Surprise Cast

Dear David, 
It's not often I open up a show by talking about skipping class back in high school. It's only fitting for this interview.  Welcome back to Surprise Cast!

Thank you for reflecting on the band's early years, C86 sound, and how The Mighty Lemon Drops arrived at the beautiful post punk sound. It was cool to learn about some of the recording process with producer Stephen Street, and how songs evolved in the studio. I especially loved learning about the touring logistics and life on the road. The 40th anniversary of 'Happy Head' deserves all of the excitement from fans. Thanks for uncorking a wonderful conversation with me. Just like the MLD music, you have that youthful spirit and energy. 

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Hello Jon,
Pleasure sitting down with you for a good chat on Surprise Cast. I loved hearing about your journey from a unique Mormon childhood in England. Fascinating. Thank you for talking about your time with post-punk band, Siouxsie and the Banshees. I LOVED the tales on how you joined the band, studio and touring memories. Thank you for taking my ears behind the scenes of songs such as "Peekaboo" and more. How amazing that you got to collaborate with Stephen Hague and John Cale. Discussing your collaboration with Sinead O' Connor and long time friendship with Jah Wobble was absolutely a treat to hear. I appreciate the deep dive you went into regarding the making of the 'Automatic Paradise' album. It was cool to learn about the lo-fi spontaneity and organized structures that helped shape some fabulous tunes. You two created an incredible atmosphere. Thank you for the ear opening stories and thoughtful reflections. Keep chasing after the rich sound and creative collaborations. You're quite good at it. 

Follow Jon Klein: 
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Photo courtesy of @petermcdonnellphotography

 

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Hello Mary!

Thank you so much for joining me to talk about music, creativity, and Maniacs milestones. I loved hearing your personal reflections and about the people you appreciate in the music business such as Alison Krauss. 

How amazing that you got to be a guest on stage with Billy Bragg for one of my favourite songs of his! It was also fascinating to learn about the “three V’s” of your life. And let’s not forget our stroll down memory lane while talking about John Lombardo and the Natalie Merchant era.

I know the 45th anniversary show will be memorable for everyone attending. I’m looking forward to hearing the new recordings and seeing the vinyl reissues emerge.

Thank you again for your warmth and wonderful sense of humor. It's always lovely chatting with you. 

Follow Mary Ramsey: https://www.instagram.com/yesmaryramsey63/

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Dear Adam and Jamie,
It was great having you on Surprise Cast back in May.

I loved our conversation about your UK tour with Chapterhouse—what a “special” experience! It was fascinating to learn about the concept behind the new album, which is clearly inspired by *Holy Island* and its incredible, nuanced history. The music captures the place's atmosphere beautifully. I also enjoyed hearing about that two- to three-week burst of writing inspiration. And I can’t argue with your great taste in music: U2, Slowdive, Ride, Talk Talk, and My Bloody Valentine. Your long standing friendship continues to fuel your creativity and gives you the confidence to try new things without being intimidated by the process. The “Experimental process” seems to be a good friend of yours.

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Dear Daniel,
So nice to have you on Surprise Cast. Who knew we'd have so much in common, starting with our love for movies that shaped us, including E.T. and Superman. I loved hearing about the amazing Nirvana concert. What an experience for you. 

Thank you for walking me through your journey from college radio and CMJ to launching your well-respected company, Force Field. I can't believe Sufjan Stevens, Ariel Pink, and Panda Bear were your early clients.

It was interesting to learn more about what makes you a trusted partner for artists. Thank you for explaining the day-to-day of tour pressing, album rollouts, and other aspects of your all-consuming job. Your Joan Baez story put a smile on my face. Keep protecting your clients with that amazing shield of yours. All those business victories will continue to pay off big time!

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Additional music by:
https://chapterhouseofficial.com/

https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLmOk-H-VrObMeMYqPITpH5W2qjMIirKdm