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Billy Sherwood discusses the upcoming YES UK tour featuring the complete Fragile album. He traces his path from drummer to bassist, learning the instrument by playing along to YES records, and development in groups Lodgic and World Trade. Sherwood details his first collaboration with Chris Squire in 1989, writing ‘The More We Live – Let Go,’ and his refusal to become YES’s lead singer during the Union era. The conversation centres on Squire’s final weeks, and Squire making Sherwood promise to stay with YES and keep the band moving forward. He also reflects on his extensive tribute album work, and YES’s current recording process for albums The Quest and Mirror to the Sky. Further information yesworld.com billysherwood.com Billy Sherwood podcast tracks Podcasts also available: Steve Howe (2025), Steve Howe (2023), Steve Howe (2019), Bill Bruford, Alan White, Trevor Horn, Geoff Downes, Tony Kaye, Rick Wakeman, Chester Thompson, Colin Moulding – part 2 This podcast is also available on Apple Podcasts, YouTube, Spotify, Google apps and all usual platforms If you like what I do please support me on Ko-fi The post Billy Sherwood – YES appeared first on The Strange Brew .
Twenty-five years after its release, Wasp Star remains XTC's final statement. So how does the album stand up? Is it underrated? Is it neglected? Is it eclipsed by Apple Venus? And is it in need of some more love? In this month's episode of What Do You Call That Noise? The XTC Podcast, we head to the west of Scotland where Glasgow-based XTC fans Stephen Hope, Lorraine Lee, Alison Eales and David McGuinness show their love for a fascinating album. What Do You Call that Noise? The XTC Podcast is sponsored by Burning Shed, the online home for all XTC CD, vinyl and official merchandise. Music courtesy of Daryl Bean – with a very special guest guitarist… What Do You Call That Noise? An XTC Discovery Book available from www.xtclimelight.com If you've enjoyed What Do You Call That Noise? The XTC Podcast, please show your support at https://www.patreon.com/markfisher Thanks to the Pink Things, Humble Daisies and Knights in Shining Karma who've done the same. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Released in 1986, Skylarking stands as one of XTC's most celebrated and cohesive works—a shimmering, pastoral pop masterpiece that marries the band's sharp songwriting with lush, orchestral production. Produced by Todd Rundgren, the album was conceived as a conceptual song cycle tracing the arc of an English summer's day, paralleling the stages of life from youthful innocence to adult disillusionment and beyond.The music is a sun-dappled blend of baroque pop, psychedelia, and classic British songwriting, evoking the melodic sophistication of The Beatles, The Beach Boys, and The Kinks while remaining distinctly XTC in tone and wit. Songs like “Grass” and “Season Cycle” celebrate nature's rhythms and sensuality, while “Dear God” (originally a B-side, later a U.S. hit) offers biting social commentary and existential questioning.Lyrically, frontman Andy Partridge and bassist Colin Moulding explore themes of love, faith, time, and the bittersweet beauty of everyday life. Rundgren's layered arrangements give the album a continuous, almost cinematic flow—each track melting into the next like scenes in a pastoral dream.Over time, Skylarking has been reappraised as one of the finest British albums of the 1980s, and many fans regard it as XTC's crowning achievement—a radiant and wistful meditation on life, nature, and the passage of time.What did you think of this album? Send us a text!Support the showWebsite Contact
This episode of What Do You Call That Noise? The XTC Podcast features a fascinating conversation with Stu Rowe recorded at the 2025 XTC Fan Festival in Swindon. Stu talks about working with Andy Partridge, Colin Moulding, Terry Chambers, Barry Andrews, Peter Blegvad and Jen Olive on everything from the 3 Clubmen to Gonwards. XTC-inspired music comes courtesy of Callum Wilson and Nick Lacey Callum Wilson and the Hemp Queens Nick Lacey and Model Worker What Do You Call That Noise? An XTC Discovery Book available from www.xtclimelight.com If you've enjoyed What Do You Call That Noise? The XTC Podcast, please show your support at https://www.patreon.com/markfisher Thanks to the Pink Things, Humble Daisies and Knights in Shining Karma who've done the same. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
In this episode of What Do You Call That Noise? The XTC Podcast, we join Alfredo Marziano, the author of the newly published XTC: Skylarking – A Life in A Day, the Making of a Pop Classic. This 152-page book draws on archive material and original interviews to go on a deep dive into the record that many XTC fans regard as the band's finest. As well as setting the scene, describing where the band was in 1986 and the background to working with producer Todd Rundgren in Woodstock and San Francisco, Alfredo gives a track-by-track breakdown of the album and its associated B-sides and outtakes to create a comprehensive overview. XTC: Skylarking – A Life in A Day, the Making of a Pop Classic Music from Dave James What Do You Call That Noise? An XTC Discovery Book available from www.xtclimelight.com If you've enjoyed What Do You Call That Noise? The XTC Podcast, please show your support at https://www.patreon.com/markfisher Thanks to the Pink Things, Humble Daisies and Knights in Shining Karma who've done the same. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
