Music Maps Podcast

Latest Episodes:

55 - The Dream Syndicate, R.E.M, U2 & more with Steve Wynn Mar 15, 2025

Show notes

We welcome back Steve Wynn from the Dream Syndicate for Part 2 of our conversation, delving into the band's experiences touring with U2, the departure of band member Kendra, and the challenges of recording their follow-up album with A&M Records.

We discuss the bands extensive touring with R.E.M. as well as their dramatic rise, the conscious shift in sound during tours, the indie rock movement's collective rise, and the importance of authenticity in music, the dynamics within bands, and the motivations behind reunions.

It takes anything from 5 to 40 hours to prepare each episode of Music Maps - if you’d like to make a contribution to help us cover the costs & time of producing these episodes for you, you can do so at this link: ko-fi.com/musicmaps

It is hugely important for us to get positive reviews & star ratings - if you have enjoyed Music Maps & can spare the time to do either we would hugely appreciate it.

You can see our upcoming live events here: https://rocknrollbookclub.co.uk/live/

Instagram: @rocknrollbookclube17

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Hosted by Mark Hart & Simon Cardwell

Written & Produced by Simon Cardwell

Edited, mixed & spruced up by Andy Maxwell

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

54 - The Clash with Don Letts (Ladbroke Grove) Mar 08, 2025

Show notes

We welcome Don Letts to discuss his experiences with The Clash - from directing every music video the band made to joining them on the pivotal White Riot tour in 1977, his initial impressions on meeting the band, the key gig with the Sex Pistols at the Nashville with Joe Strummer’s 101ers.

Don shares anecdotes about filming the band, trips to America and his interactions with legendary filmmaker Martin Scorsese.

Years later Don made the legendary documentary Westway to the World: the legacy of The Clash for which he won a Grammy Award. We discuss the making of the documentary & the interaction

It is hugely important for us to get positive reviews & star ratings - if you have enjoyed Music Maps & can spare the time to do either we would hugely appreciate it.

You can see our upcoming live events here: https://rocknrollbookclub.co.uk/live/

Instagram: @rocknrollbookclube17

Blue Sky: @musicmaps.bsky.social

X: @simonmusicmaps

Facebook: E17rockbookclub

Hosted by Mark Hart & Simon Cardwell

Written & Produced by Simon Cardwell

Edited, mixed & spruced up by Andy Maxwell

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Music Maps Podcast

00:42 Reflections on Economic Challenges and Cultural Richness

03:27 Exploring Don Lett's Life and Memoir

04:48 The Punk Rock Scene and Its Influences

10:28 The Clash and Reggae Connections

16:09 The White Riot Tour and Its Impact

24:07 Commercialization of Music and Cultural Reflections

27:50 The Evolution of Music Videos

30:26 The Clash's American Dream

33:20 Meeting Legends: Scorsese and the Clash

36:52 Documenting the Clash: Westway to the World

39:29 The Clash's Legacy and Impact

42:09 Reflections on the Clash's Influence

46:11 Remembering Johnny Green

49:56 Upcoming Events and Recommendations

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53 - Brian Jonestown Massacre with Joel Gion (San Francisco) Mar 01, 2025

Show notes

This week we welcome Joel Gion of the Brian Jonestown Massacre, to discuss his memoir In The Jingle Jangle Jungle and the vibrant music scene of San Francisco in the 90s.

We explore Joel's early experiences in the city, his journey to becoming a musician, the early Shoegaze scene in San Francisco including seeing Lush, Ride & The Jesus & Mary Chain at local venues.

We go through the evolution of the Brian Jonestown Massacre and the influences that defined their sound during the 90s. We highlight Joel's unique approach to percussion, meeting the Dandy Warhols, opening for Oasis & how for one week in 1994 San Francisco is briefly centre of Britpop Incredibly Blur, Pulp & Elastica are all in San Francisco on the same day.

