The XS Noize Podcast
The XS Noize Podcast is a long-form music interview show hosted by Mark Millar, featuring in-depth conversations with iconic artists, influential newcomers, and defining voices in modern music. Guests have included John Lydon, Peter Hook, Gary Numan, Mani, Shaun Ryder, Graham Coxon, Neil Finn, and Matt Berninger. Each episode goes beyond promotion to uncover the stories, turning points, and creative lives behind the work. Part of XS Noize, the independent music platform founded in Belfast.
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Broken Social Scene on "Remember The Humans," grief and why music still saves people (#284)
05/11/2026
Broken Social Scene on "Remember The Humans," grief and why music still saves people (#284)
In this episode of the XS Noize Podcast, Mark Millar is joined by Kevin Drew and Charles Spearin of Broken Social Scene to discuss the band’s new album, Remember The Humans. Kevin and Charles talk about where the title came from, how a joke about AI ended up capturing the emotional centre of the record, and why Broken Social Scene returned now with their first new studio album in nearly a decade. They also discuss reuniting with producer David Newfeld, the shared grief that shaped the album, the “enjoyable PTSD” of getting the band back together, and the beauty and difficulty of collaboration inside a band built on so many voices. The conversation also touches on songs including “Not Around Anymore,” “The Call,” “Briefest Kiss” and “Relief,” the documentary It’s All Going To Break, the Toronto music scene, and why music still has the power to connect, heal and keep people going. Remember The Humans is released via City Slang in the UK/EU and Arts & Crafts in North America. Follow / subscribe to the XS Noize Podcast for more in-depth conversations with artists, songwriters and music legends.
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Deb Googe & Cara Tivey on da Googie, The Golden Thread & My Bloody Valentine (#283)
05/05/2026
Deb Googe & Cara Tivey on da Googie, The Golden Thread & My Bloody Valentine (#283)
Deb Googe and Cara Tivey join Mark Millar on the XS Noize Podcast to discuss The Golden Thread — their debut full-length album together as da Googie + Cara Tivey. da Googie is the solo project of Deb Googe, best known as the bass player in My Bloody Valentine and Thurston Moore Group. Cara Tivey is a pianist and composer whose career includes work with Billy Bragg, Everything But The Girl, Blur, Au Pairs and The Lilac Time. In this episode, Deb and Cara talk about bringing The Golden Thread to Belfast as part of the Oh Yeah Presents immersive series, where the music becomes visual as well as sonic. They discuss how the collaboration began, how Cara’s piano changed the shape of da Googie, and how improvised pieces were reshaped into finished songs. They also reflect on creative ownership after decades of working inside other people’s music, the challenge of performing the material live, the physical force of My Bloody Valentine, women in alternative music, and why there is no grand master plan for what comes next. For the Belfast performance, The Golden Thread will be presented as an immersive live event at the Oh Yeah Centre, co-produced by Oh Yeah Presents and CQAF. The visuals have been designed by Deb Googe and will be operated and installed by The Fully Automatic Model. Listen to episode #283 of the XS Noize Podcast now. Follow XS Noize: Website: xsnoize.com Instagram: @xsnoizemusic Facebook: XS Noize X: @xsnoizemusic YouTube: @thexsnoizepodcast
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Glen Hansard on Don+t Settle - (Vol 1 Transmissions East), Bob Dylan, Busking and Capturing Songs in the Moment (#282)
04/29/2026
Glen Hansard on Don+t Settle - (Vol 1 Transmissions East), Bob Dylan, Busking and Capturing Songs in the Moment (#282)
In this episode of the XS Noize Podcast, Mark Millar is joined by Glen Hansard for a warm, honest and deeply reflective conversation about his new live album, Don+t Settle - (Vol 1 Transmissions East). Recorded at Berlin’s historic Funkhaus with his road-hardened live band, the album brings together songs from Glen’s solo career, The Frames and The Swell Season, captured with almost no fixes. Rather than a standard live album or greatest-hits collection, Don+t Settle - (Vol 1 Transmissions East) feels like an artist taking stock in the present — revisiting songs from different stages of his life and finding new meaning in them. Glen talks about the rain-soaked show in The Hague that sparked the idea, bringing the audience onto the stage, reintroducing himself as a rock musician, and why the rawness and imperfections of the performances were essential to the record. The conversation also goes far beyond the new album. Glen reflects on writing “Didn’t He Ramble” for his father, why “Carrickfergus” made the record, the Bob Dylan cassette that changed his life, and what busking taught him about holding an audience. He also looks back on The Commitments, Once, being recognised as Outspan in the street, Bob Dylan phoning after his Oscar win, and the growth of Dublin’s Christmas Eve Busk. It’s a generous, open and thoughtful conversation about music, family, memory, performance, and why this new chapter feels less like looking back and more like planting a flag in the present. Listen to episode #282 of the XS Noize Podcast now. Follow / subscribe to the XS Noize Podcast for more in-depth conversations with artists, songwriters and music legends.
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Miles Hunt on 40 Years of The Wonder Stuff, Burnout, Vent 414 and Starting Over (#281)
04/22/2026
Miles Hunt on 40 Years of The Wonder Stuff, Burnout, Vent 414 and Starting Over (#281)
Miles Hunt joins Mark Millar on the XS Noize Podcast to reflect on 40 years of The Wonder Stuff — from the band’s rise through the late ’80s and early ’90s to what it means to still be carrying it forward today. With The Wonder Stuff set for a major 40th anniversary UK tour in October 2026, Miles looks back on audience loyalty, writing the early records, the impact of albums including HUP, Never Loved Elvis and Construction for the Modern Idiot, and why the band still feels like a real band rather than a nostalgia act. He also talks about burnout, the point where life in the band started to feel heavier than it should, how Vent 414 gave him a different creative outlet, and what he learned from stepping away from music to work in a brewery. It’s a warm, funny and insightful conversation about songwriting, survival, creative restlessness and starting over. In this episode, Miles Hunt talks about: 40 years of The Wonder Stuff audience loyalty and the bond with fans writing the early records HUP, Never Loved Elvis and Construction for the Modern Idiot wider success and changing audiences burnout and the band’s first split why The Wonder Stuff still feels like a real band Vent 414 and the new album Second Things Can Change and creative exhaustion working in a brewery after music patience, ageing and starting over About The XS Noize Podcast Hosted by Mark Millar, the XS Noize Podcast features in-depth conversations with some of the most influential artists in modern music. With over 270 episodes, guests have included Steve Lillywhite, Matt Berninger, Gary Numan, Peter Hook, Bernard Butler, The Charlatans, Sleaford Mods, Snow Patrol, Elbow, Travis and many more. New episodes drop weekly.
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Carol Decker on success, heartbreak, and finding her way back with T’Pau (#280)
04/14/2026
Carol Decker on success, heartbreak, and finding her way back with T’Pau (#280)
Carol Decker joins Mark Millar on the XS Noize Podcast to talk about T’Pau’s return with Be Wonderful — the band’s first album of original material since Pleasure and Pain in 2015. In this candid conversation, Carol reflects on the long gap between records, reconnecting creatively with Ronnie Rogers, and what finally brought her back into the right headspace to make new music again. She also looks back on the rise of T’Pau, the success of Bridge of Spies, the story behind “China In Your Hand”, and the difficult years when everything changed. A warm, honest conversation about success, heartbreak, survival, and finding your way back. In this episode, Carol Decker talks about: – The making of Be Wonderful – Why it took so long for T’Pau to make another studio album – Writing and recording again with Ronnie Rogers – The difference between major label backing and doing everything in-house – The stories behind “Read My Lips”, “Stupid Love Song” and “Casual Remark” – The real meaning behind “China In Your Hand” – T’Pau’s breakthrough in the UK and America – The personal and professional fallout of the early ’90s – The 80s revival and why those songs still connect today About The XS Noize Podcast Hosted by Mark Millar, the XS Noize Podcast features in-depth conversations with some of the most influential artists in modern music. With over 270 episodes, guests have included Steve Lillywhite, Matt Berninger, Gary Numan, Peter Hook, Bernard Butler, The Charlatans, Sleaford Mods, Snow Patrol, Elbow, Travis and many more. New episodes drop weekly.
