Shows
NZ All That's Tesla PodcastEpisode 13: Destination LumsdenChatting with Destination Lumsden about their Tesla experience.
2026-02-2800 min
The Apollo Audio PodcastBandcamp Rejects AI Music – What It Means for ArtistsIn this week’s episode of The Apollo Audio Podcast, Martin and Billy discuss Bandcamp’s decision to reject AI-generated music from the platform and what that could mean for artists, platforms, and the wider role of AI in music. They also share their thoughts on the Brit Awards and how relevant they feel they are within today’s music landscape.In the recommended listening section, Martin and Billy discuss Hayley Williams’ latest album Ego Death at a Bachelorette Party, breaking down what stands out, what resonates, and whether they think it’s recommended listening for you.
2026-01-2842 min
The Apollo Audio PodcastRecommended Listening: West End Girl by Lily AllenIn this episode, Martin and Billy kick things off chatting about the evolution of movie soundtracks, the art of networking in the industry, and the ever-shifting landscape of music streaming. Then, they switch to discussing Lily Allen's controversial but highly rated new album West End Girl, it's very personal lyrical depth, and how it measures up to her previous work. Along the way, they sprinkle in some insights about music discovery and the challenges artists face today.The Apollo Audio Podcast is hosted by Martin Lumsden (record producer and engineer) and Billy Hills (musician and studio...
2026-01-2137 min
The Apollo Audio PodcastWelcome to Season 3 - We're Getting Killed with breakout artist GeeseHappy New Year!In this episode of the Apollo Audio Podcast, Billy and Martin chat about our New Year reflections, the studio makeover, and what's happening in music, We dive into the rise of the band Geese, and their 3rd Album Getting Killed. We also talk about the Grammy nominations, how we listen to music now, and why being real in your art matters.The Apollo Audio Podcast is hosted by Martin Lumsden (record producer and engineer) and Billy Hills (musician and studio owner), and is recorded at Apollo Audio Hertford....
2026-01-1546 min
The Apollo Audio PodcastGoodbye 2025It’s the last episode of the year so time to have a look back and find out what stood out and proved to be memorable. Thanks for listening, we'll be back in the New YearThe Apollo Audio Podcast is hosted by Martin Lumsden (record producer and engineer) and Billy Hills (musician and studio owner), and is recorded at Apollo Audio Hertford.Each episode offers insight into songs, records, and the creative process, drawn from real-world experience in studios and making music.📍 www.apollo-audio.co.uk📷 I...
2025-12-1738 min
The Apollo Audio PodcastWith Special Guest Alex LoSardo from Love Music Hate RacismThis Martin and Billy are joined by Alex LoSardo from Love Music Hate Racism for a lively chat about how Love Musis Hate Racism uses live music events to help unite us in the fight against racism. Alex shares stories from the campaign and explores the impact that bands like Rage Against the Machine inspired both his music and activism. It's an engaging conversation filled with plenty of good vibes. Tune in for some inspiration!White Riot Documentaryhttps://www.modernfilms.com/whiteriotRage Against The Machine on SNL (1996)...
2025-12-0939 min
The Apollo Audio PodcastRecommended Listening: Songs from the Big Chair by Tears for FearsIn this episode of the Apollo Audio Podcast, Martin Lumsden and Billy are joined by special guest Paul Hills (yes Billy's dad) to discuss one of his all time favourites - the iconic album "Songs from the Big Chair" by Tears for Fears. We discuss timeless tracks like "Everybody Wants to Rule the World" and "Shout," and the band's unique sound and influence. Paul shares his personal stories about early shows from the band and a recent trip to see the band play a residency in Vegas. The Apollo Audio Podcast is hosted by Martin Lumsden...
2025-12-0236 min
The Apollo Audio PodcastRecommended Listening: A Little Man and a House...by CardiacsAn offensive use of rhythm and tempo!This week, Martin and Billy celebrate Scotland's epic World Cup qualification! 🎉 and their latest gig adventures, including a night at the London Palladium with Howard Jones. Our selected album this week is the somewhat quirky and often detested first major label album from Cardiacs. From wild time signatures to theatrical vibes, we chat about what makes music exciting and unpredictable. Music insights and banter with your favourite hosts on The Apollo Audio Podcast.The Apollo Audio Podcast is hosted by Martin Lumsden (record producer and...
2025-11-2534 min
The Apollo Audio PodcastPrimus Fans - This One's For You! Sailing the Seas of CheeseThis week digital distributor reported that roughly 50,000 fully AI-generated tracks are now uploaded every day, accounting for more than a third of all music delivered to the service. Good lord!Thank the same lad then for the continuing existence of bands like Primus that seem to come out of nowhere and do things that are just not something you could ever be produced by AI mush. Our advice - love it or hate it, we should all try and be a bit more Primus.The Apollo Podcast - the gateway drug to a world...
2025-11-1532 min
The Apollo Audio PodcastRecommended Listening: Angel Dust by Faith No MoreThis week we listen to Angel Dust by Faith No More and discover that while initially wrong-footed by the range of styles and theatricality it's an album that improves immediately on a second listen. Is it bold or ridiculous? You might just have to decide for yourself.Plus, we discuss Spotify's recent deal with the big three labels on AI licensing and share our thoughts on how AI could shape the future of music creativity and performance.The Apollo Audio Podcast is hosted by Martin Lumsden (record producer and engineer) and Billy Hills (musician...
2025-11-0831 min
The Apollo Audio PodcastRecommended Listening: Chocolate Starfish... by Limp BizkitAnother of Billy's all time favourite albums, from an artist the Martin readily acknowledges to have prior prejudice against. Can opinions be swayed?The Apollo Audio Podcast is hosted by Martin Lumsden (record producer and engineer) and Billy Hills (musician and studio owner), and is recorded at Apollo Audio Hertford.Each episode offers insight into songs, records, and the creative process, drawn from real-world experience in studios and making music.📍 www.apollo-audio.co.uk📷 Instagram: @apolloaudiopodcast📧 apolloaudiopod@gmail.comThe Apollo Audio Podcast is Froody Mu...
2025-11-0136 min
The Apollo Audio PodcastRecommended Listening: The Fat of the Land by The ProdigyIt's been a sad week as we lost several very influential musicians from various eras and genres, so we pay our respects before digging in to the third album from UK crossover dance act The Prodigy. Keith Flint is another artist who left us too soon but he was at the forefront of the biggest commercial and critical hit from a band that have had a hugely successful career and are still being covered today - including by Billy's own band Body who have a surprising connection. If you want to know more, you'll have to listen :)
2025-10-2534 min
The Apollo Audio PodcastRecommended Listening: The Art of Loving by Olivia DeanA number one hit album released just a couple of weeks ago is on the listening pile this week. What do we make of the huge success of Olivia Dean? Plus the usual ramble about other stuff that's been going on.The Apollo Audio Podcast is hosted by Martin Lumsden (record producer and engineer) and Billy Hills (musician and studio owner), and is recorded at Apollo Audio Hertford.Each episode offers insight into songs, records, and the creative process, drawn from real-world experience in studios and making music.📍 www.apollo-audio.co.uk
2025-10-1635 min
The Apollo Audio PodcastRecommended (ish) Listening: Lateralus by ToolAfter two weeks of feeling subjected to dire depressing tunes Billy enacts revenge by insisting on reviewing the lengthy and musically complex third album from Tool "Lateralus". Science, mathematics - should they be more important than actual tunes?Also a lengthy ramble about grassroots music and the lack of venues for artists still establishing their fanbase.The Apollo Audio Podcast is hosted by Martin Lumsden (record producer and engineer) and Billy Hills (musician and studio owner), and is recorded at Apollo Audio Hertford.Each episode offers insight into songs, records, and...