Joel tells us about going the Brian Jonestown Massacre & how their early years unfolded, the chaotic events at the South by Southwest festival, the infamous Viper Room incident & into 1996 which is a key year for the Brian Jonestown Massacre with 3 albums released - Take It From the Man, Their Satanic Majesties 2nd Request & Thank God For Mental Illness.

It is hugely important for us to get positive reviews & star ratings - if you have enjoyed Music Maps & can spare the time to do either we would hugely appreciate it.

You can see our upcoming live events here: https://rocknrollbookclub.co.uk/live/

Instagram: @rocknrollbookclube17

Blue Sky: @musicmaps.bsky.social

X: @simonmusicmaps

Facebook: E17rockbookclub

Hosted by Mark Hart & Simon Cardwell

Written & Produced by Simon Cardwell

Edited, mixed & spruced up by Andy Maxwell

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

52 - The British New Wave of Heavy Metal with Michael Hann (Kingsbury) Feb 22, 2025

Show notes

Michael Hann is our guest to explore the New Wave of British Heavy Metal, focusing on its origins, key figures, and the cultural impact of the movement. The conversation delves into the role of Neil Kay in promoting heavy metal, the emergence of local bands, the DIY aesthetic of self-released records, and the significance of venues and radio in shaping the scene.

We also highlight the rise of record labels and the signing of influential bands, providing a comprehensive overview of this moment in music history. We focus on key bands like Def Leppard and Iron Maiden, their management, and the cultural impact of media like Kerrang! We also touch on the significance of the New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM) and its influence on the global music scene, as well as the legacy of bands like Diamond Head and their connection to Metallica.

We also mention transformation of classic rock bands such as Deep Purple and the emergence of specialised labels like Neat Records, culminating in the birth of iconic festivals like the Monsters of Rock at Castle Donington.

It is hugely important for us to get positive reviews & star ratings - if you have enjoyed Music Maps & can spare the time to do either we would hugely appreciate it.

You can see our upcoming live events here: https://rocknrollbookclub.co.uk/live/

Instagram: @rocknrollbookclube17

Blue Sky: @musicmaps.bsky.social

X: @simonmusicmaps

Facebook: E17rockbookclub

Hosted by Mark Hart & Simon Cardwell

Written & Produced by Simon Cardwell

Edited, mixed & spruced up by Andy Maxwell

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

51 - LIVE - Cosey Fanni Tutti & John Doran on Re-Sisters, Delia Derbyshire & Margery Kempe Feb 15, 2025

Show notes

Join us for a live episode of Music Maps recorded at the legendary Walthamstow Trades Hall with John Doran in conversation with artist, writer and musician Cosey Fanni Tutti about her life, her new book 'Re-Sisters', and her connections to influential figures like Delia Derbyshire and Margery Kempe.

The discussion features the impact of the Radiophonic Workshop, the historical significance of Margery Kempe's life and work, the intersections of music, art, and personal experience, providing insights into the creative processes of these remarkable women.

It is hugely important for us to get positive reviews & star ratings - if you have enjoyed Music Maps & can spare the time to do either we would hugely appreciate it.

You can see our upcoming live events here: https://rocknrollbookclub.co.uk/live/

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Music Maps and Cozy

04:57 Cozy's Journey and Artistic Evolution

10:05 Exploring the Book: Resisters

15:04 Delia Derbyshire and the Radiophonic Workshop

20:02 Marjorie Kemp: A Historical Perspective

24:49 The Intersection of Music and Personal Experience

25:55 The Power of Otherness in Creativity

30:37 Navigating the Fringe: A Personal Journey

32:30 Historical Context: Misogyny and Artistic Expression

34:33 Reflections on Autobiography and Legacy

36:00 The Evolution of Women in Music

40:28 Childhood Sounds and Their Influence

43:10 Art, Magic, and Intuition in Creativity

46:15 The Impact of Electronic Music Today

49:09 Researching Lives: Writing About Others

51:21 Balancing Parenthood and Creativity

Instagram: @rocknrollbookclube17

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X: @simonmusicmaps

Facebook: E17rockbookclub

Edited, mixed & spruced up by Rob Donnelly-Jackson

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

50 - Granadaland - Tony Wilson, The Sex Pistols, Rosetta Tharpe, The Beatles TV Debut & more with David Nolan Feb 08, 2025

Show notes

David Nolan takes us on a tour of Granadaland - including Tony Wilson & his various TV programmes such as So It Goes & The Other Side of Midnight, the Beatles TV debut in October 1962, the Sex Pistols TV debut followed in 1976.

