Shows
Before The ChorusKilo Kish on 'Negotiations', & the tension between art & industryOn Kilo Kish's 'Negotiations', robotic soundscapes mirror the transactional, 'churned-out' side of the music industry. She asks "what am I worth?" - not to an unforgiving business model, but to herself. In this interview, we discuss this tension, & the importance of art on one's own terms.
Find Kilo Kish on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/7lsnwlX6puQ7lcpSEpJbZE?si=LkhaVZsZTs-7Xaky7StGSA
On Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/kilo-kish/487657156
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kilokish/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kilokish
2025-07-2130 min
Before The ChorusLIVE: Before the Chorus & Open Folk Present: In These Lines feat. Gaby Moreno, Lily Kershaw & James SpaiteOn June 25th 2025, in collaboration with Open Folk, we presented our first ever live interview event in Los Angeles. As Open Folk put it: "In These Lines is a live event where three artists each bring one song — not just to perform, but to explore. They sit down with Sofia Loporcaro, host of Before The Chorus, to talk about where the song came from, what it meant to write it, and what it still holds. Then they play it. Just the song, and the truth behind it."
Find Open Folk on Instagram: @openfolkla
...2025-07-1533 min
Before The ChorusBenét on 'Make 'Em Laugh', & writing through heartbreak as it's happeningBenét writes songs while in the eye of life's storms. Because of this, his lyrics are raw & visceral, bringing us right to the core of what he's been feeling. 'Make 'Em Laugh' is no exception - through songs of heartbreak & self-examination, we're taken on a journey of healing, & just plain trying to figure life out.
Find Benét on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/05YfgfbZtY7XRjc7So1DGB?si=FYz7irNwQVChvixvbAdJrg
On Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/ben%C3%A9t/56685750
Instagram: https://www.instagram.co...2025-07-0733 min
Before The ChorusDaisy The Great on 'The Rubber Teeth Talk' & making songs out of dreamsDaisy The Great's 'The Rubber Teeth Talk' takes us on a winding road through dream states. Amongst these dreams, real questions occur: "Have I accomplished enough?" "Am I behind?" "Will everything be okay in the end?" Dreams, as they often do, become a vessel for processing reality. In this interview, we talk about the band's weirdest recurring dreams, & trusting the path they take you down.
Find Daisy The Great on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0SrIPejckovMwhrN3MZFPB?si=oo3x1isKSbKKxv0kJ4nXNg
On Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us...2025-06-3044 min
Before The ChorusMRCY on 'VOLUME 2', the spirituality of soul, & dancing through darknessMRCY's ' VOLUME 2' is a celebration of life that never gets preachy. Rooted in soul music, it sanctifies the human experience in all of its good & bad. In this interview, we speak about the power of soul, life's unanswered questions, & so much more.
Find MRCY on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/4fHvJqxNjCIVcJekRTHoVh?si=G2OdpBw0R5SzqHZfIXNlEw
On Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/pl/artist/mrcy/1725388761
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mrcy.mrcy.mrcy/?hl=en
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mrcy.mrcy.mrcy.mrcy...2025-06-0930 min
Before The ChorusAdam Melchor on 'The Diary of Living' & finding optimism in upheavalAdam Melchor's latest album, 'The Diary of Living', balances honesty with levity. He talks about friends who passed away too young, missed connections, & trying to find meaning among all of it. In the end, the record encourages us to forgive ourselves & live life to the fullest
Find Adam on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/54tv11ndFfiqXiR03PwdlB?si=a27HBHw2TEKL4JMcd50GGA
On Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/adam-melchor/849341905
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adammelchor/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@adammelchor?lang=en2025-06-0245 min
Before The ChorusRose Betts on 'There Is No Ship', looking to the past & running towards adventureOn 'There Is No Ship', Rose Betts uses her Irish heritage as a vehicle for storytelling. It documents the life of an artist in her thirties: what it means to choose a different path than your peers, moving countries, the vices we use to escape our troubles, even modern dating.
Find Rose on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/3DYAP9CXyfNiM2nlu09w4i?si=tcNDgED0Rb-5mO4uS27dUg
On Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/rose-betts/421094349
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rosebettsmusic/?hl=en
...2025-05-1933 min
Before The ChorusAlisa Xayalith on 'Slow Crush', the power of healthy love, & finding her own creative voiceOn 'Slow Crush', her debut LP, Alisa Xayalith takes us through a scrapbook of love stories. Some are about infatuation, toxic relationships & heartbreak. Others are about the kind of love that makes you feel seen & wholeheartedly loved. And after yers of being in a band, Alisa finally gets to tell these stories herself.
Find Alisa on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/6yI9BJNdoOE6vjbZGoGyGz?si=oEvP7NJUS6Oopc58PADK4A
On Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/alisa-xayalith/278307610
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alisaxayalith/?hl=en
2025-05-1238 min
Before The ChorusMotherhood - Five artists on the often-overlooked parts of pregnancy & motherhood, & putting those stories to musicDespite being an often-overlooked topic in music, motherhood has come up in several of my interviews, & has served as inspiration for several albums. Though I’m not a mother myself, these women’s diverse stories have been so inspiring to me - they challenge tropes of motherhood, & get honest about its high & lows.
