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Two Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 235: Chris Simpson and Magna Carta Update; Deershed Festival; Bradford 2024 - The Railway ChildrenSend us a textGraham gives an update on promotion around Chris Simpson and Magna Carta both with the Vinyl Sessions event in Harrogate and Chris Simpson's appearance at the Magna Carta exhibition launch in London.Graham also reports on the artists he managed to catch at this year's Deer Shed Festival.Charles reflects on his visit to Bradford to see the revival of Mike Kenny's adaptation of The Railway Children for Bradford 2025.Keep in touch with Two Big Egos in a Small Car:X@2big_egos2025-08-0238 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 234: Dave Gedge Live at Rise, York; Katja Hoyer's Book on East Germany 1949-1990; F1 Movie with Brad PittSend us a textFollowing last episode's interview with The Wedding Present's Dave Gedge, Charles and Graham report on seeing him live in an accoustic gig at Rise, York. Graham does the hard work reading Katja Hoyer's book about East Germany 1949-1990 and examines what it was like to live in the communist state. Both Charles and Graham take a look at Bradd pitt's new film, F1. Is it too formulaic?Keep in touch with Two Big Egos in a Small Car:X@2big_egosFacebook@twobigegos2025-07-2531 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 232: Interview Special with Emma Swan talking about her debut children's Cruiseship Kid plus Rotherham Children's Capital of Culture; Chris Simpson and Magna CartaSend us a textRotherham born, West End actress, Emma Swan is our guest, talking about her debut middle grade children's novel, Cruiseship Kid: Thief at Sea. Emma recently launched her novel at Rotherham Children's Capital of Culture - the year long celebration of culture by, with and for children. Charles and Graham follow up on last week's Gang of Four and Adam Curtis' Shifty as Graham discovers a link. The duo continue to look forward to EIFF and Graham's tribute to Chris Simpson and Magna Carta.Keep in touch with Two Big Egos in a...2025-07-1235 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 231: Glastonbury; Oasis - get ready; Gang of Four live at the Brudenell; More streaming data now; Shifty Documentary by Adam Curtis; EIFF UpdateSend us a textIt’s June and it’s Glastonbury, Graham is in clover, Charles less so. It’s also almost time for Oasis to start their comeback tour.Meanwhile, in the real world, Graham has been to see post-punk legends Gang of Four's final hometown Leeds gig and realises they are still relevant today.Graham follows up on last week’s streaming data report with some fascinating additional info on music acts’ Spotify figures.Charles and Graham examine why Adam Curtis's new BBC iPlayer political documentary series Shifty is a masterpie...2025-07-0636 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 229: Pulp's new album More; Remembering Brian Wilson of The Beach Boys; Bang & Olufsen Harrogate; The Rilling Stones Exhibition at Sledmere HouseSend us a textGraham and Charles dissect Pulp’s new album more - but is it more Leonard Cohen than Roxy Music?What Brian Wilson of the Beach Boys meant to me - Graham remembers - in four brief parts and Charles examines the majest of the most trult gifted singer and songwriter of his generation.Thanks to a tip-off by Producer Antony, Graham reports back on his sonic visit to Bang & Olufsen in Harrogate. But is it more AI than wey hey?Charles captures the sho...2025-06-2237 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 226: Gary Oldman in Krapp's Last Tape; Pink Floyd Live in Pompeii Re-issued; The Murder Capital Live in Leeds; Chaper 3 of Graham Chalmers' Book on Magna CartaSend us a textGraham looks at the re-issued Pink Floyd live in Pompeii film: When rock was classical music.Graham reports on meeting assistant manager of Notts County at final Harrogate Town Home match of season.Charles reflects on his experience seeing Gary Oldman in Krapp’s Last Tape at York Theatre Royal - does Gary get it taped?The Murder Capital live in Leeds and a new age of punk and post pu...2025-05-2637 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 223: Music Venue Crisis; My Bloody Valentine; Sam Mendes’ Beatles Films; Val Kilmer RIP; Public Service BroadcastingSend us a textGraham and Charles take a look at the struggle facing small venues in the UK, the continuing rise in ticket prices and the beauty of My Bloody Valentine.Graham examines why The Beatles road manager and the hidden aspects of the story are unlikely to come out in Sam Mendes forthcoming films on the band.Graham explores the work of the underrated Val Kilmer after his recent death and why he is the best thing in Michael Mann's film Heat playing opposite Al Pacino and Robert De Niro.2025-04-1338 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 221:Topping Books open in York; Alto Knights with Robert de Niro; Edwyn Collins' New album; Harrogate Sessions Re-visit A Hard Day's Night and Help!Send us a textGraham and Charles report that York is about to have Britain's biggest independent book store with Topping Books https://www.toppingbooks.co.uk/Is it going to be an opportunity or threat?Charles asks what do two Robert De Niro for the price of one add up to in The Alto Knights? Plus Edwin Collins announcing autumn final tour after releasing National Shall Speak Unto National last Friday.Graham previews the next Vinyl Sessions event in Harrogate which will focus on The Beatles in film and th...2025-03-3039 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 220: Steven Soderbergh's new film Black Bag; Glastonbury Festival Lineups; Scottish indie music in Grant McPhee's new book Postcards from ScotlandSend us a textGraham explores why Steven Soderberg's new spy/com film, Black Bag starring Cate Blanchett and Michael Fassbender isn't as good as his best and most under-rated film, The Limey from 1999 which starred Terence Stamp and Peter Fonda.Charles and Graham chew over the headliners for this year's Glastonbury Festival.Graham takes a look at Grant McPhee's exceptional new book on Scottish indie bands, Postcards From Scotland.Graham relates how an enquiry from Fibbers owner Tim Hornsby led to uncovering Charm...2025-03-2338 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 217: Bradford, UK Capital of Culture Update; Jarmusch's Mystery Train Revisited; Toby Manning's Marxist Rock History Book; BAFTAs RevisitedSend us a textGraham explores the mystery of rock n roll and Jim Jarmusch's 1989 film Mystery Train and talks about his meeting with Marxist rock writer Toby Manning at a Harrogate International Festivals event last week.Charles shares his recent experience at the National Museum of Science and Media in Bradford, UK Capital of Culture 2025.Charles and Graham revisit the films that won big at the BAFTAs.Keep in touch with Two Big Egos in a...2025-03-0244 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 216 - Interview Special: 10CC's Graham Gouldman plus National Poetry Centre News;Send us a textCharles and Grham interview 10cc's Graham Gouldman ahead of his latest tour with his band, Heart Full of Songs.The band line-up comprises Graham, 10cc live band members Iain Hornal and Keith Hayman, and Dave Cobby.In 2014 Graham was inducted into the Songwriter’s Hall of Fame – an arm of America’s National Academy of Music. Fellow inductees include Noel Coward, Burt Bacharach, John Lennon, Paul McCartney, Bob Dylan, Elton John and Sting.Graham's songwriting credits over the last 60 years include The Ya...2025-02-2339 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 215: BBC 6 Music State of Independent Venues Report: Bradford City of Culture Update; Hockney at Saltaire; Brian Cox Returns to Edinburgh StageSend us a textGraham reports on BBC 6 Music's State of Independent Venues Week which for once makes Leeds and York look great.Graham and Chales share further thoughts on Bradford City of Culture's programme.Charles reports on David Hockney’s exhibition at Saltaire in Bradford.Succession actor Brian Cox is about to return to the stage for Edinburgh International Festival in a year of good news for the city's arts.Keep in touch with Two Big Egos in a Small Car:X@2big_egos2025-02-0932 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 214: Netflix versus the BBC; New Mogwai Album The Bad Fire; New film The Brutalist; Vinyl Sessions; Music for Sex; The First Prog Rock album?Send us a textIn a packed