Synthetic Dreams Podcast

Delighted to be joined by multi-talented musician, Steve Queralt on the podcast today Steve, best known as the bass player of the influential shoegaze band Ride, talks to me about the writing and recording of his first ever solo album, 'Swallow'  which comes out next Friday, June 13, on Sonic Cathedral 'Swallow', which is already one of my favourite albums of 2025, features beautiful guest vocals from Emma Anderson (Lush) and Verity Susman (Electrelane).For more information or to pre-order the album, visit: https://stevequeralt.bandcamp.com/album/swallowSteve Queralt feat. Emma Anderson - Lonely Town (Official Video)Synthetic Dreams is presented and produced by Scott ZverblisFollow Synthetic Dreams on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow Synthetic Dreams on ⁠⁠⁠Threads⁠⁠⁠Follow Synthetic Dreams on ⁠⁠⁠Twitter / X⁠⁠⁠Synthetic Dreams title music by Chris IbbottIf you can, please support the Synthetic Dreams Podcast by buying a coffee ⁠⁠⁠https://buymeacoffee.com/syntheticdreams

Today's episode features New Order's Tom Chapman and singer Iwan Gronow (Haven, Johnny Marr's band) who discuss the making of Sea Fever's brilliant new album ‘Surface Sound', which follows the band's critically acclaimed debut, ‘Folding Lines'. The five-piece, Manchester based band, which also features Phil Cunningham (New Order) vocalist, Beth Cassidy (Section 25) and drummer, Elliot Barlow, formed in 2019.‘Surface Sound' is out now via Stockport-based indie label Cosmic Glue. In August, the band will be doing a couple of acoustic in-stores at the following record shops: Tuesday 5th August at Banquet Records, London and Crash Records, Leeds on Wednesday 6th August 2025. Synthetic Dreams is presented and produced by Scott ZverblisFollow Synthetic Dreams on ⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow Synthetic Dreams on ⁠⁠Threads⁠⁠Follow Synthetic Dreams on ⁠⁠Twitter / X⁠⁠Synthetic Dreams title music by Chris IbbottIf you can, please support the Synthetic Dreams Podcast by buying a coffee ⁠⁠https://buymeacoffee.com/syntheticdreams

Delighted to be joined by multi-talented musician, Fay Milton on the podcast this week.Best known as the drummer of English rock band, Savages, Fay spoke to me about her latest album, ‘Goddess', a collaborative project, featuring female and non-binary musicians, including fellow Savages bandmate, Ayse Hassan and Elena Tora.With it's unique sonic landscape of different musical styles, it's an album that really pushes the boundaries of traditional musical structures.'Goddes' is released this Friday via the always excellent Bella Union record label.We also talk about her time in Savages, who were nominated for a Mercury Award for both their debut and second album, Plus, we discuss Music Declares Emergency, an environmental pressure group that Fay co-founded back in 2019.https://bellaunion.com/pages/goddessGoddess 'Shadows' ff Ex:ReSynthetic Dreams is presented and produced by Scott ZverblisFollow Synthetic Dreams on ⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠Follow Synthetic Dreams on ⁠Threads⁠Follow Synthetic Dreams on ⁠Twitter / X⁠Synthetic Dreams title music by Chris IbbottIf you can, please support the Synthetic Dreams Podcast by buying a coffee ⁠https://buymeacoffee.com/syntheticdreams 

Today's episode features Stockholm- based multi-instrumentalist and composer, Rebekka Karijord Originally from Norway, Rebekka has released seven solo albums, as well as scoring music for over 30 films, including ‘All the Old Knives', an American Spy thriller staring Chris Pine and Thandiwe Newton and Nathan Grossman's  documentary, ‘I Am Greta' about the climate change activist, Greta Thunberg In 2023, she teamed up with The National's Aaron and Bryce Dessner for the Complete Mountain Almanac album.We discuss the making of her most ambitious album to date, The Bell Tower', which features Grammy-winning vocal band Roomful of Teeth. Rebekka built a digital sample machine, featuring samples of her own voice, as well as the voices of the American vocal ensemble, which she skilfully manipulated to create the basis for its unique and beautiful sound.  ‘The Bell Tower' is a beautiful album, which is worth checking out, as well as her other solo releases and soundtrack work, which are available to listen to and purchase on Rebekka's Bandcamp page: https://rebekkakarijord.bandcamp.comhttps://rebekkakarijord.com

Todays extremely fun and insightful episode of Synthetic Dreams features electronic musicians, Jess and Jeff  DeCuir who make glorious synth-pop music under the name, Hyperbubble The couple, who met back in 1996, spoke to me about their music, early gigs in both America and in the UK, musical heroes and the documentary film, ‘Cowgirls and Synthesizers' which is a somewhat bonkers, but absolutely brilliant.Directed by Joe Wallace, with narration by Ricard Autobahn from Helen Love, ‘Cowgirls and Synthesizers' follows the duo on their way Nashville to record a country and western album using just synthesizers and drum machines. It's a fascinating, inspirational, hugely entertaining film. An extremely well-made documentary that is worth checking out. The film has featured in many film festivals across the world and the should hopefully be able to stream very soon.Hyperbubble 'The Singles' album is out soon, check out their previous releases here:https://www.hyperbubble.net/https://hyperbubble.bandcamp.com/merchCowgirls and Synthesizers - Offical Trailer Synthetic Dreams is presented and produced by Scott ZverblisFollow Synthetic Dreams on InstagramFollow Synthetic Dreams on ThreadsFollow Synthetic Dreams on Twitter / XSynthetic Dreams title music by Chris IbbottIf you can, please support the Synthetic Dreams Podcast by buying a coffee https://buymeacoffee.com/syntheticdreams

