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Smilo & the Ghost is an Americana-grit folk band born from the rustbelt and rooted in redemption. Front-ed by singer-songwriter Tyler Smilo, the band blends raw lyricism with vintage tones, cinematic storytell-ing, and a touch of cosmic twang. Their sound drifts somewhere between dusty desert highways and dimly lit city bars — a fusion of folk, alt-country, and soul with deep emotional bite.Formed in Erie, PA in 2016, Smilo & the Ghost have shared stages with Grammy winners, national acts, and underground legends alike. Their discography includes Ghost Writers, Fingers Crossed & Godspeed, and the live album Live from PACA, with their newest record Twang & Fire capturing both fire and fragili-ty in a post-pandemic world. Smilo's lyrics are deeply personal, often exploring recovery, survival, and the ghosts we carry — because he's lived it.
I'm pulling back the curtain on my actual low-ticket funnel — what I launched, what I tested, what worked (barely), what flopped hard, and why I'm not giving up on it. If you've been thinking about launching a digital product, testing ads, or growing your list with something people actually buy — this episode lays it all out. Including real numbers, offers I'm experimenting with (like the After Us Guide), and my honest take on what's worth fixing vs. scrapping.
In this episode of the XS Noize Podcast, host Mark Millar is joined by British pop icon Chesney Hawkes. Best known for his timeless hit ‘The One and Only', Chesney talks about the momentum behind his new music — including the Radio 2 A-list success of ‘Get A Hold of Yourself'. He dives into his new album, Living Arrows, out now. It is a raw and heartfelt collection inspired by Kahlil Gibran's poem, ‘On Children'. Exploring themes of love, family, and growth, the album pairs candid songwriting with uplifting pop-rock. We dive deep into the stories behind the songs, as Chesney shares what it was like working with BRIT Award-winning producer Jake Gosling and welcomes contributions from Nik Kershaw and his brother Jodie Hawkes. Chesney also reflects on his recent appearance on Celebrity Big Brother, where he finished in fifth place and connected with a new generation of fans. Don't miss this inspiring and entertaining conversation — tune in now to hear the whole story behind ‘Living Arrows', Chesney's creative rebirth, and his time in the Big Brother house. Or listen via YouTube | Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon Music | RSS – Find The XS Noize Podcast's complete archive of episodes here. Previous XS Noize Podcast guests include legends and trailblazers such as John Lydon, Will Sergeant, Ocean Colour Scene, Gary Kemp, Doves, Gavin Friday, David Gray, Anton Newcombe, Peter Hook, The Twang, Sananda Maitreya, James, Crowded House, Elbow, Cast, Kula Shaker, Shed Seven, Future Islands, Peter Frampton, Bernard Butler, Steven Wilson, Travis, New Order, The Killers, Tito Jackson, Simple Minds, The Divine Comedy, Shaun Ryder, Gary Numan, Sleaford Mods, Michael Head — and many more.
In Episode #228 of the XS Noize Music Podcast, host Mark Millar is joined by English singer-songwriter Will Varley to discuss his upcoming seventh album, Machines Will Never Learn To Make Mistakes Like Me, out 30th May 2025. Recorded in a ramshackle Kent swamp studio with longtime collaborator Tom Farrer, the album introduces a bold new sound, pairing lush, cinematic production with Varley's trademark storytelling. Inspired by the East Kent Coast and US Midwest, the songs explore broken relationships, life on the road, and mental resilience against global uncertainty. Featuring guest appearances from Billy Bragg, Eleni Drake, and Dan Smith of Bastille, the album captures the tension between everyday life and the looming sense of apocalypse — while still searching for light and hope. In this conversation, Will talks about the making of the album, his evolving creative process, and why storytelling still matters in uncertain times. Highlights include: Writing and recording in Kent and the US Midwest, Collaborating with Billy Bragg, Eleni Drake & Dan Smith, Touring life, mental health, reinvention, and A new sonic chapter for Varley. Listen to episode #228 of the XS Noize Podcast with Will Varley – BELOW: Or listen via YouTube | Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon Music | RSS – Find The XS Noize Podcast's complete archive of episodes here. Previous XS Noize Podcast guests have included John Lydon, Will Sergeant, Ocean Colour Scene, Gary Kemp, Doves, Gavin Friday, David Gray, Anton Newcombe, Peter Hook, The Twang, Sananda Maitreya, James, Crowded House, Elbow, Cast, Kula Shaker, Shed Seven, Future Islands, Peter Frampton, Bernard Butler, Steven Wilson, Travis, New Order, The Killers, Tito Jackson, Simple Minds, Divine Comedy, Shaun Ryder, Gary Numan, Sleaford Mods, Michael Head, and many more.