Artists featured: Yukimi, Wet, Niambi, The Big Moon, Lady Wray
Subscribe: https://beforethechorus.bio.to/listen
Sign up for our newsletter: https://www.beforethechorus.com/
Follow on Instagram: @beforethechoruspodcast & @soundslikesofia
About the podcast: W...2025-05-0537 min
Before The ChorusRE-ISSUE: Julien Baker on ‘Little Oblivions’, relapse, sobriety, & not externalizing GodIt’s been a busy spring for Julien Baker: she just released a collaborative album with Torres, ‘Send A Prayer My Way’ & announced her relationship with boygenius bandmate Lucy Dacus. Given all that, it seemed like a great time to re-issue my conversation with her from back in 2021. We talked about her last solo record, ‘Little Oblivions’, OCD, addiction & relapse, spirituality, & tons more. Her honesty throughout this conversation is why it remains one of my favourite interviews I’ve done, & one that has also resonated with a lot of you.Find Julien on Spotify: https://open...2025-04-2155 min
Before The ChorusWet on ‘Two Lives’, anticipating motherhood, & singing from the subconsciousThe writing process of ‘Two Lives’ began right as Kelly Zutrau, aka Wet, discovered that she was pregnant. As she processed the news, she let her subconscious to the talking, not filtering or polishing the words she found herself singing. Because of this, ‘Two Lives’ is an incredibly cerebral, raw record that demands to be felt, not just heard.Find Wet on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/2i9uaNzfUtuApAjEf1omV8?si=e9e6eZmYSEqz2SvMTvhCGgOn Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/wet/128746835Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wet...2025-04-1425 min
Before The ChorusSYML on 'Nobody Lives Here', life's transient nature & loving yourself through itOn 'Nobody Lives Here', SYML sings about the transience of life with solemn acceptance. Things end, and we have to pick up and begin again. But the album also reminds us: even through endings, we can learn to love ourselves again.Be sure to listen to 'Nobody Lives Here' wherever you stream or buy your music!Find SYML on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/6AyATGg7mDgBlZ4N5uNog0?si=5cWG2ERLQKOoSIyKbIAfjgOn Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/syml/1078016819Instagram: https://www...2025-04-0739 min
You Wanted a Hit!Nada Surf "Popular" (w/ Sofia Loporcaro)Michael tells the story of the New York City alternative rock band's 1996 sarcastic, spoken-word singalong. Podcaster and music journalist Sofia Loporcaro joins the conversation. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2025-04-011h 22
Before The ChorusYukimi on 'For You', feeling your feelings, & imagining better futures as a first step towards changeYukimi Nagano, long known as the frontperson of Little Dragon, came on the podcast to discuss her debut solo album 'For You'. The album is a beacon of both hope and acceptance, reminding us to hold onto our inner light, but that needing a good cry is okay too.Be sure to listen to 'For You' wherever you stream or buy your music!Find Yukimi on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/album/5J4McIA9reqqfM5nopbWHC?si=qCdHxQlQTG68KcV6EOd8SwOn Apple Music: https://music.apple...2025-03-3144 min
Before The ChorusAbout You on 'The Lighthouse, The Storm', a debut record six years in the making, & sharing different people's stories, including his ownAbout You's 'The Lighthouse, The Storm' is an album of stories. Some were sent to him by friends, fans & strangers. Others are his own. In all of them, we get a vivid glimpse into deep human emotions, & the universal experience of longing for connection.Be sure to listen to 'The Lighthouse, The Storm' when it comes out this summer!Find About You on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/7sOJEMeZc3dgr8JIFtXyYW?si=1GyoAK7GTMK5mjfLCm3abQOn Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/about-you/14405525732025-03-2452 min
Before The ChorusTOKiMONSTA on 'Eternal Reverie', finding her love of music again & honouring her friend after their passing'Eternal Reverie''s is the fruit of TOKiMONSTA changing her creative process & healing from burnout. Its 14 tracks are both a journal of joy & of grief; they serve as a tribute to her best friend, who passed away from cancer last year, & who, in many ways, is woven into them.Be sure to listen to 'Eternal Reverie' wherever you stream or buy your music!Find TOKiMONSTA on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/3VwKSHAfgzV1DOHV0aANCIOn Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/tokimonsta/363141093Instagram...2025-03-1751 min
Before The ChorusDivorce on ‘Drive to Goldenhammer’, earnestness in songwriting, & finding comfort on the roadDivorce blend the earnestness of country & folk with off-kilter headiness of indie rock. On their debut record 'Drive to Goldenhammer', they reflect on life on the road, long-distance relationships, queer identity, & the ways we care for others.Be sure to listen to 'Drive to Goldenhammer' wherever you stream or buy your music!Find Divorce on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0YMVzWF9HWGbV4DZHfCyKo?si=Uu14n-51Q_GZdZUJs48fhgOn Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/divorce/1608076649Instagram: https://www.instagram.com...2025-03-101h 07
Before The ChorusRE-ISSUE: Self Esteem on relationship & band breakups, queerness, & finding freedom in pop musicWith her third album, 'A Complicated Woman', coming out next month, I wanted to revisit my first interview with Self Esteem from 2020. It was pretty clear from the get-go that she was going to bulldoze the rules of pop, & she has - her unfiltered lyrics about female pleasure, queerness, heartbreak & more have garnered her a large & loyal fanbase, both in the UK & internationally. She has also been nominated for a Mercury Prize, appeared as a guest judge on RuPaul's Drag Race UK, & has starred in the West End production of Cabaret.Find Self Esteem...2025-03-0539 min
Before The ChorusThe February 2025 Recap: Sofia shares the music & the momentsSofia takes you through her month in the Los Angeles music scene, concert highlights, emerging artists & more.Events & Artists mentioned:Fine Folk: https://open.spotify.com/artist/6rVpawKdyzxZh9ZAPJbamg?si=7kna4es1S6u6R0fiCM_j7ARocko Wheeler: https://open.spotify.com/artist/2XOBzOx1k7DYB42TzHWT9Z?si=7lgx9dxPSJ-FQrBVmHPEogAndrew Bird: https://open.spotify.com/artist/4uSftVc3FPWe6RJuMZNEe9?si=5ShOHQOSQfix9SPHdt2oawAbout You: https://open.spotify.com/artist/7sOJEMeZc3dgr8JIFtXyYW?si=aQrrbCF9TIaCGxG2Nhbd9wTrousdale: https...2025-02-2711 min