Today's fascinating episode of Synthetic Dreams features multi-talented electronic musician and DJ, Joe Goddard, best known for his work with synth-pop band, Hot Chip, which he co-founded with his school friend, Alexis TaylorJoe talks to me about his brilliant new E.P ‘Kinetic', which features several guest vocalists including Dynamite MC and dancehall musician Suku  We also discuss the making of his third album, ‘Harmonics' released in July last year, his long-time working relationship with fellow Hot Chip member Al Doyle, who also performs with American electronic band, LCD Soundsystem. To order Joe Goddard's new EP and previous album releases visit: www.dominomusic.com/releases/joe-goddardwww.joegoddard.co.ukSynthetic Dreams is presented and produced by Scott ZverblisFollow Synthetic Dreams on ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠Follow Synthetic Dreams on ThreadsFollow Synthetic Dreams on Twitter / XSynthetic Dreams title music by Chris IbbottIf you can, please support the Synthetic Dreams Podcast by buying a coffee https://buymeacoffee.com/syntheticdreams

This weeks fascinating and fun episode of Synthetic Dreams features legendary singer and songwriter, Andy BellAndy, who is one half of synth-pop duo, Erasure, talks to me about his new solo album ‘Ten Crowns' which comes out on May 2nd, via Crown Recordings The album was co-written and produced by Grammy winning US producer and DJ, Dave Audé, who is supporting Andy on his forthcoming UK tour, which starts next month. As well as featuring the excellent single, and one of my favourite tracks on the album, ‘Breaking Thru the Interstellar' The album also features a truly wonderful collaboration with Debbie Harry from Blondie. A match made in pop heaven for sure!So great to finally have Andy on the podcast. Fair to say that Erasure are one of the greatest, and most successful, synth-pop duos of all-time, so it was a real honour to have him on the show. Was great to hear him talk with such passion about his new record, which is brilliant from start to finish and well worth checking out ANDY BELL 'BREAKING THRU THE INTERSTELLARANDY BELL 'DON'T CHA KNOW'ANDY BELL 2025 TOURPRE-ORDER 'TEN CROWNS' 

Joining me on the podcast today is American musician, singer-song-writer, Noah Lennox, who records and performs music under the name, Panda BearNoah, who is the co-founder of experimental pop band Animal Collective, talks to me about his excellent new solo record, ‘Sinister Grift', which is out now on Domino records.We also discuss creatively, his musical passions and influences, his move to New York in the early the noughties and the formation of Animal Collective, plus his collaborations  with Sonic Boom from Spaceman 3 and dance music icons, Daft Punk https://pandabearofficial.com/https://www.dominomusic.com/ukPanda Bear. - Defense (Official Video)Animal Collective - My Girls (Official Video)Daft Punk - Doing It Right ft Panda Bear

Today's fascinating episode of Synthetic Dreams features legendary singer, Tony Hadley .Tony, is of course, best known as the lead singer of one of the biggest bands of the 1980s, Spandau Ballet. The band, who formed in Islington, London back in 1979, scored a number of hits. Spandau's debut single, ‘To Cut A Long Story Short', one of the greatest synth-pop anthems of all-time, reached number five in the UK charts and was the first of ten UK top-10 singles for the band, reaching global success with ‘Chant No 1, ‘True; 'Gold' and ‘Through the Barricades' to name a few.We discuss, amongst other things, his Christmas Big Band Tour 2025, the 40th anniversary of Live Aid and his memories from that special day. He also talks about electronic music and his love Kraftwerk and early Ultravox, plus his time hanging out at legendary new romantic club, The Blitz.

Today's fascinating episode features singer, songwriter and guitarist, Miki Berenyi.In 1987, Miki met Emma Anderson, a previous guest on Synthetic Dreams and formed the band, Lush. The group went on to release three critically acclaimed albums on legendary record label, 4AD. The band officially split in 1996, but reformed for a series of well received live shows in 2016.In 2018, Miki formed a new band called, Piroshka, which featured her partner Kevin McKillop (aka Moose) Micheal Conroy and former Elastica drummer, Justin Welch. The group released two albums on the always excellent Bella Union label.Miki's memoir Fingers Crossed, was published by Nine Eight Books In September 2022. It's extremely well written, funny, and, in parts, very moving - well worth a read. In recent years, Miki has been recording and playing shows as part of the Miki Berenyi Trio, which features Moose and guitarist Oliver Cherer. We discuss, amongst other things, the making of their truly brilliant debut album, ‘Tripla', which comes out on April 4th via Bella Union records.https://mikiberenyitrio.bandcamp.comMiki Berenyi Trio - 8th Deadly Sin (Official Video)Lush - Sweetness and Light (Official Video)Lush - Single Girl (Official Video)Lush - Ladykillers

Second part of my interview with electronic musician, Jas Shaw His latest album 'Tea Within A Tea' and other releases are available to buy on his Bandcamp page https://jasshaw.bandcamp.com/album/a-tea-within-a-tea