podcast episode:Graham asks if Netflix is really beating the BBC at the numbers of viewers game in the UK? Graham and Charles have been listening to Mogwai's new album The Bad Fire and wonder why the band never quite hits the peaks.Is new film The Brutalist just too brutally long?Graham reports on the sold out Vinyl Sessions showdown with music author Rob Chapman talking about Syd Barrett2025-02-0235 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 213: David Lynch; Bob Dylan biopic, A Complete UnknownSend us a textGraham and Charles honour titan of US cinema David Lynch whose recent death at the age of 78 brings to an end the career of one of cinema and television’s true greats.Graham asks if the new Bob Dylan biopic A Complete Unknown is a complete success.Keep in touch with Two Big Egos in a Small Car:X@2big_egosFacebook@twobigegos2025-01-2635 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 210: Revisiting dystopian films, V for Vendetta and Children of Men; Robbie Williams biopic, Better Man; music compilation, Behind the Counter; January 2025 Vinyl Sessions in HarrogateSend us a textGraham discusses how two dystopian British films in 2006 (V for Vendetta and Children of Men) predicted the politics of now.Charles takes a look at the new Robbie Williams biopic Better Man.Graham enjoys a brilliant compilation by crime author, Ian Rankin called Behind the Counter and then previews his forthcoming Vinyl Sessions Q&A event in Harrogate on Syd Barrett and Nick Drake with author Rob Chapman as special guest.Keep in touch with Two Big...2024-12-3135 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 209: Gigs of the year 2024; Theatre event of the year Wise Children's Bluebeard; Maisie Adam live in HarrogateSend us a textCharles and Graham revisit their best live music gigs of the year for 2024 with a competitive countdown of their Top 5.Charles celebrates the extraordinary production of Bluebeard by Wise Children as his theatre event of the year, which he saw when it played at York Theatre Royal.Graham reports on seeing comedian Maisie Adams at a small hometown gig at Roosters Taproom in Harrogate in front of her former head teacher.Keep in touch with Two Big Egos in a Small Car:X@2big...2024-12-2937 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 208: Chalmers on BBC 6 Music; Blitz and Conclave; Two new books for 2025Send us a textGraham shares his recent experience on BBC 6 Music plugging his many years in the Harrogate music scene on the Craig Charles show.Graham wonders how two new very different films manage to snatch defeat from the jaws of victory (Blitz and Conclave).Finally, Graham reveals two new books coming up in 2025 - including his own, hopefully - with a brief extract of him reading from his yet to be titled book about Harrogate’s lost band from the late 60’s and early 70’s, Magna Carta and in particular its leader...2024-12-2233 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 203: Paddington 3 vs Godfather 3; Nirvana; Dear Evan Hansen;Send us a textGraham examines how and why successful film franchises end up losing the plot in a comparison of disappointing new film, Paddington 3 with The Godfather 3.Graham discusses his recent talk on Nirvana, why the band were punk, not grunge, and how their story weirdly mirrors The Sex Pistols.Charles reports on Dear Evan Hansen at Leeds Grand Theatre. What makes a musical stand out in a busy market?Keep in touch with Two Big Egos in a Small C...2024-11-1738 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 202: Nick Cave live in Leeds; The Pretenders at York Barbican; Alex Cox's Sid and Nancy revisited; Gary Oldman directing himself in YorkSend us a textGraham declares that Nick Cave is no god - as he assesses the opening night of the British leg of his 'Wild God' tour at Leeds Arena last night.Charles reviews The Pretenders at York Barbican: why Chrissie Hynde remains the coolest woman in rock.Alex Cox's Sid and Nancy - The 70s never stopped: Graham is reappraising Alex Cox's 1986 film Sid and Nancy nearly 40 years on.Plus, linking in with Sid And Nancy, Gary Oldman is to direct...2024-11-1032 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 201: High Llamas Live at Hebden Bridge; Watching Fellini's Roma in Italian; Watermark Gallery, Harrogate; Floyd Vs Genesis at Kirkby Overblow;Send us a textGraham tells us what he learned by talking to Sean O'Hagan from the High Llamas when he saw the band at Hebden Bridge last weekend.Graham has also been watching Fellini's Roma (1972) in Italian! And visiting the new William Morris arts and crafts exhibition in York, which of course Charles has seen too.The duo comment on the recent announcement that Watermark Gallery in Harrogate is to close. They talk about why they'll be missed and how likely it...2024-11-0336 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 199: Supertramp Q & A with Ken Scott; The Future of Guitar Bands; Heath Common Funeral; Peter Hook and the Light LiveSend us a textGraham discusses how his Supertramp Q&A session with legendary music producer, Ken Scott went in Harrogate. Ken Scott was shooting from the hip and taking no prisoners.Graham also reflects on the future of guitar bands as he attended an all-day gig at the Brudenell Social Club in Leeds.The arts world turned up for the funeral of Beatnik poet Heath Common in Harrogate and Graham was there.Finally, Charles reports on seeing a bit of a retro gig when he saw Pe...2024-10-2025 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 198: Graham in Emilia Romagna; Shed Seven's 'annus miraculous'; Black Midi News; Ai Weiwei's Who Am I? Exhibition in Bologna; Viking Sorceress in CopenhagenSend us a textGraham discusses his recent travels in modern Emilia-Romagna, how Romeo and Juliet mania is Verona's Harry Potter and why the absence of Ramones t-shirts worn on the streets is probably an expression of Italy's innate coolness.Charles applauds the 'annus miraculous' for Shed Seven's 30th anniversary tour and album releases amid the release of the latest Shed Seven album. Liquid Gold is currently number one, their second this year. Charles and Graham chew over the multitude of versions on offer and celebrate the second...2024-10-1137 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 195: RIP Heath Common, poet and musician; English Teacher Win the Mercury Prize; Elvis Costello and Steve Nieve; Blink Twice versus LeeSend us a textGraham pays tribute to Harrogate poet and musician, Heath Common who has sadly passed away. Read Graham's obituary.Graham and Charles discuss how English Teacher winning this year's Mercury Prize finally recognises Leeds as a music city.Charles reflects on seeing the incomparable Elvis Costello and Steve Nieve at their 15 Songs in 50 Years gig at Leeds City Varieties.Graham reveals why new film, Blink Twice with Channing Tatum is better than the new film, Le...2024-10-0528 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 197: Interview Special: Boff Whalley on Sanctuary plus new film Firebrand and new album, Wild God by Nick Cave and the Bad SeedsSend us a textCharles and Graham talk to Leeds based writer and musician, Boff Whalley about his new musical for Red Ladder Theatre Company. Sanctuary - co-written with playwright, Sarah Woods - is a brand-new musical that welcomes us in and asks the question: do we want safety and freedom for only ourselves, or for us all? Graham reports on meeting Chris Simpson (from the band Magna Carta) about the book he has written chronicling the history of one of the UK's less well know bands from the 70's.Graham a...2024-09-2839 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 196: Jim Moir (AKA Vic Reeves) Exhibition at RedHouse Originals, Harrogate; Sprints; Ayckbourn's Show & TellSend us a textGraham and Charles discuss meeting Jim Moir (AKA Vic Reeves) at his new exhibition at RedHouse Originals in Harrogate which leads into a discussion about bird art.Graham has been listening to upcoming Irish garage-punk band, Sprints.Charles reviews Alan Ayckbourn’s new play, Show & Tell at the Stephen Joseph Theatre in Scarborough. It's his 90th play, Keep in touch with Two Big Egos in a Small Car:X@2big_egosFacebook@twobigegos2024-09-2023 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 194: Edinburgh Part 2; Chris Simpson and Magna Carta; New albums by Fontaines DC and Hamish Hawk; Supertramp; Oasis ReformSend us a textCharles and Graham continue reflecting on their Edinburgh trip with a discussion about the