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The Boxer Rebellion on 'The Second I’m Asleep' and 25 years together (#279)
04/07/2026
The Boxer Rebellion on 'The Second I’m Asleep' and 25 years together (#279)
The Boxer Rebellion join Mark Millar on the XS Noize Podcast to talk about The Second I’m Asleep, their first full-length studio album since 2018. In this episode, Nathan Nicholson and Piers Hewitt discuss the six-year gap between records, the reset the band needed, and how the new album came together through a more instinctive, less overthought creative process. They talk about writing quickly, trusting the songs sooner, and why The Second I’m Asleep feels more immediate, spacious and human. The conversation also explores lyrical themes on tracks like “Flowers in the Water” and “Hidden Meanings,” alongside wider reflections on self-doubt, growth, and the passing of time. Elsewhere, Nathan and Piers look back on key albums including Exits, Union and Ghost Alive, speak about long-term independence, family life, and the realities of keeping a band together for 25 years. In this episode: – The Second I’m Asleep – the six-year gap between albums – songwriting and lyrical evolution – independence and longevity – family life, touring, and staying creative – key memories from Exits, Union and Ghost Alive About The XS Noize Podcast Hosted by Mark Millar, the XS Noize Podcast features in-depth conversations with some of the most influential artists in modern music. With over 270 episodes, guests have included Steve Lillywhite, Matt Berninger, Gary Numan, Peter Hook, Bernard Butler, The Charlatans, Sleaford Mods, Snow Patrol, Elbow, Travis and many more. New episodes drop weekly.
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The Dandy Warhols: Courtney Taylor-Taylor on Dig!, Pin Ups & the “Assassination Piece” (#278)
04/01/2026
The Dandy Warhols: Courtney Taylor-Taylor on Dig!, Pin Ups & the “Assassination Piece” (#278)
In this episode of the XS Noize Podcast, Mark Millar sits down with Courtney Taylor-Taylor — frontman of The Dandy Warhols — to talk about Pin Ups and the real story behind the Dig! documentary. Pin Ups brings together a collection of covers spanning the band’s journey — but as Courtney explains, it feels less like a traditional covers album and more like a “3D map of the band’s DNA,” shaped by instinct, influence, and reinterpretation. But this conversation goes much further. Courtney opens up about the Dig! era — and why he describes the film as an “assassination piece” — reflecting on how it reshaped public perception of the band at a crucial moment, and what it took to rebuild from it. He also talks about the difference between art and entertainment, the instinctive way The Dandy Warhols create music, and how a song can evolve to the point where it becomes entirely your own. Along the way, he reflects on the influences that shaped the band’s sound — including The Cult — the breakthrough of 13 Tales From Urban Bohemia, and how they’ve managed to stay true to themselves over time. This is an honest conversation about creativity, perception, and reclaiming your narrative. About The XS Noize Podcast Hosted by Mark Millar, the XS Noize Podcast features in-depth conversations with some of the most influential artists in modern music. With over 270 episodes, guests have included Steve Lillywhite, Matt Berninger, Gary Numan, Peter Hook, Bernard Butler, The Charlatans, Sleaford Mods, Snow Patrol, Elbow, Travis and many more. New episodes drop weekly.
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Scouting For Girls’ Roy Stride on ‘These Are The Good Days’, wildfires and perspective (#277)
03/24/2026
Scouting For Girls’ Roy Stride on ‘These Are The Good Days’, wildfires and perspective (#277)
In this episode of the XS Noize Podcast, Mark Millar sits down with Roy Stride — frontman, songwriter and driving force behind Scouting For Girls — to talk about the band’s uplifting new album These Are The Good Days. The album follows 2023’s The Place We Used To Meet, which became the band’s highest-charting record in eight years. This time, the focus is on perspective — and finding joy in the present moment. Much of the album was shaped by Roy’s move to Los Angeles to focus on songwriting — a long-held ambition that took a dramatic turn when he and his family were caught in California’s wildfire season and forced to evacuate, expecting to lose everything. That experience became the emotional core of both the album and its title track. During the conversation, Roy reflects on how that period changed his outlook — leading him to reframe difficult moments as the ones that ultimately define and shape us. In this wide-ranging conversation, he discusses writing and producing the album himself, recording across California, Dublin and the UK with Greg Churchouse and Pete Ellard, and how bringing in guitarist Connor McDonald added a new dimension to the band’s sound. The record itself captures that balance — from the high-energy immediacy of Get What You Give to the orchestral closer Alright In The End, alongside more reflective moments like Stars Never Fade and Don’t You Go Solo. Across it all runs a clear theme: optimism, gratitude, and living in the moment. The conversation also looks back at the band’s journey — from their 3x Platinum, chart-topping debut through a run of hits including This Ain’t A Love Song, She’s So Lovely, Elvis Ain’t Dead and Heartbeat — and how they’ve sustained that connection with audiences over nearly two decades. Along the way, Roy shares insights into his songwriting process, the role of collaboration, and why his children have become his most honest critics. Whether you’ve followed Scouting For Girls from the start or are discovering them now, this is an honest, uplifting conversation about perspective, creativity and making the most of the time you have. About The XS Noize Podcast Hosted by Mark Millar, the XS Noize Podcast features in-depth conversations with some of the most influential artists in modern music. With over 270 episodes, guests have included Steve Lillywhite, Matt Berninger, Gary Numan, Peter Hook, Bernard Butler, The Charlatans, Sleaford Mods, Snow Patrol, Elbow, Travis and many more. New episodes drop weekly.