Delighted to be joined by electronic musician, Jas Shaw on the podcast this week.Jas was one half of Simian Mobile Disco, who he formed in Manchester with James Ford, a previous guest on Synthetic Dreams, back in 2003.Originally just a DJ side project to their four-piece band Simian, Simian Mobile Disco formed as an electronic act after Simian parted ways in 2005.In 2006, the single ‘We Are Your Friends' by Justice vs Simian reached number 20 in the UK singles chart and became a massive club hit Simian Mobile Disco's excellent debut album, ‘Attack Decay Sustain Release', released in June 2007 on Wichita Recordings, received lots of praise from the UK press at the time. It's one of my favourite electronic albums. Still sounds fantastic  Jas discusses the making of his latest album ‘A Tea Within A Tea', which follows ‘The Exquisite Cops' released in 2019, as well as talking about his time in Simian and Simian Mobile DiscoLINKS:https://jasshaw.bandcamp.com/album/a-tea-within-a-tea

Today's fascinating episode of Synthetic Dreams features songwriter, guitarist and singer, Emma Anderson Emma formed Rover Girls with school friend, Miki Berenyi back in 1987. Then after a couple of alternations to the lineup, changed the name of the group to Lush in 1988. A year later, the band signed to 4AD records and released the six-track mini album, ‘Scar', which received praise from the UK music press. They went on to release three commercially successful and critically acclaimed albums with 4AD.Described as one of the first bands on the shoegaze scene, Lush went on to have great chart success during the Britpop era too, with the singles, ‘Ladykillers' ‘500 (Shake Baby Shake) and ‘Single Girl'Emma discusses, amongst other things, the making of her first ever solo album ‘Pearlies' which was released on Sonic Cathedral records in 2023. Emma Anderson - Clusters (Official Video)

Today's fascinating episode features musician, artist and author, Horace Panter. Horace, known professionally as  as Sir Horace Gentleman, was a member in of my all-time favourite groups, The Specials Panter met Jerry Dammers while a student at Lanchester Polytechnic and the two of them formed The Specials.  The group enjoyed many hits including ‘Gangsters' ‘Rat Race' ‘Sterotype' and ‘Ghost Town' which stormed to the top of the charts back in June, 1981. As discussed in the interview, this seminal track truly reflected what was going on in Thatcher's Britain at the time, terrible unemployment, social unrest and riots. The song was hailed by the contemporary UK music press as a major piece of popular social commentary Horace talks about his current group The Dirt Road Band, his art and the exhibitions his put on, writing his book ‘Ska'd for Life' and his time in The Specials, who in my humble opinion are one of the most influential British bands ever. 

Today's fascinating episode features Ivan Doroschuk from new wave, synth-pop band, Men Without Hats.  The group formed in Montreal back in 1977, during the height of punk and Ivan talks about some of the punk bands he saw live, along with acts that came a few years before then, groups like Pink Floyd and Roxy Music. The group went on to support Roxy on their Avalon tour world tour in 1982. Ivan also talks openly about fame and the enormous success the band achieved following the release of ‘The Safely Dance',  his earliest influences and musical passions. Touring and how he keeps his voice in shape, and discusses the story behind one of my favourite synth-pop tracks of all-time, ‘Antartica'  Men Without Hats - Safety Dance (Offical Video) Men Without Hats - Antartica Men Without Hats - The Message  

Today's episode of Synthetic Dreams features a conversation with synthesist, vocalist, and composer, Tim Blake.  Tim, who currently lives  in the Poitou region of France, was part of, what many fans consider to be the classic line-up of Gong, which spawned the “Radio Gnome Trilogy” He was also a member one my my all-time favourite groups, Hawkwind, from 1979-1980. Joining them again from 2008-2015, and on a number of occasions since. He has also released several critically acclaimed solo albums and recorded and performed as “Crystal Machine” 

The first Synthetic Dreams episode of 2025 features a conversation with Berlin-based electronic and avant garde duo, Alexander Hacke and Danielle de Picciotto, who record music under the name hackedepicciotto. Alexander is a founding member of the hugely influential experimental group, Einstürzende Neubauten, who he joined back in 1980 at the age of just 15 Danielle, an American-born artist, musician and filmmaker met Alexander in 1987 shortly after arriving in Berlin, the couple who first started making music together in 2001. We discuss the recording of The Best of hackedepicciotto (Live in Napoli) which came out last year on the always excellent Mute record label  https://www.hackedepicciotto.de https://mute.com/artists/hackedepicciotto/

Delighted to be joined on the podcast today by experimental guitar and drum duo, George Knegtel and Alex Andropoulos, who record music under the name, Able Noise. The duo, who are based between The Hague, in the Netherlands and Athens, Greece, formed Able Noise back in 2017 after meeting at The Royal Academy of Arts. We discuss the recording of their latest album ‘High Tide', which was released in November, 2024, via London label World of Echo. We also talk about their earliest musical influences, the creative process, experimentation and their forthcoming UK tour, which starts next week at London's Cafe Otto. They are also playing gigs in Manchester, Liverpool, Oxford, Bristol and Cardiff, ending the tour in Margate 

Today's fascinating episode features DJ, producer and musician, Mathew Carter, who performs and records music under the name Jaguar Skills  As well as putting out hundreds of drum and bass mixtapes through various radio stations, Jaguar Skills, who started his DJ career back in 2002, has released four studio albums. We discuss, amongst other things, the recording of his latest album‘Disco Galactico' which was released back in May. It's one of my favourite records of 2024 - a wonderful mix of funk, disco and soul. Perfect soundtrack for any Christmas or New Years eve party We also talk about his love of hip-hop and earliest influences as a DJ  Jaguar Skills is doing a couple of sets at the Warehouse Project in Manchester this weekend as support for The Prodigy. Follow Synthetic Dreams on ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠ Title music by Chris Ibbott If you are enjoying the Synthetic Dreams podcast, please support the show by buying a coffee. This will help towards the cost of making more shows ⁠⁠⁠https://buymeacoffee.com/syntheticdreams