Edinburgh Art Festival.Graham has finished his biography of Chris Simpson and the band Magna Carta and shares next steps and a few thoughts about what it was like getting to know the songwriter behind one of Britain's least known bands from the 70's - but a band that deserves to be celebrated for their songwriting.New albums by Fontaines DC and Hamish Hawk.This month Graham is doing a Q&A with...2024-09-1432 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 193: Edinburgh Special (Part One)Send us a textGraham and Charles reflect on another superb Edinburgh Festival visit.Charles talks about his favourite films at Edinburgh, whereas Graham opts to share some of his “celebrity encounters", including a memorable encounter with Argentinian-Italian director, Gaspar Noé.Graham was at Leeds Festival this weekend and saw Lana Del Ray but preferred Sun King (from York) and almost anyone else to her. He explains why.Keep in touch with Two Big Egos in a Small Car:X@2big_egosFacebook@twobigegos2024-09-0737 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 191: Were Mainstream Films Better in the 70's?; Edinburgh International Film Festival Preview; Banksy's Beasts; Graham's Idea for a PlaySend us a textGraham discusses the decline of main stream films since the 1970s after having recently watching Woody Allen's Manhattan (1979) and John Landis's Animal House (1978).Coming up at the 77th Edinburgh International Film Festival what are Graham and Charles looking forward to?Charles reflects on Banksy’s latest artwork series, the coverage it has attracted across the media and what the street art might mean.Finally, Graham also discloses his idea for a play, though not entirely serious about wr...2024-08-1835 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 190: Edinburgh International Film Festival; Dan Baldwin Exhibition at Red House Art Gallery; Purple Signs in York; Vinyl SessionsSend us a textGraham and Charles are looking forward to the 77th Edinburgh International Film Festival.Graham previews a new exhibition at Red House Art Gallery in Harrogate by Dan BaldwinCharles highlights the York Purple Signs campaign, and especially their posters trying to establish behaviour patterns in relation to drink. Go Steady! We’ve got enough history. Respect your bar staff. Gratitude not Attitude.Graham is super excited to preview some of his upcoming talking events (including a new Vinyl Session) coming up in the autumn.Keep in...2024-08-1132 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 189:Send us a textGraham takes pleasure in hearing some unexpected hits from the current Deer Shed Festival in North Yorkshire including Simon Armitage and The Coral.Charles reflects on enjoying the sculpture park at Thirsk Hall, as well as the Himalayan Gardens near Ripon. Newby Hall and the Yorkshire Sculpture Park.Graham discusses great essay writers: How recent collections by the late Joan Didion and the late Christopher Hitchins compare to the late 'Gonzo journalism' writer Hunter S Thompson.Keep in touch with Two Big Egos in a Small Car:2024-08-0434 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 188: Mark Billingham at Theakston's Crime Writing Festival; Shed Seven live at York's Museum Gardens; Pink Floyd Rock ArchaeologySend us a textGraham spoke to bestselling crime author Mark Billingham at the world's greatest crime writing festival in Harrogate last week, the Theakston's Old Perculier Charles reviews Shed Seven in Museum Gardens, York. Futuresound’s three day festival with a homecoming celebration for the band - though they never left York.Graham discusses rock archaeology with reference to the sound equipment used by Pink Floyd for their famous gig at Pompeii which was on display at the recent North West Audio Show in lea...2024-07-2837 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 187: Edinburgh International Festival Programme; Tribute Acts; I am Your Tribute in York; Yoko Ono at Tate ModernSend us a textGraham continues his preview of this year's Edinburgh International Film Festival and why it is a return to its strengths.Graham considers why he genuinely doesn’t like tribute acts. Charles agrees but then adds how much he enjoyed, Sarah Louise Young's I Am Your Tribute, all about tribute acts at Theatre@41, Monkgate, York,Graham celebrates Yoko Ono's art when visiting her major retrospective exhibition at Tate Modern in London.Keep in touch with Two Big Egos in a Small Car:X@2bi...2024-07-2037 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 186: Kettles Yard and Jim Ede; Bomb Squad's Rise of the Vandals in York: Edinburgh International Film Festival UpdateSend us a textGraham discusses the brilliant new book, Ways of Art by the Sunday Times art critic, Laura Freeman. Ways of Art tells the story of art collecting legend Jim Ede, the creator of Kettle's Yard in Cambridge Charles reports on Bomb Squad's latest exhibition in York, Rise of the Vandals, which took place over three weekends at 2, Low Ouse Gate. The exhibition occupied three floors of the building and featured artists such as Inky, and DJ Soda.Graham reveals some positive news about this y...2024-07-1434 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 185: Interview Special with Pete Oxley, founder of the band Hejira, who celebrate the music of Joni Mitchell; New film in the works by indie film legend, Richard Linklater; Glastonbury 2024 HighlightsSend us a textGraham and Charles interview Pete Oxley, the guitarist and bandleader behind, Hejira - a group that celebrates the music of Joni Mitchell and is definitely not a tribute band. Their setlist is drawn from Joni Mitchell's live album, Shadows And Light. Comprising highly experienced jazz musicians, Hejira is fronted by the brilliant Hattie Whitehead.Graham gets excited about the news that there is a new film in the works by indie darling, Richard Linklater celebrating the films and directors...2024-07-0732 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 184: Summer Music Festival Preview; Graham's Celebrity Diaries; Arts Manifestos; Vinyl Sessions in Harrogate PreviewSend us a textCharles and Graham preview summer festivals including Deer Shed Festival and Leeds Festival. Graham revels in his exciting diary: meeting the star of Ken Loach's last film The Old Oak and Lib Dem leader Sir Ed Davey in Harrogate in the same week.Charles reports on how the arts are being treated in the election manifestos.Graham previews the next Vinyl Sessions with R.E.M’s Automatic for the People.Keep in touch with Tw...2024-06-3036 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 183: Nick Mason's Saucerful of Secrets vs Foo Fighters; Unfortunate at the Grand Opera House, York; New Viggo Mortensen Film, The Dead Don't Hurt; Cowton live at Brudenell Social ClubSend us a textGraham reports on seeing Pink Floyd, well Nick Mason's Saucerful of Secrets in York and Foo Fighters in Manchester in two days. Who won?Charles considers what makes a good new musical stand out, after seeing Unfortunate: The Untold Story of Ursula the Sea Witch at Grand Opera House, York? Graham reflects on Viggo Mortensen's new film as director - a Western, -The Dead Don't Hurt.Graham also catches up with some old punks who never die. He watched Leeds...2024-06-2739 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 182: Vinyl Sessions with Hotel Californa; PechaKucha in York; Moby Dick at York Theatre Royal; The Resilience and Excellence of York band PercySend us a textGraham reports on the return of Vinyl Sessions and the, perhaps, surprising, hidden depths of The Eagles, as the band's Hotel California is played in full in front of a packed and appreciative crowd in Harrogate.Charles has a fun and fascinating evening at a PechaKucha event in York and then asks: how do you evoke a whale inside a theatre in Simple8's new adaptation of Herman Melville's Moby Dick at York Theatre Royal?Graham is enthused by a clutch...2024-06-1536 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 181: Yes, Live in York; Demarco's Edinburgh Book; Billie Eilish; Dexys Live in Scarborough; Vinyl Sessions PrreviewSend us a textCharles taunts Graham with a review on Charles Hutch Press of Yes, live in York. Will Graham ever see Yes live?Graham discusses the book, Demarco’s Edinburgh (Richard Demarco and Roddy Martine, 2023) about the history of Edinburgh International Festival chronicling the struggles and success of legendary Scots maverick arts impresario, Richard Demarco.Graham announces that he likes Billie