Shows
SleeveNotes # with Mike Kennedy3 MPHThe 8th September 2014 saw the release of the debut album 'Life In The Slow Lane' from 3MPH. Mike chats with Huw James, Pete O’Brien & Mike Trigg about the release and future plans. 2025-03-291h 44
SleeveNotes # with Mike KennedyAli HancockAnother early interview from the Welsh Connections archive - Mike with comedian Ali Hancock. When this was originally aired on Oystermouth Radio it was the first show to receive a complaint ! 2025-02-171h 57
SleeveNotes # with Mike KennedyAl Steele & John Baker (The Korgis)Mike catches up with Al Steele and John Baker of The Korgis to chat about their latest album. 2025-02-031h 00
SleeveNotes # with Mike KennedyAislinn PetersOne of the earliest shows in the Welsh Connections archive - Mike interviews Swansea singer/songwriter Aislinn about her music, influences and future plans.2025-01-251h 59
SleeveNotes # with Mike KennedyAisha and the AstronautsAisha and the Astronauts were a female Swansea based 3 piece acoustic band featuring Aislinn Peters, Kate Jones and Rhiannon Lord. Mike interviewed them about their debut album ‘Between The Walls’.2025-01-161h 23
SleeveNotes # with Mike KennedyAdam CroucherOne from the archives ! Mike chats with former Swansea multi-instrumentalist, and broadcaster, Adam Croucher about his love of music. 2025-01-091h 55
SleeveNotes # with Mike KennedyLewis EvansOriginally from Liverpool, Lewis Evans has lived in France since his teens and is one of the most successful musicians in the country. Finding fame with his band The Lanskies, Lewis has also written for many top French artists, worked on soundtracks and now as a solo artist. Join Mike as he chats with Lewis about his career to date and plans to tour the UK. 2025-01-0943 min
SleeveNotes # with Mike KennedyPart 2 of the 3 Bucket Jones interview.Andy McCrorie-Shand and Gitika Partington are 3 Bucket Jones - often described as a smart pop collective they met and formed at a songwriting retreat in Monmouthshire discovering a shared love for melody and lyrics. Mike Sat down with them one afternoon to talk about their career, music and plans for the future.2025-01-021h 06
SleeveNotes # with Mike Kennedy3 Bucket JonesAndy McCrorie-Shand and Gitika Partington are 3 Bucket Jones - often described as a smart pop collective they met and formed at a songwriting retreat in Monmouthshire discovering a shared love for melody and lyrics. Mike Sat down with them one afternoon to talk about their career, music and plans for the future. (Part one of a two part interview).2024-12-181h 15
SleeveNotes # with Mike KennedyH Jack WilliamsUS singer songwriter, H Jack Williams is probably best known right now for his work with Kevin Costner’s Yellowstone TV series but Jack has been writing ‘honest’ songs since he was a teenager - working with Pete Townshend (The Who), Ken Hensley (Uriah Heep), Dicky Betts & Duane Allman (Allman Brothers Band) and Richie Havens. Now, at 72, he’s releasing his debut solo album. Find out why as he chats with Mike about his career. 2024-12-1147 min
SleeveNotes # with Mike KennedyKatherine BlakeMike chats with Katherine Blake about Mydwynter the, second, Christmas album from the Medieval Baebes and their current UK tour. 2024-12-0613 min
SleeveNotes # with Mike KennedyDr Feelgood’s Kevin MorrisThe longest serving member of Dr Feelgood joins Mike to talk about their 2024 tour and popularity of the much loved R&B band. 2024-11-2912 min
SleeveNotes # with Mike KennedySon Of ManFilm-maker, Gav Crumpton and, Son Of Man’s, George Jones join Mike to talk about the new five part, 9hr documentary, on Welsh group Man. 2024-11-2151 min
SleeveNotes # with Mike KennedyThe Grand Cru’s Darren Parry & Steve BalsamoTransatlantic songwriting team, The Grand Cru have a new release out. Sung by Darren Parry - “17” is a song about first love and Darren, with Steve Balsamo, chat to Mike about the song and how the team work together as well as discussing the songwriting merits of the others in the team - Bonnie Skop & Lee Gilbert. 2024-11-1517 min
SleeveNotes # with Mike KennedySpiritualizedIn a rare interview, Spiritualized frontman, Jason Pierce joins Mike to talk about the history of the band and plans for the future. *originally featured in print in TIWN’s Focus Wales magazine2024-11-0838 min
SleeveNotes # with Mike KennedyJeff Wayne & War Of The WorldsJeff Wayne joins Mike to talk about his much loved musical version of War Of The Worlds. In this fascinating interview we find out what inspired Jeff to develop the project, how he convinced some of the biggest names in music to take part and just why the listening public’s love for it has lasted for over 40 years ! 2024-10-3149 min