Muddy Waters and Sister Rosetta Tharpe also performed on Granada TV in 1964 & the network also produced key music recordings & documentaries including The Rolling Stones at Hyde Park, T rex, The Bay City Rollers, Johnny Cash at San Quentin & much more.

Granada TV was founded by Sidney Bernstein in 1954 & also created Coronation Street, World In Action, The Krypton Factor & University amongst many more.

It is hugely important for us to get positive reviews & star ratings - if you have enjoyed Music Maps & can spare the time to do either we would hugely appreciate it.

You can see our upcoming live events here: https://rocknrollbookclub.co.uk/live/

Instagram: @rocknrollbookclube17

Blue Sky: @musicmaps.bsky.social

X: @simonmusicmaps

Facebook: E17rockbookclub

Hosted by Mark Hart & Simon Cardwell

Written & Produced by Simon Cardwell

Edited, mixed & spruced up by Andy Maxwell

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

49 - Don Letts on Bob Marley, Patti Smith, Trojan Records, The Beatles, Kings Road & more (Brixton) Feb 01, 2025

Show notes

Don Letts shares his rich musical journey, starting from his childhood in Brixton, where he experienced a blend of Jamaican and British music. He reflects on the cultural impact of radio and television on music consumption, the profound influence of The Beatles, and his personal connection with Bob Marley. Letts also discusses the rise of reggae in the UK, the intersection of punk and reggae, and a memorable concert - seeing The Who at the Old Vic Theatre.

Don also tells us how he ended up on stage with Patti Smith at the Hammersmith Odeon, spent time with Bob Marley & how he came to DJ & film at the first punk venue - The Roxy in Covent Garden.

It is hugely important for us to get positive reviews & star ratings - if you have enjoyed Music Maps & can spare the time to do either we would hugely appreciate it.

You can see our upcoming live events here: https://rocknrollbookclub.co.uk/live/

Instagram: @rocknrollbookclube17

Blue Sky: @musicmaps.bsky.social

X: @simonmusicmaps

Facebook: E17rockbookclub

Hosted by Mark Hart & Simon Cardwell

Written & Produced by Simon Cardwell

Edited, mixed & spruced up by Andy Maxwell

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

48 - Neil Innes - Bonzo Dog Band, The Rutles, Monty Python, The Beatles & more with Yvonne Innes Jan 25, 2025

Show notes

Yvonne Innes joins us to explore the life and legacy of Neil Innes, touching on his early days in Soho, his experiences with the Bonzo Dog Doo-Dah Band, and his connections with Monty Python and The Beatles. Yvonne shares personal anecdotes about their life together, the creative process behind Neil's music, and his impact on children's television. The discussion also details the formation of The Grimms, the success of 'How Sweet to Be an Idiot', and the cultural significance of the Rutles.

It is hugely important for us to get positive reviews & star ratings - if you have enjoyed Music Maps & can spare the time to do either we would hugely appreciate it.

You can see our upcoming live events here: https://rocknrollbookclub.co.uk/live/

Instagram: @rocknrollbookclube17

Blue Sky: @musicmaps.bsky.social

X: @simonmusicmaps

Facebook: E17rockbookclub

Hosted by Mark Hart & Simon Cardwell

Written & Produced by Simon Cardwell

Edited, mixed & spruced up by Andy Maxwell

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

47 - Arthur Russell with Richard King (New York City) Jan 18, 2025

Show notes

In this episode we delve into the life and music of Arthur Russell, exploring his eclectic style, early influences, and the New York Lower East Side music scene that shaped his career. Richard shares insights from his book 'Travels Over Feeling: Arthur Russell', discussing Arthur's unique approach to music, his connections with notable figures, and the cultural context of his work. The conversation highlights Arthur's impact on the music world and the enduring legacy of his artistry.