Before The ChorusMichi on 'Dirty Talk', embracing the "messiness & dirtiness of life", & standing in your own lightMichi's debut LP 'Dirty Talk' is all about healing from past relationships, giving both yourself & former partners grace, & getting agency back. Most importantly, it reminds that this process is imperfect.Be sure to listen to 'Dirty Talk', out February 28th 2025, wherever you stream or buy your music!Find Michi on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/3Wpco0QNxrTY1Gnqo06J6P?si=0A9mRdUUTnyYM_HIqgL1JgOn Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/michi/1461424518Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michiguerrero/?hl=en2025-02-2443 min
Before The ChorusMichigander on 'Michigander', experiencing anxiety in his thirties & not wanting to be a person who resists changeOn his debut, self-titled record, Michigander runs through a gamut of questions. It reckons with the existential qualms around turning 30, how to let the people we love be imperfect, & speaking up for what you believe in, regardless of who it might alienate.Be sure to listen to 'Michigander' wherever you stream or buy your music!Find Michigander on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0oL26Dn9y761yfJgNb3vfuOn Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/michigander/1096482927Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michiganderband...2025-02-1751 min
Before The ChorusNilüfer Yanya on 'My Method Actor', whether art has to be authentic to be valid, & listening to your inner guideNilüfer Yanya's 'My Method Actor' gets existential over angular grooves. Each song asks a multitude of questions, often using the concept of method acting as a lens to explore them. We discuss the connections between reality & art, setting new boundaries, & learning to trust your inner voice.Be sure to listen to 'My Method Actor' wherever you stream or buy your music! And get tickets for her US tour HERE: https://www.victoriacanal.com/tourFind Nilüfer on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/09kXLeOXRyfNQMXRaDO4qA?si=__qS6h2KQF-yg_E6NR...2025-02-1036 min
Before The ChorusThe January 2025 Recap: Sofia shares the music & the moments that got her through the monthIt's no secret that January 2025 has been rough for Los Angeles (And the US as a whole), but there were a few good moments that kept me going. I'm sharing a few of them here!Events & Artists mentioned:Open Folk LA: https://www.instagram.com/openfolkla/?hl=enGilbert Louie Ray: https://open.spotify.com/artist/26UBas4xYeXIco2bWX3Xb5Plus, check out previous episodes featuring artists that I saw perform this past month:Madison Cunningham: https://open.spotify.com/episode/3dY5etz8...2025-02-0709 min
Before The ChorusVictoria Canal on ‘Slowly, It Dawns’, the poison of validation, & unraveling in your twentiesVictoria Canal’s debut record ‘Slowly, It Dawns’ is a tale of unraveling in your twenties. Moving from stories of puppy love to existential spirals, it lets us sit with the early adulthood’s turbulence.Be sure to listen to 'Slowly, It Dawns' wherever you stream or buy your music! And get tickets for her US tour HERE: https://www.victoriacanal.com/tourFind Victoria on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/2nE9x2JhbyjBVCaSnUGX3G?si=nmCJIGN_RJOWXbIk6DEcYgOn Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/victoria-canal/842683412Ins...2025-02-0343 min
Before The ChorusNiambi on 'Taboo', challenging tropes about motherhood, womanhood, & moreOn 'Taboo', Niambi (who you may know as one half of the duo OSHUN) asks the uncomfortable questions out loud. She challenges our society's rigid views of motherhood, womanhood, relationships, friendships, & so much more. The EP forces us to look within ourselves &, just maybe, break free from convention.Be sure to listen to 'Taboo', wherever you stream or buy your music!Find Niambi on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/18VjYL567PiS4rphPwzWA6?si=7daKauvLQJSKmlmcnqOMVQOn Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/au/artist/niambi/1729656842Instagram: https://www...2025-01-2743 min
Before The ChorusSofia Shares the Albums She's Excited for in 2025Over a four-part episode series, Sofia will be looking back on the music & memories of 2024, & looking forward to what 2025 has in store. On this episode, Sofia's shares the albums she's excited for in 2025.Albums mentioned:Ethel Cain - Perverts (Jan 8)Mon Rovia - Act 4: Atonement EP (Jan 10)Victoria Canal - Slowly, It Dawns (Jan 17)FKA twigs - EUSEXUA (Jan 24)The Weeknd - Hurry Up Tomorrow (Jan 24)Michigander - Michigander (Feb 7)Sharon Van Etten & The Attachment Theory - Sharon Van Etten...2024-12-2711 min
Before The ChorusSofia Shares Her Artists To Watch in 2025Over a four-part episode series, Sofia will be looking back on the music & memories of 2024, & looking forward to what 2025 has in store. On this episode, we turn our eyes to the new year with Sofia's Artists To Watch In 2025.Links to artists mentioned:Tin AngelApple: https://music.apple.com/gb/artist/tin-angel/1765244022Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/7L3LoOLdiZ6RM4NEsH84nJ?si=BnRYMmJPQFCP9fEytA2-SADivorceApple: https://music.apple.com/gb/artist/divorce/1608076649Spotify: https...2024-12-2315 min
Before The ChorusSofia Shares Her Favourite Music Memories From 2024Over a four-part episode series, Sofia will be looking back on the music & memories of 2024, & looking forward to what 2025 has in store. On this episode, she shares her favourite music memories from the past year.Links to events & artists mentioned:
Nu School Jamzz
Open Folk LA
The Beatle Jam
James Spaite (guitar teacher)
MICHELLE
Red Rum Club
Jamila Woods
Madison McFerrin
Night Talks
Robin Pecknold / Fleet Foxes
Subscribe: https://beforethechorus.bio.to/listenSign up for our newsletter: https://www.beforethechorus.com/...2024-12-1417 min
Before The ChorusSofia Shares Her Top 10 Albums of 2024Over a four-part episode series, Sofia will be looking back on the music & memories of 2024, & looking forward to what 2025 has in store. On this episode, she shares her eclectic AoTY list, & tells you why you should be listening to these incredible albums.Links to albums:
Empress Of - For Your Consideration
Orville Peck - Stampede
Orlando Weeks - LOJA
Clairo - Charm
MICHELLE - Songs About You Specifically
Abby Sage - The Rot
Paris Paloma - Cacophony