“Lived Through That” is the companion podcast to my book where I look at influential musicians of the 80s and 90s and where they are today. On this podcast, we'll delve deeper into a single pivotal moment in the lives of some of the artists I feature in that book, as well as other artists I love and admire. The stories they tell are open, honest, and inspiring. This week I'm pleased to have part two of my talk with Colin Moulding from XTC. In this episode, we talk about the post-XTC career and his solo material with Terry Chambers. Musical credits: "Thoughtless" by Blue Dot Sessions. "Scatter Me" from TC&I - which can be purchased here. "The Hardest Battle" from Colin Moulding, which can be purhased here. Be sure to look out for my books, "Lived Through That" and "80s Redux" where ever you buy your books! You can find out more about my work and the 80s and 90s books at my website here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In the second of a special two-part edition of What Do You Call That Noise? The XTC Podcast, supporters on Patreon ask questions they had always wanted Andy Partridge to answer that he never gets asked. The challenge was to come up with questions that would surprise, delight and generally intrigue the XTC frontman. They do not disappoint! The results take us on a fascinating journey from the Beatles to broccoli, from Fireball XL5 to The Last Balloon – and beyond. Music from Chris Badley and Foolish Men. What Do You Call That Noise? An XTC Discovery Book available from www.xtclimelight.com If you've enjoyed What Do You Call That Noise? The XTC Podcast, please show your support at https://www.patreon.com/markfisher Thanks to the Pink Things, Humble Daisies and Knights in Shining Karma who've done the same. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
“Lived Through That” is the companion podcast to my book where I look at influential musicians of the 80s and 90s and where they are today. On this podcast, we'll delve deeper into a single pivotal moment in the lives of some of the artists I feature in that book, as well as other artists I love and admire. The stories they tell are open, honest, and inspiring. This week I'm pleased to have Colin Moulding from one of my favorite bands, XTC, on the show. In this episode, he talks about the early days of the band and about the making of their 1986 masterpiece, "Skylarking." Musical credits: "Babble Babble Brook" by Blue Dot Sessions. Be sure to look out for my books, "Lived Through That" and "80s Redux" where ever you buy your books! You can find out more about my work and the 80s and 90s books at my website here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In the first of a special two-part edition of What Do You Call That Noise? The XTC Podcast, supporters on Patreon ask questions they had always wanted Andy Partridge to answer that he never gets asked. The challenge was to come up with questions that would surprise, delight and generally intrigue the XTC frontman. They do not disappoint! The results take us on a fascinating journey from the Beatles to broccoli, from Fireball XL5 to The Last Balloon – and beyond. Music from Terry Arnett and Planet Sunday. What Do You Call That Noise? An XTC Discovery Book available from www.xtclimelight.com If you've enjoyed What Do You Call That Noise? The XTC Podcast, please show your support at https://www.patreon.com/markfisher Thanks to the Pink Things, Humble Daisies and Knights in Shining Karma who've done the same. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Wanted to let you know that we're taking the last three weeks of August off, and we'll be back the Thursday after Labor Day, Sept. 5, all refreshed and ready with a new Caropop conversation. In the meantime, we encourage you to explore our back catalog. There are 145 episodes, after all.Have you listened to Ep. 102 with jazz-R&B pianist/singer/composer Patrice Rushen? How about Ep. 90 with Suzzy Roche of the Roches? Or Ep. 88 with Eddie “King” Roeser of Urge Overkill? Or Eps. 24 and 25 with, respectively, Colin Blunstone of the Zombies and Sam Phillips? Or Ep. 9 with legendary mastering engineer Bernie Grundman? How about one of the XTC episodes with Colin Moulding, Dave Gregory or Terry Chambers? You can find these and discover others at https://www.caropop.com/caropopcast or go to Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Producer Chris Cwiak and I wish you all a great end of summer, and we'll talk with you again soon. Thanks!
From handing a tape to John Peel to encouraging Colin Moulding to write songs, Steve Warren is a key part of the XTC story. In a fascinating interview, he recalls befriending Andy Partridge as a child, working as a roadie for the Helium Kidz and touring the world with XTC. Also in this episode, Gaz Barrett describes how he commissioned a mural of English Settlement in the centre of Swindon. Artist Dayna Baxter on Instagram Music from Garry Perkins on Soundcloud What Do You Call That Noise? An XTC Discovery Book available from www.xtclimelight.com If you've enjoyed What Do You Call That Noise? The XTC Podcast, please show your support at https://www.patreon.com/markfisher Thanks to the Pink Things, Humble Daisies and Knights in Shining Karma who've done the same. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
In South West England, in a town called Swindon, a group of disaffected youth would come together in the early 70s and create a body of songs over the next few decades whose indelible melodies and incisive lyrics would root themselves in your brain and never leave. Today's guest, Colin Moulding, shook off XTC's early affection for dissonance and composed their first breakthrough hit, “Making Plans for Nigel” - instantly becoming a worthy creative foil for the band's primary singer and songwriter, Andy Partridge. Colin's bass lines alone - serpentine, song-friendly but always memorable - would qualify him for the four string pantheon, but the fact that he has also crafted and sang some of the band's best-loved tunes makes him a unique triple threat. Speaking with us from his garden shed studio, Colin opines on everything from the band's circuitous route from touring act to studio wizards, their adventures with some of rock's best-known knob twiddlers, and his process for letting good musical ideas wash over him vs. forcing them out. XTC (https://open.spotify.com/artist/2qT62DYO8Ajb276vUJmvhz?si=2i_RljmPT7GW7PNw-9Yb8w) The Dukes of Stratosphear (https://open.spotify.com/artist/1ilhXoWIlGxz3fM4B24mNo?si=cujLrBZhQzmOeTy97OBJmw) TC&I (https://burningshed.com/artists/tcandi) Colin's recent solo release “The Hardest Battle” (https://burningshed.com/colin-moulding_the-hardest-battle_cd) XTC: This is Pop (2018) - Documentary trailer (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GjPenjuPZhM)