Today's fascinating episode features Austrian-Canadian electronic musician and producer,  Bill Leeb. Leeb started his musical career with legendary industrial band, Skinny Puppy, going on to form Front Line Assembly in 1986 and new-age ambient act, Delerium a year later. In 1997 Delerium scored a massive, world-wide hit with the track ‘Silence' taken from their ninth studio album, ‘Karma', which is one of my all-time favourite electronic albums of the 1990s. We discus his earliest musical memories and move to Canada from Austria at the age of 14, the recent Front Line Assembly tour with musical heroes, Gary Numan and Ministry and the recording of his first ever solo album, ‘Model Kollapse', which came out  in September.   https://bill-leeb.com Follow Synthetic Dreams on ⁠Instagram⁠ Title music by Chris Ibbott If you are enjoying the podcast, and like what I do, please support Synthetic Dreams by buying a coffee. This will help towards the cost of making more shows - thank you! ⁠⁠https://buymeacoffee.com/syntheticdreams

Todays fascinating and fun interview features Dick Valentine, from American band, Electric Six joins me on the podcast today Electric Six, who formed in Detroit, Michigan back in 1996, are known for combining elements of garage rock, new wave and disco into their genre-defying sound As well as being part of Electric Six, Dick is also an author and we discuss the series of novels he has written.  Electric Six continue their UK tour this weekend and all next week, finishing their run of dates in sunny Brighton. Be sure to grab a ticket…

Today's fascinating episode features multi-talented Scottish musician and composer, Christopher  Duncan who records music under the name C Duncan  His debut album ‘Architect' was nominated for the 2015 Mercury Music Prize and since then, has gone on to release five critically acclaimed and well received albums.  Christopher, who's music has features ion various TV shows, discuss's the making of his forthcoming album ‘It's Only A Love Song', which comes out on Bella Union on January 24, 2025.  There are some truly great melodies on It's Only A Love Song' it's a lush and dreamy record, full of wonderful layers and beautiful textures.  Sure to be one of the albums of 2025 https://www.cspaceduncan.com/ Follow Synthetic Dreams on Instagram Title music by Chris Ibbott If you are enjoying the podcast, and like what I do, please support Synthetic Dreams by buying a coffee. This will help towards the cost of making more shows - thank you! ⁠https://buymeacoffee.com/syntheticdreams

Today's insightful episode  of Synthetic Dreams features Colombian singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist and producer, Ela Minus Ela talks about the creative process and recording of her brilliant new album ‘DIA' which comes out on January 17th via Domino records.  She also discusses her earliest musical roots and time playing drums in hardcore rock band, Ratón Perez. Her move to New York and first impressions of the city. Building synths and love of analog equipment and the album that got her hooked on electronic music.   https://elaminus.com/ https://www.dominomusic.com/artists/ela-minus Ela Minus - BROKEN (Official Video) Ela Minus - COMBAT (Official Video)

Today's fascinating episode of Synthetic Dreams features multi-talented musician,  Christopher Stephen Clark, who records and performs electronic music under the moniker, Clark. Clark has also written and produced music for television, films and video games. His records have been released by Warp Records, Deutsche Gramophon and his own record label, Throttle Records. We discuss creativity, the running of his record label and the making of his latest album, ‘In Camera, which came out in September.     

Todays fascinating episode of Synthetic Dreams features a conversation with British singer, rapper and songwriter, Alison Clarkson, better known as Betty Boo. Alison, who has acquired many strings to her bow, started her music career as a rapper in hip-hop group She Rockers back in the late 80s. They supported big named hip-hop acts like Public Enemy.  Then in the early 90s Alison creative the moniker Betty Boo and became a massive pop phenomenon, enjoying huge chart success's and winning a Brit award for Best British Newcomer in 1991. Featuring infectious beats, samples and memorable raps, Betty Boo's music appealed, not only pop music lovers,  but to fans of alternative music too. With her strong independent spirit and DIY approach to music making, she stood out from all the manufactured pop acts at the time. After her first wave of success as Betty Boo, Alison went on to write a number of hits for other artists, including Hearsay and was awarded an Ivor Novello award for writing their hit single ‘Pure and Simple' If you have been enjoying the podcast, and like what we do, please support the show by buying us a coffee - thanks! ⁠https://buymeacoffee.com/syntheticdreams

This weeks episode of Synthetic Dreams features Scottish musician, Robin Guthrie, one of the co-founders of the legendary band, The Cocteau Twins, who are arguably one of the most influential bands of all-time. Guthrie, who was Cocteau's principal songwriter, guitarist, bassist and keyboardist, has released several collaborative albums with the acclaimed ambient composer and pianist, the late Harold Budd, as well as production work for a number of artists, including The Gun Club, Edwin Collins, Lush and Ian McCulloch. As well as talking about his solo work, Robin also discusses his time in The Cocteau Twins and sheds light on how their beautiful music was created. His new E.P ‘Atlas' is out now

My guest this week is multi-talented musician, Aaron Hemphill, who records music under the name, Nonpareils. We discuss he recording of his second album as Nonpareils, 'Rhetoric and Terror', which is out now via Mute records. It's a brilliant record, one of my favourite releases of 2024. Aaron, who co-founded the band Liars, also talks about the creative process and inspiration behind this record, his earliest musical passions and what it was like living in New York in the early 2000s, being part of the city's exciting music scene, which is wonderfully documented in Will Lovelace and Dylan Southern's excellent film 'Meet Me In The Bathroom'. The film features great footage of Liars, The Strokes and one of my favourite bands, The Yeah Yeah Yeahs, who befriended Liars early on in their career.