SleeveNotes # with Mike KennedyBB SkoneLegendary broadcaster, author and passionate advocate for live music, BB Skone joins Mike to talk about the Tenby Blues Festival - now in its 19th year - which he co founded in the West Wales seaside town. 2024-10-2436 min
SleeveNotes # with Mike KennedyNia Fisher & Steve BalsamoTwo former West End stars, Nia Fisher & Steve Balsamo join Mike to chat about the new single that they’ve co-written, ‘Signal In The Noise’. In this Sleeve Notes interview they talk about songwriting and where their inspiration comes from, how the song can change over time and why they have to write. An indepth look at the inner workings of the creative mind. 2024-10-1133 min
SleeveNotes # with Mike KennedyBetty BooBetty Boo, the singer, songwriter and rapper first came to mainstream prominence in the late 1980s following a collaboration with the Beatmasters on the song "Hey DJ/I Can't Dance (To That Music You're Playing)". Between 1990 and 1992 she had a successful solo career, which spawned a number of chart-placing singles, most notably "Doin' the Do", "Where Are You Baby?", and "Let Me Take You There". Now she’s back with a critically acclaimed album. Mike caught up with her to talk about her career and return to music.2024-10-0342 min
SleeveNotes # with Mike KennedyThe Sons Of LibertyThe band from Bristol have established themselves as mainstays of the current original hard rock scene. With a reputation built on extensive touring, blistering live performances and a passion for creating exceptional new rock music the band's trajectory has been extraordinary. Mike caught up with them to chat about their latest critically acclaimed album and tour plans. Sons of Liberty are Russ Grimmett (Vocals), Fred Hale and Andy Muse (Guitars), Mark Thomas (Bass) and Steve Byrne (Drums). 2024-10-0238 min
SleeveNotes # with Mike KennedyWilliam John Titus BishopWilliam’s sound bridges the gap between Bob Dylan and The Japanese House, capturing a melancholy vibe alongside his strong vocals. Mike chats with Will to talk about his music that has had millions of streams and gained him half a million followers 2024-09-1433 min
SleeveNotes # with Mike KennedyBilly J. KramerBilly J. Kramer, is back with a brand new album called ‘Are You With Me’ and it’s full of new songs - some of which pay tribute to those that helped him with his career including Brian Epstein, George Martin & The Beatles. In this episode he talks to Mike about the early days of Rock’n’Roll in Liverpool, Abbey Road and how he coped with fame as well as tales of the Fab Four !2024-08-2338 min
SleeveNotes # with Mike KennedyThe NowVibrant and attention grabbing rockers The Now have just released their much awaited and highly dynamic debut album ‘Too Hot To Handle’. Four of the five members join Mike to chat about the new album - Shane Callaghan, Callum Bromage, Jay Evans & Will Scott. 2024-08-1637 min
SleeveNotes # with Mike KennedyBrick BriscoeBrick Briscoe is an American songwriter, composer, performer, filmmaker, television and radio producer. He has spent over thirty years in show business on virtually every level from New York to Los Angeles as well as Petersburg and Indiana to name but a few, doing music, TV and film. In this interview he chats with Mike about a forthcoming new album plus the recently released retrospective collection. 2024-08-1044 min
SleeveNotes # with Mike KennedyDeath Monkey RecordsDeath Monkey Records record and promote Underground music from South-Wales and beyond and have been part of the Alternative and Indie music scene in Swansea since 2010.Mike chats with Dave Milsom and the late Adam Burse about the origins of the label and their, then, future plans. 2024-08-021h 34
SleeveNotes # with Mike KennedyIan Wills (Part 2)Ian's sometimes brutal, sometimes apocalyptic and at all times personal lyrics are known for knocking down doors. Together with a live show that ensures all that see it are left with a feeling tomorrow will be a better day for the night out they have just had. Never one to shy away from his many addictions and demons, when all is said and done Ian's drug of choice is life.The Sunday Times Magazine described Ian as the 'Ian Dury of the 21st Century'.Part 2 of Mike’s interview with Ian Wills. 2024-07-1953 min
SleeveNotes # with Mike KennedyCoolhandCoolhand’s debut self titled album was released in 2014 and received rave reviews from critics and the public alike and even peaked at number 15 in the IBBA monthly chart !Luke & Darren join Mike to talk about the album, their influences and future plans.2024-07-041h 52
SleeveNotes # with Mike KennedyDirty ProperNashville’s Dirty Proper, Trey Call & Natalie Aulvin Thomas, are with Mike in the studio talking about their UK your and album release. 2024-07-041h 02
SleeveNotes # with Mike KennedyCrashin CloudsHard rock valleys band, Crashin Clouds join Mike to talk about their acclaimed album. 2024-07-042h 00