XTC fans were out in force at the Neo-Ancients festival in Stroud, Gloucestershire on Saturday 4 May 2024 when producer Hugh Padgham joined festival co-director Ben Wardle to talk about XTC's English Settlement. Your dedicated podcast host, Mark Fisher, was on hand with his trusty tape recorder to share it with you. Hugh talks about drunken jam sessions, Andy Partridge as a sumo wrestler and creating the flange effect on Jason and the Argonauts, as well as taking questions from the audience. Music courtesy of Knight in Shining Karma Robert Lawlor. What Do You Call That Noise? An XTC Discovery Book available from www.xtclimelight.com If you've enjoyed What Do You Call That Noise? The XTC Podcast, please show your support at https://www.patreon.com/markfisher Thanks to the Pink Things, Humble Daisies and Knights in Shining Karma who've done the same. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Live Through That is back for another season – and what a great season of stories we've got planned for you! I keep calling it our “Legends” season since we've got such an outstanding lineup of guests! Steve Diggle from The Buzzcocks, Gerald Casale from DEVO, Colin Moulding from XTC, Barry Andrews from Shreikback ,Steve Kilbey from The Church, David Newton from the Mighty Lemon Drops - and more surprises! New season launches on June 5th! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In the 50th episode of What Do You Call That Noise? The XTC Podcast, we go back to the formative years of XTC in the company of Ian Doeser and Lee Moulding. As well as being front man with the Hamsters from Hell, Ian was in Swindon's first punk band, the Aggravators, and has been sharing his memories of XTC and others in a book, A Big Fish in a Small Puddle. As well as being Ian's drummer, Lee has a lifetime of memories growing up as a child of XTC. Music courtesy of Beth Link. A Big Fish in a Small Puddle available on Amazon What Do You Call That Noise? An XTC Discovery Book available from www.xtclimelight.com If you've enjoyed What Do You Call That Noise? The XTC Podcast, please show your support at https://www.patreon.com/markfisher Thanks to the Pink Things, Humble Daisies and Knights in Shining Karma who've done the same. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
To celebrate the 25th anniversary of XTC's landmark album Apple Venus Volume I, producer Haydn Bendall talks to What Do You Call That Noise? The XTC Podcast about the fraught recording sessions that nonetheless resulted in such majestic songs as River of Orchids, Easter Theatre and Greenman.“The songs were fabulous,” he says. “I loved the songs.”Fellow producer Guy Sigsworth joins Mark Fisher to ask the questions.The Real Numbers Haydn Bendall Guy Sigsworth What Do You Call That Noise? An XTC Discovery Book available from www.xtclimelight.com If you've enjoyed What Do You Call That Noise? The XTC Podcast, please show your support at https://www.patreon.com/markfisher Thanks to the Pink Things, Humble Daisies and Knights in Shining Karma who've done the same. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Bassist Colin Moulding wrote, played on and sang some of the XTC's greatest songs, including the breakthrough singles “Life Begins at the Hop” and “Making Plans for Nigel” plus “Ten Feet Tall,” “Generals and Majors,” “Runaways,” “Ball and Chain,” “Wonderland” … and those are just in the period covered in Pt. 1 of this fun, insightful conversation. Speaking from his home outside Swindon, England, Moulding tells of his musical beginnings; his and the band's evolutionary leap when guitarist Dave Gregory joined for Drums and Wires; the weird vibes as Moulding, and not primary singer-songwriter Andy Partridge, was writing the band's early hits; his reaction to the abrupt end of XTC's touring days; the jaw-dropping moment when drummer Terry Chambers quit; the joyous psychedelic side project, the Dukes of Stratosphear; and that time David Gilmour asked him to replace Roger Waters in Pink Floyd.
What's your most loved and least favorite song on XTC's Oranges & Lemons album?! In the middle of our so-called hiatus, Jim again chose to rank Swindon's finest by selecting their fine 11th export. We were graced by not one but two guest rankers who witnessed the band recording the album in Los Angeles: Mike Keneally, a former Frank Zappa guitarist who played guitar on one of the album's outtakes and Gary Helsinger, the Green Jello singer and then-Tower Records employee who got to hang with the band at Summa Studios and KROQ's studios during this era. Listen at WeWillRankYouPod.com, Apple, Spotify and your favorite garden of podcast delights. Follow us and weigh in with your favorites on Facebook, Instagram & Threads and Twitter @wewillrankyoupod . Acoustic tour, Across This Antheap, AGAIN?! The Beatles, Boy George, bridge, David Byrne, Chalkhills and Children, Elvis Costello, Cynical Days, Depeche Mode, Dukes of Stratosphear, ecstasy, eighties, fake horns, Paul Fox, Garden of Earthly Delights, Green Jello, Green Jelly, Dave Gregory, Happy Families, Gary Helsinger, Here Comes President Kill Again, Hold Me My Daddy, Mark Isham, Jellyfish, Mike Keneally, King for a Day, KROQ, Jim Laspesa, Love on a Farmboy's Wages, The Loving, Pat Mastelotto, Mayor of Simpleton, Merely a Man, Miniature Sun, Mister Mister, Colin Moulding, musical masturbation, new wave, Ocean Way Studios, Oingo Boingo, One of the Millions, Oranges & Lemons, Andy Partridge, Pink Thing, Poor Skeleton Steps Out, psychedelic rock, Scarecrow People, Science Friction, She's Having A Baby, shillings, sixties, Skylarking, sophisti-pop, Take This Town, They Might Be Giants, Tower Records Sunset, XTC, Frank Zappa, 1989. US: http://www.WeWillRankYouPod.com wewillrankyoupod@gmail.comhttp://www.facebook.com/WeWillRankYouPodhttp://www.instagram.com/WeWillRankYouPodhttps://www.threads.net/@WeWillRankYouPodhttp://www.twitter.com/WeWillRankYouPo http://www.YourOlderBrother.com(Sam's music page) http://www.YerDoinGreat.com (Adam's music page)https://open.spotify.com/user/dancecarbuzz (Dan's playlists)