2025-10-1047 min
The Apollo Audio PodcastRecommended Listening: Bleed American by Jimmy Eat WorldThis week Martin is joined by Lemmi Eaton who regularly performs and releases solo work as Garage Canvas and as a member of the band High Dives. We had a lovely long rambly conversation that I've managed to knock in to some sensible shape - perhaps the out-takes will make it to a bonus episode someday. Why not write in and offer bribes to have the extra content released.Jimmy Eats World's third album Bleed American was released in 2001 and changed the world. At least for 16 year old Lemmi. What does emo mean and do we...
2025-09-2536 min
The Apollo Audio PodcastRecommended Listening: The Queen is Dead by The SmithsWell, Billy wasn't 100% convinced but fairly sure if it was a straight fight between this and The Boatman's Call this would win on points. Morrissey and Marr were the Lennon and McCartney of the 80's but their long term legacy doesn't quite have the deep cultural relevance of The Beatles, however the UK Indie scene was based on the foundations built on the back of this band's short time in the limelight.The Apollo Audio Podcast is hosted by Martin Lumsden (record producer and engineer) and Billy Hills (musician and studio owner), and is recorded at...
2025-09-1842 min
The Apollo Audio PodcastDivided Opinion! The Boatman's Call by Nick Cave and the Bad SeedsThis week we had a very differing experiences listening to the 10th studio album from Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds. Not to Billy's taste, but it went straight in to Martin's vinyl library, alongside former podcast find Grace by Jeff Buckley.Also discussed this week...The benefits of BoxerciseMaking an impression when you're ready to go on stageRadiohead on tour 2025PJ and Duncan tribute album by Nick Seeds and the Bad Caves © Apollo Audio Podcast 2025You can find The Birthday Party...
2025-09-1134 min
The Apollo Audio PodcastRecommended Listening: Midas by WunderhorseFresh from adventures at the Reading Festival, Billy recommends local (ish) band Wunderhorse and their 2024 second album Midas for your listening pleasure. Indie Rock with a 90's vibe and 21st century style. Much like Martin and Billy!The Apollo Audio Podcast is hosted by Martin Lumsden (record producer and engineer) and Billy Hills (musician and studio owner), and is recorded at Apollo Audio Hertford.Each episode offers insight into songs, records, and the creative process, drawn from real-world experience in studios and making music.📍 www.apollo-audio.co.uk📷 Instagram: @apollo...
2025-09-0435 min
The Apollo Audio PodcastRecommended Listening: Mezzanine by Massive AttackThe Apollo Audio Podcast is hosted by Martin Lumsden (record producer and engineer) and Billy Hills (musician and studio owner), and is recorded at Apollo Audio Hertford.Each episode offers insight into songs, records, and the creative process, drawn from real-world experience in studios and making music.📍 www.apollo-audio.co.uk📷 Instagram: @apolloaudiopodcast📧 apolloaudiopod@gmail.comThe Apollo Audio Podcast is Froody Music Production. Production and editing by Martin Lumsden.www.froodymusic.comSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/the-apoll...
2025-08-2837 min
The Apollo Audio PodcastRecommended Listening: Paranoid by Black SabbathWe've reconvened after a short break to let Billy climb an actual (not metaphorical) mountain and a lot happened while we had a little rest - not least of which was the sad passing of Ozzie Osbourne, just a matter of days after the celebratory final Black Sabbath gig. We'd already decided it was time we investigated the fathers of Heavy Rock and fair to sat neither of us really knew what we were getting in to.Thankfully and fortuitously our rambling was interrupted by an actual lifelong Sabbath fan (and actual Brummie) in the form...
2025-08-2141 min
The Apollo Audio PodcastRecommended Listening: Live Through This - with VûlvaOn the show this week Martin is joined by Kiera and Lilly from Hertfordshire based band Vülva, who made a huge impact with our punters and the performers when they opened our Apollo Presents show in June.We discuss the second album from Hole - the influence of Courtney Love and other female role models, plus why we think bands will be around for a long time into the future.The Apollo Audio Podcast is hosted by Martin Lumsden (record producer and engineer) and Billy Hills (musician and studio owner), and is recorded a...
2025-07-3133 min
The Apollo Audio PodcastRecommended Listening: The Hounds of Love - with Why NotWe welcome awesome local duo Why Not to the podcast this week, to discuss their recommended listening album - the 1985 commercial smash The Hounds of Love by Kate Bush, an album that has recently had a second wind thanks to exposure on the Netflix series Stranger Things.Find Why Not online by searching whynotacoustic and check their own amazing album The Project, that celebrates the work of local artists and songwriters. Wherever you stream music or you can by a copy to own from https://acousticwhynot.bandcamp.com/album/the-projectThe Apollo Audio...
2025-07-2431 min
The Apollo Audio PodcastRecommended Listening: Hopefully ! by Loyle CarnerIn possibly the shortest period from release to review that we've attempted on the podcast, this week we discuss the fourth studio album by English hip-hop artist Loyle Carner - released on 20 June 2025.The Apollo Audio Podcast is hosted by Martin Lumsden (record producer and engineer) and Billy Hills (musician and studio owner), and is recorded at Apollo Audio Hertford.Each episode offers insight into songs, records, and the creative process, drawn from real-world experience in studios and making music.📍 www.apollo-audio.co.uk📷 Instagram: @apolloaudiopodcast📧 apolloaudiopod@gmail.com
2025-07-1720 min
The Apollo Audio PodcastDeftones, Glasto, Sabbath and Oasis - What's the Story!It's been a while since Billy and Martin caught up for a chat. Turns out there was so much we needed to defer album chat for another day. Billy's been travelling to real life gigs, Marin has been watching the telly and reading the reviews. What did you think of the first big music weekend of the summer? We didn't even mention Iron Maiden!The Apollo Audio Podcast is hosted by Martin Lumsden (record producer and engineer) and Billy Hills (musician and studio owner), and is recorded at Apollo Audio Hertford.Each episode offers...
2025-07-1032 min
The Apollo Audio PodcastRecommended Listening: Voodoo by D'Angelo - with EponineThis week Martin is joined in Room 1 at a busy and a little noisy Apollo Audio by local R&B artist Eponine.Voodoo is the second studio album by the American singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist D'Angelo, released on January 25, 2000. Voodoo (2000), debuted at number one on the US Billboard 200 and continued to receive critical acclaim. The album's lead single "Untitled (How Does It Feel)", earned him the Grammy Award for Best Male R&B Vocal Performance; likewise, Voodoo won Best R&B Album. Rolling Stone ranked the album number 28 on its list of The 500 Greatest Albums of A...