Fontaines D.C. - Romance
Nilüfer Yanya - My Method Actor
Griff - Vertigo
2024-12-1021 min
Before The ChorusThe July Recap!It's time for another one-on-one catchup! Sofia looks back on July's music news & personal highlights. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2024-08-0113 min
Before The ChorusThe June Recap!The Recap episodes are back! Sofia reflects on her favourite record & concerts from June 2024! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2024-07-1012 min
The New Exchange with Ken Grand-PierreSofia Loporcaro on the magic of Before the Chorus (Bonus)This is the last bonus episode of season 7 and to call it a special one feels like a massive understatement. Sofia Loporcaro is an award-winning radio host, producer, and podcaster based in Los Angeles who’s made being a music fan a full-time job. Her podcast, Before the Chorus, centers on exploring the emotional journeys of a songs inception to its release. In many ways, her podcast feels like a sister to my show, and we very much explore that throughout our chat. The best way to describe Sofia is to highlight what’s on her Instagram bio, which read...2024-05-2459 min
Before The ChorusThe April Recap!Sofia looks back on her favourite memories, releases, & gigs from April 2024! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2024-05-0115 min
Before The ChorusThe March Recap!Sofia shares her artist highlights from SXSW! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2024-04-0414 min
Before The ChorusThe February Recap!Sofia looks back on the highlights of February 2024, including her top new music releases, gig, & more! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2024-03-0417 min
Before The ChorusBonus Episode 1: Name 3 SongsSofia is joined by Sara Feigin & Jenna Million, hosts of Name 3 Songs for a chance to talk shop! The conversation covers everything from reclaiming the word 'fangirl', to swapping interview notes, our local music scenes & much more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2024-02-291h 13
Name 3 SongsThe Divide Of Mega Stars And Mid Tier Musicians + Charli XCX’s Struggle For Anti-Pop Stardom (With Before The Chorus)This week on Name 3 Songs we’re joined by special guest Sofia Loporcaro from Before the Chorus podcast. (PS Find Name 3 Songs on a special episode of Before the Chorus!) Sofia weighs in on this week’s hot topics including…⚡ Fangirl Nonsense: We can’t stop thinking about Fleetwood Mac’s 1997 performance of “Silver Springs” with Stevie Nicks putting a hex on Lindsey Buckingham. 2007 Hot Topic core is apparently well and alive thanks to Jake Webber and Johnnie Gilbert and they’re bringing big internet names like Trisha Paytas and Hasan Piker with them on their missed to...2024-02-281h 04
Before The ChorusThe January 2024 Recap!Sofia looks back on the first month of year, sharing her favourite new releases AND some of yours! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2024-02-0521 minBefore The ChorusSofia Shares Her Album Tips For 2024In this 4-episode series, Sofia looks back at the music that moved her this year, & looks forward to 2024. Up third: albums to watch our for in 2024. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2023-12-2717 min
Before The ChorusSofia Shares Her Artists To Watch In 2024In this 4-episode series, Sofia looks back at the music that moved her this year, & looks forward to 2024. Up third: artists to watch in 2024. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2023-12-2021 min
Before The ChorusSofia Shares Her Favourite Albums of 2023In this 4-episode series, Sofia looks back at the music that moved her this year, & looks forward to 2024. Up second: her favourite albums of 2023. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2023-12-1423 min
Before The ChorusSofia Shares Her Favourite Concerts & Music Memories of 2023In this 4-episode series, Sofia looks back at the music that moved her this year, & looks forward to 2024. Up first: her favourite concerts & music memories of 2023. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2023-12-0623 min
Before The ChorusPondPond are a psychedelic rock band from Perth. On their 9th album (aptly named ‘9’), they took a mostly insular approach, drawing on personal experiences and niche interests for lyrical themes. Frontman Nick Albrook wanted the album to be lengthly and sprawling, but in a democratic vote amongst band members, they decided to cap it at 9 tracks. This is where the Deluxe Edition comes in: with 4 new songs added to the tracklist, Nick and I go through all 12 songs in depth. So buckle in. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2022-05-301h 21
Before The ChorusPoppy AjudhaPoppy Ajudha is a London-based solo artist. She has been making a name for herself in the London music scene for years, and in 2022, she has finally released her debut album The Power In Us. On this record, Poppy fiercely takes on a breadth of social issues, like abortion bans, feminism, immigration bans, mental health and more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2022-04-2548 min
Before The ChorusLady WrayLady Wray is a solo artist based in Atlanta. She has had a long career in the world of RnB & Hip-Hop, and has experienced her fair share of highs and lows. Her latest record Piece of Me offers raw insight into her life, career, faith & the all-encompassing love she has for her daughter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2022-04-1127 min
Before The ChorusFana HuesFana Hues is a RnB artist based in Los Angeles. Her new album flora + fana is as refreshingly botanical as it is dizzyingly psychedelic. More importantly, it’s a beautiful scrapbook of musings on heartbreak, sex, situationships, & the growth that comes with them. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2022-03-2847 min
Pick A DiscSleep Well Beast: The National with Sofia LoporcaroThe relatability of songs, the soundtrack to life and the description of the smallest of moments are just small fractions of what is covered in this episode where Matt talks to Sofia Loporcaro from the Before the Chorus podcast about The National's "Sleep Well Beast". Host: Matt LathamGuest: Sofia Loporcaro (Before the Chorus)Listen to Before the Chorus and other things Sofia is involved in here:https://www.beforethechorus.com/Follow us on Twitter, Facebook & Instagram: @PickADisc.Email us at pickadisc@gmail.com.Pick A Disc(Ord): https...2022-03-011h 29