In the final episode of Twang, host Lane Wendell Fischer and Daily Yonder reporter Ilana Newman explore queerness in country music's past and present. Though there is only one openly queer artist currently signed by a major country music label, the rising popularity of artists like Chappell Roan, Orville Peck, and Brandi Carlile mark the increasing visibility of queer artists in the genre. Lane and Ilana discuss these contemporary artists – and the lesser known queer musicians who came before them – and the mark they've made on country music. Artists discussed include: Chappell Roan, Orville Peck, Brandi Carlile, Tracy Chapman, Kacey Musgraves, Wilma Burgess, Patrick Haggerty.Listen to the episode companion playlist here.
XS Noize Podcast Episode #227: Sea Fever – Phil Cunningham, Tom Chapman, and Beth Cassidy on Surface Sound, Musical Chemistry, and Honouring Denise Johnson In Episode #227 of the XS Noize Music Podcast, host Mark Millar is joined by Phil Cunningham, Tom Chapman, and Beth Cassidy of the genre-blending band Sea Fever to talk about their powerful second album, Surface Sound. Sea Fever is a five-piece supergroup featuring members of New Order, Haven, Johnny Marr's band, Section 25, and Brix & The Extricated. The band returns with Surface Sound — a bold fusion of alt-rock, dance, and electronic pop across ten euphoric tracks. In this episode, Phil, Tom, and Beth discuss: The creative process and sonic ambition behind Surface Sound How their unique chemistry has evolved since 2021's Folding Lines Crafting standout singles like “Breaking Out” and “Loose Cut” The emotional weight of Denise Johnson's stunning guest vocals on “Explanation” How their individual musical legacies shape the identity and future of Sea Fever Surface Sound showcases Sea Fever at their most confident and collaborative, from pulsing synths to layered guitar textures and powerful lyrics. Or listen via YouTube | Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon Music | RSS – Find The XS Noize Podcast's complete archive of episodes here. Previous XS Noize Podcast guests have included John Lydon, Will Sergeant, Ocean Colour Scene, Gary Kemp, Doves, Gavin Friday, Anton Newcombe, Peter Hook, The Twang, Sananda Maitreya, James, Crowded House, Elbow, Cast, Kula Shaker, Shed Seven, Future Islands, Peter Frampton, Bernard Butler, Steven Wilson, Travis, New Order, The Killers, Tito Jackson, Simple Minds, Divine Comedy, Shaun Ryder, Gary Numan, Sleaford Mods, Michael Head, and many more.