2025-07-0332 min
The Apollo Audio PodcastRecommended Listening: Appetite for Destruction - with Chris SimsIt's time to bring on one of Hertford's most recognised music names, a man who's reputation now reaches as far a Germany! And he's got a passion for band featuring a man from Stoke on Trent that he wants to share with you.The Apollo Audio Podcast is hosted by Martin Lumsden (record producer and engineer) and Billy Hills (musician and studio owner), and is recorded at Apollo Audio Hertford.Each episode offers insight into songs, records, and the creative process, drawn from real-world experience in studios and making music.📍 www.apo...
2025-06-2639 min
The Apollo Audio PodcastRecommended Listening: Standing on the Shoulder of Giants by OasisSo we finally come to one of the biggest names in British rock of the last 30 years. We've covered quite a lot of 90's and early 2000's without really getting in the Britpop and these of course are the daddys when it comes to Cool Britannia. By 2000 however some of the shine had worn off, and history tends to list this particular album at the bottom of the pile when it comes to the Gallagher long players - but we are here to show it some love. Get on board the bus.Find out about latest...
2025-06-1938 min
The Apollo Audio PodcastWe've got an offering - Even in ArcadiaBritish "metal" band Sleep Token hit number one on the US album chart last month, and as we've spent a lot of time in the past we thought it would be fun to cover a current release. We might have regretted it.The Apollo Audio Podcast is hosted by Martin Lumsden (record producer and engineer) and Billy Hills (musician and studio owner), and is recorded at Apollo Audio Hertford.Each episode offers insight into songs, records, and the creative process, drawn from real-world experience in studios and making music.📍 www.apollo-audio.co...
2025-06-1232 min
The Apollo Audio PodcastRecommended Listening: Whatever and Ever, Amen by Ben Folds FiveThis week we find ourselves back in the 90's yet again, but this time with the self-proclaimed "Punk for Pansies" Ben Folds Five and their second album Whatever and Ever, Amen. Martin was and is a big fan, with songs and melodies from this collection living pretty much rent free in his head. But what will Billy think of it? And has his amazing premonition of Sleep Token's rise to the top of the charts gone to his head?Plus we talk live music venues, and what we can learn about the value of mechanical copyright...
2025-06-0529 minThe Apollo Audio PodcastBonus WaffleBank Holiday schedules meant we couldn't quite bring it together for a full new episode this week, so instead enjoy this bonus topical waffle that didn't make the cut from a recent recording.Back with a new episode next week!The Apollo Audio Podcast is hosted by Martin Lumsden (record producer and engineer) and Billy Hills (musician and studio owner), and is recorded at Apollo Audio Hertford.Each episode offers insight into songs, records, and the creative process, drawn from real-world experience in studios and making music.📍 www.apo...
2025-05-2906 min
The Apollo Audio PodcastRecommended Listening: Punisher by Phoebe BridgersThe second album from American singer Phoebe Bridgers was Billy's lockdown album, listened to while on long dog walks while coping with the enforced lack of a social life. And it's a thread we followed from last week's episode on Elliot Smith as Phoebe Bridgers is a self confessed fan and his work inspires hers.Bill and Martin discuss whether music about depression needs to be sad and the difference between a recording and a song.The Apollo Audio Podcast is hosted by Martin Lumsden (record producer and engineer) and Billy Hills (musician and...
2025-05-2225 min
The Apollo Audio PodcastRecommended Listening: Either/Or by Elliot SmithIn at attempt to recapture lightning in a bottle we seek out another American singer songwriter with a great reputation and a tragic death - although we didn't really know about the death bit when we made the choice. Elliot Smith came to prominence when his songs were used in the soundtrack for Good Will Hunting, resulting in an Oscar nomination. This album is widely regarded as his finest accomplishment - we're saying approach with caution or find yourself a college dorm to cry in for the full Elliot Smith experience.The Apollo Audio Podcast is...
2025-05-1524 min
The Apollo Audio PodcastRetro Listening: Off The Wall by Michael JacksonRETRO AAP!Billy is away so we're taking a short break from new episodes, but here's one from way back in 2022 that you may have missed or forgotten. We'll be back soon!In this special selection episode, its Miles's choice and he's gone for the 1979 disco classic from the king of pop. Off the Wall is Michael Jackson's first "proper" solo record having separated from Motown and The Jackson 5 franchise. Teaming up with Quincy Jones for the first time, this album is wall to wall hits and paved the way for a career that...
2025-05-0133 min
The Apollo Audio PodcastRecommended Listening: Grace by Jeff BuckleyNo messing about, we both agree this is the best album we've listened to this year and it's 30 years old. Billy has owned it for ages - Martin can't believe he hasn't properly listened to it before. If you want to spend some money on some vinyl you won't feel shortchanged on this one. At least that's our opinion...what's yours?The Apollo Audio Podcast is hosted by Martin Lumsden (record producer and engineer) and Billy Hills (musician and studio owner), and is recorded at Apollo Audio Hertford.Each episode offers insight into songs...
2025-04-2425 min
The Apollo Audio PodcastFinally! Blondie - Parallel LinesAfter years of waiting Martin finally get's his personal choice for review! This goes way back to postponed sessions from Season 1 so if you've been with us this long - thanks for sticking around.From 1978 this was the breakthrough 3rd album from Blondie and it wasn't just the songs that were capturing the imagination.And hey! it's number 146 on The Rolling Stone 500 so once again we find ourselves in something of an agreement.You'll know loads of songs from this - as Billy says, they're just part of life.The Apollo Audio...
2025-04-1725 min
The Apollo Audio PodcastRecommended Listening: Peter Gabriel III - with Jay HollisOn the podcast this week Martin is joined by Jay Hollis, also known as artist Millionth Chance and a member of Westward Ho. We chat about the "genesis" (see what I did there) of his solo album The Ghost's Companion and his recommended listening, the third album from Peter Gabriel. Officially titled just Peter Gabriel, but also known as Peter Gabriel III or "Melt" due to the cover art, it has a couple of Gabriel's best known tracks and sonically set a template for much of the sound and themes of early Eighties pop music, with the gated snare...
2025-04-1026 minThe Apollo Audio PodcastThe Self Titled Apollo Audio Apollo Audio PodcastIt's the Apollo Audio Podcast, and this week Billy continues his mission to have every album from 1997 featured on the show...this week with the self titled (lazy!) album from San Francisco Alt Pop band Third Eye Blind. You've probably heard the big hit single Semi Charmed Life before, but does the rest of the album match up?Plus chat and musings on the Herffordshire scene and other music related chat.Tickets for upcoming shows at Apollo Audio available from the Apollo Audio website https://apollo-audio.co.uk/events/Find out...
2025-04-0330 min
The Apollo Audio PodcastRecommended Listening: Synchronicity - with Rich from San DemasIt's the Apollo Audio Podcast, and this week Martin is joined online by Rich from Melodic Rock/ Metal band San Demas for a chat about their upcoming single release You & I and recommended album listening Synchronicity by UK New Wave band The Police. Released in 1983, it's the final album from the band before they split and is currently at No. 159 on the Rolling Stone 500 Greatest Albums listYou & I - is released on Friday March 28th and you can pre-save at the link belowhttps://tr.ee/ZQJa3gdZnMSan...
