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Musician Ben Lee joins us for a fascinating journey through his life and career, offering insights into his musical beginnings and creative evolution. From the formation of Noise Addict as a teenager to the crafting of his solo debut album "Grandpaw Would". Listeners will gain a deeper appreciation for Ben's knack for creating catchy pop gems and his unwavering commitment to genuine artistic expression.

The podcast delves into the crucial support of Ben's father, who played an instrumental role in his early music career. His father's unwavering dedication opened unexpected doors, including opportunities with Sonic Youth and Grand Royal, the label established by the Beastie Boys. Ben reflects candidly on the challenges he faced, balancing ambition with reality, and important career milestones, such as his experiences recording "Breathing Tornadoes."

Finally, we explore Ben's perspective on the ever-evolving music industry and the impact of emerging platforms on modern creativity. Embracing change while staying true to his indie rock roots, Ben discusses the creative freedom streaming platforms provide and the influence of 90s music on his new projects. From upcoming singles to exciting ventures like a children's TV show pitch, Ben's positive energy and passion for exploring creativity across diverse mediums shine through, offering inspiration for both artists and fans alike.

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Namra Saleem, better known as Crybaby Claire, shares her inspiring journey from a small Norwegian town to the bustling streets of Oslo, and how a spontaneous moment at a "nachspiel" with the Talking Heads blaring sparked her passion for music. Without formal training, Namra's determination led her to pick up the guitar and bass, form a band, and explore the energetic realms of punk and Riot Grrrl music. Her story is a testament to the power of DIY artistry as she eventually took an Ableton course to create music on her own, crafting a distinct sound that combines nostalgic elements with raw emotion.

Immerse yourself in the colorful world of Crybaby Claire, where deeply personal lyrics meet upbeat, danceable rhythms. Namra shares how her influences, from Le Tigre to the DIY spirit of Molly Nilsson, shape her music-making process, which often begins with the beat before the melody finds its place. We explore her creative journey, focusing on the authenticity and simplicity that drive her art, and how she captures the raw essence of her first vocal takes to preserve genuine emotion.

The path to a solo career is paved with challenges, but Namra's story is about overcoming fears and finding joy in self-expression. A turning point came when life circumstances prompted her to embark on a solo project, using a cassette player for her first gig's backing tracks and planning to incorporate her cultural heritage into future works. As we anticipate her upcoming EP and live performances, this episode celebrates the courage of a DIY artist stepping into the spotlight, marking the start of an exciting new chapter that promises to resonate with listeners and music lovers alike.

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Join us as Maria Maita-Keppeler of MAITA takes us on her remarkable journey of musical evolution and personal growth. Discover how she transitioned from playing complex violin pieces to crafting heartfelt songs with guitar and lyrics that cut straight to the heart. Learn how Maria's songwriting style has evolved over the years, moving toward a balance of figurative language and concise impact that resonates with her growing fanbase.

Maria offers a behind-the-scenes look at maintaining creative control during the production of her album "Want," especially in the midst of a global pandemic. Experience the emotional depth and introspection that shaped this collection of songs, each standing strong as a single while together forming a cohesive narrative. From discussing the aesthetics of music video production to the artistic decisions that keep her work authentic, Maria shares insights into navigating the modern music landscape with creativity and vision.

She opens up about the shift from inviting friends to her gigs to witnessing the growth of a dedicated audience eager to attend her shows. Listen as Maria explores the nuanced dynamics of relationships, emphasizing the power of clear communication and understanding each other's unspoken desires. Whether you’re a musician, music lover, or someone intrigued by the art of storytelling, Maria's journey offers a rich tapestry of insights and inspiration.

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Celina from Future Star shares her fascinating journey from a childhood filled with music to her career as a successful artist. Growing up with a piano teacher for a mother and a musician father, Celina’s life was enriched with musical experiences that fueled her passion. From a humorous anecdote involving Sarah McLachlan's manager to the communal joy of choir singing, she reflects on how these moments shaped her artistic path. The conversation underscores the deep connection and cultural significance of shared musical experiences, sparking thoughts on the rarity and beauty of communal singing in today's world.