SleeveNotes # with Mike KennedyPlay MistyPlay Misty are a folk & Americana band that draw their influences from the Laurel Canyon sound of the early 1970’s and give it a unique and contemporary feel. Based in Bristol their music is making waves across the UK with delicious harmonies and beautiful Melodies. Mike caught up with Sophie and Ishavi to chat about where they are now and where they want to go. 2024-06-1455 min
SleeveNotes # with Mike KennedySorrel NationKent born songstress Sorrel Nation brings a soulful mix of folk/country/rock with powerful vocals and haunting melodies. She engages audiences with her heartfelt, emotive and relatable songwriting and is known for her earthy 1970's inspired style.Mike caught up with her, on the road, as she was about to release her duet with Steve Balsamo. 2024-06-0750 min
SleeveNotes # with Mike KennedyCara PearceCara Pearce is a Swansea singer-songwriter. In this episode she talks to Mike about her favourite tracks, inspirations and future plans. 2024-05-281h 58
SleeveNotes # with Mike KennedyAyesha PontinThe Canadian/Welsh musician and film-maker joins Mike to talk about her love of music featuring tracks from her album and influences through the years. 2024-05-281h 39
SleeveNotes # with Mike KennedyCaitlin LavagnaBORN IN THE RHONDDA WITH STRONG GIBRALTARIAN ROOTS, CAITLIN LAVAGNA HAS DEVELOPED A HUGE PASSION FOR PERCUSSION. WITH A STRONG, RICH VOCAL AND A KNACK FOR INSTANT POP HOOKS, SHE BLENDS HONEST SONGWRITING WITH AN EXCITING RHYTHMIC CORE. MIKE AND CAITLIN CHAT ABOUT HER MUSIC, ACTING AND COPING WITH ‘FAME’ IN THIS CANDID AND FUNNY INTERVIEW2024-05-2846 min
SleeveNotes # with Mike KennedyJames OliverJames Oliver is one of the UK's busiest acts playing over 300 gigs a year all over the UK, Europe, and the USA! He has performed over 3000 gigs and shared the stage with many acts including Albert Lee, Bill Kirchen, Deke Leonard, Greg Koch, Walter Trout, Steve Gibbons, Billy Bremner, Geraint Watkins, and many others. Mike catches up with James to talk about his latest EP2024-05-161h 03
SleeveNotes # with Mike KennedyHayley GriffithsIn 2004, Hayley was flown to Dublin to sing for the Executive Producer of the Irish phenomenon, ‘Riverdance’. Just two days later she began a tour that over the next few years would take her extensively across the world. It was during a return to the North American tour of Riverdance in 2007 that Hayley was bought to the attention of Grammy award nominated Producers, Surefire Music Group. Invited to return to Boston to write and record original material, Hayley flew to the US in September 2008 to begin collaboration on her debut album, and her first single ‘Separated by Glass’ was born but...2024-05-1653 min
SleeveNotes # with Mike KennedyCheryl BeerCheryl Beer is an author, folk singer and multi-media artist. She is included among the 100+ Menywod Cymraeg/Welsh Women who have made a significant contribution to national life. In one of our earliest shows Mike chats to Cheryl about her music. 2024-05-101h 58
SleeveNotes # with Mike KennedyCarl JonesGround Control was formed in Swansea in South Wales to write and play hard edged post-punk “Power Pop” and became one of the hottest young bands in the area in the early 1980s.The band consisted of Mark Northcott on lead vocals and rhythm guitar, Carl Jones on lead guitar and backing vocals, Dave Badger on bass and backing vocals and Steve Sambrook on drums.In this show Mike catches up with Carl to chat about his career and music.2024-05-1057 min
SleeveNotes # with Mike KennedyPeanessPeaness are a band from Chester, England formed in 2013. Their all-female line-up is Balla (guitar and vocals), Jess (bass and vocals) and Rach (drums). Their sound has been described as "melodic indie pop", “DIY punk" and "shiny shiny pop with an infectious energy and tunes as sharp as their fringes". Mike chats with the trio about the band and future plans. 2024-05-0253 min
SleeveNotes # with Mike KennedyAndrew ClodePianist, songwriter and singer, Andrew Clode joins Mike in the studio to chat about his critically acclaimed album "Sweet The Fire" which draws on Andrew's experiences of life.- described as a Welsh Gilbert O Sullivan you will also hear shadows of Georgie Fame.Alan Price and Randy Newman.2024-05-0258 min
SleeveNotes # with Mike KennedyThe Time MechanicsMike chats with Mike Lloyd, from The Time Mechanics, about their recent trip to Brazil and finds out all about their new album and plans for the future. 2024-04-2547 min
SleeveNotes # with Mike KennedyTen No.6Lizzie Gormley - VocalsNick Jones - Lead GuitarMatthew Witherstone - Rhythm GuitarSean Davies - BassJames Griffiths - DrumsThe indie alternative band from Wales sat with Mike in the studio to talk about the bands beginnings - playing a live set too ! 2024-04-2459 min