2025-03-2730 minThe Apollo Audio PodcastThis Is HardcoreIt's the Apollo Audio Podcast, and this week Billy invited podcast guest Alfie Flanagan to the show to talk about the resurgence of hardcore, his band Sunday Best and a new artist promotion venture In The Fields Project.Find details of how to submit your band to the project on instagram at @in_the_field_projectCheck out Alfie's band Sunday Best at @thisissundaybestTickets for the next Hardcore event and other upcoming shows at Apollo Audio on 11th April available from the Apollo Audio website https://apollo-audio.co.uk/events/
2025-03-2027 min
The Apollo Audio PodcastSummer Festivals and Vertical HorizonIt's the Apollo Audio Podcast, and this week Billy throws a curveball and recommends Everything You Want, the major label debut album from US band Vertical Horizon. Billy bought Everything You Want off the back of hearing one song on the soundtrack to Bruce Almighty and it remains one of his favourites. Will Martin be equally smitten?We also chat about festival lineups and the big difference between Reading and GlastonburyDon't forget to let us know your nominations for the best album of all time - be prepared to defend your choice...
2025-03-1329 min
The Apollo Audio PodcastBrits, Oscars and To Pimp a ButterflyIt's the Apollo Audio Podcast, and this week we chat the pointlessness of the awards season, the pointless revisions made to the Rolling Stone 500 albums list and the pointed artistic and musical statement that is To Pimp a Butterfly by Kendrick Lemarr. We've mentioned him in nearly every episode so about time we actually talk about the music.Don't forget to let us know your nominations for the best album of all time - be prepared to defend your choice, we may be asking questions! Or drop us a voicemailNew episodes every...
2025-03-0627 minThe Apollo Audio PodcastSocial Media - with videographer Sam J RoperIt's the Apollo Audio Podcast, and this week our attempt to understand the pressures of content creation and social media "marketing" that is making it ever harder to understand what role(s) you have to play when you are a working artist.Martin and Billy are joined in the studio by Sam J Roper, photographer and videographer to try and suggest how you can approach this ever more complex subject.Don't forget to let us know your nominations for the best album of all time - be prepared to defend your choice, we...
2025-02-2726 min
The Apollo Audio PodcastRecommended Listening: Rumours - with Dan ThomasThis week it's special guest and timeless classic album time as Martin is joined by Singer Songwriter Dan Thomas to discuss the No.7 entry on the Rolling Stone 500 - the 48 year old 40million plus selling Rumours by Fleetwood Mac. Will we honestly be able to find anything new to say about it? Also, Bob Dylan, Led Zeppelin and Black Sabbath chat.Let us know your nominations for the best album of all time - be prepared to defend your choice, we may be asking questions!New episodes every week.Check...
2025-02-2029 minThe Apollo Audio PodcastPerformance and CocktailsThis week we discuss the Superbowl and Oasis B-sides but mainly focus on Welsh rockers Stereophonics, and in particular their second studio album "Performance and Cocktails". Is it good enough to make our list of recommended albums, did they lose the plot after 110 years, and why do cover bands seem to only feature one of their songs? Let us know your nominations for the best album of all time - be prepared to defend your choice, we may be asking questions!New episodes every week.Check out the studio at...
2025-02-1333 min
The Apollo Audio PodcastBest Place to Start – The Apollo Audio PodcastIf you’re new to The Apollo Audio Podcast, this is a good place to start.In this episode, Martin and Billy discuss the latest news from the music business, including their take on the 67th Grammy Awards and the nominations for the 2025 Brit Awards.They also return to album discussion, looking at an influential release from over 30 years ago alongside more recent albums from artists it has inspired, exploring why certain records continue to matter and resonate over time.The Apollo Audio Podcast is hosted by Martin Lumsden (record pr...
2025-02-0640 min
The Apollo Audio PodcastIntroducing The Apollo Audio CollegeOn this special episode, join the team as they introduce and explain the new Apollo Audio College which will be launching at the start of the new school year later in 2025.Find out more at apollo-audio.co.ukThe Apollo Audio Podcast is Froody Music Production. Production and editing by Martin Lumsden.www.martintheproducer.comThe Apollo Audio Podcast is hosted by Martin Lumsden (record producer and engineer) and Billy Hills (musician and studio owner), and is recorded at Apollo Audio Hertford.Each episode offers insight...
2025-01-3028 minThe Apollo Audio PodcastThe Cushions of RockThis week we take a completely non geeky or intellectual approach to building the ultimate rock band. Would they be great or just a cacophony of noise? Maybe one day AI will help us decide. Until then, joint the debate and let us know who you think would make it in to the ultimate supergroup.In this episode hosts Martin Lumsden and Billy Hills, along with special guest Joe Casasola, discuss their favorite drummers, bass players, and guitarists, exploring the unique contributions of each musician to their respective bands. We chat about the unique styles of...
2025-01-2333 minThe Apollo Audio PodcastWe're Back!Martin and Billy are back (no Miles - booh!) discussing the best albums of 2024 year, the return of iconic bands and the resurgence of heavy music, while also looking forward to the music scene in 2025 and the excitement surrounding upcoming gigs and festivals.Let us know your nominations for the best album of all time - be prepared to defend your choice, we may be asking questions!New episodes every week.Check out the studio at www.apollo-audio.co.uk for details about recording, rehearsal, tuition and upcoming events
2025-01-1639 min
Challenging ColonialismSpecial: Our Stories Converge Because the Perpetrators are the Same (p. 3 of 3)The final episode of our 3 part special series explores a variety of ways to show solidarity with Palestine, with a focus on the Indigenous People's Sunrise Gathering at Alcatraz last Fall. We are publishing during escalating police and institutional repression against Palestine solidarity encampments which are spreading rapidly on college and university campuses.Audio editing: Daniel StonebloomInterviews: Martin Rizzo-MartinezMusic: G. GonzalesSounds recorded at Alcatraz Sunrise Ceremony, Nov 2023, by Lloyd Molina IVSpeakers:Dr. Lila SharifCorrina GouldMorning...
2024-05-0157 minChallenging ColonialismSpecial: LandBack & Right of Return: Sister Movements (p. 2 of 3)Part 2 of 3 part series. As a podcast focused on illuminating ongoing colonialism and genocide, we recognize the need to address genocide happening right now in occupied Palestine and to stand in solidarity. Our podcast is dedicated to amplifying the voices of Indigenous communities who are left out of official discourse. As such, it is important to amplify the voices of Palestinians right now, as the mainstream media fails to do so. Part 2 explores LandBack and Right of Return as well as the ways in which alternative media is helping illuminate what is happening right now. We are grateful for...
2024-04-231h 02Challenging ColonialismSpecial: Solidarity from Turtle Island to Palestine (p. 1 of 3)This three part series was inspired by the outpouring of solidarity statements and gatherings by Indigenous Californian communities. As a podcast focused on illuminating ongoing colonialism and genocide, we recognize that it is crucial to address the genocide happening right now in occupied Palestine and to stand in solidarity. Our podcast is dedicated to amplifying the voices of Indigenous communities who are frequently left out of official discourse. As such, it is important to amplify the voices of Palestinians right now, as the mainstream media fails to do so. This 3 part series is intended to amplify the voices of...