Celina reveals her transition from a DIY musician to working with Men Records. We discuss the support and structure this brings, allowing her to focus more on the craft while maintaining her musical essence. Wrapping up with admiration for Celina's artistic achievements, we offer encouragement for her future endeavours and reflect on the imaginative journey through her unique lens. Filled with anticipation, we look forward to the continued evolution of her music and the shared moments that await.

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Gary Olsen from Ladybug Transistor takes us on a nostalgic journey back to his first encounters with the magic of radio, which ignited his passion for music. Imagine the excitement of flipping through radio dials as a child, stumbling upon the hidden gems of college stations that would ultimately shape a lifelong musical path. Gary reveals how his unconventional songwriting methods, which rely on layering sounds with a four-track recorder rather than traditional chord progressions, have been key in the formation of Ladybug Transistor. As he shares his unique creative process, we get a glimpse into the collaborative spirit that drives his artistic endeavors, offering insight into how it all comes together to create the band's signature sound.

In this episode, we delve into the complexities of balancing music production with sound engineering. Gary opens up about the benefits of recording vocals solo in the studio and how working with an engineer can bring a fresh, objective perspective to the mix. We reminisce about the creation of their album "Albemarle Sound," recalling the creative energy that flowed from living together as a band. With the upcoming 25th-anniversary reissue on the horizon, Gary discusses the thrill of unearthing rare demos and b-sides that breathe new life into the album for a new audience. Tune in to explore the artistic choices and collaborations that have defined Ladybug Transistor's enduring legacy.

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Join us on a fascinating musical exploration with Mary Water and Pat Maley from Guidon Bear as they reveal the heart and soul behind their new record, "Internal Systems." Discover how their 25-year collaboration began in the 90s when Pat, captivated by Mary's performances, brought her onto the Yo-Yo Recordings label. With roots in church bands and experimental Philly sounds, their journey highlights music as a therapeutic force that helps them maintain emotional balance and connection, much like a deeply personal therapy session.

Curious about how creativity thrives amidst imperfections? Mary and Pat share their insights into the unblocking of the creative mind, a process akin to embracing spontaneity in live performances. As they unfold the secrets of their dynamic partnership, listeners will gain an understanding of authentic artistic expression, far removed from the polished facades often seen on social media. Adrian Lenker's songwriting class on this very topic provides a backdrop to their unique approach to music-making.

Explore the reality of life on tour with the compelling track "Ride Into the Beast," inspired by the challenges and discoveries encountered on the road. Pat's cultural insights and musical versatility shine through, transforming simple arpeggiations into resonant soundscapes that echo shared experiences. In a world where connections are increasingly sought through screens, this episode prompts reflection on the nature of empathy and the narratives we construct to make sense of our own lives.

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Can one night change your entire life? Join us as we reconnect with Max from Castle Frank, reflecting on a turbulent yet transformative period following his record launch back in June 2023. Despite the album's acclaim, including a rave review from Exclaim, Max faced a personal crisis on the night of his release show, where excessive drinking led to a subpar performance. This wake-up call sparked his decision to quit alcohol entirely, driving a year of profound personal growth and resilience. Max’s candid recounting of his journey provides invaluable lessons on overcoming both artistic and personal challenges.

But that's not where Max's story ends. In a thrilling new chapter, Max transitions from artist to producer, teaming up with Elliot Isaac on a groundbreaking album blending acoustic, electronic, and hip-hop elements. We'll explore the intricate creative process behind building captivating soundscapes and the unique hurdles and triumphs of remote collaboration. With the first single set to drop in February, this episode offers a sneak peek into the innovative sounds and heartfelt collaborations that will soon grace our ears. Get ready for an inspiring exploration of redemption, creativity, and the relentless pursuit of musical excellence.

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Can relentless creativity be a double-edged sword? In our latest episode, we sit down with John Andrew Frederick of The Black Watch, a band boasting an extraordinary catalog of 24 records. Hear John's inspiring journey from a childhood accident to his academic ventures in English literature, revealing how these experiences shaped his prolific musical career. We chat about the band's humble beginnings, including one of their first gigs with Toad the Wet Sprocket.

The transformative role of producers and engineers, the influence of bands like The Beatles and The Cure, and the impact of different band members—John covers it all. Explore how The Black Watch's sound has evolved over decades. Finally, reflect on the changing landscape of the music industry since their first record in 1988, offering valuable insights for both emerging and seasoned musicians navigating today's digital age.

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