It is hugely important for us to get positive reviews & star ratings - if you have enjoyed Music Maps & can spare the time to do either we would hugely appreciate it.

You can see our upcoming live events here: https://rocknrollbookclub.co.uk/live/

This conversation delves into the life and career of Arthur Russell, exploring his unique approach to music, his performance habits, and the impact of the AIDS epidemic on his work. We discuss Russell's eclectic style, his relationships with record labels, and the lasting influence he has had on contemporary music. The dialogue also reflects on the personal aspects of Russell's life, including his work ethic and the support he received from friends and collaborators.

Takeaways:

The New York Lower East Side experimental music scene was pivotal in Arthur's career development.

Arthur's connections with figures like Allan Ginsberg were significant.

The Kitchen was a key venue for avant-garde music in New York.

The rise of digital music changed the way Arthur's work was perceived.

Arthur had little interest in traditional touring or live performances.

His music resonated with the cultural fabric of New York City. Arthur Russell performed frequently in small venues, often walking to gigs.

He had a successful working relationship with Geofff Travis from Rough Trade.

Russell's music was not commercially successful during his lifetime.

His influence can be heard in contemporary artists like Frank Ocean and Kanye West.

Arthur Russell meticulously kept artifacts from his life and career.

Instagram: @rocknrollbookclube17

Blue Sky: @musicmaps.bsky.social

X: @simonmusicmaps

Facebook: E17rockbookclub

Hosted by Mark Hart & Simon Cardwell

Written & Produced by Simon Cardwell

Edited, mixed & spruced up by Andy Maxwell

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

46 - Pulp - Different Class 30th Anniversary with Nick Banks Jan 11, 2025

Show notes

Today we are joined by Pulp drummer Nick Banks to commemorate the 30th anniversary of Different Class.

It starts with Jarvis Cocker bringing in a rough cassette of a new track named Common People, it proves a difficult song to nail in the studio but once Chris Thomas comes in as producer it is honed into the bands first bonafide hit single, reaching number 2 in the charts.

Disco 2000 is another track which comes together & a surprise support slot with Oasis at Sheffield Arena follows. Mark Webber joins as a full time member around this time but everything changes following a surprise phone call from Rough Trade head Geoff Travis. Pulp end up replacing the Stone Roses headlining Glastonbury.

Following the triumph of Glastonbury a double A Side single follows - Sorted For E's & Whizz & Mis-Shapes which again peaks at number 2. The singles cover art depicting a drug wrap causes a tabloid furore (not the last involving the band).

The album debuts at number 1 & leads to the bands first arena tour in the spring of 1996. We find out how the title Different Class came about & Nick also gives his recollections of a memorable night at Earls Court for the BRIT Awards & a run-in between Jarvis Cocker & Michael Jackson with help from Bob Mortimer.

It is hugely important for us to get positive reviews & star ratings - if you have enjoyed Music Maps & can spare the time to do either we would hugely appreciate it.

You can see our upcoming live events here: https://rocknrollbookclub.co.uk/live/

Instagram: @rocknrollbookclube17

Blue Sky: @musicmaps.bsky.social

X: @simonmusicmaps

Facebook: E17rockbookclub

Hosted by Mark Hart & Simon Cardwell

Written & Produced by Simon Cardwell

Edited, mixed & spruced up by Andy Maxwell

Keywords: Pulp, Common People, Britpop, Glastonbury, Nick Banks, Jarvis Cocker, music production, 1990s, album release, British music, Different Class, music history, Brit Awards, Mercury Prize, concert experiences, behind the scenes, music industry

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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