2024-04-161h 39
A Life CuratedA Life Curated with Thom ZimnyThis episode is kindly sponsored by Stirk Law, run by the brilliant Harry Stirk. Check out their website for more details - www.stirklaw.com With Oscar season upon us, I sat down with Emmy and Grammy award winning film director Thom Zimny,for an art fuelled blockbuster episode.With two shows currently on Netflix, "Springsteen on Broadway" and the moving and emotively brilliant 'Sly', Thom delivers an inspiring masterclass giving an invaluable insight into the thoughts, motives, artistic influences and advice on working as a film director. Having worked with Bruce Springsteen...
2024-01-2349 min
Living in the PastMay 1996 - A Design For LifeThis week we cover May 1996 where we have death, disaster and Martin Lawrence. We also have the NBA finals, chase some tornadoes in Twister, walk on water in The Craft and once again bask in the glory of Soundgarden with Down on the Upside. If you are in the Adelaide area on September, come and see Ben play football in the Reclink Cup. https://tickets.oztix.com.au/outlet/event/4675aaf2-b964-4ca5-80b9-ca7d51b3c484Events - 09:05Sports - 21:55Film - 42:00
2023-08-291h 58
The Apollo Audio PodcastThe Season Finale!!We're 50 albums (plus a couple extra) in to the Rolling Stone 500 album list and it's time to reflect, review and decide which of them we want to keep for our own Apollo Audio list. There's a couple of surprises and outliers but on the whole we managed to agree on 15 that deserve our seal of approval.Did you guess our choices? What did we miss, or get wrong?Get in touch at apolloaudiopod@gmail.com or find us on social media @apolloaudiohertfordThe Apollo Audio Podcast is recorded at Apollo...
2022-06-2236 min
The Apollo Audio PodcastX-Ray Spex - Germ Free Adolescents (471) and Tracy Chapman - Tracy Chapman (218)We reach a milestone with episode 25, and our 49th and 50th albums from the Rolling Stone 500 Best Albums of all time. It's a good way to close out season 1, taking us back to the punk heyday of 1978 and ten years later to the New York folk scene where we discover that one of the most satisfactory elements of a good album is keeping it short!The Apollo Audio Podcast is recorded at Apollo Audio Hertford, hosted by Billy Hills, Miles Mitchell and Martin Lumsden.It's a Froody Music Production, produced by Martin Lumsden
2022-06-1542 min
The Apollo Audio PodcastJefferson Airplane - Surrealistic Pillow (471) and TLC - CrazySexyCool (218)Welcome to episode 24 of The Apollo Podcast where we find numerous ways to avoid talking about this week's albums and instead ruminate and pontificate on the mixing value of mono, the disposal of unloved master tapes, the ongoing discussion on the point of "skits" in hip hop albums and the different approaches to songwrting.Almost 10% of the way through the list and we're just hitting our stride.Amongst all this amazing bonus material we do also get around to the merits or otherwise of 1967 album "Surrealistic Pillow" from Jefferson Airplane and "CrazySexyCool" the...
2022-06-081h 02
The Apollo Audio PodcastIndependent Selection Special: Off The Wall - Michael Jackson (36)Another special selection episode, this time its Miles's choice and he's gone for the 1978 disco classic from the king of pop. Off the Wall is Michael Jackson's first "proper" solo record having separated from Motown and The Jackson 5 franchise. Teaming up with Quincy Jones for the first time, this album is wall to wall hits and paved the way for a career that remains unsurpassed in commercial success.We know Miles loves it - join the rest of the crew as Billy, Martin and special guest Sid O'Brien decide if this deserves it's place among the...
2022-06-0132 min
The Apollo Audio PodcastRadiohead - The Bends (276) and Amy Winehouse - Back to Black (33)On an episode that promised to be fairly uncontentious we ended up arguing the toss about what Radiohead were trying to achieve with The Bends, whether Creep is a great song, whether Oasis are known for their genre switching and if Coldplay should have stuck to their early stuff!Join us for our longest episode yet where we manage to largely disagree despite discussing what proves to be two of our favourite albums so far.The Apollo Audio Podcast is recorded at Apollo Audio Hertford, hosted by Billy Hills, Miles Mitchell and Martin...
2022-05-251h 04
The Apollo Audio PodcastElton John - Honky Château (251) and The Rolling Stones - Exile on Main Street (14)We time travel back almost exactly 50 years to two albums celebrating the golden anniversary of their release. Probably fair to say that one of these albums has faired better in the eyes of the critics and in public consciousness, although testament to both artists that they remain widely loved and, incredibly, still touring!The definition of national treasures - what on earth will we do when Elton, Mick and Keith (Keef!) eventually leave us behind. In the meantime, find out how we rated the 251st and 14th best albums of all time according to Rolling Stone...
2022-05-1847 min
The Apollo Audio PodcastThe Rolling Stones - Some Girls (468) and The Beatles - The Beatles (29)With a special guest appearance from an alien enquirer and a surprisingly effusive and enthusiastic response to one of this weeks albums from one of our hosts. We pitch two of the great British legends against each other and see how comes up trumps.While it's their most commercially successful album, Some Girls from The Rolling Stones is lodged in the bottom 20% of the official Rolling Stone list, and while The Beatles might only be the 4th best Beatles album it still nestles quite comfortably in the top 30. So time to find out if our opinion matches...
2022-05-1155 min
The Apollo Audio PodcastTom Petty - Wildflowers (214) and Nirvana - In Utero (173)Two albums from the early-ish 90's this week - one that came just before a tragedy and one that we maybe think is a tragedy!! Fair to say we were probably a bit surprised by our reactions to both albums this week, with preconceptions and expectations largely off the mark.As always, we'd love to know what you think of these albums - positive or negative. Drop us a line at apolloaudiopod@gmail.com if you feel like sharing an opinion.The Apollo Audio Podcast is recorded at Apollo Audio Hertfordshire; hosted by...
2022-05-0453 min
The Apollo Audio PodcastBob Marley and The Wailers - Catch a Fire (140) and Beastie Boys - Paul’s Boutique (125)The album that introduced the whole world to Bob Marley, and the album that was a reinvention of a group that looked like it was heading for a gimmicky early dead-end.The Apollo Audio Podcast is recorded at Apollo Audio in Hertford, hosted by Billy Hills, Miles Mitchell and Martin Lumsden. Produced, recorded and edited by Martin Lumsden.A Froody Music Productionwww.froodymusic.comThe Apollo Audio Podcast is hosted by Martin Lumsden (record producer and engineer) and Billy Hills (musician and studio owner...
2022-04-2750 min
The Apollo Audio PodcastIndependent Selection Special: White Pony - DeftonesThis week we break from our normal random selection from the Rolling Stone 500 best album list to pick up and have a listen to a favourite from one of our hosting team. It might be from the list, it might not - but it's definitely an album that we think is worth talking about.For the first special episode in an occasional series we have the selection of Apollo Audio studio owner and splendid guitarist / singer Billy Hills.White Pony is the third studio album by American alternative metal band Deftones, released on...