SleeveNotes # with Mike Kennedy3MPHIn September of 2014 3MPH, hailing from the Gwent Valleys released their debut album - a year later Mike caught up with them to find out all about the band and their plans. 2024-04-241h 44
SleeveNotes # with Mike KennedyAjay MathurBorn and raised in India and residing in Switzerland, Ajay Mathur’s talent as a singer-songwriter and seasoned musician blends both pop and rock genres with Americana and traditional Indian instruments into something radically new and genre-bending.None of these tracks, even when the sitar effects kick in, become stereotypes of post-rock n roll Indian music. There is a hazy originality that makes it seem like this award-winning musician has a primal, as well as purple hazed, glory.Join Mike as he chats with Ajay about his latest album, recorded remotely during lockdown, which has probably th...2024-04-2149 min
SleeveNotes # with Mike KennedyRicky WarwickRicky Warwick is a Northern Irish musician and the lead singer of the rock bands Black Star Riders and Thin Lizzy. He is also the frontman for the Scottish hard rock band The Almighty, with whom he achieved chart success in the UK throughout the 1990s. In this candid interview, from his LA home, Ricky talks to Mike about his career to date and future plans. 2024-04-1659 min
SleeveNotes # with Mike KennedyPaul HazelComposer, musician, record producer, and film-maker PaulHazel has had many releases on labels such as Rising High, Rotation, Inspiral, 2Kool, Masters At Work, SWND, Welsh Modular Alliance, and Bamboo Radical. He’s composed and produced the music for a number of commercial film and TV programmes and has produced and exhibited several short films of his own.In 2016 he was a founding member of the Swansea Laptop Orchestra and runs an independent record label whilst continuing to record, perform, and create. Mike talks to Paul about his love of music in this inspiring interview. 2024-04-1600 min
SleeveNotes # with Mike KennedyJayce LewisJayce Lewis is a Welsh musician from Bridgend, South Wales. In 2009 his self-produced single titled "Icon" (also included on EMI Records' Smash Hits 2009 compilation) achieved a top-10 chart position alongside VH1/MTV Asia Viacom18 features. With strong industrial music and synth-pop influences, his music has been described as alternative rock with electronica roots and "tribal percussion". Lewis has collaborated with acts such as Queen, Rammstein and synth-pop icon Gary Numan, for whom Lewis has been a supporting act three times. Mike caught up with him at his Bridgend studio to talk about his career to date. 2024-04-161h 02
SleeveNotes # with Mike KennedyTangleJackTangleJack are an acoustic duo from South Wales who have been making music together for over 30 years. Formed by Duncan Leigh and John Paul Davies they have released an EP and one album. Mike joins them to chat about album number two, The Ragged Edge, and how it was written and recorded. 2024-04-0847 min
SleeveNotes # with Mike KennedyMike ‘Link’ ConwayMan’s Deke Leonard said of Link :Link was a flamboyant, Strat-wielding Buddy Holly look-alike, who was different from the other local lead guitarists of the time because he was the first to shake off the dead hand of Hank B Marvin. Something of a showman, he had an ebullient personality and played with blistering speed and unfettered invention.Want to know more ? Listen to this show which feature previously unreleased demo tracks recorded at Abbey Road.Man’s Deke Leonard said of Link :Link was a flamboyant, Strat-wielding Buddy Holly look-alike, who was different from the othe...2024-04-022h 04
SleeveNotes # with Mike KennedyKaren BraceLondon-based actor, writer, teacher and spoken word artist, Karen Brace chats with Mike about her career and love of the spoken word. Her original pieces transport the listener outside of themselves taking them on a journey which is at once exciting and adventurous. Karen has a voice that would stop you in your tracks whether she was reading an old classic or a bus time-table. One of our favourites.2024-04-0255 min
SleeveNotes # with Mike KennedyJenny ColquittNamed as one of RnR Magazines Ones to watch for 2022, Jenny Colquitt encompasses a unique combination of Americana, indie and folk rock and pop.Winner of the 2021/2022 FATEA Female artist of the Year award and the 2020/2021 GSMC Award for best female solo singer/songwriter, Jenny’s music is described as fit for film and storytelling at its finest. A voice that uniquely combines the melodic undertones of artists such as Eva Cassidy and the rawness of Alanis Morissette. She writes with soul, lyrical vulnerability and style to accompany her musicality both through keys and guitar.Jenny’s debut albu...2024-04-0250 min