Peter Pumpkinhead proclaims that "Any kind of love is alright" and gets nailed to a chunk of wood for saying so. What does that tell us about XTC's attitude to love and human relationships? In particular, how welcoming does this heterosexual band seem to those who aren't heterosexual themselves? This episode of What Do You Call That Noise? The XTC Podcast looks at XTC from an LGBTQI+ perspective. Guest host Darryl Bullock is joined by Keeley Moss, Tim Kendrick and Soizic De St John Rosse to talk about everything from The Loving to Towers of London. Music by Tim Pike and Slowrush. Darryl Bullock Keeley 2025 XTC Fans Festival, Friday 20–Sunday 22 June 2025 Slowrush What Do You Call That Noise? An XTC Discovery Book available from www.xtclimelight.com If you've enjoyed What Do You Call That Noise? The XTC Podcast, please show your support at https://www.patreon.com/markfisher Thanks to the Pink Things, Humble Daisies and Knights in Shining Karma who've done the same. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
The 3 Clubmen is a project comprised of Andy Partridge of the legendary English rock band XTC, Jen Olive and Stu Rowe . They released their eponymous debut EP on June 30, 2023 on Burning Shed Records. The first taste is "Aviatrix," an avant-pop delight offering a strange, seductive blend of experimental pop, jazz and sci-fi cinema excellence.Best known as co-founder of XTC, Andy Partridge is known as the “godfather of Britpop". His most recent solo releases include 'My Failed Songwriting Career, Volumes 1 & 2'. Apart from various XTC re-releases, he also released the 'Planet England' EP with Robyn Hitchcock, the 'Powers' collection of sound pieces, and the 'Gonwards' album with Peter Blegvad, in addition to writing songs for The Monkees, Miles Kane and others.Native to Los Angeles, musician-songwriter Jen Olive has a series of albums to her name, in addition to writing and recording for A&M Records and contributing music to various American Film Institute projects. Her latest solo release was 2022's Stu Rowe-produced single "Two Futures." A key player on Swindon's music scene, Stu Rowe has supported many artists as a guitarist, bassist and producer. Apart from Andy Patridge and Jen Olive, these include Shriekback (Barry Andrews), Paul Weller, Colin Moulding, Future Sound of London (The Amorphous Androgynous), and so much more. https://burningshed.comWatch the interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/f-ZVcUvvCRM?si=SRt8OJdP7y47TSWNPlaylist and podcast: https://djnocturna.com QUEEN OF WANDS with DJ Nocturna Every Saturday on ModSnap Radio KMOD: San Antonio 2pm (HST), 5pm (PST), 6pm (MST), 7pm (CST), 8pm (EST)Listen : http://modsnapradio.com
Keyboardist Barry Andrews was out and new guitarist Dave Gregory came onboard for XTC's 3rd album, Drums And Wires, as the band's sound palette expanded. Written & sung by bassist Colin Moulding, "Making Plans For Nigel" became XTC's first big hit. This episode, we explore the production, performance and the origin of this XTC classic. "Making Plans For Nigel" (Colin Moulding) Copyright 1979 EMI Virgin Records Ltd Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Keyboardist Barry Andrews was out and new guitarist Dave Gregory came onboard for XTC's 3rd album, Drums And Wires, as the band's sound palette expanded. Written & sung by bassist Colin Moulding, "Making Plans For Nigel" became XTC's first big hit. This episode, we explore the production, performance and the origin of this XTC classic. "Making Plans For Nigel" (Colin Moulding) Copyright 1979 EMI Virgin Records Ltd — This show is one of many great music-related podcasts on the Pantheon network. You should check them out! And remember to follow this show, so you never miss an episode. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
It's the music we've been awaiting for a decade – and now it's out! Stu Rowe, Jen Olive and Andy Partridge have gone public with The 3 Clubmen and their very wonderful eponymous four-track EP is released at the end of June. But with three such gifted musicians to choose from, what's a humble podcaster to do? There can be only one answer: three weekly podcasts!In the first episode, Stu Rowe talks about working with XTC's Andy Partridge, Colin Moulding, Terry Chambers, Barry Andrews and Dave Gregory, as well as Jen Olive and most musicians in Swindon.The 3 Clubmen EP is released 30 June 2023 and available from Burning Shed https://burningshed.com/the-3-clubmen_the-3-clubmen-ep_cd The 3 Clubmen https://www.facebook.com/the3clubmen Stu Rowe https://www.facebook.com/stu.rowe.3 Jen Olive https://www.facebook.com/jen.olive.5 Andy Partridge's Ape House on Burning Shed https://burningshed.com/store/ape Music courtesy of Joel Bell https://soundcloud.com/joel-bell-4/sets/limelight-fuzzy-warbles-for-mark-f What Do You Call That Noise? An XTC Discovery Book available from www.xtclimelight.com If you've enjoyed What Do You Call That Noise? The XTC Podcast, please show your support at https://www.patreon.com/markfisher Thanks to the Pink Things, Humble Daisies and Knights in Shining Karma who've done the same. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Oh we do like to be beside the B-sides. In this month's episode of What Do You Call That Noise? The XTC Podcast, Mia Rankin, Ashley LeCron, Crawford Blair and Mark Fisher pick their favourite non-album songs , ranging from She's So Square to The World Is Full of Angry Young Men. Music provided by Jeff Nicholson. The episode was inspired by Mia's ranking of all XTC B-sides on her Dead Letter Offices substack What Do You Call That Noise? An XTC Discovery Book available from www.xtclimelight.com If you've enjoyed What Do You Call That Noise? The XTC Podcast, please show your support at https://www.patreon.com/markfisher Thanks to the Pink Things, Humble Daisies and Knights in Shining Karma who've done the same. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
XTC is dead, long live EXTC! Even though the great XTC is no more, original drummer Terry Chambers is taking that memorable music on the road with his new band EXTC. With the blessing of the other members of XTC, fans are getting their dose with Terry and his great band. (And if that's not enough, EXTC is planning on writing and recording new music!)You can check out Terry and EXTC live right now. For tour dates and more information, check out their website.