2022-04-2031 min
The Apollo Audio PodcastThe Stone Roses - The Stone Roses (319) and Van Morrison - Moondance (120)A glorious album or an "over-hyped piece of shite". The critics were divided but what do the Apollo crew think of The Stone Roses? And as for Van Morrison, our guest host this week definitely thinks you can have too many horns, even if there are only two.The Apollo Audio Podcast is recorded at Apollo Audio in Hertford, hosted by Billy Hills, Miles Mitchell and Martin Lumsden. This week we are joined by special guest host Sid O'Brien.Produced, recorded and edited by Martin Lumsden.A Froody Music Production
2022-04-1345 min
The Apollo Audio PodcastBig Star - #1 Record (474) and Bob Dylan and the Band- The Basement Tapes (335)This week on the podcast, it's the debut album from Big Star and the sixteenth (albeit delayed) from Bob Dylan.In the words of Rolling Stone "Big Star produced a style that foreshadowed the alternative rock of the 1980s and 1990s. Before they broke up, they created a "seminal body of work that never stopped inspiring succeeding generations"John Rockwell of The New York Times hailed The Basement Tapes as "one of the greatest albums in the history of American popular music." Rolling Stone's Paul Nelson called its contents "the hardest, toughest, sweetest...
2022-04-0656 min
The Apollo Audio PodcastA chat about The Grammy AwardsWe had a bit of a chat about things arising from the Grammy Awards on Sunday 3rd AprilThe Apollo Audio Podcast is recorded at Apollo Audio in Hertford, hosted by Billy Hills, Miles Mitchell and Martin Lumsden.Produced, recorded and edited by Martin Lumsden.A Froody Music Productionwww.froodymusic.comThe Apollo Audio Podcast is hosted by Martin Lumsden (record producer and engineer) and Billy Hills (musician and studio owner), and is recorded at Apollo Audio Hertford.Each episode...
2022-04-0504 min
The Apollo Audio PodcastDavid Bowie - Hunky Dory (88) and A Tribe Called Quest - The Low End Theory (43)"...the most inventive piece of song-writing to have appeared on record in a considerable time". That's what they were saying about David Bowie's fourth studio record Hunky Dory back in 1972 - and that was before he really hit the heights with Ziggy Stardust in the following year. The clues are there, but the flame haired alien alter-ego hadn't yet had that transformative appearance on Top of the Pops. Does that mean the best is yet to come for our listening pleasure on our trawl through the Rolling Stone 500 list? There are two albums higher up, including the aforementioned Rise...
2022-03-3049 minThe Apollo Audio PodcastDonna Summer - Bad Girls (283) and Cocteau Twins - Heaven or Las Vegas (245)Bad Girls (25th April 1979)The Boston-born Donna Summer was the Queen of Disco by the end of the Seventies — but she wanted more. With her double-vinyl epic Bad Girls, she set out to conquer every corner of pop music in the name of disco, along with her longtime producers Giorgio Moroder and Pete Bellotte. “Hot Stuff” was her rock anthem, while “Bad Girls” found the sweet spot where the toot-toot meets the beep-beep. The underrated highlight: “Sunset People,” her post-Steely Dan snapshot of L.A. malaise.eighth studio albumBad Girls reached atop the US Billboa...
2022-03-2353 minThe Apollo Audio PodcastFiona Apple - Extraordinary Machine (444) and Eric B. & Rakim - Paid in Full (61)On the show this week we discover an artist for (mainly) the first time and are mainly surprised and delighted by our introduction to Fiona Apple. Plus we flip back to the golden era of Hip-Hop and the era defining sounds of Eric B. and Rakim with the general consensus that we prefer what they inspired over what they created.Every week we listen to two classic albums from Rolling Stone magazine's list of the 500 Best Albums of all Time, and decide if we think they deserve their place and if we'd be recommending to future...
2022-03-1647 minThe Apollo Audio PodcastD’Angelo - Brown Sugar (183) and Van Halen - Van Halen (292)It's debut albums from both our artists this week, and we find out we're a bit of a sucker for some neo soul but rock guitars we maybe only want in conjunction with some MJ.The Apollo Audio Podcast is recorded at Apollo Audio Hertford and is a Froody Music Production. Recording and post production by Martin LumsdenThe Apollo Audio Podcast is hosted by Martin Lumsden (record producer and engineer) and Billy Hills (musician and studio owner), and is recorded at Apollo Audio Hertford.Each episode offers insight into songs...
2022-03-0950 minThe Apollo Audio PodcastRage Against the Machine - Rage Against the Machine (221) and Grateful Dead - Workingman’s Dead (409)Join Billy, Martin and Miles as we take a tour through the Rolling Stone Magazine 2020 list of the 500 greatest albums of all time. Did they get it right, and what might we have been missing out on?On this week's episode we discuss the first of two Grateful Dead albums released in 1970, and the 1992 debut from Rage Against the Machine. Once again the votes are split, and the early 70's is not coming out of this well so far.On the other hand, we may have identified our top album of the pod so...
2022-03-0253 minThe Apollo Audio PodcastDusty Springfield - Dusty in Memphis (83) and The Zombies - Odessey and Oracle (243)It might not seem like we've been away but actually it's been about 3 weeks since we've been together so future episodes will be almost live. An even better opportunity to get involved and join us on our voyage of discovery through the Rolling Stone Best 500 albums of all time.This week it's local boys The Zombies (from Hatfield and St Albans) and Dusty Springfield. Which of these impressed, and which was perhaps surprisingly underwhelming?The Apollo Audio Podcast is recorded at Apollo Audio studios in Hertford and is produced and edited by Martin...
2022-02-2346 minThe Apollo Audio PodcastVarious Artists - The Indestructible Beat of Soweto (497) and Lana Del Rey - Norman Fucking Rockwell! (321)This week....the greatest album ever to be marketed under the heading “world music,” and and album that Elton John called timeless. We go back to 1985, which only one of us can actually remember IRL, and to 2019 which really seems far to recent to include albums that make it in to a list of the best 500 ever made.The Apollo Audio studio is also vibrant with the sounds of the Paul Jones Blues Band this week so there is a little bit of musical background to our discussion - plus we've got a very special guest inte...
2022-02-1659 minThe Apollo Audio PodcastCharles Mingus - Mingus Ah Um (380) and The Red Hot Chili Peppers - Californication (286)Way back to the past and our first visit to the 50's for the first jazz album on our journey so far, plus reminiscing about cd's in the car and pollen counts at Knebworth as we revisit a long time favourite - at least for Billy and Martin.Every week, we listen to two albums from the Rolling Stone 500 Best Albums of All Time and discuss if we agree they deserve their place. If you've listened too let us know your thoughts and get in touch on social media or drop us a line at apolloaudiopod...
2022-02-0959 minThe Apollo Audio PodcastDe La Soul - 3 Foot High and Rising (103) and The Smashing Pumpkins - Siamese Dream (341)In this show we discuss the birth of sampling and the growth of grunge whilst Miles beguiles and hypnotises us with the tale of the most famous 7 notes in musical history...What do you think of this week's albums - are The Smashing Pumpkins indeed "smashing"? Are you a part of the De La Soul DAISY generation? Get in touch with us at apolloaudiopod@gmail.comThe Apollo Audio Podcast is hosted by Martin Lumsden (record producer and engineer) and Billy Hills (musician and studio owner), and is recorded at Apollo Audio Hertford.