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The Twilight Sad: James Graham & Andy MacFarlane on ‘It’s The Long Goodbye’ (#276)
03/17/2026
The Twilight Sad: James Graham & Andy MacFarlane on ‘It’s The Long Goodbye’ (#276)
In this episode of the XS Noize Podcast, Mark Millar sits down with James Graham and Andy MacFarlane — the creative core of Scottish band The Twilight Sad — to talk about their powerful sixth album It’s The Long Goodbye. Written across a seven-year period, the album became the band’s most personal and emotionally direct record to date. Much of it was shaped during a difficult chapter in James Graham’s life as he navigated his mother’s illness, his own struggles with mental health, and the weight of grief and loss. During the conversation, James and Andy reflect on the long journey behind the record — from early demos developed during lockdown to the moment the songs finally came together as a cohesive album. They also discuss their close relationship with Robert Smith of The Cure, who contributes guitar and six-string bass to several tracks after years of friendship and touring together. Along the way, the band look back at their early years, the evolution of their sound over two decades, and how songwriting helped transform personal experiences into music that connects deeply with listeners. Listen to the XS Noize Podcast:
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Damon Minchella on Ocean Colour Scene, Paul Weller & ‘You’d Look Good on a Donkey’
03/09/2026
Damon Minchella on Ocean Colour Scene, Paul Weller & ‘You’d Look Good on a Donkey’
In this episode of the XS Noize Podcast, Mark Millar sits down with Damon Minchella — founder of Ocean Colour Scene, longtime bass player for Paul Weller, and collaborator with Richard Ashcroft — to talk about his candid and often hilarious memoir You’d Look Good on a Donkey. Across a musical life that has ricocheted between some of the biggest names in music — from Paul McCartney and Jimmy Page to Diana Ross, Dr. John and The Who — Minchella has built a career full of extraordinary stories, unlikely encounters, and a deep love of music that runs through everything he does. During the conversation, Damon reflects on the creation of You’d Look Good on a Donkey, a memoir that captures the highs, chaos, humour and survival instincts required to navigate life in the music industry. In this wide-ranging conversation, Damon opens up about the early days of Ocean Colour Scene, the Birmingham music scene that shaped the band, and how their sound developed during the Britpop era. He also shares memories of working closely with Paul Weller — one of Britain’s most influential songwriters — and what he learned from being inside Weller’s musical world for so many years. The conversation explores the realities of band life, the strange rhythm of touring and recording, and the delicate balance between personal life and the pressures that come with a career in music. Along the way, Damon discusses the process of writing the book itself — revisiting decades of experiences that range from hilarious and absurd to deeply personal — and explains why honesty and self-reflection were essential to telling the story properly. Whether you’re a fan of Ocean Colour Scene, interested in the behind-the-scenes realities of the music industry, or simply enjoy a great rock memoir, this conversation offers an entertaining and revealing look at a life spent in and around music. Related topics: Ocean Colour Scene, Paul Weller, Richard Ashcroft, Britpop, rock memoirs, British rock history, You’d Look Good on a Donkey About The XS Noize Podcast With more than 270 episodes, the XS Noize Podcast has become a trusted home for music’s legends, innovators, and trailblazers — a place where real conversations meet real stories. Hosted by Mark Millar, the show has featured an extraordinary lineup including Steve Lillywhite, Paul Draper, Sleaford Mods, The Charlatans, Gary “Mani” Mounfield, Glen Matlock, Miles Kane, Matt Berninger, Saint Etienne, D:Ream, Gavin Rossdale, The Farm, Snow Patrol, John Lydon, Will Sergeant, Ocean Colour Scene, Gary Kemp, Doves, Gavin Friday, David Gray, Anton Newcombe, Peter Hook, Razorlight, 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, and Michael Head — among many more. Explore the complete XS Noize Podcast archive. New episodes drop weekly — subscribe for in-depth conversations with the artists who shape modern music.
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Steve Lillywhite on Producing U2 — From Boy to Achtung Baby (#274)
03/06/2026
Steve Lillywhite on Producing U2 — From Boy to Achtung Baby (#274)
In this episode of the XS Noize Podcast, Mark Millar sits down with legendary U2 producer Steve Lillywhite to discuss his work on landmark albums including Boy, War, The Joshua Tree, Achtung Baby, All That You Can’t Leave Behind, How to Dismantle an Atomic Bomb, and No Line on the Horizon. Across a career spanning more than four decades, Lillywhite has worked with some of the most influential artists in modern music. But his work with U2 — from their earliest recordings through some of their biggest albums — helped define the sound of one of the world’s most important bands. During the conversation, Lillywhite reflects on the creative environment around Achtung Baby, one of the most influential records in U2’s catalogue, and explains what a producer actually does in the studio — describing his role as the “captain of the ship” guiding a band through the creative process of making an album. He shares memories of first encountering U2 before the mythology existed, when four young musicians from Dublin were still discovering their identity — and explains why he immediately sensed something different about them. The conversation explores the band’s creative evolution across landmark albums including Boy, War, The Joshua Tree, Achtung Baby, All That You Can’t Leave Behind, How to Dismantle an Atomic Bomb, and No Line on the Horizon, and how U2’s sound developed in the studio over the years. Lillywhite also offers insights into the craft of record production — from capturing the distinctive guitar sound of The Edge to shaping Bono’s vocal performances and finding the emotional centre of a song. Along the way, he reflects on the collaborative nature of the studio, the controlled chaos of working alongside producers like Brian Eno, Daniel Lanois and Flood, and the moments when a record suddenly comes alive. Whether you're a U2 fan, a musician, or simply fascinated by the craft of record-making, this conversation offers a rare look inside the creative process behind some of the most iconic albums of the last forty years. About The XS Noize Podcast With more than 270 episodes, the XS Noize Podcast has become a trusted home for music’s legends, innovators, and trailblazers — a place where real conversations meet real stories. Hosted by Mark Millar, the show has featured an extraordinary lineup including Paul Draper, Sleaford Mods, The Charlatans, Gary “Mani” Mounfield, Glen Matlock, Miles Kane, Matt Berninger, Saint Etienne, D:Ream, Gavin Rossdale, The Farm, Snow Patrol, John Lydon, Will Sergeant, Ocean Colour Scene, Gary Kemp, Doves, Gavin Friday, David Gray, Anton Newcombe, Peter Hook, Razorlight, 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, and Michael Head — among many more. Explore the complete XS Noize Podcast archive. New episodes drop weekly — subscribe for in-depth conversations with the artists who shape modern music.
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Zak & Matty of The Dream Machine on Fort Perch Rock (#273)
03/02/2026
Zak & Matty of The Dream Machine on Fort Perch Rock (#273)
In this episode of the XS Noize Podcast, Mark Millar sits down with Zak and Matty from The Dream Machine to talk about Fort Perch Rock — the band’s third studio album and a record shaped by instinct, friendship and a deep connection to place. Formed in 2021, the band first emerged with their 2022 debut Thank God! It’s The Dream Machine, followed by 2024’s James Skelly-produced Small Time Monsters. With Fort Perch Rock, they move further into their own identity — self-produced and recorded between studios on the Wirral and in Liverpool. Built with a DIY spirit, Fort Perch Rock leans into creative freedom. Zak and Matty discuss embracing a hands-on production approach, allowing songs to evolve naturally rather than chasing polish for its own sake. The local environment plays a strong role in the record’s atmosphere, grounding it in memory, shared experience and the energy of the Wirral and Liverpool music communities. In this conversation, they reflect on their songwriting process — how ideas often begin with a riff or a feeling before being shaped collaboratively. They also talk about balancing nostalgia with originality, making music primarily for themselves rather than trends, and why live performance remains central to how their songs continue to grow and connect with audiences. About The XS Noize Podcast With over 270 episodes, the XS Noize Podcast has become a trusted home for music’s legends, innovators, and trailblazers — a place where real conversations meet real stories. Hosted by Mark Millar, the show has featured an extraordinary lineup including Paul Draper, Sleaford Mods, The Charlatans, Gary “Mani” Mounfield, Glen Matlock, Miles Kane, Matt Berninger, Saint Etienne, D:Ream, Gavin Rossdale, The Farm, Snow Patrol, John Lydon, Will Sergeant, Ocean Colour Scene, Gary Kemp, Doves, Gavin Friday, David Gray, Anton Newcombe, Peter Hook, Razorlight, 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, and Michael Head — among many more. .