SleeveNotes # with Mike KennedyMarty WildeMarty Wilde, MBE was among the first generation of British pop stars to emulate American rock and roll, scoring several 1950s and 1960s hit singles including "Endless Sleep", "Sea of Love" and "Bad Boy". During the late 1960s to early 1980s, Wilde continued to record and, with Ronnie Scott, co-wrote hit singles for others including the Casuals' "Jesamine" and Status Quo's "Ice in the Sun". He is the father of pop singer Kim Wilde and co-wrote many of her hit singles including "Kids in America" with his son Ricky. He continues to perform and record - here, he chats with...2024-03-2435 min
SleeveNotes # with Mike KennedyMel GaynorOne of the best known and most renowned drummers in the world Mel Gaynor has sold over 60 million records during his 35 years with Rock superstars, the legendary force that is Simple Minds. Although Mel is best known with arena and festival audiences around the world for his time with Simple Minds it’s perhaps surprising to many of his fans that he’s also had a shining career as a session musician most notably with guitar gods Brian May, Gary Moore, and the likes of Elton John, Lou Reed, Tina Turner, Meat Loaf, Samson, The Pretenders, Jackson Browne, Litt...2024-03-2435 min
SleeveNotes # with Mike KennedyDavid KnopflerDavid Knopfler the British musician was born in Scotland, but raised in Blyth, near Newcastle upon Tyne, England. Together with his older brother Mark Knopfler, John Illsley, and Pick Withers, he founded the rock band Dire Straits in 1977, serving as rhythm guitarist on their first two albums. Mike caught up with the prolific musician to chat about his latest album, Crow Gifts.2024-03-241h 00
SleeveNotes # with Mike KennedyPaul RolandPaul Roland, the English singer-songwriter, author and music journalist typically writes his songs in the form of stories, often addressing historical figures, characters from literature and film, or his own creations. He has explored genres including gothic rock, psychedelic pop, folk and baroque.Described by Music Week as a "psychedelic cult celebrity", Roland has enjoyed an underground career as opposed to mainstream success, gathering a stronger fanbase in mainland Europe than in his native UK. He has been credited with spearheading steampunk music.Aside from his recording career, Roland has written for various music magazines, and...2024-03-241h 04
SleeveNotes # with Mike KennedyBettie J WilliamsPassionate about people, humanity and truth, Bettie is a Singer-Songwriter from Cardiff, Wales and a published author.Having performed in various settings (and countries) big and small- from St David’s Hall Cardiff, Festivals, Outreach events in Harare, Zimbabwe and, once upon a time, busked in Nashville, Bettie has been writing and playing live gigs with her acoustic guitar and bowler hat and performing in bands since her early teens.Mike talks with Bettie about her career and future plans.2024-03-1737 min
SleeveNotes # with Mike KennedyAnonymous IconoclastsThe four-piece band are best known for their ‘anonymous’ status, catchy tunes, dark humour and sardonic lyrics.Although ‘anonymous’, each member is a well-established member of the Welsh music scene with an enviable CV.Those who attend the live performances and get a close-up glimpse of the four piece will surelyrecognise them from bands such as The Five Darrens, Glee Club, The Bluesters, Heavy Quartet, Miracle Bros, Dansette and The Mummies.Mike catches up with the band to chat about current projects.2024-03-1751 min
SleeveNotes # with Mike KennedyAlcie BelaSince going solo during lockdown then escaping to rural France after a house fire devastated her home in South Wales, indie folk singer songwriter Alcie Bela has embarked on a journey to fully independently record and produce her first project.Alongside her music and life partner, award wining Welsh blues singer songwriter Jack Ellis, she has produced a 5 track debut EP called Botanical Imaginations.It encapsulates recovering from traumatic times, embracing lockdown, losing everything to the flames and getting back on her feet to walk into a new life in the French wilderness.Their first track together...2024-03-1744 min
SleeveNotes # with Mike KennedyJohn Fishell’Nashville based, John Fishell’s most recent single “Carolina California” spent 18 weeks on the Mediabase Top 40 Chart (US Radio), eventually climbing to #38, and was the highest-ranked independent (unsigned) artist on the chart, During that time, the song was the highest-ranked rock song among a strong field of pop, rap, and country artists.John started with piano lessons early in life only to (regretfully) quit and start learning cello while teaching himself to play guitar. A four-track cassette-based machine started him on the production process, followed by his operation of a small-club sized live sound reinforcement service. While studying music...2024-03-1735 min