Before The ChorusMetronomyMetronomy are a wonky pop 5-piece from the UK. They’ve been a major indie staple in their homeland for over a decade, & it’s really no wonder why - their unique approach to pop is more than meets the ear, encompassing an eclectic concoction of other genres. Their latest record, Small World is no exception: you’ll hear indietronica rubbing shoulders with alternative rock, dream pop, & more. And it all soundtracks a hopeful message, which we’ll be discussing in this episode. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2022-02-2150 min
Before The ChorusPalacePalace are a London-based indie four-piece. Their third full-length album, Shoals, is a meditation on fear - something we all struggle to come to terms with. Backed by an ethereal soundtrack, frontman Leo Wyndham takes us through his journey towards befriending the unknown - from his first interactions with fear to finding solace in human connection. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2022-02-0736 min
Before The ChorusSloppy JaneSloppy Jane is an artist based in New York City. Her latest record, Madison, is a concept album through and through - amongst other things, she recorded it 120 feet below ground in a West Virginian cave. The record explores the theme of unrequited love, and basks in all of its blue-washed melodrama. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2022-01-2436 min
Before The ChorusMunyaMunya is a solo artist, originally from Saguenay, Quebec. Like many people during the pandemic, she found herself needing an escape - so she began writing. The result was an album filled with space-themed songs, made to take the listener on an intergalactic journey. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2021-12-1325 min
Before The ChorusNation of LanguageNation of Language are a trio from Brooklyn, New York. Despite close comparisons to OMD, New Order & Kraftwerk, the band have managed to carve out an original sound. Their use of synthesizers is emotive & visceral, easily morphing from song to song. Their new record A Way Forward, spans the cold sounds of a concrete jungle to the euphoria of new love. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2021-11-0836 min
Before The ChorusSelf EsteemBack in 2019, Rebecca Lucy Taylor released Compliments Please, her debut solo album under the moniker Self Esteem. She has now returned with Prioritize Pleasure, another album celebrating emotional growth, sexual freedom, healing, & queer expression. She joined me way back on Episode 3 to discuss the first record, so it is a joy to have her back now. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2021-10-2536 min
Before The ChorusMr. Jukes & Barney ArtistMr. Jukes & Barney Artist is the collaborative project between two of London’s brightest musicians. Mr. Jukes, aka Jack Steadman, is a solo jazz artist, as well as the frontman of Bombay Bicycle Club. Barney is a rapper from East London whose style is a blend of 90s era rap - think A Tribe Called Quest & Wu-Tang Clan - and jazz. Both artists frequently collaborate with their friends in the London jazz scene, so collaborating on an album came naturally to them. On ‘The Locket’, they hope to spread a little joy, and remind us all to hold onto the th...2021-08-1623 min
Before The ChorusHer's Tribute with Saam JafarzadehHer’s was a duo from Liverpool, comprised of Stephen Fitzpatrick and Audun Laading. Their fans loved them for their silly antics, beautiful friendship, and most importantly, their stylish yet deeply tender songs. As the third anniversary of their debut album “Invitation to Her’s” approaches, I wanted to look back on the beautiful music they made, and the wonderful people that they were. Because I did not know them well, I am joined by someone who did: Saam Jafarzadeh, their dear friend and producer of their debut album. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit me...2021-08-0947 min
Hip Hop Orchestra PresentsEpisode 90: Ft. Sofia Loporcaro (Radio Host and Podcaster)*SPONSOR*We are SO excited to announce that we have Official Sponsorship from a truly incredible company in Odin's Vault, a dedicated company who only provide the very best officially licensed Pop Culture Merchandise, from Funko Pops to T Shirts, DC Comics to Marvel, you want it? Then over RIGHT NOW to Odin's Vault - Website Below:https://odinsvault.co.uk/Welcome to Episode 90 of the Hip Hop Orchestra Presents PodcastIn this Episode, we are introduced to the absolutely INCREDIBLE Multi Award Winning Radio Host and Podcaster Sofia Loporcaro2021-07-2346 min
Before The ChorusEliza ShaddadEliza Shaddad is a Sudanese-Scottish artist. Her sound is equal parts gritty grunge and soft folk, and she pens her lyrics with unabashed transparency. On ‘The Woman You Want’, Eliza writes about the lows of lockdown, new marriage, and pushing against the expectations that others put on her. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2021-07-1930 min
Before The ChorusDrug Store RomeosDrug Stores Romeos are a trio from Fleet in the UK. For their debut album ‘the world within our bedrooms’, they’ve offered up a slice of escapism, thanks to their cushiony sonic worlds. We get to wander through subconscious thoughts & unpack the world around us from a safe emotional distance, tucked away in the safe space of one’s own bedroom. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2021-07-0535 min
Before The ChorusSandunesSandunes is a composer, producer and pianist from Mumbai, India. She has been making mostly instrumental music for years, but lately she has been drawn to the emotional power of the human voice. This has been especially important for her latest EP ‘ Nowhere to Stand’, which explores the fears & questions surrounding change. On the EP, she explores both her own relationship with change, and that of the four guest vocalists who feature on it. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2021-06-2127 min
Before The ChorusJapanese BreakfastMichelle Zauner, better known as Japanese Breakfast, is a Brooklyn-based solo artist. After writing two albums made to help process grief - ‘Psychopomp’ & ‘Soft Sounds from Another Planet’ - she felt that she deserved to finally write about joy. On ‘Jubilee’, she explores joy from all angles, from chasing it to the experience of it. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2021-06-0723 min