Delighted to be joined by multi-talented musician, Steve Hillage on the Synthetic Dreams podcast this week  Hillage is an Insanely prolific musician, so there was a lot to cram in, but we mange to cover all manner of things, including the early Canterbury music scene, which Steve was a big part of. Meeting Daevid Allen and joining psychedelic rock band, Gong. Steve was in the classic line up of the group, appearing on three of their most successful and best-known records, including the utterly bonkers but brilliant ‘Flying Teapot' album After leaving Gong, Steve enjoyed huge success as a solo artist in the mid 70s's to early 80s, releasing nine well-received albums, including ‘Fish Rising', ‘Motivation radio' and the brilliant ‘Green' album, which, 46 years after its release,  still sounds fantastic and totally way ahead of it's time. After nine years as a record producer, Steve formed electronic act, System 7 in 1989 with his parter, Miquette Giraudy, who worked with Steve on all his solo records and was also part of Gong. Impressively, they have released over 14 albums as System 7 and three as Mirror System, including ‘Route 77', which we discuss in the interview. As well as being a brilliant electronic artist, Steve is, in my humble opinion, one the greatest guitarist's this country has ever produced. A guitar hero to a lot of people I'm sure  "I don't want to be a guitar hero, I want to be a guitar zero! http://www.stevehillage.com Steve Hillage - The Salmon Song (Live) Steve Hillage - Hurdy Gurdy Man (Live) System 7 - Field Of Dreams System 7 - Habbi

This very special book club edition of the Synthetic Dreams podcast features an interview with Thomas Dolby, who discusses his debut novel. 'Prevailing Wind', which was published back in April, via Archway Publishing. Thomas Dolby, of course, needs little introduction, especially to fans of electronic music. He's a true legend, a master of sound and technology.  It was great to speak to him in-length about ‘Prevailing Wind', which I very much enjoyed reading this summer. The story, set in 1913, follows the trials and tribulations of the Haskell brothers, who leave their poor fishing community in Maine and try out for the sailing crew of a New York millionaire's luxury racing yacht. Thomas discuses the writing process, the challenges he faced writing historical fiction and the original inspiration behind the book. ‘Prevailing Wind' is a truly captivating read, full of mysteries, passion and betrayal. Highly recommended!  For more information about the book visit: https://www.thomasdolby.com If you enjoy the podcast, and like what we do, please support the show by buying us a coffee - thanks! https://buymeacoffee.com/syntheticdreams

The 100 episode of Synthetic Dreams features the fascinating and super talented American electronic musician and songwriter, John Grant.  We talk about his forthcoming book ‘The Illustrated Lyrics', which features lyrics from his previous albums, along with his own wonderful photography.  The book is rereleased on 3rd October. We also discuss the making of his latest album ‘The Art of the Lie', one of my favourite albums of 2024, as well as his love of comedy and British humour.  John's UK tour starts in London on October 17th and finishes in Liverpool on November 2nd. As discussed in the interview, John has something different planned for this tour, so make sure you get to one of these dates. as I reckon these shows are going to be very special.  To book tickets visit: https://www.johngrantmusic.com/ John Grant - Marbles (Official Lyric Video) John Grant - Meek AF Synthetic Dreams is presented and produced by Scott Zverblis Synthetic Dreams on⁠ ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠ Synthetic Dreams title music by Chris Ibbott

Graham Crabb from Pop Will Eat Itself joins me on the podcast this week. Graham discusses the early days of PWEI, playing iconic music show Top Of The Pops and his memories of touring with legendary hip-hop act, Run-DMC and Nine Inch Nails. The group, who formed back in 1986, still features much of the original line up. PWEI were way ahead of the curve, when they first burst into the scene, fusing punk rock guitars with hip-hop samples and electronic beats. Some great stories In this one! http://www.popwilleatitself.net/pwei/

Truly thrilled and honoured to be joined by Kathy Sledge from legendary group, Sister Sledge on the Synthetic Dreams podcast this week. Formed in the early 70's, the group, which featured Kathy Sledge and her sisters Debbie, Joni and Kim, achieved massive, world-wide success during the height of Disco in 1979. Their breakthrough album "We Are Family' peaked at number three on the American Billboard charts and included the hit singles ‘We Are Family' and ‘He's The Greatest Dancer', both of which Kathy sang lead vocals on Kathy's excellent new single Promise Me is out now, available on all streaming platforms.    This Sunday, 15th September, Kathy headlines the Uptown Festival at Bute Park Cardiff. For more information & Tickets : www.uptownfestival.co.uk Line up also includes Maxi Priest, Aswad, Desmond Dekkers Ace's, Captain Accident & The Disasters. https://www.kathysledge.com Kathy Sledge - 'Promise Me' - live at BBC Radio 2 in the park Sister Sledge -'We Are Family' official video Sister Sledge - 'He's The Greatest Dancer' Synthetic Dreams is presented and produced by Scott Zverblis Synthetic Dreams on ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠ Synthetic Dreams title music by Chris Ibbott

Jonathan Donahue from Mercury Rev joins me on the podcast his week to talk about the making of the band's wonderful new album, ‘Born Horses' which comes out on September 6th via the always excellent Bella Union label.  This is one of Mercy Rev's best albums to date, a real joy to listen to. So many wonderful musical styles and textures. From the hazy sax on opening track ‘Mood Swings' to the pulsating rhythm that drives, ‘There's Always Been A Bird In Me', which closes the record  I really can't recommend this album enough.  Already one of my favourite records of 2024. Just stunning!  This autumn, the band head out on a UK and Ireland tour, startling in Belfast on October 27th and finishing on Nov 8th in Cambridge, For the full list of dates and tickets, visit:  https://www.mercuryrev.com/tour To preorder the album head over to https://bellaunion.com/