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Archive’s Dave Pen on 'Glass Minds' and 30 Years of Evolution (#272)
02/23/2026
Archive’s Dave Pen on 'Glass Minds' and 30 Years of Evolution (#272)
In this episode of the XS Noize Podcast, Mark Millar sits down with Dave Pen of Archive to talk about Glass Minds — the band’s 13th studio album and a bold new chapter in a 30-year journey defined by reinvention, collaboration and creative risk. Formed in Croydon, South London in 1994, Archive have evolved from trip-hop pioneers into one of Europe’s most respected alternative collectives. Glass Minds, released Friday 27th February 2026 via Dangervisit through [PIAS], follows the ambitious 2022 triple-album Call to Arms & Angels, which charted Top 10 across Europe and culminated in their biggest headline show to date at Paris’ Accor Arena. Produced by Archive alongside long-time collaborator Jerome Devoise, and recorded in Brighton, London and Paris, Glass Minds marks a shift toward a more minimal, down-tempo sound — built on space and emotional weight. New textures emerge through Essex rapper Jimmy Collins on “Heads Are Gonna Roll,” while Lisa Mottram shines on the title track and “The Love The Light.” At its core is the eight-minute “So Far From Losing You,” one of the band’s most personal and expansive pieces to date. In this conversation, Dave Pen reflects on joining Archive and becoming part of a true creative collective. He discusses the trust and experimentation that shape the band’s process, the evolution of their sound over three decades, embracing AI in the album’s visual identity, and why live performance remains the ultimate space where Archive’s songs continue to grow and transform. About The XS Noize Podcast With over 250 episodes, the XS Noize Podcast has become a trusted home for music’s legends, innovators, and trailblazers — a place where real conversations meet real stories. Hosted by Mark Millar, the show has featured an extraordinary lineup including Paul Draper, Sleaford Mods, The Charlatans, Gary “Mani” Mounfield, Glen Matlock, Miles Kane, Matt Berninger, Saint Etienne, D:Ream, Gavin Rossdale, The Farm, Snow Patrol, John Lydon, Will Sergeant, Ocean Colour Scene, Gary Kemp, Doves, Gavin Friday, David Gray, Anton Newcombe, Peter Hook, Razorlight, 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, and Michael Head — among many more. . New episodes drop weekly — subscribe for more in-depth conversations with the artists who shape our lives.
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Robert Levon Been of Black Rebel Motorcycle Club on Re-Examining Howl (#271)
02/17/2026
Robert Levon Been of Black Rebel Motorcycle Club on Re-Examining Howl (#271)
Black Rebel Motorcycle Club’s third album Howl was a risk — one that nearly broke the band. In this episode of the XS Noize Podcast, Mark Millar sits down with Robert Levon Been to revisit the record that stripped away the noise and reshaped their identity. Originally released in 2005, Howl arrived as an unexpected curveball. The reverb-drenched guitars and white noise that defined the band’s early records were stripped back, replaced with folk, blues and gospel-inspired arrangements built around space, restraint and raw emotion. It was a risk — one that confused some at the time, but has since come to feel essential within the band’s catalogue. In this conversation, Robert Levon Been reflects on the creative decisions that shaped the album, the deliberate use of silence and atmosphere, and how stepping away from distortion opened up a deeper emotional register in the songwriting. He discusses the impact of critical reception, the perspective that comes with revisiting the record years later, and what it feels like to bring that material back to life on tour. Robert also shares insights into the band’s current creative landscape, highlights key entry points for new listeners, and speaks about protecting the spirit of music in an era driven by speed and algorithms. A thoughtful and reflective conversation about evolution, instinct, and trusting your creative compass — even when it takes you somewhere unexpected. About The XS Noize Podcast With over 250 episodes, the XS Noize Podcast has become a trusted home for music’s legends, innovators, and trailblazers — a place where real conversations meet real stories. Hosted by Mark Millar, the show has featured an extraordinary lineup including Paul Draper, Sleaford Mods, The Charlatans, Gary “Mani” Mounfield, Glen Matlock, Miles Kane, Matt Berninger, Saint Etienne, D:Ream, Gavin Rossdale, The Farm, Snow Patrol, John Lydon, Will Sergeant, Ocean Colour Scene, Gary Kemp, Doves, Gavin Friday, David Gray, Anton Newcombe, Peter Hook, Razorlight, 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, and Michael Head — among many more. . New episodes drop weekly — subscribe for more in-depth conversations with the artists who shape our lives.
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Mark Shaw of Then Jerico on The Return and bringing the band back on stage (#270)
02/10/2026
Mark Shaw of Then Jerico on The Return and bringing the band back on stage (#270)
In this episode of the XS Noize Podcast, Mark Millar sits down with Mark Shaw of Then Jerico to talk about The Return — a moment that reconnects legacy, live energy, and purpose as the band bring their full show to Ireland for the first time. Watch the full XS Noize Podcast conversation below. Then Jerico are currently touring the UK and Europe, with debut full-band Irish headline shows at Belfast’s Limelight 2 on Thursday 19 February and Dublin’s Whelan’s Main Room on Friday 20 February 2026. The tour features a 90-minute set spanning the band’s classic first two albums — First (The Sound of Music) and The Big Area (Outside) — alongside material from Mark Shaw’s 1990s solo releases. In this conversation, Mark Shaw reflects on a four-decade journey through success, setbacks, and survival. He talks about the importance of audience connection, shaping setlists that balance momentum with meaning, and the breakthrough impact of Big Area. Shaw also opens up about carrying the legacy of Then Jerico as the sole founder, revisiting early recordings and B-sides with fresh perspective, and why he’s still driven to write songs that speak directly to the present moment. About The XS Noize Podcast With over 250 episodes, the XS Noize Podcast has become a trusted home for music’s legends, innovators, and trailblazers — a place where real conversations meet real stories. Hosted by Mark Millar, the show has featured an extraordinary lineup including Paul Draper, Sleaford Mods, The Charlatans, Gary “Mani” Mounfield, Glen Matlock, Miles Kane, Matt Berninger, Saint Etienne, D:Ream, Gavin Rossdale, The Farm, Snow Patrol, John Lydon, Will Sergeant, Ocean Colour Scene, Gary Kemp, Doves, Gavin Friday, David Gray, Anton Newcombe, Peter Hook, Razorlight, 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, and Michael Head — among many more. . New episodes drop weekly — subscribe for more in-depth conversations with the artists who shape our lives.
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Crispian Mills of Kula Shaker on Wormslayer (#269)
02/06/2026
Crispian Mills of Kula Shaker on Wormslayer (#269)
In this episode of the XS Noize Podcast, Mark Millar sits down with Kula Shaker frontman Crispian Mills to talk about Wormslayer — a record that captures the band feeling revitalised, confident, and creatively fearless. Watch the full video conversation. Released on 30 January 2026, Wormslayer is Kula Shaker’s eighth studio album and sees the original line-up distil their explosive live energy into something cinematic, playful, and expansive. Often described as a natural companion to Natural Magic, the album allows songs to stretch and evolve, blending tight pop instincts with longer, more exploratory moments. In this conversation, Crispian Mills reflects on trust, chemistry, and why the band feels more alive now than at any point in their history. He talks about symbolism and synchronicity, the meaning behind key tracks including Lucky Number, Charge of the Light Brigade, and Broke as Folk, and the idea of creativity as an ongoing quest rather than a destination. About The XS Noize Podcast With over 250 episodes, the XS Noize Podcast has become a trusted home for music’s legends, innovators, and trailblazers — a place where real conversations meet real stories. Hosted by Mark Millar, the show has featured an extraordinary lineup including Paul Draper, Sleaford Mods, The Charlatans, Gary “Mani” Mounfield, Glen Matlock, Miles Kane, Matt Berninger, Saint Etienne, D:Ream, Gavin Rossdale, The Farm, Snow Patrol, John Lydon, Will Sergeant, Ocean Colour Scene, Gary Kemp, Doves, Gavin Friday, David Gray, Anton Newcombe, Peter Hook, Razorlight, 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, and Michael Head — among many more. . New episodes drop weekly — subscribe for more in-depth conversations with the artists who shape our lives.