Eilish’s latest album, Hit Me Hard and Soft!Charles went to see the sublime Dexys at Scarborough and discusses the joy in experiencing Kevin Rowland live...2024-06-0534 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 180: Interview special with Chantel McGregor; Isaac Hayes and Gatefold Record Sleeves; National Service; Anton Lesser in YorkSend us a textCharles and Graham welcome special guest, musician, Chantel McGregor. Bradford born, Chantel is a rock musician and female guitar prodigy, who enrolled at the Leeds College of Music and became the first student in the college’s history, to achieve a 100% pass mark at BTEC, with 18 distinctions. Chantel followed this with a First Class Honours degree in Popular Music and a coveted prize, the college’s musician of the year award. Her critically acclaimed 2011 debut album, Like No Other was followed by second album, Lose Control, in 2015 on her independent boutique label Tis Rock...2024-05-2735 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 179: Cult Film Return to the River's Edge; New Powell and Pressburger Documentary; Paloma Faith Live at York BarbicanSend us a textGraham looks back on Return to the River's Edge; the cult 1986 teen film directed by Tim Hunter that foretold Twin Peaks and the Grunge movement.Charles reports on a new documentary about Michael Powell & Emetic Pressburger. Made in England : The Films of Powell and Pressburger - the under appreciated luminaries of British cinema - is directed by David Hinton and narrated by American director Martin Scorsese.Charles reviews Paloma Faith’s recent gig at York Barbican in an attempt to to convince Graham he...2024-05-2037 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 178: David Remfry; Monet in York; Michaela Yearwood-Dan; Tony Cragg at Castle Howard; RIP Keith LeBlancSend us a textGraham reports on his meeting with David Remfry, Britain's coolest artist, aged 81. Graham met him at his new exhibition, We Think the World of You - People and Dogs Drawn at The Mercer Gallery, Harrogate's only public gallery, once again proving itself indispensable with a high quality exhibition of national interest.Charles is fresh from seeing the Monet exhibition at York Art Gallery, a new exhibition and as part of the National Gallery bicentenary. York Art Gallery’s Monet in York celebrates the National Gallery’s National Trea...2024-05-1536 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 177: Seriously Taylor Swift; Amy Winehouse - Back to Black the FilmographySend us a textGraham has a confession to make - he's worrying about Taylor Swift. Is it time to take one of the world's newest billionaires seriously?Charles is drawn to Graham's more positive view of the Sam Taylor-Johnson Amy Winehouse biopic.Keep in touch with Two Big Egos in a Small Car:X@2big_egosFacebook@twobigegos2024-04-2929 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 176: Remembering Graham Naysmith from the Pale Saints; Philosophy Stars Chomsky and Baudrillard; Alex Garland's New Film, Civil WarSend us a textGraham pays tribute to guitarist Graeme Naysmith, co-founder of the Leeds band, The Pale Saints and remembers when they played one of his own Charm nights in Harrogate.Time moves on - Looking back at two of the western world's greatest political philosophers of the last half century - Noam Chomsky and Jean Baudrillard and whether two of their bestselling books stand up now.Is Civil War the best film yet from Alex Garland or is it too political?Keep in touch with Two Big Egos in a...2024-04-2838 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 175: Steve Howe and Yes; Benjamin Francis Leftwich Live; Magna Carta Book Update; Beatles Exhibition; William DoyleSend us a textGraham recounts interviewing Steve Howe of Yes about their forthcoming UK tour and York Barbican gig.Benjamin Francis Leftwich live in Leeds? Yes please! Charles is captivated by a fascinating gig at Leeds' Brudenell Social Club.Graham enters the crazy world of data retrieval as he reveals how he nearly lost his entire draft manuscript for a book on Magna Carta's Chris Simpson. Graham has been writing it for four years now so to lose it would be brutal. Just back from a trip to Scotland Graham...2024-04-1732 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 174: Jesus and Mary Chain Back on Form; Monet in York; Suits You - The Fast Show in YorkSend us a textCharles and Graham get heady with the quality of the new album from the Jesus and Mary Chain and celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Glasgow band. Glasgow Eyes is their best album in over twenty years.Monet in York. Monet’s ‘The Water-Lily Pond’ will be the central feature of a major new exhibition at York Art Gallery to mark the 200th anniversary of the National Gallery on 10 May 2024. Painted by one of the founders of the Impressionist movement Claude Monet (1840-1926), ‘The Water-Lily Pond’ (1899) will be the centrepiec...2024-04-0139 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 173: Ruskin and Brantwood house; Rolling Stones Connection to York; The Holdovers; Steve Harley RIPSend us a textGraham reports on his recent stay in John Ruskin's house at Brantwood in the Lake District- but is the Victorian art critic and social reformer really as relevant to the 21st century as his supporters claim?Graham also talks about his recent pilgrimage to a secret rock n roll shrine in a York pub related to the Rolling Stones.Charles talks about the real enjoyment to be found in Alexander Payne's Oscar winning film, The Holdovers.For Graham, there is personal s...2024-04-0139 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 171: Music Venue Crisis Threatening Live Music; Wise Children's Blue Beard; Yard Act's New Album; William Doyle's Springs EternalSend us a textGraham focuses on the extreme difficulties being faced by venues and music artists as yet more venues announce closure. If the decimation of the live music circuit continues what will this mean for the future?Charles is thrilled by Emma Rice's version of Blue Beard for her company Wise Children, this remarkable piece of theatre is currently to be seen on tour which Charles caught at York's Theatre Royal.Graham introduces the just released second album by Leeds band, Yard Act and then discussed the perplexing talent...2024-03-0638 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 169: American Fiction; Bob Marley: One Love; Let There Be Light...In Harrogate; Roisin MurphySend us a textDoes new film, American Fiction merits a ton of Academy Awards? Graham Chalmers discusses his thoughts.Charles leads discussion around the value of musical biopics as against documentaries in the wake of the release of new film, Bob Marley: One Love.Graham reports on a new light installation coming to Harrogate and then explores the deceptive charm of Irish singer Roisin Murphy and her links to Marlene Dietrich and Jean Luc Godard.Keep in touch with Two Big Egos in a Small Car:2024-02-2934 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 167: The Last Dinner Party and The Zone of InterestSend us a textGraham reports on how the unfairly maligned The Last Dinner Party's just released debut album revives 1970s Queen and ABBA with 21st Century attitudes.Charles and Graham discuss why Jonathan Glazer's remarkable new film about Auschwitz - The Zone of Interest - is only part of a new wave of provocative directors working in the new cinema of satirical super realism. Charles asks Graham for a definition.Keep in touch with Two Big Egos in a Small Car:X@2big_egos2024-02-1121 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 166: English Teacher Live in Leeds; ABC Live in York; New Album From Bill Ryder-Jones; Rory Stewart's Politics On the Edge;Send us a textGraham has been to see emerging Leeds band, English Teacher and reflects on a superb night at The Crescent. Charles by contrast went to see ABC with the South Bank Symphonia at York Barbican performing hits including the glorious Lexicon of Love.Graham also discusses how Bill Ryder Jones's new album Iechyd Da hits new heights - or perhaps depths - of beautiful melancholia.Charles and Graham discuss why Rory Stewart's Politics on the Edge is one of the best ever political memoirs...2024-01-3036 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 165: Pop Artist, Pauline Boty; Poor Things; Overrated Netflix Films; York Art Gallery Exhibition ChargesSend us a textGraham discusses two jarring moments in an otherwise brilliant new book about Pauline Boty, the most overlooked British Pop Artist of the 1960s.Charles and Graham reflect on the new film by Greek director, Yorgos Lanthimos, Poor Things, which features an astonishing performance by Emma Stone and is a film dividing audiences over its feminist credentials.Charles draws attention to the recent decision by York Art Gallery to re-introduce a charge to enter its permanent collections gallery. Yet another sign of the problems currently being...2024-01-2735 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 164: Indie Bands and their Hype; Shed Seven's First Number One Album; Priscilla Reconsidered; The Miracle of Mr MickSend us a textGraham wants to correct some wrong perceptions about indie bands Bar Italia and The Last Dinner Party.Former guest (Episode 153) Rick Witter's band Shed Seven gets its first Number One album and Charles challenges the view that they are not as important as other bands of the same era.Graham confesses that in last week's episode he got a few things wrong about Sofia Coppola's new film Priscilla. Graham stares back into the abyss of the past to reclaim the miracle of Mr Mick, Stackridge's 1976 cult album a...2024-01-2135 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 163: Sofia Coppola's Priscilla; Pauline Boty and Harrogate's Creative Underground; Why BBC 6 Music Should Create its own ChartSend us a textGraham and Charles take a look at what Sofia Coppolla's new film Priscilla says about Mr & Mrs Elvis and contrast it to Baz Lurmann's own take on the couple in his film, Elvis.Harrogate gets a mention in a brilliant new book on Pauline Boty, the most overlooked figure in the British Pop Art movement of the 1960s.As the charts of the year reveal yet another bland list of pop artists, Graham proposes that BBC 6 launches its own chart.Keep in touch with Two Big Egos...2024-01-1436 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 162: Christmas Presents; Michael Mann's Ferrari; Christmas TVSend us a textGraham's Christmas presents are, possibly, the best arts-related presents anyone got this year anywhere on the planet and very well worth talking through.Graham wonders if Michael Mann's new movie Ferrari is finally the first great film made about cars.Charles considers what has been popular on TV this Christmas Keep in touch with Two Big Egos in a Small Car:X@2big_egosFacebook@twobigegos2024-01-0332 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 159: Harrogate Theatre's Pantomime: New Todd Haynes Film, May December; Shane MacGowan RIPSend us a textLonger wording: Charles and Graham are moved to discuss just why why Harrogate Theatre’s pantomime is the best in the world.Graham discusses Julianne Moore and Natalie Portman's chemistry and why May December is Todd Haynes's slipperiest film.A sombre conclusion as the great songwriting talent of The Pogues' Shane MacGowan is considered after his flame was snuffed out at 65.Keep in touch with Two Big Egos in a Small Car:X@2big_egosFacebook@twobigegos2023-12-0336 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 158: Berlin Re-visited; Ian McMillan's Very Yorkshire Opera; Robert M Pirsig's Zen And The Art Of Motorcycle Maintenance ReassessedSend us a textCharles reports back on his return to Berlin after 34 years and how he felt about the changes since his visit there with Graham in November 1989 immediately after the wall "came down".Charles and Graham reflect on meeting Barnsley bard Ian McMillan in Bradford at the St George's Hall premiere of his very Yorkshire version of Rossini's opera, The Barber Of Seville.Graham examines the lingering impact of Robert M Pirsig's bestselling 1974 counter-culture philosophical novel Zen And The Art of Motorcycle Maintenance.Keep in touch...2023-12-0138 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 157: Fashion on trend?; Yorkshire's Now Then and Now And Then; Sunderland's Indie HQSend us a textGraham unexpectedly introduces a new fashion slot, where he reviews the surprising return of a plethora of fashion styles enjoying a comeback.Charles explores the Yorkshire phrase "Now Then” with a look at Rick Broadbent's new book Now Then: A Biography Of Yorkshire and Richard Hawley's new compilation album Now Then and follows up with questions for Graham on The Beatles' remarkable new single Now And Then.Finally, Graham recounts what happened when he spent a night in Sunderland at the heart of the city's indie scene, watching Field Mu...2023-11-1432 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 156: Whither BBC 6Music?; How The Rolling Stones Invented PunkSend us a textGraham is wondering just what is the role of BBC 6Music in light of the latest official radio listening figures after a scheduling revamp? Plus, why if MOJO magazine is 30 years old does it feel more like 80?Graham contests that The Rolling Stones had an underrated role in inventing punk rock. Charles spots dinosaurs hoving into view.Keep in touch with Two Big Egos in a Small Car:X@2big_egosFacebook@twobigegos2023-11-1138 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 155: SIr Ranulph Fiennes in Harrogate; New albums from The Coral, Peter Brewis and The Rolling Stones; Killers of the Flower MoonSend us a textGraham recounts his recent encounter with Sir Ranulph Fiennes at the Raworths Harrogate Literature Festival.Charles asks Graham to choose a winner from threw new albums that have piqued his interest: The Coral's Sea of Mirrors. Peter Brewis of Field Music's with his new album, Blowdry Colossus and the first new album of original material in eighteen years by The Rolling Stones with Hackney Diamonds.Finally, Charles wonders if Martin Scorsese has finally exhausted the subject of American violence in his new film Killers of the Flower Moon.2023-10-2735 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 154: Magna Carta Update; Mike Skinner's Debut Film; New Cinema Releases - The Great Eascaper and The Old OakSend us a textGraham reveals how close he is to finishing his book on Harrogate band, Magna Carta and one particular highlight, when Chris Simpson and Magna Carta played the Gaza strip and there was a riot. Graham also reports on the news that Edinburgh Filmhouse appears to have been saved...Charles shares his thoughts on three new films, Michael Caine and Ken Loach's last films, The Great Escaper and The Old Oak and the Everyman York screening and Q&A for The Streets' Mike Skinner's debut film, The Darker The Shadow The Brighter The Light....2023-10-2336 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 152: Lisbon, Portugal and its Music Scene; New Alan Ayckbourn and John Godber Plays; Why Five Star Lead Singer is now Living in HarrogateSend us a textGraham recounts his adventures in Portugal after a trip to Lisbon: taking the temperature of the music scene in Europe's oldest and hottest city as he celebrates his 20th wedding anniversary.Charles reviews Alan Ayckbourn’s latest play in Scarborough, Constant Companions, his 89th, as he foresees human-android relationships of the near future, and John Godber’s touring premiere of Do I Love You?, a hymn to Northern Soul and celebration of working-class culture refracted through the experiences of three young drive-thru workers discovering the devotional music's power to uplift.Aft...2023-09-3039 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 151: September Songs; Burnby Hall Gardens' Brass Band Sundays; Dr John Cooper Clarke's memoir; Kevin Rowland and Dexys at York Barbican; Harrogate War Memorial ProjectSend us a textCharles turns all autumnal, reflecting on music just right for the month of September and confesses he enjoyed a brass band recital at Burnby Hall Gardens in Pocklington.Graham delves into poet John Cooper Clarke's 2021 autobiography I Wanna Be Yours and wonders what makes a classic memoir?Charles reports on seeing Dexys in theatrical mode at York Barbican as they tour their new album, The Feminine Divine, and both hosts ponder Kevin Rowland's history as one of the UK's great pop mavericks.Graham explains why he...2023-09-2434 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 150: Martin McAloon Plays Prefab Sprout alone; Yard Act at Leeds Festival; Best Album Covers of All TimeSend us a textFor their 150th episode, Charles and Graham enjoy a rare night out together at the Old Woollen, Farsley, as bassist Martin McAloon switches to guitar and vocals to execute his own versions of Prefab Sprout hits, album gems and B-sides. Did this gig, played by only a single member of the sublime north eastern band, make Two Big Egos 'Swoon' or not?Surviving the middle day of this year's Leeds Festival, Graham reflects on his meeting with James Smith of Leeds band Yard Act.What makes a classic album...2023-09-1038 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 149: Oppenheimer; Deer Shed Festival; Grayson Perry at Wentworth Woodhouse; Blur's new album - a rethinkSend us a textGraham discusses Christopher Nolan's epic movie Oppenheimer and how it sheds light on American politics as much as the race for the atom bomb - and hopefully leads a revival of film-making rooted in this world's realities, not comic book fantasy.Still with Graham, former snooker world champion Steve Davis stole the Deer Shed Festival at Topcliffe - until The Comet Is Coming hit the stage, that is.Charles headed to Wentworth Woodhouse, near Rotherham, for its debut exhibition: The Vanity of Small Differences tapestries by Grayson Perry. ...2023-08-3039 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 147: Heading to Edinburgh; Mercury Prize Nominees; Amis vs McEwanSend us a textAhead of their annual visit to Edinburgh, Charles and Graham wonder if the revived Edinburgh International Film Festival can revive the magic in its 76th year.How big is the real audience for this year's crop of new albums and this year's Mercury Prize nominees? Graham gives his thoughts on what two of the most successful British novels of the last 30 years (Ian McEwan's Amsterdam and Martin Amis's Time's Arrow) say about British writers.Keep in touch with Two Big Egos in a Small Car:X...2023-08-2337 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 146: Mission Impossible 7; Barbie; New Blur Album; Harrogate Crime Writers' FestivalSend us a textGraham and Charles begin by looking at two of this summer’s blockbusters: Mission Impossible -Dead Reckoning Part One - the seventh film in the franchise - and then Barbie, which has now become part of a double-header moment in the revival of mass cinema attendance, alongside Christopher Nolan’s Oppenheimer, with some audiences choosing to see both. The arrival of Blur’s second comeback album, Is the Ballad of Darren a welcome return to form? Graham reports on his experience at Harrogate’s Theakston’s Old Peculiar Crime Writing Festival - the twentieth...2023-08-0435 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 145: MIF & Alison Goldfrapp; New Albums; Tom Cruise and his seventh Mission ImpossibleSend us a textHaving seen Alison Goldrapp at Manchester International Festival over the weekend at new venue Factory International. Graham gives his verdict on the £200m that it cost to prepare for his arrival as well the gig for solo Alison.Charles and Graham discuss how new albums are making a comeback this year or was it all the fault of HMV's stocking policy in the first place?Graham asks if Tom Cruise has saved Hollywood for the second year running or is it a mission i...2023-07-2332 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 142: Elton John at Glastonbury; RIP Curzon Ripon; Wes Anderson's Asteroid City; Local Comedy for Local People; Dexys' new single alertSend us a textCharles and Graham discuss Glastonbury and its headliners, including the allegedly last UK appearance of Sir Elton John. Charles reports on the decision by Curzon Group to close its cinema at Ripon and the duo discuss the health of independent cinema. Graham gives his verdict on Wes Anderson's latest, Asteroid City and the launches into the local comedy scene in Harrogate and how it reflects current trends. Charles urges listeners to listen to the latest track by Dexys.Keep in touch with Two Big Egos in a Small Car:X...2023-07-2339 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 144: Edinburgh international Film Festival Saved; Meeting Rachel Reeves; Pulp Live in Scarborough; Manchester International Festival - Factory International Scottish Artist Siobhan McLaughlinSend us a textEdinburgh International FIlm Festival is saved! This year's programme has been published with a new generation of film fans at the helm, Graham looks at what this means for its future existence and then reports on his meeting with Shadow Chancellor Rachel Reeves. Charles has dried off and lived to tell the tell of seeing the revitalised Pulp live at Scarborough Open Air Theatre. Graham is looking forward to his first visit to Factory International - or is that the name? The new multi-purpose venue in Mancheaster, as aprt of Manchester International Festival...2023-07-1638 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 143: The Beatles and Mark Lewisohn; History of India Part 2; The Ultimate Punk Celebration; Martin Creed in HarrogateSend us a textGraham reports on a Beatles event with Beatles historian, Mark Lewisohn and then presents part two of the book, A History of India in 50 Lives. Charles discusses the Ultimate Punk Celebration - an event at Crystal Palace this July. Graham recounts his meeting with artist Martin Creed.Keep in touch with Two Big Egos in a Small Car:X@2big_egosFacebook@twobigegos2023-07-1030 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 140: A History of India in 50 Lives; BedFest in Knaresborough; Steve Earle LiveSend us a textGraham introduces a new book, Incarnations - A History of India in 50 Lives by Sunil Khilnani and what it says about India and Britain. Graham’s stint as an MC and DJ at BedFest - the all day music event in the baking sun of Knaresborough. Charles looks back at a solo gig he saw this week by US musician Steve Earle.Keep in touch with Two Big Egos in a Small Car:X@2big_egosFacebook@twobigegos2023-07-0934 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 139: Suits You Interpol; New Film - The Eight Mountains; Royal Blood LettingSend us a textGraham and Charles discuss the history of suits in rock music - triggered by seeing Interpol live in Leeds last week - which revives memories of famous suit sporting artists. Graham wonders if new award-winning Italian film The Eight Mountains really hits the heights or not? Royal Blood’s latest appearance as part of R1’s Big Weekend in Dundee provokes a discussion about Rock versus Pop.Keep in touch with Two Big Egos in a Small Car:X@2big_egosFacebook@twobigegos2023-06-1536 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 138: New Paul Simon Album; Little Richard Documentary; Magna Carta Update; Richard E Grant on love and deathSend us a textGraham discusses Paul Simon's new magnum opus, Seven Psalms, versus Ed Sheeran's Subtract, and ponders Simon then and now. Charles wonders how Simon's veteran work stands up against Bob Dylan’s latest recordings.Charles catches Little Richard: I Am Everything at City Screen Picturehouse, York, wherein documentary maker Lisa Cortes states his case to be the true King of Rock‘n’Roll. Is she right?Graham updates on Chris Simpson's cult band Magna Carta and their putative link to a new Guy Ritchie film about Swinging Sixties London that never...2023-06-1538 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 136: Martin Creed; Vinyl Sessions Return; David Brewis Orchestra; Heathers The Musical in YorkSend us a textCharles finally gets to report on his experience at the Martin Creed exhibition at the Mercer Gallery in Harrogate. Graham shares an update on his return to his Vinyl Sessions music talks in a fundraiser for the Harrogate Hospital charity and lays bare his theories about the end of The Beatles in 1969/70. He also reports on a sublime gig by the David Brewis Orchestra in Leeds performing The Soft Struggles album at Leeds Grand ’s Assembly Room - David Brewis being one half of the acclaimed Field Music a venue that Charles argues has...2023-05-3132 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 137: 2023 FiIm Releases and AI's future in film; Bad Behaviour in Theatres and Martin Amis RIPSend us a textGraham and Charles discuss whether 2023 has been a bad year for movies so far but conclude that perhaps hope is on its way from the Cannes festival. Hope for sure with the new films by Martin Scorsese and Ken Loach. Should we look forward to the world of AI-generated films? Charles takes up the discussion about bad audience behaviour at musical theatre: could Shakespeare be next?Graham pays tribute to the career of literary titan Martin Amis, whose final chapter has closed at the age of 73. Ke...2023-05-3035 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 135: Ed Sheeran Wins in Court; The State of British films; Bob Stanley in Harrogate; Mayflies musical in YorkSend us a textGraham and Charles look at the impact of the copyright court case against Ed Sheeran and the trend for confessional albums as Sheeran releases his latest, Subtract. Non-pilgrim Charles reflects on his frustrating encounter with the new film based on Rachel Joyce's novel The Unlikely Pilgrimage Of Harold Fry and Graham ponders what makes British films work - or not. Graham makes great use of bumping into Bob Stanley (founder of Saint Etienne and acclaimed pop music author) in Harrogate (again) and learns about the possible subjects fo...2023-05-0834 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 133: Art Special - Harrogate and YorkSend us a textGraham and Charles focus on art this week. Graham looks at three high quality contemporary art exhibitions on at the same time in three different galleries in Harrogate and Charles enthuses about York Open Studios, especially some of the artists opening up their studios for the first time.Charles raves about the riches of York Open StudiosKeep in touch with Two Big Egos in a Small Car:X@2big_egosFacebook@twobigegos2023-04-2831 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 132: Harrogate's Music Scene; Ryan Adams Live; King Crimson; Ai Wei Wei; Coronation Chicken?Send us a textGraham reveals the decline in the Harrogate music scene. Charles reports back on Ryan Adams live in York. In the court of the Crimson King - Graham gets a little proggy and reflects on Ai Wei Wei’s memoir A Thousand Years of Joys and Sorrows and looks at what his new exhibition - Monet in Lego - alongside his move from Cambridge to Lisbon. Charles and Graham get glum about the missed opportunity that is the Coronation concert - Coronation chicken, or what?Keep in touch with Two Big Egos in...2023-04-2135 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 131: U2 Re-visited; Suede Live; New John Godber Play; Lord of the Flies in Leeds; John RuskinSend us a textCharles catches up with U2's new album, Songs of Surrender. Graham reflects on the remarkable revival of Suede and why their gig in Leeds was one of the best he's ever seen. Graham reports on John Godber's new 'agit-prop' play Living On Fresh Air at Harrogate Theatre and why it makes all the right points but offers little hope. Charles is greatly impressed by the new production of Lord of the Flies at Leeds Playhouse and Graham assesses the cult of 19th century art critic and social thinker John Ruskin and whether...2023-04-0736 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 129: Oscars Results; Francis Rossi from Status Quo; Edinburgh International Film Festival Update; Celebrating The Go BetweensSend us a textCharles and Graham eat humble pie after their Oscar predictions and reflect on the results of this year's Academy Awards. Graham looks ahead to Francis Rossi of Status Quo's spoken word event at Harrogate Theatre and how the man behind "going down down deeper and down..." is now happy to talk intelligently about his life and times. Graham reports on the impact of a rally to save Edinburgh Filmhouse as hopes rise it may be saved. Graham reports on saw one of the most unusual and final ever UK gigs by The Go...2023-04-0138 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 130: Ai Wei Wei's Memoir; Martin Roscoe and John Ruskin in the Lake District; Coronation Spotify List; U2's fortifying Songs Of Surrender or not; Edinburgh Filmhouse UpdateSend us a textGraham reports on Chinese artist Ai Wei Wei's new memoir and on an encounter with classical pianist Martin Roscoe in John Ruskin's Lake District abode. Is King Charles III's Coronation Spotify list opening a window to the soul of the monarch? As U2 release new and stripped-back reinterpretations of their back catalogue on Songs Of Surrender, Charles and Graham ponder if we and they are any closer to understanding what makes the Irish band tick. Is it good news at last for the Edinburgh Filmhouse's future?Keep in touch with Two...2023-03-3136 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 128: Hockney's Yorkshire Spring at Salt's Mill; Edinburgh International Film Festival Update; Oscars Forecast; Tarantino's Book; Field Music's David Brewis - New AlbumSend us a textIn a whistle-stop tour of everything cultural, Charles reports on David Hockney's Yorkshire Wolds exhibition at Salt's Mill; Graham gives an update on where things are at for the Edinburgh International Film Festival and both Graham and Charles give their verdict on the key films at the Oscars ceremony. Graham provides further thoughts on Quentin Tarantino's excellent book on film and the latest release from Field Music's David Brewis.Keep in touch with Two Big Egos in a Small Car:X@2big_egosFacebook@twobigegos2023-03-2214 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 127: Quentin Tarantino's book on Cinema; BAFTAs and Oscars; Luke Haines & REM's Peter Buck and Fairport Convention concerts; Imitating The Dog's estuary city MacbethSend us a textGraham is mightily impressed by Quentin Tarantino's meditation on film, Cinema Speculation. Charles and Graham look back on the BAFTAs and ahead to the Oscars with their own predictions. Graham reports on two contrasting gigs: Fairport Convention in Harrogate and Luke Haines and REM's Peter Buck in Leeds. The duo discuss their admiration for Leeds company Imitating The Dog's electrifying new version of Macbeth.Keep in touch with Two Big Egos in a Small Car:X@2big_egosFacebook@twobigegos2023-03-0530 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 126: New Order - the Mexican/French Film that slipped under the radar; Told By An Idiot's Charlie & Stan; Anthony Beevor's book on the Russian Civil War; The Harrogate Man Who Played with The BeatlesSend us a textGraham eulogises about a brilliant but neglected Mexican-French film from 2020, New Order.Charles reports on the latest Told By An Idiot show, Charlie & Stan, alias Chaplin & Laurel, "the greatest double act that nearly was", at York Theatre Royal. Graham sees red on the bias of Anthony Beevor's recent book on the Russian Civil War, then celebrates the life of Barrie Corbett, the Harrogate man who played with The Beatles in 1963 at the Royal Hall.Keep in touch with Tw...2023-02-2536 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 124: Hamish Hawk; Velvet Underground; Jon Stewart's Dylan, Lennon, Marx and GodSend us a textGraham reports back on seeing singer/songwriter Hamish Hawk at Leeds Brudenell. Charles and Graham reflect on Todd Haynes' Velvet Underground documentary with Charles also referring to the latest Andy Warhol documentary. Graham reads from Jon Stewart's Dylan, Lennon, Marx and God and the duo argue disagree on the merits of Wet Leg.Keep in touch with Two Big Egos in a Small Car:X@2big_egosFacebook@twobigegos2023-02-1239 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 123: RIP Television's Tom Verlaine; Oscars Nominations - Who Will Win?; Jarvis Cocker's Good Pop Bad Pop vs Jon Stewart's Dylan, Lennon, Marx and GodSend us a textIn this week's episode, Graham and Charles pay tribute to the unique sound of Television's Tom Verlaine and the American guitarist's contribution to punk and post-punk music. Now that the Oscar nominations are finalised, the duo try to second guess which films will triumph at the March 13ceremony. Finally, Graham compares and contrasts two music books published last year, Jon Stewart's Dylan, Lennon, Marx and God and Jarvis Cocker's Good Pop, Bad Pop.Keep in touch with Two Big Egos in a Small Car:X@2big_egos2023-02-0531 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 121: Sick Graham; Simon Nicol from Fairport Convention; Songs to Survive the Apocalypse; RIP Robbie Bachman of Bachman Turner Overdrive and Lisa Marie Presley; historian Antony Beevor on the Russian Civil War; Cate Blanchett in TárSend us a textStill feeling rough, Graham reports on his interview with Simon Nicol from Fairport Convention. Inspired by a discussion with Jon Boden, Charles challenges Graham to come up with songs that could survive the Apocalypse. Graham remembers Robbie Bachman and the duo pay tribute to Lisa Marie Presley. Graham reflects on his reading of British military historian Antony Beevor's account of the Russian Civil War. Charles and Graham start reviewing Tár starring Cate Blanchett; more next week on that.Keep in touch with Two Big Egos in a Small Car:2023-01-2125 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 120: Interview with York musician Chris Helme on 25th anniversary of The