Before The ChorusBillie MartenBillie Marten is a solo artist currently based in London. Throughout her teen years, she became a rising star of UK indie folk. But until recently, she never explicitly wrote about herself, obscuring meaning behind poeticized lyrics. On “Flora Fauna” however, she has chosen to face herself directly, both celebrating the growth she has experienced, & readying herself for the growth that comes next. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2021-05-2438 min
Before The ChorusSmall BlackSmall Black are a chillwave four-piece from New York City. Frontman Josh Kolenik has called several parts of the Tri State Area home, having grown up on Long Island and now residing in Brooklyn. Between moving around & the recent loss of his uncle, a surfboard shaper and local fixture on Long Island, Josh has been reflecting on what it means to live a fulfilling life. It is this question that has largely shaped the band’s new album, Cheap Dreams. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2021-05-0343 min
Before The ChorusFlyteFlyte are a three-piece band based in London, known for their tight harmonies & brilliant, near-perfect instrumentation. On ‘This Is Really Going to Hurt’, they intentionally dropped some of their usual polish; frontman Will had come out of an 8-year relationship, & was writing his most vulnerable songs to date. The resulting record is a true gut-punch, powerfully taking us through the pain of endings, & the healing that comes after them. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2021-04-1944 min
Before The ChorusJulien BakerJulien Baker is an artist from Memphis Tennessee. She is known for both her solo work, & as a member of the bands Forrister & boygenius. Her 2015 record Sprained Ankle rose her to fame with its gut-wrenchingly honest songwriting. On Little Oblivions, her third full-length album, Julien explores themes of addiction & relapse, mental health & faith, never mincing her words. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2021-04-0552 min
Before The ChorusNuha Ruby RaNuha Ruby Ra is a London-based experimental artist, with roots in sound art & avant-punk music. For her debut EP, she took the ups & downs of an unhealthy relationship & fashioned them into a powerful journey. How To Move is a raw, visceral, complete record that shows that while the healing process is never perfect, we can emerge with new resilience. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2021-03-2237 min
Before The ChorusGenesis OwusuGenesis Owusu is a Ghanian-Australian artist, currently based in Canberra. He has an affinity for genre-stretching sounds & storytelling; because of this, his music is full of colour & complexity. On his debut album ‘Smiling With No Teeth’, he explores the interconnectedness of depression & racism - two things that have greatly impacted his life. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2021-03-0833 min
Before The ChorusClaudClaud is a solo artist based in Los Angeles. Blending elements of dream pop, indie & more, their music is as refreshingly bright as it is warm & introspective. On their debut album Super Monster, they show that growth isn’t an easy, linear process; it’s okay to fall on your face, & overcoming things does’t happen overnight. In time, we all fall into place. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2021-02-2221 min
Before The Chorusclipping.clipping. are an experimental rap trio currently based out of Los Angeles, California. Their last two albums, 'There Existed an Addiction to Blood' & 'Visions of Bodies Being Burned', draw heavy influence from horrorcore, a niche genre of rap from the 90s. However, where horrorcore was often campy, clipping. goes visceral, making fully-fledged horror films for your ears. I am joined now by the three members of the group to discuss the second of the aforementioned records, Visions of Bodies Being Burned. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2021-02-081h 15
Before The ChorusBEYRIESBEYRIES is a bilingual solo artist from Montreal Canada. She is passionate about the things that connect us, and this is what she centres her writing around. When her songs are released, she happily lets them evolve, allowing listeners find their own meanings in her music. This was a very different conversation than most of the ones I’ve had on this podcast. That being said, it’s a great reminder that meaning isn’t static, and that an artist’s role in shaping meaning can vary. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adcho2020-12-0731 min
Before The ChorusHelena DelandHelena Deland is a solo artist based in Montreal, Canada. Over the past four years, she has released multiple EPs, and even appeared on JPEGMAFIA’s ‘All My Heroes Are Cornballs’. Her debut album Someone New, which was released last month, explores the struggle between idealization and reality, femininity, and asking for what we need from friends and lovers alike. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2020-11-1629 min
Before The ChorusLocal NativesLocal Natives are a five-piece group from Los Angeles. For over a decade, they’ve been a respected indie staple, blending folk-esque harmonies & storytelling with indie guitars & bright choruses. Their albums are meticulously planned & thought out; while this yields great results, it can get pretty tiring. So this time, they decided to try something different: release a short EP, highlighting four songs that never fit into an album, but needed to be heard. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2020-11-0229 min
Before The ChorusFuture IslandsFuture Islands are a four-piece based in Baltimore, Maryland. Their epic hooks & soul-wrenching lyrics helped them skyrocket to fame back in 2014, with the release of their song Seasons and their fourth album Singles. Their sixth studio album, As Long As You Are forces you to feel things just as deeply. Now, while this makes its heartbreaking moments quite palpable, it also means that the joyous parts are monumental. Like, so joyful you might spread your arms and try to fly even though you clearly can’t. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/ad...2020-10-1950 min
Before The ChorusCut WormsMax Clarke, better known as Cut Worms, is a solo artist based in Brooklyn, New York. He is both drawn to and heavily critical of the past; while the American songbook provides inspiration to his writing, he worries that people tend to romanticize the past, glossing over its glaring problems. His new double LP ‘Nobody Lives Here Anymore’ explores this dichotomy in depth, using the very images that define traditional Americana to examine it. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2020-10-1227 min