2022-02-0254 minThe Apollo Audio PodcastColdplay - A Rush of Blood to the Head (324) and Outkast - Stankonia (64)It's the early 2000's and both our artists this week are attempting follow ups to breakthrough albums while also attempting to address relationships against the backdrop of global idealogical conflict. In this week's episode we note the big difference between the status of bands in the UK and the USA and Martin finally remembers to come prepared with the facts.What do you think of this week's albums - are you delighted Coldplay are giving up soon? Are you hoping for an Outkast comeback? Get in touch with us at apolloaudiopod@gmail.com...
2022-01-2651 minThe Apollo Audio PodcastChuck Berry - The Great Twenty-Eight (51) and The Rolling Stones - Aftermath (330)Should a greatest hits album qualify and does if work to hear 10 years of releases in a one hour session. And if The Rolling Stones are truly the best rock and roll band of all time, when do they get around to proving it? Fair to say we went in to this week's albums without high expectations and by and large they were met in full. What do you think - are we just totally failing to understand the work of two music legends. You can get in touch with us at apolloaudiopod@gmail.com
2022-01-1954 minThe Apollo Audio PodcastToots and the Maytals - Funky Kingston (344) and Lauryn Hill - The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill (10)This week we find ourselves in Jamaica and and once again despite the random selection process we've got two albums that were largely recorded in Kingston Town albeit a quarter of a century apart. We try to figure out if Are Toots and the Maytals the fathers of reggae (or should that title go to UB40!!!) and which came first - reggae or ska. Plus Billy may have found his new favourite album but Martin might not yet be convinced.Next week...Chuck Berry and The Rolling StonesThe Apollo Audio Podcast is...
2022-01-1254 minThe Apollo Audio PodcastNine Inch Nails - Pretty Hate Machine (453) and Destiny's Child - The Writing's on the Wall (291)In this episode, Martin get's the chance to visit an album he actually bought when it first came out and find out if it is as good as he remembered. We also chat about remasters, bonus tracks and why albums got longer in the CD age. Plus, the Destiny's Child breakthrough album featuring vocals from one Beyonce Knowles. Wonder what happened to her?Join us every week to discover how we got on listening to what Rolling Stone Magazine consider to be the best albums ever made.Next week... Toots and the Maytals...
2022-01-0540 minThe Apollo Audio PodcastDavid Bowie - Low (206) and Marvin Gaye - What's Going On (1)It's only week 3 and already our random number selector has decided to throw us straight to the top of the charts, with the classic 1971 album "What's Going On?" from Marvin Gaye. A Motown legend, taking on the new decade with a change of direction that challenged his record label and ended up becoming widely regarded as the best album ever made.We also got the chance to force Miles in to listening properly to David Bowie for almost the first time, and enjoying the irony that his voice barely appears on the record.Join...
2021-12-2253 minThe Apollo Audio PodcastBon Iver - For Emma Forever Ago (461) and The Sex Pistols - Never Mind the Bollocks... (80)This week the random album generator threw up (or perhaps spewed out!) two artists that don't have much in common, apart from both being debuts. Probably fair to say that one of them has had a deeper social and cultural impact, but the Sex Pistols are also referenced occasionally! What is the correct pronunciation of Bon Iver? Is it a good idea to be afraid of death by bear when songwriting? What is the full title of the Sex Pistols album?Find out the answers to this and more in The Apollo Audio...
2021-12-1556 minThe Apollo Audio PodcastTaylor Swift - Red (99) and Kanye West - 808s and Heartbreak (244)Our random album generator clearly has a sense of humour, pitching us straight in by putting together two artists that historically have a bit of beef but also easing us in gently with artists we are certainly familiar but perhaps not through these albums.Also by sheer coincidence, these are both artists 4th studio offerings and both declared them as their pop crossovers. Did we agree? Can Billy ever forgive Tay for We are Never Getting Back Together?Find out in the very first episode of The Apollo Audio Podcast....
2021-12-0838 minThe Apollo Audio PodcastThe Apollo Audio Podcast TrailerJoin Billy, Martin and Miles on a journey through the 500 best albums ever made. We're going to have to focus...The Apollo Audio Podcast is hosted by Martin Lumsden (record producer and engineer) and Billy Hills (musician and studio owner), and is recorded at Apollo Audio Hertford.Each episode offers insight into songs, records, and the creative process, drawn from real-world experience in studios and making music.📍 www.apollo-audio.co.uk📷 Instagram: @apolloaudiopodcast📧 apolloaudiopod@gmail.comThe Apollo Audio Podcast is Froody Music Production. Productio...
2021-12-0702 min
Creative Sauce with Andi OshoMoney pt.3The money theme continues in this episode, the third of four on the subject. Here Andi offers some useful thoughts on negotiating. She not only looks at negotiating your own fees but also what you may want to pay for products and services. There are as always, listener comments and bitesize advice, this time from Thaddea Graham, star of Curfew, Us and Netflix hit, The Irregulars, which is out now. Thank you to all the new Patreon subscribers who’ve backed this podcast. Visit the Patreon page http://www.patreon.com/CreativeSaucewithAndiOsho to suppor...
2021-04-2739 min
Creative Sauce with Andi OshoMoney pt.2In this second episode on the topic of money, Andi talks about investment, not just the money we, as creatives, need to spend on training, materials and more but also on how working for free can support us in our journey. Andi discusses the notion of backing one’s self and the wisdom of including selfcare as part of our overall investment.The bitesized advice this week comes from renowned UK beatboxer and musician SK Shlomo and there’s also another listener’s comment on this huge and important topic. Thank you to all the...
2021-04-2032 min
The Dan & Kev ShowThe Dan & Kev Show- Episode 18!This week Dan is joined by guest host Martin Lumsden from The Big Sound Machine ! He used to work in radio with Dan & Kev! We discuss how business is going for early COVID to most recent times and how the future will be. We also discuss and rant about how masks are worn or not worn and how times have changed over the years to from seat belts and no smoking areas! Come have a listen ! Thanks to @martinlumsden for joining us ! If you wish to get involved please do via socials @danandkevshow or email danandkevshow@gmail.com
2021-02-1742 min
We Get Real AFEp 37: Shelley Peterson, Lockheed Martin: How AR & VR can Help Us Explore Outer Space - and Understand Literacy ProblemsLockheed Martin's Shelley Peterson is using augmented reality & virtual reality to build spaceships bound for the Moon and beyond. She explains how these same technologies can help diagnose reading disorders for people right here on Earth. And, she gives us a glimpse into how lightwaves can be used to transfer data much faster than WiFi. Join Sue & Vanessa for a fast-paced and fascinating look at how frontier technologies can take us to the limits of the solar system and deep into the human brain!Find Shelley Online:LinkedInReferenced:Hara...
2021-02-0930 min
Your London LegacyRichard Lumsden Is Highly Regarded London Based Actor Across Different Genres, & Author Of My Favourite Book Of 2020 Lockdown .'The Six Loves Of Billy Binns' Is Simply Magical.If you were looking back over a hundred years of your life what would you change? This is the conundrum Richard Lumsden posed his wonderfully drawn lead character, in his beautiful, yet melancholy recent novel ‘’The Six Loves of Billy Binns’’.
Richard is an English actor, composer, and musician, having performed in such diverse TV shows including Foggy in First of the Summer Wine, Henry in Sugar Rush and Martin in The Catherine Tate Show, as well as EastEnders. His film credits include the classic Ang Lee’s Sense & Sensibility and Gordon in James Rouse’s Downhill.