SleeveNotes # with Mike KennedyPaul Da VinciPaul Da Vinci is a British singer and musician best known as the lead singer on the 1974 hit recording by the Rubettes, "Sugar Baby Love", although he did not perform with the group at the time. He worked as a demo and session singer before and after his own successful solo career, that included "Your Baby Ain't Your Baby Anymore", which peaked at number 20 in the UK Singles Chart. In the 1980s he sang most of the voices, backing and lead, on the Tight Fit hit "Back to the Sixties, Part 2", and performed on Top of the Pops with the...2024-03-1256 min
SleeveNotes # with Mike KennedyMichael ArmstrongMichael Armstrong was born in South London in November 1973. His parents were not in the slightest bit musical, although they did listen to music frequently and he remembers car journeys singing along and harmonising with his brother to The Beatles Greatest Hits. He knew from a very early age that he wanted to express himself through music and song. As a dedicated touring artist, Michael has performed with some of the biggest names in the business. He has spent over two years ‘on the road’ headlining his own shows as well as appearing as a special guest on major tours with...2024-03-1251 min
SleeveNotes # with Mike KennedyJeremy GluckBarracudas frontman, Jeremy Gluck chats with Mike about his latest release, I Am Time, a personally selected career overview from 1985 to 2017 released on Glass Modern Records. Jeremy talks about his varied recording projects after the Barracudas broke up as well as the friendships formed and collaborations made. This fascinating insight into the cult star's work at this time sometimes makes him sound like the 'last man standing' which in many ways he is. Certainly innovative and daring - potentially a musical genius. You decide.2024-03-1258 min
SleeveNotes # with Mike KennedyGeorge JonesThey do say the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree, and George Jones is carrying on his father’s musical legacy with his band, Son Of Man.George has said that “Some people inherit jewellery, I’ve inherited Micky’s songs, and my inheritance is keeping them alive”, and while the Man legacy casts a long shadow, this doesn’t mean Son of Man are rooted in the past - in this episode Mike catches up with George to find out exactly what makes him tick.2024-02-232h 01
SleeveNotes # with Mike KennedyElaine GilmoreElaine has a wealth of experience working alongside show business luminaries including Bob Monkhouse OBE, Leslie Crowther CBE, Gary Wilmott MBE and many more. She started her career as a musician backing artists on the piano/organ in the working men's clubs in South Wales but soon took to the stage herself joining a 10 piece function band in which she served her 'apprenticeship' over many years as a lead vocalist gaining valuable experience in corporate entertainment , theatres and summer seasons at a young age. In this episode she talks to Mike about her album of Burt Bacharach songs called ‘love is...2024-02-231h 04
SleeveNotes # with Mike KennedyThe DaisycuttersIt's been some 15 years since The Daisycutters released their last album, 'Come Sweet Bullets', and a decade since frontman and vocalist Cameron Wilson had written a song.It was a call from the band's label that jumpstarted the writing process for 'Become What You Are'. Stephen Morris, MADCAP Global Managing Director and long-time champion of the band, rang with a proposition: If he backed a new Daisycutters album, would they write and record it? Mike caught up with the band to find out what happened next.2024-02-231h 00
SleeveNotes # with Mike KennedyAll The BeesAll the Bees is a female-led collaboration comprising two consummate and highly experienced writer-musicians - Gitika Partington & Kirsty McGee. Between them they have clocked up more than 20 album releases. Together, they weave a shimmering, gossamer music that is somehow more than the sum of its individual players.. Here they chat to Mike about their debut album.2024-02-2354 min
SleeveNotes # with Mike KennedyCatherine ElmsCatherine is a dark pop singer-songwriter whose music is introspective and fierce in equal measure, drawing on the raw emotion of Tori Amos and the brash power of PJ Harvey. A self-taught pianist with heavy rock sensibilities, Catherine creates an epic and transcendent sound described as “dark and lush”, “immersive and captivating”, and “not for the faint of heart”. In this episode she chats to Mike about her influences, working with The Dresden Dolls and gives a rare insight into her music.2024-02-1457 min