My guest this week is Paul Roberts from Electronic group, K-Klass K-Klass, who formed in Manchester back in 1991, enjoyed great success in the mid 90s, scoring five top 40 hits on the UK singles chart. After 36 years, group are still going strong, regularly performing live and DJing at various festivals and club nights. We discuss the making of K-Klass' biggest hit "Rhythm Is A Mystery”. Legendary Manchester nightclub, The Haçienda, where the guys met and what it was like recording music in a converted military bunker. Next month the duo are performing at the Reminisce festival in Liverpool, which is now in its 10th year. With DJ's and Live acts across 7 stages, this popular festival is a celebration of 90's dance and pop music  Other acts performing at Reminisce Festival on Saturday September 7th include,  Rozalla, K Klass, N Trance, Oceanic, Alison Limerick, and Basshunter   https://wearekklass.com https://www.reminiscefestival.com K-Klass - Rhythm Is A Mistery - TOTP - 1991 K-Klass - Let Me Show You - TOTP- 1993

This weeks episode of Synthetic Dreams features former Tangerine Dream and Steamhammer member, Steve Jolliffe Steve was an early member of legendary electronic act, Tangerine Dream and as well as playing, amongst other things, flute, bass clarinet, synthesizers, grand piano, electric violin etc, he also wrote the lyrics and provided vocals for the album ‘Cyclone' We discuss all manner of things, what it was like working with Edgar Froese, who was the founder of Tangerine Dream, his soundtrack work and meeting David Bowie, who dropped into the studio while Tangerine Dream were recording a session for ‘Cyclone'. Bowie was keen to collaborate with Edgar Froese, but things didn't go exactly to plan! In-between making solo records, plus various soundtrack scores, Steve also worked on a very famous sci-fi film, not in a musician role, but as a model maker no-less. Was great hearing how he got involved with this all-time classic film.  

Today's episode of Synthetic Dreams features a fascinating conversation with singer, Jonathan Higgs and guitarist, Alex Robertshaw from the band, Everything Everything, who formed in Manchester back in 2007 Fair to say that music the band make is truly eclectic. A brilliant mix of catchy guitar hooks, funky bass lines and strong electronic beats, which sit perfectly with Jonathan's wide ranging vocals. The band has released seven albums to date, including the brilliant ‘Mountainhead', which came out in March this year. As well as having an extremely loyal and dedicated fanbase, something we discuss in the interview, it seems that the band are also loved by the industry. Their debut album, ‘Man Alive' was shortlisted for the Mercury Music Prize and the band have received five nominations for Ivor Novello Awards. Impressive stuff!  As well as making some truly brilliant and critically acclaimed  albums, the band are also known for their awesome live shows and If you haven't been to an Everything Everything gig yet, I highly recommend you catch them at a festival this summer or on their next tour, as it's an incredible live experience. 

My guest this week is Fred Schneider, singer-songwriter and frontman of one of the most  influential and successful groups of all-time. The B-52's The original lineup consisted of Fred on vocals, Kate Pierson on vocals. Keyboards and synth-bass. Cindy Wilson on vocals and percussion. Ricky Wilson on guitar and Keith Strickland, who started out as the drummer, but switched to lead guitar following the death of Ricky Wilson in 1985. The B-52'S have enjoyed many hits including, ‘Rock Lobster', ‘Planet Clare', ‘Private Idaho', 'Roam' and ‘Love Shack', which topped the charts in 1989 and became a staple of weddings and parties ever since. Over the years, the group has had three Grammy nominations, and despite being innovators of the new wave genre, have never been nominated for the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, which is crazy when you consider just how influential and important they are. The band are currently taking a break from their run farewell show, but are returning to Las Vegas  in November for a residency at the Venetian Theatre. These shows will be very special    

Honoured to be joined by a true music legend on podcast this week. Mark Mothersbaugh, Devo frontman, artist and film composer. Mark discusses his beautifully designed mail-art book. ‘Apotropaic Beatnik Graffiti', which features Mark's wonderful drawings on small postcards.   Mail art, also known as postal art and correspondence art, is an artistic movement centred on sending small-scale works through the postal service. This lifelong passion of Mark's started back in 1969 and he now has over 700 red books of mail-art in his archives, including postcards from legendary artist, Andy Warhol. This book represents just 5 of those books from the collection. We also talk about 50 years of Devo and the story behind the look and visual aesthetic of the band. It's safe to say that band's visual style is as iconic as their music. There is no one else quite like them!   They are arguably one of the most influential bands of all-time and new documentary about the group premiered at Sundance Film Festival earlier this year. The film, which has had the odd screening in the UK, was directed by Chris Smith, who also made ‘Jim and Andy', a wonderful film about Andy Kaufman and the making of Man On The Moon.  