In the third episode of Twang, host Lane Wendell Fischer is joined by writer, marketing specialist, and country music enthusiast Tracy Staley to discuss the role women have played in the development of country music. Despite the genre's conservative reputation, iconic artists like Loretta Lynn, Dolly Parton, and Reba McEntire have used country music as a platform to discuss issues from birth control to domestic violence. In this episode, we explore how these songs, and the women who sing them, fit into a musical ecosystem currently dominated by ultramasculine ‘bro-country.'Artists discussed include: Dolly Parton, Loretta Lynn, Reba McEntire, Martina McBride, Gretchen Peters, The Chicks.Listen to the episode companion playlist
In Episode 226 of the XS Noize Podcast, Mark Millar chats with writer and director Matt Aston about Reception: The Wedding Present Musical — a brand new stage production inspired by the music of David Gedge, The Wedding Present, and Cinerama. The show, running from August 22 – September 6 at The Warehouse at Holbeck, Leeds, celebrates The Wedding Present's 40th anniversary with a story of friendship, love, and loss — all soundtracked by hits from the band's four-decade career, plus a brand new song. Matt discusses how the idea formed after seeing David Gedge perform with orchestras and why the band's storytelling was perfect for the stage. A must-listen for fans of The Wedding Present and anyone interested in how indie rock is being reimagined in musical theatre. listen via YouTube | Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon Music | RSS – Find The XS Noize Podcast's complete archive of episodes here. Previous XS Noize Podcast guests have included John Lydon, Will Sergeant, Ocean Colour Scene, Gary Kemp, Doves, Gavin Friday, Anton Newcombe, Peter Hook, The Twang, Sananda Maitreya, James, Crowded House, Elbow, Cast, Kula Shaker, Shed Seven, Future Islands, Peter Frampton, Bernard Butler, Steven Wilson, Travis, New Order, The Killers, Tito Jackson, Simple Minds, Divine Comedy, Shaun Ryder, Gary Numan, Sleaford Mods, Michael Head, and many more.
The girls are back! They take on bitter exes, slashing tires, eating some TWANG and more!⭐️Check out last weeks episode!https://youtube.com/live/xxpXoPx24QE?feature=shareBecome a Member! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC47fBj1FOPDdXf-HGKejtQg/join=============================Our Website ➡️ https://www.realstreetchamps.com=============================Connect with us! Facebook: ➡︎ / https://www.facebook.com/RealStreetChampsTik Tok: ➡︎ / https://www.tiktok.com/@street_champsIG: ➡︎ / https://www.instagram.com/streetchamps_/===========================Subscribe and Listen to Street Champs Here:
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In the second episode of Twang, host Lane Wendell Fischer is joined by music journalist and cultural critic Taylor Crumpton to explore the deep-rooted, often erased contributions of Black, Mexican, and Indigenous artists to the genre. From Southern guitar traditions and borderland ballads to the Chitlin Circuit to Beyonce's Cowboy Carter, we trace how cultural exchange shaped the sound of country music — and why its public image remains so whitewashed. Artists discussed include: Linda Martell, Beyoncé, Mahalia Jackson, Charley Pride, Shaboozey, and Darius Rucker.Listen to the episode companion playlist.Read Lane Wendell Fischer's commentary about this episode
In Episode 225 of the XS Noize Podcast, host Mark Millar is joined by Olly Knights, frontman of the acclaimed South London band Turin Brakes. With seven UK Top 40 singles, six Top 40 albums, and over a million records sold worldwide, Turin Brakes have built a lasting legacy rooted in emotional songwriting, rich harmonies, and fearless sonic exploration. Now, they return with Spacehopper, their highly anticipated 10th studio album, released May 23rd via Cooking Vinyl. In this in-depth conversation, Olly Knights discusses: The creative process behind Spacehopper and the inspiration behind its songs Collaborating with Grammy-winning producer Guy Massey (Ed Sheeran, Kylie Minogue, Spiritualized) Returning to the iconic Konk Studios, where they recorded their 2001 Mercury Prize-nominated debut The Optimist LP The meaning of longevity, artistic evolution, and creative freedom after 24 years in the music industry Olly also shares insights on touring plans, the emotional themes explored in Spacehopper, and what keeps Turin Brakes inspired and relevant after two decades of making music. Whether you're a longtime fan or discovering Turin Brakes for the first time, this episode offers a thoughtful and inspiring look into the journey of one of the UK's most enduring and influential bands. Or listen via YouTube | Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon Music | RSS – Find The XS Noize Podcast's complete archive of episodes here. Previous XS Noize Podcast guests have included John Lydon, Will Sergeant, Ocean Colour Scene, Gary Kemp, Doves, Gavin Friday, Anton Newcombe, Peter Hook, The Twang, Sananda Maitreya, James, Crowded House, Elbow, Cast, Kula Shaker, Shed Seven, Future Islands, Peter Frampton, Bernard Butler, Steven Wilson, Travis, New Order, The Killers, Tito Jackson, Simple Minds, Divine Comedy, Shaun Ryder, Gary Numan, Sleaford Mods, Michael Head, and many more.