In the second of a two-part conversation for What Do You Call That Noise? The XTC Podcast, five fans, journalists and photographers recall what it was like to witness XTC explode onto the scene. On 20 January 1978, XTC released their debut album, White Music, setting our radios in motion for the next 45 years. Tony Mitchell, editorial staffer on Sounds, followed XTC to Hamburg, Amsterdam and Japan. Photographer Jill Furmanovsky was on the same trip to Hamburg in 1978 and subsequent publicity sessions. Beverley Glick, who wrote for Sounds under the name of Betty Page, joined XTC in New York in 1980. Paul Burgess and Andy Poulton were at school at Headlands in Swindon, where the caretaker was Colin Moulding's dad. Music by Warren Butson.XTC's White Music: 45 years on (part one) What Do You Call That Noise? An XTC Discovery Book available from www.xtclimelight.com If you've enjoyed What Do You Call That Noise? The XTC Podcast, please show your support at https://www.patreon.com/markfisher Thanks to the Pink Things, Humble Daisies and Knights in Shining Karma who've done the same. Paul BurgessThis Is Hardcore Warren ButsonHelter Skelter Jill FurmanovskyWebsite Rock Archive Swindon Works: XTC 1978 Hanging Around books Beverley GlickWebsite Tony MitchellWebsite Andy PoultonWebsite Sounds Clips Twitter ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Strap-in for this one, XTC fans: Record/Hot Sauce purveyor Kevin Chanel (Grooves Inspiralled Vinyl/El Enojado Hot Sauce) brings us a curious musical oddity called 'Take Away / The Lure of Salvage', the 1980 debut record by XTC frontman Andy Partridge a.k.a. Mr Partridge! Consisting basically of dub remixes/rewrites of tracks originally recorded by Partridge's band XTC - and Co-produced with John Leckie - it's a weirdly confounding, highly experimental slab that challenges at every turn. Songs featured in this episode: Meccanik Dancing (Peel Session), Dance With Me, Germany - XTC; Words From The Poster (Remix) - The Front; Big Train, Piss Bottle Man - Mike Watt; All My Friends Are Ghosts - Scared Of Chaka; Making Plans For Nigel, Battery Brides, A Dictionary Of Modern Marriage, Life Begins At The Hop - XTC; Commerciality - Andy Partridge; Refrigeration Blues - XTC The Day They Pulled The North Pole Down - Andy Partridge; Heatwave - XTC; The Forgotten Language Of Light - Andy Partridge; Millions - XTC; Kurt's Rejoinder - Brian Eno; Reel By Reel - XTC; Steam Fist Futurist, Shore Leave Ornithology (Another 1950) - Andy Partridge; Ornithology - Charlie Parker; Cairo - Andy Partridge; Penetration In The Centrefold - DEVO; Helicopter - XTC; The Rotery - Andy Partridge; Veteran's Day Poppy - Captain Beefheart And His Magic Band; Madhattan, I Sit In The Snow - Andy Partridge; Meninblack - The Stranglers; The Walrus Hunt, Margaret Freeman - The Residents; Work Away Tokyo Day, New Broom - Andy Partridge; Radio 4 - Public Image Ltd.; It's Over - The Front; Let There Be Snow - Andy Partridge
On 20 January 1978, XTC released their debut album with its defiant cry of This Is Pop! In the first of a two-part conversation for What Do You Call That Noise? The XTC Podcast, five fans, journalists and photographers recall what it was like to witness XTC explode onto the scene with White Music. Tony Mitchell, editorial staffer on Sounds, followed XTC to Hamburg, Amsterdam and Japan. Photographer Jill Furmanovsky was on the same trip to Hamburg in 1978 and subsequent publicity sessions. Beverley Glick, who wrote for Sounds under the name of Betty Page, joined XTC in New York in 1980. Paul Burgess and Andy Poulton were at school at Headlands in Swindon, where the caretaker was Colin Moulding's dad. Music by Jon Bicknell. What Do You Call That Noise? An XTC Discovery Book available from www.xtclimelight.com If you've enjoyed What Do You Call That Noise? The XTC Podcast, please show your support at https://www.patreon.com/markfisher Thanks to the Pink Things, Humble Daisies and Knights in Shining Karma who've done the same. Jon BicknellDrums and Wires UKThat Sfumato Effect Paul BurgessThis Is Hardcore Jill FurmanovskyWebsiteRock ArchiveSwindon Works: XTC 1978 Hanging Around books Beverley GlickWebsite Tony MitchellWebsite Andy PoultonWebsite Sounds Clips Twitter ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Illustration: Ashley LeCronIn October 2020, we handed over What Do You Call That Noise? The XTC Podcast to a bunch of fans in their 20s. Time has passed and we're ready to hear from an even newer generation of XTC fans who are as wise and articulate as the last. In a lively conversation, Ashley LeCron, Lexie Ward, Lee Saunders and Lewis Wilkinson share their enthusiasm not only for XTC but also the bands that led them to discover XTC.And because it's that time of year, they are in party spirit.They've even put together a companion playlist.What Do You Call That Noise? An XTC Discovery Book available from www.xtclimelight.com If you've enjoyed What Do You Call That Noise? The XTC Podcast, please show your support at https://www.patreon.com/markfisher Thanks to the Pink Things, Humble Daisies and Knights in Shining Karma who've done the same. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Picture © Lou Dommett Young What was it like to be on the road with one of the hardest working bands of the late 70s and early 80s? We find out from four veterans of XTC's touring years: drummer Terry Chambers, journalist Allan Jones and roadies Pete Dewhirst and Steve Warren. Many thanks to Mike Smith and Steve Manning and the other XTC Convention organisers for making it all possible. What Do You Call That Noise? An XTC Discovery Book available from www.xtclimelight.com If you've enjoyed What Do You Call That Noise? The XTC Podcast, please show your support at https://www.patreon.com/markfisher Thanks to the Pink Things, Humble Daisies and Knights in Shining Karma who've done the same. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Tim Vesely is a bassist, guitarist, songwriter, composer, and sound engineer. Best-known as a co-founder (with Dave Bidini) of the much-revered Canadian art-rock band Rheostatics, Tim has also recorded 2 albums and an EP with his own band The Violet Archers. Tim is the House Engineer at Blue Rodeo's Woodshed Studio in Toronto's Riverdale neighbourhood.Tim and Jane have worked together since 2008, mostly in the context of Jane's band The Real Shade. Their recent work together finds Tim as the Music Director of the Music Buddy Band Sessions, where musician guests record new versions of original songs. In this conversation, they discuss the art and craft of songwriting, but in a "non-songwriterly" kind of way. Tim's unique and thoughtful perspectives on music and life are insightful and astute, balanced with sharp wit and a positive outlook.MUSIC BUDDY SESSION: "The End of Part One"Written by Tim VeselyPerformed by Tim Vesely and Jane Gowan (listen at 50:07)SONG SAMPLES IN THIS EPISODE“Claire” - Written by Tim Vesely, performed by Rheostatics (Introducing Happiness, 1994)“The Music Room” - Written by Tim Vesely, performed by Rheostatics (The Story of Harmelodia, 1999)“Ten