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Dani Larkin on Next Of Kin (#268)
02/03/2026
Dani Larkin on Next Of Kin (#268)
In this episode of the XS Noize Podcast, Mark Millar sits down with Dani Larkin to talk about Next Of Kin — a deeply emotive record shaped by time, patience, and a renewed sense of creative clarity. Released on 23 January 2026, Next Of Kin marks a bold progression in Larkin’s sound and vision. Co-produced with Ruth O’Mahony Brady, the album expands her acclaimed storytelling into a cinematic, emotionally rich landscape that explores life’s most universal milestones — from birth and coming of age to love, loss, and acceptance. Structured as a trilogy, the record moves through distinct phases. Part I traces a journey from darkness toward revelation and youth. Part II sits in the complexity of adulthood, weaving love, fear, doubt, courage, and hope through expansive orchestral arrangements and intimate songwriting. Part III closes with a sense of resolution and homecoming, culminating in the poignant farewell Danny Boy. In this conversation, Larkin reflects on how releasing her debut Notes For A Maiden Warrior during the COVID era shaped her outlook, and why Next Of Kin feels like a true arrival moment. She talks about patience, self-acceptance, and the importance of creating space — both personally and creatively — between records. She also discusses the album’s lead single End Of It All, a striking and urgent track that blends industrial drum beats, raw guitar, and a haunting reimagining of Row, Row, Row Your Boat — capturing the contradictions, anxiety, and fragile hope of modern life. About The XS Noize Podcast With over 250 episodes, the XS Noize Podcast has become a trusted home for music’s legends, innovators, and trailblazers — a place where real conversations meet real stories. Hosted by Mark Millar, the show has featured an extraordinary lineup including Sleaford Mods, The Charlatans, Gary “Mani” Mounfield, Glen Matlock, Miles Kane, Matt Berninger, Saint Etienne, D:Ream, Gavin Rossdale, The Farm, Snow Patrol, John Lydon, Will Sergeant, Ocean Colour Scene, Gary Kemp, Doves, Gavin Friday, David Gray, Anton Newcombe, Peter Hook, Razorlight, 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, and Michael Head — among many more. .
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Paul Draper on Mansun Retold: revisiting old songs with new perspective (#267)
01/27/2026
Paul Draper on Mansun Retold: revisiting old songs with new perspective (#267)
In this episode of the XS Noize Podcast, Mark Millar sits down with Paul Draper to talk about Mansun Retold — a project shaped by distance, perspective, and the strange experience of meeting your younger self through song. Watch the full video conversation. Releasing on 20 February, Mansun Retold sees Draper revisit and reimagine key songs from the Mansun catalogue, rebuilding them from the ground up as full-band, acoustic unplugged recordings. Rather than revisiting the past for nostalgia’s sake, the album is about clarity — hearing familiar songs anew, stripped of urgency, ego, and expectation. Recorded at The Loft Studios in Surrey, the album was co-produced by Paul Draper alongside Paul “PDub” Walton (The Cure, U2, Björk, Massive Attack, Oasis). The sessions feature a string quartet arranged and led by Audrey Riley (Muse, Coldplay, Nick Cave), with drums performed by Julian Fenton — Mansun’s original early-era drummer. Draper performs acoustic bass, acoustic lead and rhythm guitar, and piano throughout the record. In this conversation, Draper reflects on the emotional weight of returning to songs so closely tied to his own life, how he decided which tracks felt ready to be retold, and the responsibility he feels toward fans who have lived with this music for decades. He also talks about life beyond music, creative fulfilment, and how Mansun Retold is intended to be experienced — not as a retrospective, but as a living record, rooted firmly in the present. About The XS Noize Podcast With over 250 episodes, the XS Noize Podcast has become a trusted home for music’s legends, innovators, and trailblazers — a place where real conversations meet real stories. Hosted by Mark Millar, the show has featured an extraordinary lineup including Sleaford Mods, The Charlatans, Gary “Mani” Mounfield, Glen Matlock, Miles Kane, Matt Berninger, Saint Etienne, D:Ream, Gavin Rossdale, The Farm, Snow Patrol, John Lydon, Will Sergeant, Ocean Colour Scene, Gary Kemp, Doves, Gavin Friday, David Gray, Anton Newcombe, Peter Hook, Razorlight, 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, and Michael Head — among many more. . New episodes drop weekly — subscribe for more in-depth conversations with the artists who shape our lives.
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Alexander Wolfe on 'Everythinglessness' and confronting masculinity through music (#266)
01/20/2026
Alexander Wolfe on 'Everythinglessness' and confronting masculinity through music (#266)
In this episode of the XS Noize Podcast, Mark Millar sits down with Alexander Wolfe to talk about his deeply personal new album Everythinglessness. Watch the full video conversation. Written after a period of intense personal reckoning — including time spent in a mental health rehabilitation facility in 2023 — explores masculinity, mental health, and emotional survival. Drawing on experiences of depression, anxiety, and ADHD, Wolfe turns vulnerability into something raw, intimate, and quietly powerful. Raised in 1990s Woolwich, Wolfe blends observational grit with cinematic songwriting, using analogue textures, layered harmonies, and stark piano lines to create a record that unfolds like a coming-of-age story — moving through grief, identity, and acceptance. In this conversation, Wolfe reflects on the mindset behind the album, the challenge of expressing softness in a culture shaped by silence and stoicism, and how music became a form of recovery rather than escape. About The XS Noize Podcast With over 250 episodes, the XS Noize Podcast has become a trusted home for music’s legends, innovators, and trailblazers — a place where real conversations meet real stories. Hosted by Mark Millar, the show has featured an extraordinary lineup including Sleaford Mods, The Charlatans, Gary “Mani” Mounfield, Glen Matlock, Miles Kane, Matt Berninger, Saint Etienne, D:Ream, Gavin Rossdale, The Farm, Snow Patrol, John Lydon, Will Sergeant, Ocean Colour Scene, Gary Kemp, Doves, Gavin Friday, David Gray, Anton Newcombe, Peter Hook, Razorlight, 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, and Michael Head — among many more. . New episodes drop weekly — subscribe for more in-depth conversations with the artists who shape our lives.
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Callum Beattie on new album INDI and trusting his instinct (#265)
01/13/2026
Callum Beattie on new album INDI and trusting his instinct (#265)
In this episode of the XS Noize Podcast, Mark Millar sits down with Callum Beattie to talk about a pivotal moment in his career and his forthcoming album INDI, released January 23rd. After landing two consecutive #1 albums on the Scottish Albums Chart, breaking into the UK Albums Chart with 2023’s Vandals, clocking up over 50 million streams, and selling more than 100,000 tickets in Scotland, Callum Beattie’s rise has been steady, earned, and unmistakable. That journey reached a major milestone with his sold-out headline show at Glasgow’s OVO Hydro, his biggest to date. INDI is his most personal record so far. The album explores inner conflict, self-reflection, and the search for real connection, written with a clarity that comes from trusting instinct rather than chasing expectation. Produced by Joe Cross (Courteeners, The LaFontaines, Louis Tomlinson), the record pairs direct, honest songwriting with a stripped-back confidence that lets the songs breathe. The Hydro show underlined just how far Callum has come, with The Scotsman describing him as “a Caledonian Sam Fender.” Rather than a peak moment, it feels like a line drawn — with 2026 set to scale things even further, including a headline show at Edinburgh Castle and a headline slot at Belladrum Tartan Heart Festival. In this conversation, Callum talks openly about writing INDI, the mindset behind the songs, and what it means to arrive at a point where ambition, vulnerability, and belief finally meet. A calm, honest conversation with an artist stepping into his stride. Listen to Mark Millar’s in-depth interview with Callum Beattie now on the XS Noize Podcast. Listen on: | | |
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Sleaford Mods’ Jason Williamson on Planet X, cultural decay, and the evolution of the band (#264)
12/06/2025
Sleaford Mods’ Jason Williamson on Planet X, cultural decay, and the evolution of the band (#264)
In this episode of the XS Noize Podcast, Mark Millar is joined by Jason Williamson, the fiercely articulate frontman of Sleaford Mods, to explore the band’s most ambitious and unflinching record yet: The Demise Of Planet X, out 16 January 2026 via Rough Trade Records. Created with long-time collaborator Andrew Fearn, the album expands the Mods’ sound both musically and emotionally, featuring rare and inspired guest appearances from Sue Tompkins (Life Without Buildings), Aldous Harding, Liam Bailey, and Nottingham grime MC Snowy. Their single “The Good Life” introduces a striking new dimension, with Gwendoline Christie (Wednesday / Severance / Game of Thrones) and Midlands duo Big Special lending their voices to its escalating inner monologue. Blending vivid sonics, acerbic storytelling and pitch-black humour, The Demise Of Planet X imagines the end of the world not through catastrophe, but through the creeping mundanity and absurdities of modern life. It’s a ferocious, witty and deeply human response to cultural collapse across 13 tightly wound tracks. Jason discusses the album’s creation, the increasing paranoia and vulnerability in the new material, and the band’s most varied musical palette to date. He reflects on the collaborations — from Aldous Harding’s feather-light touch on “Elitest G.O.A.T.” to Sue Tompkins’ beautifully raw presence on “No Touch”, from Liam Bailey’s soulful turn on “Flood The Zone” to Snowy’s razor-edged bars on “Kill List.” At the centre of the conversation is “The Good Life”, where Andrew Fearn’s tense production meets Williamson’s rapid-fire delivery, while Christie and Big Special voice the inner turmoil triggered by Jason’s own outspoken moments within the music world. “Planet X isn’t a concept — it’s the world we’re living in.” — Jason Williamson A bold, biting statement from one of Britain’s most vital bands, The Demise Of Planet X captures Sleaford Mods at their sharpest and most emotionally exposed. Join Jason Williamson as he takes us inside the making of The Demise Of Planet X — the chaos, the craft, and the catharsis — exclusively on the XS Noize Podcast.