‘Deee-lited' to be joined by one of my new favourite acts on the Synthetic Dreams podcast today, Nauti Siren, which features  multi-talented musician, Jessie Evans and DJ Dmitry, co-founder of the seminal New York dance group Deee-lite. Nauti Siren's music is a truly intoxicating mix of disco, reggae, new jazz and electro dub. Their excellent new single ‘Mermaid Of The Year' is out now, with their debut album to follow. Jessie has worked with some amazing musicians, including the late and very great, Steve Mackay, who provided saxophone on the first two Stooges albums and drummer, Budgie from legendary post-punk band, Siouxsie and The Banshees.    As well as discussing Nauti Siren, Dmitry also talks in-depth about the recording of ‘Groove Is In The Heart' and his time in Deee-lite This much-loved group enjoyed international success with their single, ‘Groove Is In The Heart', which Rolling Stone Magazine recently called one of 10 best dance tracks of all time.  It's a truly iconic track, which still gets played on the radio and in clubs across the world. Deee-lite had six number-ones in the U.S. Dance music charts during the five years they were together before disbanding in 1994.  Since then, Dmitry has gone to collaborate and work with a diverse range of artists including Chaka Khan, Julee Cruise, Sinead O'Connor and Ziggy Marley.  Jessie and Dmitry describe Nauti Siren as a mythological creature, calling from the portal where the elements of water (emotions) meet air (higher knowledge).  LINKS https://nautisiren.bandcamp.com/community Nauti Siren - Mermaid Of The Year Nauti Siren performing live at the Mermaid Parade - great footage! Deee-Lite - Groove Is In The Heart (official video) Deee-Lite - Groove Is In The Heart Live Deee-Lite interview 1990 Synthetic Dreams is presented and produced by Scott Zverblis Synthetic Dreams on ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠ Synthetic Dreams title music by Chris Ibbott

My guest this week is multi-talented musician, Jah Wobble We discuss, amongst other things, the making of his latest album ‘A Brief History Of Now'. A fantastic post-punk record, which I really can't recommend enough. As well as his recent ambient album ‘The Bus Routes Of South London'  Jah was a member of legendary post-punk band Public Image Limited  and in 2021 released ‘Metal Box Rebuilt in Dub' which received great reviews  We also talk about punk and the post-punk scenes of the late 1970's, meeting John Lydon and his close friendship with Sid Vicious. Jah's excellent radio documentary about Sid is available to listen to online. As well as collaborating with artists from the world of rock and pop, Jah has worked with some of the biggest names in electronic music, including Massive Attack, Bjork, Moby, Bomb The Bass and Brian Eno He also played bass on the Orb's iconic track. ‘The Blue Room' from the U.F.Orb album  Jah is an excellent raconteur, with so many great stories to tell. It's also worth checking out his book ‘Memoirs of a Geezer: Music, Mayhem, Life' which was originally published in 2009. The expanded version of the book came out this year on Faber and Faber RELATED LINKS https://jahwobble.com https://jahwobble.bandcamp.com Public Image Ltd - Swan Lake live on TOTP Socially Functioning Psychopath by Jah Wobble Jah's Sid Vicious Radio 4 doc

Today's episode features an in-depth and fascinating interview with Armenian-American vocalist, songwriter and composer, KÁRYYN KÁRYYN talks to me about the making of her latest three- track, EP Calm KAOSS! Which was co-produced by James Ford, one of the UK's biggest record producers, previous guest on Synthetic Dreams and one-half of Simian Mobile Disco. KÁRYYN also speaks about her time at Mills College in Oakland, where she was exposed to experimental music through teacher-composers like Pauline Oliveros and Maggi Payne.  We also discuss sexism in the music industry and the challenges she has faced as a female musician. She discusses these experiences in a frank and open way, but with a good deal of humour.   Calm KAOSS! Which also features two fantastic remixes, is out now on the always excellent Mute records, a label we both love 

Today's episode features the second part of an in-depth and fascinating conversation with electronic pioneer, Morton Subotnick.

This week's exceptional episode of Synthetic Dreams features the legendary American electronic musician. Morton Subotnick. In 1967 he released the seminal album ‘Silver Apples of the Moon' - a record that showcases the sound of the Buchla 100 invented by the late and very great, Don Buchla. This groundbreaking and hugely influential record was the first electronic composition composed exclusively for the album format This year sees the release of 'Subotnick - Portrait of an Electronic Music Pioneer' a brand new documentary about his career , which has already received some fantastic reviews. The film, which has yet to have a UK release date, is currently screening in the US. This interview is part one of two interviews with this great man, who at 91 years of age, is showing no signs of stopping. 

Todays fascinating episode of Synthetic Dreams features Ivor Novello winning musician, producer and co-creator of popular electronic act, Goldfrapp. In 2005, Will formed The Will Gregory Moog Ensemble  - a group of talented musicians, who all perform with analogue synthesisers.  We discuss the formation of the Moog Ensemble and  recording of their excellent debut album, ‘Heat Ray' which is out on June 14th via Mute Records. Will also talks about his vast collection of analogue synths, his earliest musical passions and love of Wendy Carlos and her album, ‘Switched-On-Bach'. A hugely influential electronic album, which was truly groundbreaking at the time of its release back in 1968.  The Moog Ensemble are playing a few live dates later in the year, including a headline slot at the Hidden Notes Festival on 21st September. For more information about the Will Gregory Moog Ensemble and the players involved visit: https://www.willgregorymoogensemble.co.uk/  To pre-order the album visit: https://mutebank.co.uk/collections/will-gregory-moog-ensemble Moog Ensemble - Young Archimedes (Official Visualiser) Synthetic Dreams is presented and produced by Scott Zverblis Synthetic Dreams on ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠ Synthetic Dreams title music by Chris Ibbott