Feet Tall” - Written by Colin Moulding, performed by XTC (Drums and Wires, 1979)“The Headless One” - Written by Tim Vesely, performed by Rheostatics (Whale Music, 1992)“Here Come the Feelings” - Written by Tim Vesely, performed by The Violet Archers (The End of Part One, 2007)“Music is the Message” - Written by Tim Vesely, Dave Clark, Dave Bidini & Hugh Marsh, performed by Rheostatics (Here Come the Wolves, 2019)“The End of Part One” - Written by Tim Vesely, performed by The Violet Archers (The End of Part One, 2004)“Making Progress” - Written by Tim Vesely, performed by Rheostatics (2067, 2004)“Listening” - Written by Tim Vesely, performed by The Violet Archers (Sunshine at Night, 2008)“Keep it In the Ground” - Written by Tim Vesely, performed by The Violet Archers (Keep It In The Ground, 2021)“Simple” - Written by Tim Vesely, performed by The Violet Archers (The End of Part One, 2007)The show's theme song, "Human Stuff," is written by Jane Gowan and Support the showA Morning Run Productions ProjectMusic Buddy is nomated for a 2023 Canadian Podcast Award for "Outstanding Music Series", and "Outstanding Main Title Theme Music for a Series". Many thanks to the Canadian Podcast Awards, and congratulations to all the Nominees! You can see the full list of Nominees at canpodawards.ca Jane Gowan (host, producer, editor) Tim Vesely (co-producer/co-host) The show's theme song, "Human Stuff," is written by Jane Gowan and Tim Vesely, and performed by Jane and Tim, with additional vocals by Steve Wright and Connie KostiukEmail: jane@musicbuddy.caInstagram: @musicbuddypodcastFacebook: @musicbuddypodcastTwitter: @janegowanTikTok: @musicbuddypod
Picture © Lou Dommett Young One of the many highlights of the 2022 XTC Convention in Swindon was an in-depth interview with producer John Leckie. Talking to co-organiser Darryl Bullock, he recalled his formative studio experience working with former members of the Beatles and the excitement of going into the studio with XTC for their first two albums. After that came the sonic experiments of Go+ and Take Away/The Lure of Salvage and, of course, 25 O'Clock and Psonic Psunspot for the Dukes of Stratosphear. Many thanks to Darryl for conducting the interview and sound engineer Paul Bullimore who made the audio possible – not just for this but the whole weekend. What Do You Call That Noise? An XTC Discovery Book available from www.xtclimelight.com If you've enjoyed What Do You Call That Noise? The XTC Podcast, please show your support at https://www.patreon.com/markfisher Thanks to the Pink Things, Humble Daisies and Knights in Shining Karma who've done the same. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
XTC, Colin Moulding, and us.
As they prepare for one last run around the block, the members of Fossil Fools, the UK's longest running tribute to XTC, talk about their origins, their famous fans and their appearance at the XTC Convention 2022.Under Mark Fisher's intense questioning about their final set list, Terry Arnett (drums), Ed Percival (guitar), Dan Farmer (keyboard) and Matt Bell (bass) stay tight-lipped. XTC Convention, Friday 16–Sunday 18 September 2022 The Water Rats, Gray's Inn Road, London, 29 October 2022 The Vic, Swindon, 25 November 2022 What Do You Call That Noise? An XTC Discovery Book available from https://www.xtclimelight.com If you've enjoyed What Do You Call That Noise? The XTC Podcast, please show your support at https://www.patreon.com/markfisher Thanks to the Pink Things, Humble Daisies and Knights in Shining Karma who've done the same. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
It takes seven musicians to reproduce the sound of XTC when the fantastic Scarecrow People take to the stage. In this episode of What Do You Call That Noise? The XTC Podcast, we talk to three of them about keeping the XTC flame alive in Australia. As they prepare for their next gig at Camelot Lounge, Marrickville on 29 October 2022, Les Rankin (guitar), John Encarnacao (guitar) and Rob Child (bass) talk about set lists, musicianship and last-minute line-up changes. More about Scarecrow People More about The Nature Strip Scarecrow People play Scarecrow People What Do You Call That Noise? An XTC Discovery Book available from https://www.xtclimelight.com If you've enjoyed What Do You Call That Noise? The XTC Podcast, please show your support at https://www.patreon.com/markfisher Thanks to the Pink Things, Humble Daisies and Knights in Shining Karma who've done the same.★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
In this episode of What Do You Call That Noise? The XTC Podcast, we dig deep into the centre of the songs of XTC with a celebration of some of the band's best middle eights – and there are a lot to choose from.The musically minded XTC fans picking their favourites are: Crawford "Me and the Wind" Blair Kavus "Jason and the Argonauts" Torabi Sarah "I Can't Own Her" Palmer Laurie "I Wonder Why the Wonderfalls" Langan David "No Language in our Lungs" White Mark "Pale and Precious" Fisher Supplying the new music is Gary O'Donnell.More from Crawford BlairMore from Kavus TorabiMore from Sarah and Laurie from Fassine More from David WhiteMore from Gary O'Donnell's The Forever BehavioursWhat Do You Call That Noise? An XTC Discovery Book available from https://www.xtclimelight.com If you've enjoyed What Do You Call That Noise? The XTC Podcast, please show your support at https://www.patreon.com/markfisherThanks to the Pink Things, Humble Daisies and Knights in Shining Karma who've done the same.And thanks to David White for the artwork.★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
What was it like being the eight-year-old asked to sing on XTC's landmark album? Thirty-five years after recording Dear God, Jasmine Veillette looks back at the making of Skylarking with studio manager Ralph Legnini. And, in a podcast exclusive, the two of them reveal their plans to re-record Dear God with the support of a crowdfunding campaign (details to follow). Asking the questions in this month's episode of What Do You Call That Noise? The XTC Podcast are Leslie Gooch and Mark Fisher. Supplying the new music is Craig Stevens. Follow Jasmine Veillette Catch up with Ralph Legnini Listen to Not a Loan by Craig Stevens What Do You Call That Noise? An XTC Discovery Book available from https://www.xtclimelight.com If you've enjoyed What Do You Call That Noise? The XTC Podcast, please show your support at https://www.patreon.com/markfisher Thanks to the Pink Things, Humble Daisies and Knights in Shining Karma who've done the same.★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Baxie talks to multi-instrumentalist Dave Gregory from XTC! Dave talks about being on the road, coming off the road, what really happened with Todd Rundgren, The Dukes of Stratosphere, and the song writing talents of his two former bandmates--Andy Partridge & Colin Moulding! Dave also gives a very candid opinion about the idea of an XTC reunion. (Here's a hint: It's not looking too good!) Baxie's Musical Podcast can also be found on Apple Podcasts, SoundCloud, Stitcher, Spotify, and on the Rock102 website!