Before The ChorusBullyBully is the project of now-solo artist Alicia Bognanno. Her third album SUGAREGG is all about letting go and embracing reality, even when the process of doing so isn’t perfect. With its message shouted through wailing guitars and well, literal shouting, the album provides catharsis and release for both the listener and for Alicia herself. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2020-09-2129 min
Before The ChorusKay YoungKay Young is a solo artist & producer based in London. While she’s been making music for a while, cutting her teeth at the same time as Jessie J & Ed Sheeran, she has been in an especially fruitful creative period for the past two years. After a hiatus allowed her to reset & experience life outside the industry, Kay returned to her writing re-energized & with plenty on her mind. On Middle Matters, she details finding peace in her passion, Faith, & following the path that she feels called to. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm...2020-09-0728 min
Before The ChorusOscar JeromeOscar Jerome is a staple member of the London jazz scene. In addition to being part of the collective KOKOROKO & appearing on many friends' projects, he’s a solo artist with his own brilliant work. His debut album, Breathe Deep, builds a rich sonic world, while speaking out about social greed and the treatment of refugees, and celebrating the love of family. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2020-08-1737 min
Before The ChorusGlass AnimalsGlass Animals are internationally loved for their genreless, often cheeky songs. They’ve never hesitated to work against the grain: they went weird and murky on their first album Zaba, told anecdotes about homemade characters on How To Be a Human Being. But Dave, the band’s frontman, never told his own stories out of insecurity; until now. Their third album Dreamland weaves through stories of a childhood in rural Texas, later years in Oxford and London, and a range of experiences from questions of masculinity to late-night hookups. Learn more about your ad choices. Visi...2020-08-1040 min
Before The ChorusAnother SkyAnother Sky are a London-based four piece, comprised of Catrin Vincent, Jack Gilbert, Naomi Le Dune, and Max Doohan. Their songs manage to be anthemic and urgent, tender and vulnerable at the same time. Which makes sense; they see the ways in which mental health and the state of the world are interwoven, often leaving our generation in a state of overwhelm. I Slept on the Floor, the band’s debut album, covers the many ills of the modern world, offering a sense of hope through each call to action. Learn more about your ad ch...2020-07-271h 06
Before The ChorusGordiGordi is a solo artist, originally from Canowindra, Australia. She’s been championed by the likes of Bon Iver, and it’s no wonder why: her songwriting cuts to the bone. Her sophomore album, Our Two Skins, is Gordi in her most radically honest form. Each song paints a vivid, raw picture of the album’s themes, from mental health and questions of sexuality to love and acceptance. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2020-06-2233 min
Before The ChorusMystery JetsMystery Jets are a three-piece indie band from London, who first made a name for themselves over a decade ago. Approaching their sixth studio album, lead singer Blaine Harrison found himself amidst the turmoil of post-Brexit London. While living around the corner from Trafalgar Square, Blaine weaved himself into the crowds of the EU rallies, the Extinction Rebellion, even far-right groups like Britain First and the National Defence League. The album birthed from this period, A Billion Heartbeats, navigates through all of the problems that both unite and separate us, reminding us that we all need to fight for c...2020-05-1148 min
Before The ChorusEquiknoxxEquiknoxx are a collective based in Kingston, Jamaica. They are comprised of Gavborg, Shanique Marie, Time Cow, Kemikal, and Bobby Blackbird. Over the last decade or so, they have woven through genre after genre. They first cut their teeth as dancehall producers, and later folded their wide range of influences into their music. I have Gav, Shanique, and Nick aka Bobby Blackbird here to discuss their 2019 album, Eternal Children, and the history that brought all five members together as a united project. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2020-04-2735 min
Before The ChorusSelf EsteemRebecca Lucy Taylor, better known as Self Esteem, is an outspoken newcomer to the pop world. She shamelessly tackles mental health struggles, bad relationships, bisexuality, and more in her music. Her 2019 debut album, Compliments Please, is a reminder that pop music can be complex, contradictory and raw, even during its most danceable moments. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2020-04-1337 min
Before The ChorusOvercoatsOvercoats are a Brooklyn-based pop duo, comprised of Hana Elion and JJ Mitchell. Their second album, The Fight, follows their 2017 debut Young. While it has a few nods to their first release, The Fight is largely a departure for Overcoats. On their new album, their pop anthems unpack what it means to fight, in every sense of the word: fighting for womxn, against misogyny and ignorance, fighting to be understood, and fighting for one’s self-worth. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2020-03-0928 min
Before The ChorusGengahrGengahr are a four-piece band from Hackney in East London. Their third studio album, Sanctuary, is an intimate dive into lead singer Felix’s experience with loss. It is also, however, a celebration of friendship and collaboration; Felix’s bandmates, Hugh, Danny, and John, stuck by him, and they brought on Jack Steadman of Bombay Bicycle Club as producer. The resulting songs are glimmering, heartbreaking, hopeful, and liberating, all at the same time. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2020-02-1030 min
Student Radio AssociationAll Points East Festival 2018Smoke Radio's Sofia Loporcaro heads along to the inaurgral All Points East Festival. Hear reviews and interviews from the festival.2018-06-1027 min
Smoke RadioInterview: GengahrFelix from Gengahr joins Sofia Loporcaro on Bite of Sound to discuss the band’s sophomore album ‘Where Wildness Grows’, out now on Transgressive Records.