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Oliver Murray on completing “The Beatles Anthology” and bringing Episode Nine to life (#263)
12/04/2025
Oliver Murray on completing “The Beatles Anthology” and bringing Episode Nine to life (#263)
In this episode of the XS Noize Podcast, Mark Millar is joined by acclaimed filmmaker Oliver Murray — the British writer–director redefining modern music documentary through his bold, cinematic approach. Following his 2023 short film Now and Then, The Last Beatles Song — made in collaboration with Paul McCartney, Ringo Starr, Sean Lennon and the Harrison Estate to celebrate the release of the Beatles’ final single — Oliver continues his creative relationship with the band by directing the brand-new, final chapter of the legendary Anthology series. First released three decades ago, The Beatles Anthology reinvented the music documentary format. Instead of outside narration and talking heads, it featured John, Paul, George, and Ringo telling their story in their own words — a groundbreaking approach that shaped the way music history is now documented. Under Murray’s direction, the series now receives its long-awaited conclusion: Episode Nine, a completely new instalment filled with unseen footage, including intimate behind-the-scenes moments of Paul, George and Ringo reuniting between 1994 and 1995 at Abbey Road. Oliver discusses how he approached taking on one of the most important music stories ever told, the responsibility of handling unreleased Beatles material, and the emotional legacy carried by Episode Nine — both for the surviving members and for generations of fans discovering the band anew. “Watching Paul, Ringo and George together in the ’90s, the chemistry is exactly the same as when they were young — it’s hard-wired. It feels almost scripted, but it isn’t. That bond is still alive.” — Oliver Murray A rising force in film and music storytelling, Murray has previously collaborated with some of the biggest names in music, including The Rolling Stones (My Life As a Rolling Stone), The Beatles (Now & Then), and Quincy Jones (They All Came Out to Montreux). His work spans genres — from jazz in Ronnie’s: The Story of Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club to classical music with Lang Lang — and has been featured on Disney, Netflix, and the BBC. Listen as Oliver Murray takes us inside the making of Episode Nine — revealing unseen moments of Beatles history and the evolution of his craft — exclusively on the XS Noize Podcast. This is the definitive deep dive into the Beatles’ final chapter. “Episode nine concludes the anthology, but it’s not an end. The Beatles’ legacy isn’t a full stop — it’s something that’s in the groundwater now, something we all inherit.” — Oliver Murray About The XS Noize Podcast With over 250 episodes, the XS Noize Podcast has become a trusted home for music’s legends, innovators, and trailblazers — a place where real conversations meet real stories. Hosted by Mark Millar, the show has featured an extraordinary lineup including The Charlatans, Gary “Mani” Mounfield, Glen Matlock, Miles Kane, Matt Berninger, Saint Etienne, D:Ream, Gavin Rossdale, The Farm, Snow Patrol, John Lydon, Will Sergeant, Ocean Colour Scene, Gary Kemp, Doves, Gavin Friday, David Gray, Anton Newcombe, Peter Hook, Razorlight, 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, and Michael Head — among many more. . New episodes drop weekly — subscribe for more in-depth conversations with the artists who shape our lives.
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Steve Lillywhite: Making “Fairytale of New York” with Kirsty MacColl & The Pogues (#262)
11/30/2025
Steve Lillywhite: Making “Fairytale of New York” with Kirsty MacColl & The Pogues (#262)
In this episode of the XS Noize Podcast, Mark Millar is joined by legendary producer Steve Lillywhite — the Grammy-winning studio mastermind behind iconic records by U2, The Rolling Stones, Talking Heads, The Smiths, The Killers, Peter Gabriel, and many more. Steve talks about the release of a brand-new 4-track EP featuring a completely unreleased live version of “Fairytale of New York” — recorded at Glasgow Barrowlands in December 1987. This historic performance captures the first time The Pogues ever played the song live, and the first time Kirsty MacColl performed it onstage with the band. The EP is released on 12 December. Recorded by Steve himself — producer of the original version and then-husband of Kirsty MacColl — the Barrowlands tape offers a rare window into the early live life of what has become the UK’s favourite Christmas song for over a decade. Originally charting at No. 2 in 1987, “Fairytale of New York” has returned to the UK Top 20 every year since 2005. Steve reflects on the making of the classic track, the energy of that unforgettable night in Glasgow, and key moments from across his remarkable career. Listen to Steve Lillywhite discuss the new EP, the legacy of Fairytale of New York, and the stories behind his legendary productions — exclusively on the XS Noize Podcast. About The XS Noize Podcast With over 250 episodes, the XS Noize Podcast has become a trusted home for music’s legends and trailblazers — a space where real conversations meet real stories. Hosted by Mark Millar, the show has welcomed an extraordinary lineup including The Charlatans, Gary “Mani” Mounfield, Glen Matlock, Miles Kane, Matt Berninger, Saint Etienne, D:Ream, Gavin Rossdale, The Farm, Snow Patrol, John Lydon, Will Sergeant, Ocean Colour Scene, Gary Kemp, Doves, Gavin Friday, David Gray, Anton Newcombe, Peter Hook, Razorlight, 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, and Michael Head — among many more. . New episodes drop weekly — subscribe for more in-depth conversations with the artists who shape our lives.
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The Altered Hours: Cathal Mac Gabhann on Their Stunning New Self-Titled Album (#261)
11/27/2025
The Altered Hours: Cathal Mac Gabhann on Their Stunning New Self-Titled Album (#261)
In this episode of the XS Noize Podcast, Mark Millar is joined by guitarist and songwriter Cathal Mac Gabhann from Cork alt-rock and shoegaze outfit The Altered Hours — one of Ireland’s most vital underground bands. The Altered Hours released their self-titled third album on November 7th via . Recorded to tape by analogue producer Julie McLarnon (New Order, Lankum, Happy Mondays), the album captures the band at their most raw, warm, and emotionally direct. Formed in 2010, the band have carved out a unique place in the European alternative scene through two albums, a run of EPs, and a reputation for immersive, fuzz-drenched live shows. Their independent spirit has earned them admiration from peers and fans alike. Cathal discusses the band’s evolution, the creative shift behind the new record, and how recording to tape has brought out their most dynamic sound yet. He also reflects on touring with Fontaines D.C., playing venues like The Bataclan and Alexandra Palace, and stepping in as their live guitarist across Japan and Australia. Now signed to Pizza Pizza Records, The Altered Hours step confidently into a new phase — honouring their psych-rock roots while pushing into bolder, more atmospheric territory. Listen to Cathal Mac Gabhann discuss the making of the new album, the journey behind it, and where The Altered Hours go next — exclusively on the XS Noize Podcast. About The XS Noize Podcast With over 250 episodes, the XS Noize Podcast has become a trusted home for music’s legends and trailblazers — a space where real conversations meet real stories. Hosted by Mark Millar, the show has welcomed an extraordinary lineup including The Charlatans, Gary “Mani” Mounfield, Glen Matlock, Miles Kane, Matt Berninger, Saint Etienne, D:Ream, Gavin Rossdale, The Farm, Snow Patrol, John Lydon, Will Sergeant, Ocean Colour Scene, Gary Kemp, Doves, Gavin Friday, David Gray, Anton Newcombe, Peter Hook, Razorlight, 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, and Michael Head — among many more. . New episodes drop weekly — subscribe for more in-depth conversations with the artists who shape our lives.
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Pearce Macca: The Clause’s Rise and Debut Album “Victim of a Casual Thing” (#260)
11/23/2025
Pearce Macca: The Clause’s Rise and Debut Album “Victim of a Casual Thing” (#260)
In this episode of the XS Noize Podcast, Mark Millar is joined by Pearce Macca — frontman of Birmingham indie-rockers The Clause, a band whose rise has become one of the most inspiring new stories in modern British guitar music. The Clause have just unveiled their long-awaited debut album Victim of a Casual Thing — a record built on pure graft, unshakable friendship, and more than a decade of refusing to give in. What started in a cramped school practice room in 2011 — with Pearce Macca, Jonny Fyffe and Niall Fennell learning their favourite songs before Liam Deakin completed the line-up — has grown into a band with a fiercely loyal fanbase and a reputation for electrifying live shows. Pearce looks back on the full journey: the teenage beginnings, the countless setbacks, the near-misses, the belief that kept them going, and the breakthrough moments that finally pushed the band to album one. He reflects on the stories they’ve lived together — the wins, the losses, the friendships, the heartbreaks — and how those experiences became the emotional engine of Victim of a Casual Thing. We also dive into The Clause’s rise on the live circuit, from sweatbox early gigs to lighting up festival crowds at Radio 1’s Big Weekend, Isle of Wight, Truck, Tramlines, and Rock ’n’ Roll Circus. And Pierce takes us inside the making of the album itself — the sound that defines The Clause, the writing and recording process, and why this record feels less like a finish line and more like the start of the real story. “We’ve done this the long way — but it’s the right way. It’s made us the band we are.” – Pearce Macca Listen to Pearce Macca talk about the decade-long journey behind The Clause, the heart and honesty driving Victim of a Casual Thing, and the breakthrough moment they’ve been chasing — exclusively on the XS Noize Podcast. About The XS Noize Podcast With over 250 episodes, the XS Noize Podcast has become a trusted home for music’s legends and trailblazers — a space where real conversations meet real stories. Hosted by Mark Millar, the show has welcomed an extraordinary lineup including The Charlatans, Gary “Mani” Mounfield, Glen Matlock, Miles Kane, Matt Berninger, Saint Etienne, D:Ream, Gavin Rossdale, The Farm, Snow Patrol, John Lydon, Will Sergeant, Ocean Colour Scene, Gary Kemp, Doves, Gavin Friday, David Gray, Anton Newcombe, Peter Hook, Razorlight, 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, and Michael Head — among many more. . New episodes drop weekly — subscribe for more in-depth conversations with the artists who shape our lives.
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Roland Gift: 40 Years of Fine Young Cannibals & New Christmas Single (#259)
11/16/2025
Roland Gift: 40 Years of Fine Young Cannibals & New Christmas Single (#259)
In this episode of the XS Noize Podcast, Mark Millar is joined by Roland Gift — the iconic voice of Fine Young Cannibals and one of the most instantly recognisable singers in British music. With era-defining hits like “She Drives Me Crazy,” “Good Thing,” “Johnny Come Home,” and their electrifying version of “Ever Fallen In Love,” Fine Young Cannibals became global chart-toppers — selling over five million records and earning two BRIT Awards, an Ivor Novello, and three Grammy nominations. Their sharp, soulful sound continues to influence generations. Roland returns with two major releases — , a definitive 40-year anthology, and his brand-new festive single , showcasing that unmistakable voice in glorious form. Roland looks back on the band’s beginnings, the explosive success of The Raw & The Cooked, and how his Otis Redding-inspired delivery fused with David Steele and Andy Cox’s songwriting to create something completely unique. He also reflects on Fine Young Cannibals’ continued cultural impact — including “She Drives Me Crazy” becoming the musical centrepiece of the 2025 Chanel campaign starring Dua Lipa and Jennie from BLACKPINK. We also talk about Roland’s return to performing — touring with Jools Holland, shining at the 2022 Hootenanny, and his triumphant 40 Years of Songs tour, which launched with a sold-out London Palladium show. And we dive into “Everybody Knows It’s Christmas” — a glam-rock, wall-of-sound celebration co-written with Ben Barson, full of warmth, nostalgia, and classic Roland soul. “Wherever you are I hope this song brings a bit of warmth, a smile, and maybe a bit of that Christmas magic your way.” – Roland Gift Listen to Roland Gift discuss 40 years of Fine Young Cannibals, the making of FYC40, and the joy behind his new Christmas single — exclusively on the XS Noize Podcast. About The XS Noize Podcast With over 250 episodes, the XS Noize Podcast has become a trusted home for music’s legends and trailblazers — a space where real conversations meet real stories. Hosted by Mark Millar, the show has welcomed an extraordinary lineup including The Charlatans, Gary “Mani” Mounfield, Glen Matlock, Miles Kane, Matt Berninger, Saint Etienne, D:Ream, Gavin Rossdale, The Farm, Snow Patrol, John Lydon, Will Sergeant, Ocean Colour Scene, Gary Kemp, Doves, Gavin Friday, David Gray, Anton Newcombe, Peter Hook, Razorlight, 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, and Michael Head — among many more. New episodes drop weekly — subscribe for more in-depth conversations with the artists who shape our lives.
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ALKY on Breaking the Cycle with His Debut Album ‘Rinse & Repeat’ (#258)
11/13/2025
ALKY on Breaking the Cycle with His Debut Album ‘Rinse & Repeat’ (#258)
In this episode of the XS Noize Podcast, Mark Millar is joined by — the Dublin-born indie-rock artist and former Emmy-nominated audio engineer whose raw, heartfelt songwriting is making serious waves across Ireland’s indie scene. From his breakout singles “Dirty Tricks,” “All Because of Love,” “Perfect,” and “How Do You?” to sold-out shows at Whelan’s and The Workman’s Club, ALKY has built a growing reputation for pairing widescreen anthems with brutally honest storytelling. Now, he’s stepping into a defining new chapter with the release of his debut album Rinse & Repeat, a powerful exploration of addiction, love, and the endless cycles we fight to escape. In our conversation, ALKY talks about the messy truth behind his lyrics, his transition from studio engineer to full-time artist, and how facing his own patterns of self-destruction became the creative spark for the record. He opens up about sobriety, resilience, and why imperfection — both in music and in life — can be the most honest sound of all. We also dive into the making of standout tracks “All Because of Love,” “How Do You?,” “Perfect,” and “Dirty Tricks,” his experience coming up through Dublin’s live circuit, and how Rinse & Repeat became a cathartic statement on falling, getting back up, and finding meaning in repetition. “I noticed I kept falling into the same destructive behaviours — the same chaos regarding alcohol and my relationship choices. Rinse & Repeat is a reflection of that cycle and putting it into songs.” – ALKY Listen to ALKY discuss the making of his debut album Rinse & Repeat, addiction, love, and finding strength in repetition on the XS Noize Podcast. About The XS Noize Podcast With over 250 episodes to its name, the XS Noize Podcast has become a trusted home for music’s legends and trailblazers — a space where real conversations meet real stories. Hosted by Mark Millar, the show has welcomed an extraordinary lineup including The Charlatans, Gary “Mani” Mounfield, Glen Matlock, Miles Kane, Matt Berninger, Saint Etienne, D:Ream, Gavin Rossdale, The Farm, Snow Patrol, John Lydon, Will Sergeant, Ocean Colour Scene, Gary Kemp, Doves, Gavin Friday, David Gray, Anton Newcombe, Peter Hook, Razorlight, 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, and Michael Head — among many more. New episodes of the XS Noize Podcast drop weekly — subscribe for more in-depth conversations with the artists who shape our lives.
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Martin Blunt: The Charlatans: Inside ‘We Are Love’ (#257)
11/09/2025
Martin Blunt: The Charlatans: Inside ‘We Are Love’ (#257)
In this episode of the XS Noize Podcast, Mark Millar is joined by Martin Blunt — founding member and bassist of The Charlatans, one of Britain’s most enduring and beloved bands. From their breakthrough with Some Friendly to the anthemic Tellin’ Stories and the reflective Modern Nature, The Charlatans have spent more than three decades making music that moves between euphoria and heart. Now, with We Are Love, they’ve created a record that feels like a true celebration — warm, hopeful, and full of connection. Martin talks about the chemistry that’s kept the band together, the highs and heartbreaks along the way, and how they still find joy in playing together after all these years. He also pays heartfelt tribute to the late Rob Collins and Jon Brookes, whose spirit and influence continue to guide the band’s sound and soul. “If you gave us the being-in-a-band tick sheet, I think we’ve ticked quite a few of the boxes.” – Martin Blunt Listen to the full episode and join Martin as he looks back on the band’s story, the soul behind We Are Love, and why — after all this time — The Charlatans are still chasing that same spark that started it all. About The XS Noize Podcast With over 250 episodes to its name, the XS Noize Podcast has become a trusted home for music’s legends and trailblazers — a space where real conversations meet real stories. Hosted by Mark Millar, the show has welcomed an extraordinary lineup including Gary 'Mani' Mounfield, Glen Matlock, Miles Kane, Matt Berninger, Saint Etienne, D:Ream, Gavin Rossdale, The Farm, Snow Patrol, John Lydon, Will Sergeant, Ocean Colour Scene, Gary Kemp, Doves, Gavin Friday, David Gray, Anton Newcombe, Peter Hook, Razorlight, 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, and Michael Head — among many more. New episodes of the XS Noize Podcast drop weekly — subscribe for more in-depth conversations with the artists who shape our lives.
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Mani: The Stone Roses, Primal Scream & the Resurrection (#256)
11/02/2025
Mani: The Stone Roses, Primal Scream & the Resurrection (#256)
In this episode of the XS Noize Podcast, Mark Millar is joined by Mani — legendary bassist of The Stone Roses and Primal Scream, and one of the most influential figures in British rock history. From the euphoric rise of The Stone Roses — the band that defined a generation and changed the sound of British music — to the wild creative freedom of Primal Scream, Mani’s journey has been nothing short of iconic. In this conversation, Mani looks back on the moments that shaped him — from the late-’80s Manchester underground, when The Roses’ mix of psychedelic swagger and dancefloor groove ignited the Madchester movement, to recording their classic debut album and riding the wave of euphoria that followed. He opens up about the frustration of losing momentum during the long and bitter legal battles with Silvertone Records and FM Revolver, a period that tested the band’s spirit but ultimately forged their defiant edge. He recalls the band’s rebirth with Second Coming, his explosive years with Primal Scream, and the emotional highs of reuniting The Roses for the monumental Heaton Park shows — one of the greatest comebacks in modern music. Mani reflects on the brotherhood, the chaos, and the transcendence that came with it all — and what it means to live through those storms with joy still intact. “The four of us. Boom. There it is. The power of four. And it was beautiful.” – Mani (on the magic of The Stone Roses’ reunion) Mani also shares personal memories of the Beautiful Thing sessions, the deep connection between groove and spirituality, and how he’s carried The Roses’ sense of defiance and soul into everything since. With trademark humour and honesty, he talks about surviving the highs and lows of fame, the secret to keeping the spirit of rock ’n’ roll alive, and why music, at its best, still feels like a resurrection. Listen to the full episode and join Mani as he reflects on a lifetime in music — from Manchester to the world — The groove, the chaos, the resurrection.
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Moya Brennan on ‘Macalla’ at 40 — Clannad’s Timeless Legacy (#255)
10/28/2025
Moya Brennan on ‘Macalla’ at 40 — Clannad’s Timeless Legacy (#255)
In this episode of the XS Noize Podcast, Mark Millar is joined by Moya Brennan — the unmistakable voice of Clannad, often hailed as the First Lady of Celtic Music. This year marks the 40th anniversary of Clannad’s landmark 1985 album Macalla — a record that bridged ancient Celtic roots with modern pop and ambient textures. Produced by Steve Nye (Japan, David Sylvian) and recorded across Dublin, Surrey, and Switzerland, Macalla captured the moment when Irish music stepped confidently onto the global stage — featuring the iconic duet with Bono, In a Lifetime. In this conversation, Moya looks back on the creative and spiritual journey behind Macalla — from the evolving sound that carried Clannad from Donegal’s Irish-speaking Gaeltacht region to worldwide acclaim, to the energy of recording during a golden era for Irish music, with U2 at Live Aid and the world discovering Celtic voices anew. She recalls the “lightning in a bottle” studio sessions with Bono and explores the deeper sense of faith, family, and identity that continues to echo through her work. “If Macalla helps someone feel something, even for a moment — that’s what it was meant for.” – Moya Brennan Moya also reflects on Clannad’s role in reshaping how Irish music was seen around the world, and the blending of Gaelic language and modern production that became their signature sound. She discusses how her collaborations have taken her voice from folk stages to global dance floors — most famously with Chicane on Saltwater — and the enduring power of songs such as Closer to Your Heart, Buachaill Ón Éirne, Caisleán Óir, Almost Seems (Too Late to Turn), The Wild Cry, and Journey’s End to connect generations. Listen to the full episode and join Moya Brennan as she reflects on 40 years of Macalla — the memories, the music, and the lasting echo of Clannad’s legacy. About The XS Noize Podcast With over 250 episodes to its name, the XS Noize Podcast has become a trusted home for music’s legends and trailblazers — a space where real conversations meet real stories. Hosted by Mark Millar, the show has welcomed an extraordinary lineup including Glen Matlock, Miles Kane, Matt Berninger, Saint Etienne, D:Ream, Gavin Rossdale, The Farm, Snow Patrol, John Lydon, Will Sergeant, Ocean Colour Scene, Gary Kemp, Doves, Gavin Friday, David Gray, Anton Newcombe, Peter Hook, Razorlight, 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, and Michael Head — among many more.
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