Drummer Terry Chambers was the motor that powered XTC through its first five albums before frontman Andy Partridge broke down and abruptly ended the band's touring days. Chambers left soon afterward, moved to Australia and was away from music for three decades—in part trying to pay off the massive debt from that cancelled tour. Yet recently he moved back to Swindon, England, and teamed with XTC songwriter/bassist Colin Moulding on a new band, TC&I. When Moulding pulled the plug on that project, Chambers decided to tour XTC songs anyway—in EXTC. With candor and good humor, he discusses his playing and reveals what it was like to be in and then out of XTC—and who's the biggest obstacle to a possible reunion.
It was 18 March 1982 at La Palace in Paris when Andy Partridge left the stage for the last time, overwhelmed by the pressures of relentless touring and Valium withdrawal.Until that point, XTC were one of the hardest working live bands on the circuit and in this episode of What Do You Call That Noise? The XTC Podcast, music journalists David Nolan and Mick Middles remember what it was like to see them. They are joined by Brenna Ehrlich, senior news editor at Rolling Stone magazine, and Mark Fisher. Music provided by David White: listen to Still Got It on Soundcloud Brenna Ehrlich's Killing Time available here More on David Nolan here More on Mick Middles here Further reading in What Do You Call That Noise? An XTC Discovery Book If you've enjoyed What Do You Call That Noise? The XTC Podcast, please show your support at https://www.patreon.com/markfisherThanks to the Pink Things, Humble Daisies and Knights in Shining Karma who've done the same.★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
On 12 February 1982, XTC's English Settlement was released. Forty years on, What Do You Call That Noise? The XTC Podcast reunites guitarist Dave Gregory and co-producer Hugh Padgham to look back at the recording of one of the greatest ever double albums. They talk about favourite songs, hanging out at the Manor and Andy Partridge's after-hours tomfoolery.Asking the questions are Mark Fisher and Sue Charles. Musical interlude by Ed Stainsby.Further reading in What Do You Call That Noise? An XTC Discovery Book available from https://www.xtclimelight.com If you've enjoyed What Do You Call That Noise? The XTC Podcast, please show your support at https://www.patreon.com/markfisher Thanks to the Pink Things, Humble Daisies and Knights in Shining Karma who've done the same.★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
When Dave Gregory joined XTC in 1979, he transformed the band through his muscular, melodic guitar playing, occasional keyboards and, on "1000 Umbrellas," a string arrangement. Gregory always found ways to elevate singer-guitarist Andy Partridge's and bassist Colin Moulding's tuneful songs, such as “Generals and Majors” and “Senses Working Overtime.” But Gregory, frustrated by Partridge's controlling ways, quit in 1999, and the band hasn't released new material in more than 20 years. Although all four members of the classic lineup now live in Swindon, England, they don't see one another. But Gregory remembers much as he takes us through the creative explosion and eventual implosion that was XTC.
What is the holy grail for the XTC completist? Is it the 7in Science Friction with picture sleeve? Or is it the 7in Wrapped in Grey that was never officially released? Or perhaps it's a one-of-a-kind poster from the days of Star Park. In this episode of What Do You Call That Noise? The XTC Podcast, dedicated collectors Darryl Bullock and Per Aronsson show each other their XTC treasures and discuss their most prized possessions. What is the rarest of them all? Mark Fisher and Leslie Gooch get top collecting tips and Chez Preston gives the drink recommendation. This episode is available in video and audio formats. See more of Darryl Bullock's XTC collection here: https://www.instagram.com/my_xtc_collection Further reading in The XTC Bumper Book of Fun for Boys and Girls (nearly sold out) and What Do You Call That Noise? An XTC Discovery Book available from https://www.xtclimelight.com If you've enjoyed What Do You Call That Noise? The XTC Podcast, please show your support at https://www.patreon.com/markfisher Thanks to the Pink Things, Humble Daisies and Knights in Shining Karma who've done the same.★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Nick Heyward first saw XTC at the Croydon Greyhound in 1978, two days after the release of White Music. The Haircut 100 frontman has been a fan ever since. Thomas Walsh has written with Andy Partridge and collaborated with Dave Gregory. He also appeared on Colin Moulding's Say It. The two musicians talk about meeting their heroes, the collaborations that nearly happened and those that might happen yet... Mark Fisher and Kevin Birt ask the questions. Florrie Thomas gives the drink recommendation. Nick Heyward's website Thomas Walsh and Pugwash Further reading in The XTC Bumper Book of Fun for Boys and Girls (nearly sold out) and What Do You Call That Noise? An XTC Discovery Book available from https://www.xtclimelight.com If you've enjoyed What Do You Call That Noise? The XTC Podcast, please show your support at https://www.patreon.com/markfisher Thanks to the Pink Things, Humble Daisies and Knights in Shining Karma who've done the same.★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
From his home in Swindon England, XTC co-founder and bassist Colin Moudling discusses his new single / video “The Hardest Battle,” his influences, and reflects on his career in one of the most influential bands in the history of rock and roll.Colin Moulding Playlist
Graham Coath speaks to Colin Moulding ex XTC about his new single The Hardest Battle
What's your most-loved and least favorite song on XTC's Skylarking? Dear Pod, we were in literal and figurative ecstasy talking about the ninth album by Swindon's finest. Jim's pick led to a new innovative countdown ranking system that we adored. Fun sharing how we all wrestled with tearing apart song combos and a track order that is such a huge part of why we love it so. Lots of our patented opinion clashing plus special guest ranker Tim Smith from Georgia XTC satellites Nigels With Attitude, Jellyfish and Noel Gallagher's High Flying Birds weighs in. We're taking a bit of a recording break for the summer season cauldron cycle, so enjoy our longest episode to date. In the meantime, our social media will still be just as fun as the pod, so please tell us how YOU would rank tonight's tunes on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter @wewillrankyoupod ! FILE UNDER/SPOILERS: Andy Partridge, Big Day, Nigels With Attitude, Swindon, Dying, art rock, 91X, The Meeting Place, Todd Rundgren, Wild Honey Orchestra, That's Really Super, Supergirl, Colin Moulding, Utopia, Eric Clapton, Grass, the Los Angeles XTC Appreciation Society, I've made a huge mistake, Ballet for a Rainy Day, psychedelic music, 1000 Umbrellas, Dave Gregory, The Man Who Sailed Around His Soul, the Prisoner, Mingo Lewis, Earn Enough for Us, actual ecstasy, the Beatles, Season Cycle, the Beach Boys, Tim Smith, Another Satellite, chamber pop, underwater piano, Sacrificial Bonfire, umbilical, #manimonday, Summer's Cauldron, Dukes of Stratosphear, England, Dear God, 1986. US: http://www.WeWillRankYouPod.com wewillrankyoupod@gmail.com http://www.facebook.com/WeWillRankYouPod http://www.instagram.com/WeWillRankYouPod http://www.twitter.com/WeWillRankYouPo http://www.YourOlderBrother.com (Sam's music page) http://www.YerDoinGreat.com (Adam's music page) https://open.spotify.com/playlist/4OFTIda46Di4HkS0CDvM7L (Dan's top 100 songs of 2020) THEM: http://chalkhills.org The XTC Resource, a huge help for our fact-findin' https://twitter.com/apehousextc Ape House Records END CREDITS SONG: Skylarking by Horace Andy
Another part of the puzzle?
This is episode 100 of the podcast, and I thought about doing some sort of compilation of previous interviews, as I've done a couple of times in the past, to commemorate that. I decided against that for a couple of reasons. First, I haven't accomplished everything I want to with this podcast yet, so it's not time to celebrate. Hopefully, that comes later. Second, I have so many great interviews waiting to be released, I couldn't see delaying any of them by a week. And third, this week's interview is representative of one of my goals with the Department of Tangents, which is helping to amplify the good works of independent artists, whether they are musicians, comedians, authors, filmmakers, or work in a visual medium. And J. Edwin Buja fits that goal perfectly. I recorded this at the 2019 NECON conference, the same place I recorded last year's David Wellington interview. NECON is part horror conference, part summer camp. People get to know each other there, whether they are horror writers, cover artists, publishers, or just fans. J. Edwin Buja has been a regular at NECON for years, but this year, things were a little different. Buja has written about technology for a living and released a couple of children's books, but he has always attended NECON as a fan and friend, not a writer. This July, he released his debut novel, book one of his new series, King of the Wood, and he has a short story in the Wicked Weird collection slated for release in August. King of the Wood created a buzz at NECON, and Buja had a seat at the author's reception, signing his own newly-printed work. It's an ambitious horror novel, taking place in a small town that's about to be best by a religious cult and a malevolent nature spirit. That's in addition to the troubles planned by a corrupt town official who is trying to create his own little fiefdom. And it all starts when the protagonist, Tom, finds someone tied to a tree outside of his picturesque home on a hill. Not a big deal, usually, since people have been doing that as a prank for years. This time, the victim is dead, and the scene is more gruesome than whimsical. You'll hear in the conversation everything that went into writing and revising book one, and the plans for book two, as well as Buja's experience as a first-time novelist at NECON. The new book is King of the Wood, published by Haverhill House Publishing, which you can find at haverhillhouse.com on the Web. Watch this space for future episodes taped at NECON with authors Scott Goudsward and Matt Moore. TC&I is a reunion of singer/bassist Colin Moulding and drummer Terry Chambers, who released an EP called Great Aspirations in 2017. Their new album, out August 9, is Naked Flames: Live at Swindon Arts Centre. There are plenty of great XTC songs on the album, but this week's featured track is one of the new songs from the EP, “Scatter Me.” The song is beautiful, lyrically and musically, a sort of metaphysical consideration of what happens to us after we die and those we leave behind. The CD is called Naked Flames and can be purchased exclusively through the Burning Shed Web site at burningshed.com once it's available on August 9. Unfortunately, it looks like there are no further plans for the band to record or tour at this time, but based on the quality of this tune, I hope that changes, the sooner the better.
XTC -- Andy Partridge and Colin Moulding -- joined Nicole Sandler on the air at Channel 103.1 in Los Angeles 5-10-2000