work they do with the animal charity Dog Lost.

It was an absolute honour to have them on the show

Hawkwind play the Royal Albert Hall on 29th September. For more information and tickets visit: http://www.hawkwind.com

Author, Richard Evans joins me on the podcast today to talk about his truly excellent book 'Listening To The Music The Machines Make: Inventing Electronic Pop 1978-1983. A must have for any fans of electronic music

Heres more about Richard's book:

Listening to the Music the Machines Make is the revolutionary story of electronic pop from 1978 to 1983, a true golden age of British music. This definitive account explores how krautrock, disco, glam rock and punk inspired a new generation to rip up the rulebook and venture toward a new frontier of electronic music – one that laid the foundations for Hip-Hop, house, techno and beyond.

Including an extensive collection of archive images throughout, Richard Evans’s kaleidoscopic narrative draws on years of research, a plethora of archive press materials and the input of key figures, including Vince Clarke (Depeche Mode, Yazoo, Erasure), Martyn Ware (The Human League, B.E.F., Heaven 17) and Daniel Miller (The Normal, Mute Records).

From the gritty and experimental to the camp and theatrical, this book charts the careers and impact of electronic pop’s earliest innovators and luminaries, from Devo, The Normal, Telex and Cabaret Voltaire to Soft Cell, Gary Numan, OMD, Duran Duran, Depeche Mode.

https://omnibuspress.com/products/listening-to-the-music-the-machines-make-the-electronic-pop-revolution-1978-1983-published-on-27th-october-2022

Émilie Tiersen (aka QUINQUIS) and her husband, Yann Tiersen are currently sailing along the coast on a truly unique summer tour.

This week I spoke to Émilie about this special sailing trip on their wonderful boat, Ninnong, which set sailed from their home in Ushant to Ireland and then up to the beautiful Faroe Islands, which is where Émilie spoke to me from.

The duo are performing a series of concerts, in various places on their route, meeting up with old friends and chatting with fans along the way

We also discussed the recording of the latest QUINQUIS album, which came out last year. Émilie recorded the album with multi-talented musician and producer, Gareth Jones.

For more information about Émilie and Yann's sailing tour check out the following websites: 

https://www.ninnog.com

https://www.quinquismusic.com

https://mute.com/artists/quinquis

My guest this week is Robin Scott

Starting out as folk musician, playing clubs around the UK, Robin enjoyed huge chart success with the single 'Pop Muzik', released back in 1979, under the moniker M. The track was a global hit.

Robin has recently shared his first new music under the M moniker in over 40 years, ‘Break The Silence’ which is out now via BMG.

heck out the following links:

www.robinscott.uk

www.youtube.com/@robinscottm

www.instagram.com/robinscottuk

 www.bmg.com