From country twang to electronic trance, our latest mix takes listeners on a journey through an extraordinary range of musical landscapes. Matt and Sam discover unexpected connections between artists spanning five decades, share their surprised reactions to genre departures, and explain why this collection might be their favorite in years.The hosts dive deep into Eric Church's reflective "Hands of Time," exploring how music keeps us youthful despite life's inevitable forward march. They unpack Wet Leg's relatable lyrics about unwanted advances in "Catch These Fists" and The Kooks' poignant reminder to live fully because "you never know when it's going to stop." The conversation takes a more vulnerable turn with Haim's powerful exploration of panic attacks in "Everybody's Trying to Figure Me Out."A surprising highlight emerges in Finneas and Kacey Musgraves' acoustic duet, where Finneas (of Billie Eilish production fame) showcases his remarkable vocal talents. The hosts marvel at Orbital's collaboration with actress Tilda Swinton on a six-minute meditation that functions simultaneously as relaxation aid and dance track.The musical exploration continues with The Black Keys' soul-influenced sound, Little Feat proving their 50+ year longevity, Arcade Fire's signature building compositions, and Charlotte DeWitte's pure electronic experience. https://music.apple.com/us/playlist/sam-april-2025-new-music/pl.u-MBM3INqbr81. Hands of Time - Eric Church2. catch these fists - Wet Leg3. Never Know - The Kooks4. Everybody's Trying To Figure Me Out - HAIM5. Giver/Taker (Apple Music Sessions) - FINNEAS & Kacey Musgraves6. Starry Eyed - Good Neighbours7. Deepest - Orbital & Tilda Swinton8. Babygirl - The Black Keys9. Midnight Flight - Little Feat10. Year of the Snake - Arcade Fire11. Please Don't Move to Melbourne - Ball Park Music12. The Realm - Charlotte De Witte Support the showVisit us at https://www.superawesomemix.com to learn more about our app, our merchandise, our cards, and more!
In the first episode of Twang, host Lane Wendell Fischer unpacks the origin story of country music with Tim Marema. We explore how a rich mix of rural traditions became a genre — and how race, class, and geography shaped which stories got told. From front porch fiddles to the invention of the “hillbilly” record, we trace the transformation of a diverse musical culture into a commercial industry that told a narrow narrative. Artists discussed include: The Carter Family, Waylon Jennings, The Chicks, and Luke Smathers. Listen to the episode companion playlist
In this episode of the XS Noize Music Podcast, host Mark Millar is joined by Paul Connolly, frontman of incendiary Derry alt-rock band The Wood Burning Savages, to discuss their explosive new album ‘Hand To Mouth'. Renowned for their guitar-driven political rock and blistering live performances, the band returns with their long-awaited second album — the powerful follow-up to their 2018 debut ‘Stability', which beat out the likes of Snow Patrol, Ash, and Bicep to win Northern Ireland Album of the Year. They also took home the award for Best Live Act. ️In this episode, Paul discusses the writing and recording process behind "Hand to Mouth," The stories and emotions that fuel the new songs, recovering from a life-altering illness while on tour, channelling personal and political unrest into raw, urgent rock, career highlights including playing Glastonbury and much more. If you're a fan of fearless, high-octane rock with heart, fire, and social conscience, this is an episode you don't want to miss. Listen to episode #224 of the XS Noize Music Podcast with Paul Connolly – BELOW: Or listen via YouTube | Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon Music | RSS – Find The XS Noize Podcast's complete archive of episodes here. Previous XS Noize Podcast guests have included John Lydon, Will Sergeant, Ocean Colour Scene, Gary Kemp, Doves, Gavin Friday, Anton Newcombe, Peter Hook, The Twang, Sananda Maitreya, James, Crowded House, Elbow, Cast, Kula Shaker, Shed Seven, Future Islands, Peter Frampton, Bernard Butler, Steven Wilson, Travis, New Order, The Killers, Tito Jackson, Simple Minds, Divine Comedy, Shaun Ryder, Gary Numan, Sleaford Mods, Michael Head, and many more.