SleeveNotes # with Mike KennedyPhil RyanBorn in Port Talbot, Ryan played trombone in the National Youth Orchestra but his rock career started in 1964 when he formed the Port Talbot/Neath band The Smokestacks, with John Hockin, Gary Pickford-Hopkins, Peter Randal and Gerald Trolley. He found fame with The Eyes Of Blue but also worked with Man, Neutrons, Piblokto and Pete Brown over a long and successful career. Mike caught up with him to talk about his long and varied career when he visited his hometown from Denmark. Phil sadly passed away aged 69 in 2016.2024-02-141h 56
SleeveNotes # with Mike KennedyAaron BadgleyAs a youngster, Aaron Badgley developed a profound love of The Beatles and music in general, also developing a fascination with record labels. At the age of 19, he started working in radio and by 20, he was a production manager for a number of stations in Canada. In 2005, Aaron debuted his syndicated radio show The Beatles Universe, which ran for six years. Currently, he is the host of Here Today and Backwards Traveller radio shows and cohosts From Memphis To Merseyside and The Way-Back Music Machine (with Tony Stuart). He writes for Spill Magazine and Immersive Audio Album, and has also...2024-02-121h 00
SleeveNotes # with Mike KennedyAliens Don’t Ring DoorbellsAliens Don't Ring Doorbells comprise Dorian Foyil (guitar, sax, backing & lead vocals), Adam King (lead, backing vocals) and Mark Boden (keyboards, backing vocals). The band took their outlandish name from a conversation Foyil recalled witnessing between an old man and Foyil’s (then) six year old son on a New York subway platform a number of years ago: the old man appeared to be talking to himself until he turned to the boy and said, “it’s because aliens don’t ring doorbells.” To the guys in the band, the phrase ‘aliens don’t ring doorbells’ has some ring of truth to it and...2024-02-0627 min
SleeveNotes # with Mike KennedyAlba“A smoky, soulful voice, provocative lyrics, and extraordinary guitar playing make her one of the most talented musicians in this generation" - Never Enough MusicThe Spanish-born and London-living artist has developed a timelessly classic yet fresh sound with undertones of neo-soul, funk and R&B, inspired by the likes of John Mayer, Joss Stone, Eric Clapton and Alicia Keys. She’s a passionate environmental campaigner and likes to use her music to make a difference and speak up about social and climate issues and has joined forces with several non-profit organisations to raise funds and awareness around climate chan...2024-02-0638 min
SleeveNotes # with Mike KennedyEllie JonesEllie Jones is a lover of Jazz and swing standards and performs with Gary Phillips (Guitar), Paul Smith (Drums) & Alun Vaughan (Bass) as Ellie Jones Jazz ! In this show she tells Mike all about her love of music, late start and terrible stage fright - we just can’t wait for an official release from this hugely talented lady !2024-02-0647 min
SleeveNotes # with Mike KennedyAlonza BevanAlonza Bevan is the English bassist for Kula Shaker - although he has strong links to Wales (and probably identifies as Welsh tbf !) When Kula Shaker split in 1999 and before reforming in 2004, Bevan played in a number of groups including Johnny Marr's band, The Healers as well as forming Tumblewild with his wife and former Mediæval Bæbes singer Audrey Evans, and released the 7" and digital download single "Sinnerman", he also produced The Stanfords self-titled debut album.In this episode, Alonza chats to Mike about Kula Shaker’s new album, Natural Magick, touring and future plans for the band2024-02-0645 min
SleeveNotes # with Mike KennedyViolet MaliceViolet Malice is a performer and writer of comedy and poetry. She also produces bad videos, dances, prances and blitzes her way through life. Mike caught up with her to talk about her groundbreaking performance poetry and the challenges faced as she pushes some buttons.2024-01-2758 min
SleeveNotes # with Mike KennedyThe KorgisJames Warren, John Baker & Al Steele chat to Mike about their latest album Kartoon World. Originally formed in Bath in the 1970’s the band is perhaps best known for their worldwide smash hits ‘Everybody’s Gotta Learn Sometime’, ‘If I Had You’ and ‘Young n’Russian’.2024-01-271h 00
SleeveNotes # with Mike KennedyKula ShakerKula Shaker’s Crispian Mills & Alonza Bevan join Mike to chat about their sixth album, ‘1st Congregational Church of Eternal Love and Free Hugs’. They came to prominence during the Post-Britpop era of the late 1990s and enjoyed huge commercial success notching up a number of Top Ten Hits before disbanding in 1999 before reforming five years later.2024-01-2751 min
SleeveNotes # with Mike KennedyDana Jean PhoenixDana Jean Phoenix the Canadian synthwave singer-songwriter and musical theatre actress joins Mike to talk about her career to date, touring the world and why she’s settling in Wales !2024-01-2258 min
SleeveNotes # with Mike KennedyDany HorowitzDany is a Toronto-based singer-songwriter whose music is infused with modern takes on familiar melodies, with melodic guitar and piano chords, popping bass licks, and toe-tapping percussion. Mike caught up with Dany to chat about his songs and what inspired him to follow a career in music.2024-01-2255 min
SleeveNotes # with Mike KennedySandi ThomSandi Thom became widely known in 2006 after her debut single, "I Wish I Was a Punk Rocker (With Flowers in My Hair)", topped the UK Singles Chart in June of that year, as well as in Australia and Ireland. The single became the biggest-selling single of 2006 in Australia, where it spent ten weeks at the top of the ARIA Singles Chart. Always known as a trailblazer, Sandi is also a staunch supporter of animal welfare and virtually parked her career to set up a sanctuary in the Middle East but now she’s back with an amazingly beautiful new single ca...2024-01-2249 min
SleeveNotes # with Mike KennedyAjay MathurEclectic, grounded and always surprising - that's how the extraordinary trademark sound of Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter Ajay Mathur can be described. A musical cosmopolitan and smooth shifter between the stylistic worlds, the Swiss by choice with Indian roots chatted with Mike about his fifth longplayer "Talking Loud" probably one of the most multifaceted albums of the year!2024-01-211h 02
SleeveNotes # with Mike KennedyChris AmooThe Real Thing were formed in Toxteth the 1970s and charted internationally with their song "You to Me Are Everything", which reached No. 1 on the UK Singles Chart. They also had successes with a string of British hits such as "Can't Get By Without You" and "Can You Feel the Force?". They returned to mainstream success in 1986 with the Decade Remix of "You to Me Are Everything". By number of sales, they were the most successful black rock/soul act in the UK during the 1970’s. Mike caught up with Chris to talk about the band’s conti...2024-01-181h 03
SleeveNotes # with Mike KennedyRitchie BlackmoreDeep Purples' Ritchie Blackmore and his wife Candice Night chat with Mike about their, then, current album - Nature’s Light. This one was full of surprises and a genuine Welsh Connection as Ritchie’s father was born in Cardiff and his grandfather was from Swansea !2024-01-181h 05
Finneytown WildcatsPBL Showcase and Graduation LivestreamsMike Kennedy and Eric Muchmore talk about two upcoming events - the FSC Project-Based Learning Showcase and Graduation. Mike and Eric talk about the risks involved with hosting such large events, in addition to the excitement around live-streaming both. 2023-05-2220 minFinneytown WildcatsAn Old Dog with New TricksCan't teach an old dog new tricks? Finneytown Secondary Campus math teacher, Phil Farr, has turned one of his favorite sayings on its head through his work designing project-based learning experiences this school year. Hear Mr. Farr share the story of his growth as a result of the risks he's taken this year through his partnerships with PBL facilitators, Mike Kennedy and Mike Rosa. 2023-05-0126 minFinneytown WildcatsSeason 3 RecapMike Kennedy and Eric Muchmore recap some of their favorite moments with our guests who joined them for the third season of The Finneytown Wildcats Podcast, themed, "I'm Possible." Listen as they take you back to the clips that struck them from this past season and the stories around them.2023-03-2020 minFinneytown WildcatsCold Calls to Four AlumniShelby Hatton, Donovan Clark, Javiahn Coates, and Jack Isphording answer Eric Muchmore and Mike Kennedy's phone calls to share what they are currently achieving as graduates of Finneytown Secondary Campus. 2023-02-2039 min
Finneytown WildcatsSeason Three Kickoff of the Finneytown Wildcats Podcast - "I'm Possible"Mike Kennedy and Eric Muchmore preview the third season of the official podcast of Finneytown Local School District. They share the story of how the third season's theme came to be, in addition to discussing the overall development of the podcast since it first launched. 2023-01-2925 min
Business Mastery Podcast77. "What Happened Inside Convoy Road Coffee Roasters in 2022?" With Mike KennedySend us a textDawn talks with her husband, Mike, the founder and roast master of Convoy Road Coffee Roasters, about their business in 2022. Mike and Dawn were met with numerous personal challenges and a few tragedies in 2022 but overcame them all to still achieve 74% growth in just their second year in business. Dawn offers tips throughout the conversation that every small business can benefit from. In this episode…A milestone achieved in January 2022. (1:41). A strategic move in February 2022 that paid dividends nicely. (2:33).Tip #1. (3:22). March 2022 brought with it the f...2023-01-1133 min