But its Billy Binns...
2020-06-2900 min
The BIG Sound Machine PodcastNathan Timothy - Chasing the Positive: Album SpecialJoin my conversation with singer, songwriter Nathan Timothy. Recorded a few weeks in to the Covid-19 lockdown in the UK, we discuss his new album "Chasing The Positive" which includes tales of meetings with Nile Rogers and Howard Jones, inspiration from Barry Manilow, and making the tourist's rookie error of photographing Paris with no film in the camera. There are also includes Muppets and Steve Coogan.
This is Nathan's 7th album and as you'll hear, the process was part inspired by the death of his sister, Kate who passed away in July 2012. In 2013 Nathan set up 'Project K...
2020-06-231h 09
The BIG Sound Machine PodcastMinnie Birch - You're Not Singing Anymore Volume 1: Album SpecialWhat seems like a long, long time ago - before such things as gathering on a weekend afternoon with a bunch of friends to observe two teams take part in competitive sport became an impossible luxury - I met with the fabulous Minnie Birch to discuss her imminently released new album.
You're Not Singing Anymore is a collection of football songs. Not the "Ozzie's Dream" type though. These are the songs and chants that reflect one of the lasting oral traditions of our time where hundreds, or often thousands of people will gather together and sing communally....
2020-05-211h 13
The BIG Sound Machine PodcastMetronaut - To The Moon: Album Special"There's not even a Costa"
This episode finds me in conversation with Mark Holt and Ian Kinsey, collectively known as Metronaut. Their album To The Moon is the culmination of 2 years work focused on celebrating the 50th Anniversary of the historic first moon landing, and was originally released in 4 EP "phases" the broadly tell the story of the journey - leaving, travelling, landing and returning.
As always there is the odd diversion in to other subjects along the way but mainly it's fascinating to hear how the tracks came together to form a brilliant tribute t...
2020-04-221h 06
The BIG Sound Machine PodcastRavi Amruth - Tracks To Lay Down On: Album Special"It’s not just a phase mum!"
Welcome to another edition of The BIG Sound Machine podcast - this episode featuring a conversation with Ravi Amruth about his 10 years in the making debut album Tracks to Lay Down On, but covering much more stuff in the process.
Like what you say? (Did you say?)...
Like how his long song titles and use of parenthesis are inspired by Fall Out Boy and Panic! at the Disco influences. The discovery that a chorus is a group of people. That, apart from a couple of bits he pl...
2020-04-221h 39
The BIG Sound Machine PodcastThe Corvideros - Nothing You Can't Live Without: Album SpecialThis episode I was joined at The Cream Room by John Vaites, main writer and performer as The Corvideros, to discuss the album "Nothing You Can't Do Without".
Recorded at The Cream Room (produced by me), the album has been a long held ambition that began to take proper form during 2018. With bandmates Richard, Ian and Lucia the recording took place over a couple of weeks during spring last year. John tells about his song writing process, lyrics and melodic influences and find out why Bob Dylan and Get Carter lead me to a tell story about the...
2020-03-181h 11
The BIG Sound Machine PodcastThe Cardinal Kings - Telefones: Album SpecialFor this episode I was joined at The Cream Room by Jack and George - two members and 100% of The Cardinal Kings. The boys started writing together in their mid teens and their journey to date includes multiple live and festival appearances plus singles EPs and videos. The debut album Telefones was released in summer of 2019.
As always, expect chat about the album writing and production process plus stories of (fixed?) competitions, the expense of video shoots, and the vexing question of the provenance of Avocados.
Find and follow The Cardinal Kings here:
Ca...
2020-03-031h 26
The BIG Sound Machine PodcastRay Cordell - Bailey Bird: Album SpecialLetchworth based musician Ray Cordell released his second album Bailey Bird in November 2019. Taking inspiration from a name on a gravestone encountered while attending a conference, the album isn't biographical and isn't quite a concept album but the story of Bailey weaves it's way through the tracks nonetheless.
Find and follow Ray here:
raycordell.com
Spotify
YouTube
Also mentioned in this episode...
Andrew Roachford
Budgie
Find out more about the podcast and and upload tracks for The BIG Sound Machine Radio Show at b...
2020-02-181h 13
The BIG Sound Machine PodcastThe Ben Drake Collective - Afterglow: Album SpecialIt's Ben Drake doing the talking but, as he'll be quick to tell you, it takes more than one person to make a band - let alone a collective! A very keen advocate of the album format and with a very sharp eye focused on world events and the human condition, tracks on the new album Afterglow reflect these themes strongly without being over blown; delivered with passion, grit and the occasional acoustic ballad.
Ben wears his influences well, with songs that immediately call to mind the best of 90's British rock while never feeling like a no...
2020-02-041h 05
The BIG Sound Machine PodcastElliot Porter - Lanes: Album Run ThroughInspired by songwriters including Damien Rice, Glen Hansard and Neil Young - Elliot Porter's debut E.P Sleeping Under The Stars as released in November 2012. It includes the track She Only Goes which held the number one spot on Cambridge 105FM’s unsigned chart for 13 weeks and also led to a nomination for Best Male Solo Artist at The Cambridge NMG Awards.
Regularly securing radio play from BBC Introducing and BBC Radio 2, Elliot has made a host of festival appearances including How The Light Gets In and Homegrown.
Debut album Lanes was released in March 2019, wit...
2020-01-211h 06
The BIG Sound Machine PodcastElectric Black - The Calm Before: Album Run ThroughThe BIG Sound Machine podcast is back for 2020 with the first of a new run. In this episode I continue my conversations with artists who have released albums over the last 12 months - this time with Ali and Jonny from Hitchin Rock band Electric Black.
Formed 4 years ago, it's only since 2018 that the band settled in to it's current line up but with assured live performances across 2019 plenty of fans are taking notice. The band first caught my attention in Spring last year with the release of debut single Thrill of the Chase and over the next few months I had...
2020-01-071h 18
The BIG Sound Machine PodcastAlex Bayly - Ley Lines Album Special Part 2In this second episode of the BIG Sound Machine podcast, I continue my conversation with to singer-songwriter Alex Bayly and our track by track chat while listening to his recent album release Ley Lines. In this part we cover the tracks that form Side Two of the vinyl release:
Sky Love Girl
Sure As
Lonely Michael
Jamie
Hunters Pass
Bonus - New America (not on the vinyl edition of the album)
Alex is an alternative-folk artist from South East London and Ley Lines is his debut full length album.
The album release was supported by a c...
2019-12-0152 min
The BIG Sound Machine PodcastAlex Bayly - Ley Lines Album Special Part 1In this debut episode of the new BIG Sound Machine podcast, I speak to singer-songwriter Alex Bayly over a cup of coffee and we have an in depth track by track chat listening to his recent album release Ley Lines. In this part 1 of 2 we cover the tracks that form Side One of the vinyl release:
Distance
Animal
Used Car Salesman
The Loving Hand You Hide
Ley Lines
Alex is an alternative-folk artist from South East London and Ley Lines is his debut full length album. The album includes the singles New America, Distance and the recently rel...
2019-11-2940 min