Hear the full show on smokeradio.co.uk2018-03-2115 min
Smoke RadioInterview: Stereo HoneyStereo Honey join Sofia Loporcaro in the studio for Bite of Sound to discuss their new EP, Monuments, and how they emerged from punk-cabaret2017-12-0714 min
Smoke RadioInterview: The Van TsSofia Loporcaro chats with Chloe and Hannah from The Van Ts about Dundee, the new single Bittersweet, and Buckfast.2017-11-2609 min
Student Radio AssociationSRA end #SummerOfFestivals at BestivalWith lush surroundings, creative art set-ups and arguably the best food of Festival season, we bring you our Bestival highlights.
Presenter: Sofia Loporcaro
Producer: Scott Hastie2017-11-2124 min
Student Radio Associationalt-J talk new album RELAXER Track by TrackHear the dry version of our full SRA Album Party show for globally huge band alt-J and their new album RELAXER.
The band break down the album track by track.
Interviewer - Sofia Loporcaro (Smoke Radio)
Editor - Scott Hastie2017-06-0216 min
Smoke RadioInterview: SalenWhat is a Heartbreak Diet? Sofia Loporcaro sits down with guys behind the fresh sound of Salen to discuss the new single, and what's to come in the future.2017-05-2208 min
Smoke RadioInterview: FlyteWho knew a love of films could lead to great songwriting? Sofia Loporcaro and Flyte's Will Taylor chat movies and the storytelling in the band's upcoming debut album.2017-05-0907 min
Student Radio AssociationSRA Chart: British Sea Power Interview - Best of Student Radio (April 2017)British Sea Power discuss their new album 'Let The Dancers Inherit The Party' on its release day.
Smoke Radio's Sofia Loporcaro talks with them about their Dadaist Art links, Fan Tattoos and their crazy club nights.2017-04-0612 min
Student Radio AssociationSRA Chart: Glass Animals talk Pineapple on Pizza and Reading & Leeds - Best of Student Radio (Mar 2017)Smoke Radio's Sofia Loporcaro interviews Glass Animals about SRA Charting single Pork Soda.
The band also speak playing Reading & Leeds 2017 and as Pineapple experts discuss the big question splitting the world!2017-03-1107 min
Smoke RadioINTERVIEW: LEO STANNARD chats about rising through the ranks and his favourite venuesLeo Stannard is quickly making a name for himself in the music world. As he hit Oslo for his headline tour, Sofia Loporcaro headed down to Hackney for a chat.2016-11-0708 min
Smoke RadioCMS: The CommitteeThe Commercial Music Society's first gig took place on Monday March 29th. We went along to not only support them but grab a few interviews.
Interviews by: Sofia Loporcaro
Produced by: Abby Weaver2016-03-1007 min
Smoke RadioCMS: A Night of Soul: Goodbye BrightonThe Commercial Music Society's first gig took place on Monday March 29th. We went along to not only support them but grab a few interviews.
Warning! This interview contains mature content throughout.
Interviews by: Sofia Loporcaro
Produced by: Abby Weaver2016-03-1008 min
Smoke RadioCMS: A Night of Soul: 94The Commercial Music Society's first gig took place on Monday March 29th. We went along to not only support them but grab a few interviews.
Interviews by: Sofia Loporcaro
Produced by: Abby Weaver2016-03-1006 min
Smoke RadioCMS: A Night of Soul: Just WavesThe Commercial Music Society's first gig took place on Monday March 29th. We went along to not only support them but grab a few interviews.
Interviews by: Sofia Loporcaro
Produced by: Abby Weaver2016-03-1008 min
Smoke RadioCMS: A Night of Soul: Ebi PamereThe Commercial Music Society's first gig took place on Monday March 29th. We went along to not only support them but grab a few interviews.
Interviews by: Sofia Loporcaro
Produced by: Abby Weaver2016-03-1006 min