Today's episode of Synthetic Dreams features electronic musician, DJ, producer, remixer and record label owner, Josh Wink Born and raised Philadelphia, Josh has enjoyed several hits, not only under his own name, but also with different aliases, including "I'm Ready" (as Size 9) "Don't Laugh" (as Winx), with his absolutely amazing and timeless track, "Higher State of Consciousness," which still sounds incredible today. We discuss, among other things, his more material, including the E.Ps ‘Ci-Devant and ‘The Deepness', earliest musical passions, the American rave scene in the early 90s and Ovum Recordings, a record label he started back in 1994 with his good friend, King Britt. This year, the label celebrates it 30th Anniversary. www.ovumrecordings.com www.joshwink.com. Synthetic Dreams is presented and produced by Scott Zverblis Synthetic Dreams on ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠ Synthetic Dreams title music by Chris Ibbott

My guest this week is musician, composter, writer and filmmaker, Barry Adamson. We discuss his excellent new solo album ‘Cut To Black' which is out this Friday, 17h May. This is Barry's tenth solo album. Barry, who has worked with Nick Cave and The Bad Seeds, Visage and Finnish electronic act, Pan Sonic, also talks about his brilliant memoir ‘Up Above the City, Down Beneath the Stars', which was published in 2021, via Omnibuspress press. It's well worth a read! We also talk about his earliest musical passions, the post-punk scene in Manchester, back in the late 70s, meeting Howard Devoto and the formation of Magazine - one of the greatest bands the city has ever produced To purchase the album or for details about forthcoming live dates visit http://www.barryadamson.com

‘Pioneer' is a word that often gets overused in the world of music journalism, especially when describing this week's guest, but that's exactly what she is, a pioneer…a true pioneer of electronic music!  Suzanne Ciani speaks to me about the time she met Don Buchla and her memories of him, as well as discussing her early career in new New York, making advertising jingles for huge companies like coca-cola.   She also talks about the recording of ‘Golden Apples Of The Sun' a collaboration with Parisian composer Jonathan Fitoussi, which came out last October      Suzanne Ciani performs in China on May 24th before retiring to the UK for a couple of dates in September. For tickets visit: https://www.sevwave.com/ Synthetic Dreams title music is by Chris Ibbott 

My guest this week is Boris Blank from hugely influential Swiss electronic act, Yello. Boris Blank formed Yello with Carlos Peron back in 1979. Charismatic singer and lyricist, Dieter Meier, joined shortly after. Boris and Dieter became a duo after Peron left the group in 1983 to pursue a solo career, and the rest, as they say, is history.   During our conversation, which was recorded over telephone, we discussed, among other things, Blank's third solo record ‘Resonance'. The twelve tracks that feature on “Resonance” were originally commissioned for the FORTYSEVEN thermal spa near Zurich.   Boris also talks about the new documentary ‘Oh Yeah' which explores the legacy of Yello's iconic track which found international success after being featured in the closing scenes of John Hughes classic teen comedy ‘Ferris Bueller's Day Off', which is one of my favourite films of the 1980s For more information about the new album, or to buy a copy, visit: https://ianrecords.com/products/boris-blank-resonance Boris Blank - 'Resonance' Synthetic Dreams is presented and produced by Scott Zverblis Synthetic Dreams on ⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠ Synthetic Dreams title music by Chris Ibbott

In this week's episode of Synthetic Dreams I'm talking to DJ, and drummer, Anna Prior. Anna, best known for her role as drummer in hugely popular electronic act Metronomy, has just released the second single from her much-anticipated EP, ‘Almost Love', which comes out on 13th June via House Anxiety records She also presents a monthly show called ‘Beat Palace' on Soho Radio. https://sohoradiolondon.com/profile/anna-prior/ Anna recently collaborated with Tom Furse from The Horrors. Furse directed the video for her previous single ‘Tech Não and for her latest single ‘Fall Back'  Anna Prior - Tech Não (Official Video) Anna Prior - Fall Back

Delighted and honoured to be joined by Jonathan Moore on the podcast today.  Jonathan is one-half of hugely influential electronic act, Coldcut, which he formed back in 1986 with Matt Black. Coldcut are often refereed to as pioneers of pop sampling in the 1980s We discuss, among other things, the recording of Coldcut's first album. His memories of working with the late and very great, Mark. E. Smith from post-punk band The Fall and Jonathan tells a great story about the time Coldcut remixed a track by legendary French composer and pioneer of musique concrète, Pierre Henry.   We also discuss Ninja Tune, the label that he and Matt started in 1990. The label's first release was the first five volumes of DJ Food's Jazz Brakes. Since then Ninja Tune has gone on to release albums by The Cinematic Orchestra, Bonobo, Kelis, Amon Tobin, Black Country New Road and the amazing BICEP https://coldcut.net/ https://ninjatune.net/home The Fall w/Coldcut - Telephone Thing Coldcut featuring Lisa Stansfield Synthetic Dreams is presented and produced by Scott Zverblis Synthetic Dreams on ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠ Synthetic Dreams title music by Chris Ibbott

Multi-talented Danish musicians, Lisbet Fritze and Louise Foo, otherwise known as Glas, recently spoke to me about the making of their highly anticipated debut album, ‘Kisses Like Feathers‘ The album, which was self-produced by the duo and mixed by Anders Trentemøller, a previous guest on the podcast, is out now via Hamburg's hfn music.  All lyrics, vocals and instruments were performed by Glas, and recorded in their studio. It was great to  speak to one of my new favourite bands about their excellent debut record, which I can't recommend enough.  https://glasdk.bandcamp.com/ Glas: 'Midnight Fay' Synthetic Dreams is presented and produced by Scott Zverblis Synthetic Dreams on ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠ Synthetic Dreams title music by Chris Ibbott