On this week's episode of the XS Noize Music Podcast, Mark Millar is joined by acclaimed singer-songwriter David Gray to discuss the early days of his career, his upcoming Greatest Hits collection, and his first live shows in over two years. David Gray has announced his long-awaited return to the UK stage with a series of intimate acoustic solo performances in support of his forthcoming Greatest Hits release. Titled An Evening With David Gray, the tour begins at Manchester's Albert Hall on December 11 and includes a special two-night run at London's Cadogan Hall on December 13 and 14. The Best Of collection – arriving 25 years after the start of Gray's remarkable recording career – is set for release on October 28, just ahead of the live dates. Or listen via YouTube | Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon Music | RSS – Find The XS Noize Podcast's complete archive of episodes here. Previous XS Noize Podcast guests have included John Lydon, Will Sergeant, Ocean Colour Scene, Gary Kemp, Doves, Gavin Friday, Anton Newcombe, Peter Hook, The Twang, Sananda Maitreya, James, Crowded House, Elbow, Cast, Kula Shaker, Shed Seven, Future Islands, Peter Frampton, Bernard Butler, Steven Wilson, Travis, New Order, The Killers, Tito Jackson, Simple Minds, Divine Comedy, Shaun Ryder, Gary Numan, Sleaford Mods, Michael Head, and many more.
Acclaimed British singer-songwriter Tom Hickox joins Mark Millar on the latest episode of the XS Noize Music Podcast to delve into his highly anticipated third album, The Orchestra of Stories, out 25 April 2025 via Family Tree Records. Marking his return after a four-year hiatus, Hickox unveils a sweeping, cinematic collection of songs that fuse myth, memory, history, and heart. In this in-depth conversation, he discusses the emotional and historical inspirations behind standout tracks like “Chalk Giants,” “The Shoemaker,” “The Clairvoyant,” and “The Failed Assassination of Fidel Castro.” Listeners will also hear how his background in composition helped shape the album's orchestral sound, and how family legacies, personal memories, and real-life events sparked the storytelling behind the music. Whether you're drawn to storytelling in music, cinematic songwriting, or artists like Scott Walker, this episode is essential listening. The Orchestra of Stories is Hickox at his most ambitious—an album that elevates narrative songwriting to stunning new heights. Or listen via YouTube | Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon Music | RSS – Find The XS Noize Podcast's complete archive of episodes here. Previous XS Noize Podcast guests have included John Lydon, Will Sergeant, Ocean Colour Scene, Gary Kemp, Doves, Gavin Friday, Anton Newcombe, Peter Hook, The Twang, Sananda Maitreya, James, Crowded House, Elbow, Cast, Kula Shaker, Shed Seven, Future Islands, Peter Frampton, Bernard Butler, Steven Wilson, Travis, New Order, The Killers, Tito Jackson, Simple Minds, Divine Comedy, Shaun Ryder, Gary Numan, Sleaford Mods, Michael Head, and many more.
On the new Pop Shop Podcast (listen below), Katie & Keith are chatting about Chappell Roan's cheeky new track "The Giver" and how quickly the rookie pop star made this pop-country pivot, following in the recent bootsteps of Beyoncé, Post Malone and Sabrina Carpenter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices