Surprise Cast

How many great shoegaze/alternative bands come from Belgium? Enjoy my second conversation with Newmoon's front man, Bert Cannaerts! We discuss profound themes from Ethan Hawke's book, 'Rules for a Knight,' guiding conversation on inner conflict, kindness, humility, and pride through metaphorical reflections on wolves and knights. So fun! This episode is filled with heartfelt dialogue and tremendous honesty. Bert's answers are qui...

What makes Mina's story so extraordinary? I have a heartfelt conversation with the talented singer-songwriter Mina Tindle, who joins me from the beautiful part of France. She opens up about her creative journey, personal inspirations, and the compelling experiences that have shaped her art. We explore her childhood memories, the influence of her family, her collaborations with her husband, Bryce Dessner of the indie band, The Nati...

We leap into the creative journey with special guests, Kirsty Almeida and Matt Owens. Matt, with his roots in jazz and a passion for innovative compositions, softly and intelligently shares his perspectives behind the new work for the album, "Keys". Kirsty, known for her authentic vocals and highly creative spirit, discusses her integral role in the album, infusing it with...

How much pleasure does making music bring to Adam's life? We travel to Alabama to engage in a heartfelt conversation with the talented musician Adam Morrow. He's known for his involvement in his current project Sister Ray Davies, and shares sharp insights into his musical journey, the importance of community, appreciation for U2, and the profound influence of his upbringing in Alabama. Wait, there's more...

Adam shares his passion...

This episode is an intimate exploration of Steve's experiences from his roots in a working-class family to reaching the far corner of the world due to his success as Ride's longtime and outstanding bass player. 

Steve unveils stories from his recent European tour with Ride and the release of his sensational debut solo album, 'Swallow.' Hear exclusive tracks from the new album, showcasing the...

What's happening in London, England, that has music lovers buzzing? I reconnect with the talented band Coming Up Roses, exploring the unique experiences and shared journeys that define their shoegaze/dreampop/indie music. Consisting of Darius Oon on guitar, Emily Sera on bass and vocals, Caleb Blake on drums, and Charlie Wilson on guitar, the band delves into their personal and collective inspirations, the resilience required to p...

What makes Snowcuffs' music melt the heart? We dive into an engaging conversation with Stephanie and Neil from the band Snowcuffs, emerging from the vibrant Chicago music scene. Discover the roots that shape their sound, including Stephanie's Greek-American heritage and Neil's mixed Thai and Catholic upbringing, reflected in their unique musical expression. So cool!

The discussion explores their approach to songwriting, the influe...

How do camaraderie and music come together beautifully? In this captivating episode of Surprise Cast, we dive into a riveting conversation with the Swedish band, Boy With Apple. Known for transcending musical boundaries, Boy With Apple takes the listener on a dynamic journey through their unique sound influenced by dizzying elements of shoegaze and dream pop. Yummy!

Band members Tim, Zara, and Saga, share their roles and creative ...

How does Maude handle challenging setbacks in life? In this riveting episode of Surprise Cast, we take an emotional journey into the life of Maude Anyways. Broadcasting from near Paris, she shares her deeply personal stories and insights into her music career, blending vulnerability and strength in equal measure. You'll be impressed!

Maude reminisces about her childhood filled with challenges, including the pain of her father's ab...

How do friends make an impact on the music scene? I engage in a fun conversation with Andy and Mark from the hit YouTube program, Electronic Cafe. This episode offers an insightful journey into the world of music appreciation, collecting, and podcasting. Listen closely as they discuss their long-standing friendship, love for vinyl, and the creation of their video feature, EC, where they delve into the intricacies of music discussi...

What is Tom's life diary all about? I host an enlightening conversation with Tom Lugo, a versatile artist whose talents span music and martial arts. He shares his extraordinary life journey, detailing how his troubled childhood and unique experiences have shaped him into the resilient and creative person he is today.

Tom, the mastermind behind Patetico Recordings, delves into his musical sphere, which blends genres like shoegaze, ...

How does an artist reinterpret John Williams' music in a captivating manner? 

In this warm hearted episode of Surprise Cast, we journey into the world of music, memory, and creativity with the talented musician and composer, Mark Rolfe. Spanning a wide array of topics, this episode takes listeners on a journey through the important themes of family, nostalgia, and the everlasting power of music. He provides listeners with an intima...

How do OMD albums make us feel? Welcome to this enlightening episode of Surprise Cast, hosted by W and Oregon native Chris Gilliland (This Wreckage). Together, we delve into the world of OMD (Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark), a Liverpudlian band that has profoundly impacted our lives through their distinctive blend of synth-pop and new wave. In this episode, we share our personal experiences and insights on three of OMD's albums...

What kind of energy do you get after a DM show? We leap into the vibrant and lasting impact of Depeche Mode through the lens of live concert experiences. This episode features engaging discussions with two special guests: Shannon Hemmett, a musician from Vancouver, Canada, who is part of the bands Leathers and Actors; and Jason Rogers, an environmental protection professional from Georgia, who shares a passionate side-hobby of wri...

How do talent and kindness come together so effortlessly?

We dive into a friendly conversation with the talented guitarist/songwriter/producer David Newton, best known for his role in the post-punk band, The Mighty Lemon Drops.

The discussion kicks off with a trip down memory lane as David reminisces about his first festival experience, the Rock Against Racism carnival in London, where he saw The Clash perform. How incredible! List...

How does Stephen sprinkle magic into his craft and tell such compelling stories? We dive into the vibrant past and present of the legendary band Chapterhouse with the talented composer and producer, Stephen Patman. This conversation unspools the band's origins, formed in Reading, England, where friendships were forged through shared musical tastes and different home lives.

Listen as Stephen recounts the first demos recorded in a q...

How do you celebrate and honor a 40 year journey? Join me for an in-depth conversation with David Gedge, the iconic lead singer and songwriter of The Wedding Present and Cinerama, as he reflects on his incredible experiences in the indie music scene. We delve into the band's formation in 1985, their upcoming anniversary tour spanning the UK, Ireland, and beyond. He also shares his involvement in a new musical, 'Reception', his an...

Are your ears geared up for this special interview? In this episode, we dive into the multifaceted journey of musician Jem Kelly. Renowned for his work with new wave bands The Wild Swans/The Lotus Eaters and other musical collaborations, Jem vividly explores his life, music, and cycling.

He shares captivating anecdotes about his early days playing guitar and the creative processes that have come to define his artistry. His unique ...

What's that saying about birds of a feather?

I chat with the eclectic and talented members of Jetstream Pony to dive into their latest musical explorations. Listeners are treated to an analysis of their sparkling new album, Bowerbirds and Blue Things, exploring its innovative departure from Jetstream Pony’s established sound while still staying true to their core style. Shaun, Beth, Kerry, and Tom candidly share the challenges and ...