Seahorses' rise...and sudden fallSend us a textIn this special extended edition, Charles and Graham interview York musician Chris Helme - co-founder of The Seahorses with Stone Roses guitarist John Squire. As he marks 25 years since their debut, Do It Yourself, by revisiting the songs on a solo acoustic tour, Chris spills the beans on his journey from busker to Glastonbury-playing front man, Hollywood recording sessions with Tony Visconti, a top two album and a parting of the ways brought on by that familiar curse, musical differences.Keep in touch with Two Big Egos in a Small Car:2023-01-1349 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 119: Edinburgh International Film Festival update; Terry Hall RIP; Pete Doherty and Barbara Charone Music MemoirsSend us a textAS the old year ends, Graham and Charles reflect on the progress to try to save the Edinburgh International Film Festival. In a year of many high-profile deaths, Terry Hall's seems particularly poignant, prompting Charles and Graham to explore Terry's legacy as a frontman and songwriter and the influence he has had on many other artists. Graham looks at two recent memoirs from the world of music: A Likely Lad by Pete Doherty and Access All Areas by music PR legend, Barbara Charone.Keep in touch with Two Big Egos in a...2023-01-0633 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 118: Interview Special with Oliver Jones from Deershed FestivalSend us a textCharles and Graham talk to co-founder of Deershed Festival, Oliver Jones.Keep in touch with Two Big Egos in a Small Car:X@2big_egosFacebook@twobigegos2022-12-2534 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 117: André Rieu in Dublin; Stereolabin Leeds; Van Gogh in York; What Links Kerouac and Pynchon?Send us a textGraham interrupts early with André Rieu news, then goes back to the future...again with Stereolab at Leeds Stylus. Charles turns all immersive about the cutting-edge attempt to entertain us with Van Gogh's art in a York church. Graham details what links Jack Kerouac's The Dharma Bums with Thomas Pynchon's Vineland.Keep in touch with Two Big Egos in a Small Car:X@2big_egosFacebook@twobigegos2022-12-2534 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 116: Pete Doherty - Yorkshireman?; Tom Bird Leaving York Theatre Royal; Journalism in cinema in She Said; Manchester's Night and Day Update; Deer Shed Christmas PartySend us a textGraham confounds Charles with an early interruption about musician Pete Doherty's Yorkshire days. Charles reflects on the achievements of York Theatre Royal chief exec Tom Bird as he announces his move to Sheffield Theatres. Graham reports on #MeToo film of the moment She Said, prompting fellow hack Charles to join the discussion on journalism in cinema. Graham gives an update on Manchester's Northern Quarter venue, Night & Day, fighting for its right to present live music after complaints about its club night noise levels. Finally, Graham reports on his visit to the Deer Shed...2022-12-1230 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 114: Panto Season Preview; Into the Woods at Castle Howard; Norwegian Artist, Danny Larsson; Night and Day CrisisSend us a textThere's Christmas in the air as Charles takes a look at the up and coming pantomime season and reflects on his experience of Castle Howard's new Christmas lights event, Into the Woods. Graham looks at the new Harrogate exhibition for Norwegian artist, Danny Larsson and then explores the latest music venue to be thrown into crisis, Manchester's Night and Day, which as fallen foul of a noise complaint after thirty years of showcasing emerging indie bands in the Norther Quarter area of Manchester's city centre.Keep in touch with Two Big...2022-11-2236 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 111: Bob Stanley’s Lets Do it - the Birth of Pop; Anthony Burgess on Classical Music; The Mercury PrizeSend us a textGraham recounts a slightly tense encounter with rock and pop writer Bob Stanley at the Harrogate Literary Festival and previews his new book, Let’s Do It - the Birth of Pop. Charles previews a new play about York born Guy Fawkes. Anthony Burgess was famously dismissive of the Beatles and did not believe classical music could be bettered. Graham reports on the 2022 Mercury Prize.Keep in touch with Two Big Egos in a Small Car:X@2big_egosFacebook@twobigegos2022-11-2233 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 112: NPO Funding; Edinburgh Film House; The Triangle of Sadness; Guy Fawkes;Send us a textCharles starts to unpick the repercussions of Arts Council England's NPO funding announcements. Graham gives a quick update on the plight of the Edinburgh Film House and International Festival before looking at the work of film director Ruben Östlund including comparing his new film, A Triangle of Sadness with the original 60's adaptation of the same book. Charles reviews the new play about the life of Guy Fawkes.Keep in touch with Two Big Egos in a Small Car:X@2big_egosFacebook@twobigegos2022-11-2235 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 113: ENO Funding Shock; Cher Musical; Kingsley Amis’s Lucky Jim; Dave Hill and SladeSend us a textCharles and Graham take a look at the controversial to stop funding English National Opera, unless they move out of London - probably Manchester. Charles tries to enthuse Graham with a musical based on songs by Cher. Graham explores the contemporary resonances within Kingley Amis's classic novel, Lucky Jim and shares the joy of meeting Dave Hill, who at 76 years of age is still touring as Slade.Keep in touch with Two Big Egos in a Small Car:X@2big_egosFacebook@twobigegos2022-11-2239 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 110: The Banshees of Inisherin; Edinburgh International Film Festival Update; The Car - New Album From Arctic Monkeys; A Clockwork Orange and The Sheltering Sky - Best as Films or Books?; Emily - the new film looking at the imagined life of EmilySend us a textGraham explores the new film by Martin McDonagh, The Banshees of Inisherin, provides an update on the future of the Edinburgh International Film Festival, reviews the new album by Sheffield’s Arctic Monkeys and the leads discussion about whether some books remain better as books, even though there have been highly successful film versions. Charles gives his verdict on the emotional film, Emily.Keep in touch with Two Big Egos in a Small Car:X@2big_egosFacebook@twobigegos2022-11-2233 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 106: Royal Protocol; Portmeirion; Family AlbumSend us a textAs the mourning begins, Charles and Graham discuss who was allowed to do what and when as the Queen’s death was announced. Graham gives an insight into what it is like to visit Sir Clough Williams-Ellis’s eccentric and beautiful village of Portmeirion. The duo reflect on the rise of having gigs signed for the deaf ad hard of hearing and Charles enthuses about Sir Alan Ayckbourn’s latest play, Family Album, as it is premiered in Scarborough.Keep in touch with Two Big Egos in a Small Car:X2022-10-2335 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 109: Beatles Expert Mark Lewisohn; Roxy Music Live; Live at Leeds; Frantic Assembly's Othello; Sports Team's Gulp! albumSend us a textAs the country reels from yet another political crisis amid the scratching around for a new PM, Graham reports on seeing the incomparably thorough Mark Lewisohn present his latest show based on his studies of Beatles' history, Evolver:62. In a restless week for Graham, Charles grills him on his response to seeing veteran Roxy Music reconvene in Manchester, followed by the youthful clout of Live at Leeds 2022. Charles salutes the Frantic Assembly's fast and furious Othello, one of his stage highlights of the year. Graham gives his verdict on Gulp!, the new album...2022-10-2339 minTwo Big Egos in a Small CarEpisode 108: Our man in Amsterdam, Paris, Leeds and Harrogate. New David O Russell movie Amsterdam. Shock News from Edinburgh's Film World . New Suede Album, AutofictionSend us a textAs peripatetic Graham reports back from trips to Amsterdam, Paris and Leeds, Charles interrupts him with his reaction to David O Russell's new movie, Amsterdam. The duo reel from the shock news that the Edinburgh Filmhouse and Edinburgh International Film Festival have been forced to close. Graham responds to the rushing thrills of Suede's fine new "punk" album, Autofiction. Keep in touch with Two Big Egos in a Small Car:X@2big_egosFacebook@twobigegos2022-10-1233 min