Eighties Archive Podcast

We welcome Jim Irvin, the frontman of London cult 80s band Furniture. We find out about their indie road to an eventual signing to Stiff and beyond and just how much bad luck they had as a band, whilst operating against the grain by choice.Jim went on to write for Melody Maker and subsequently became the Features Editor for MOJO. Having also authored books including the honest and telling account of Jeff Buckley in 'Hallelujah And The Last Goodbye', Jim moved into Songwriting for a living working as a Topliner for successful acts like Lissie & Nothing But Thieves.Jim's detail on work experience at both his part time job at The Beggars Banquet Record Shop and his role as a radio librarian for the United Biscuit Corp. at the top of his career is a-Must-Listen feature! Ace episode! - Enjoy - DA.

*This episode contains excerpts of 3rd party material*Welcome to Martin Macaloon one of the brothers who helped shape the incredible sound of the incomparable Durham band, Prefab Sprout. Humble and unassuming, Martin graciously walks us through the timeline of Sprout history from their first independent release right through to 1990.Martin is on a solo tour with Thomas Dolby performing his brother's songs around the UK from May 15th 2026 to the end of the month. Get your tickets now! - DA

*this episode contains excerpts of third party music*Welcome musician Tim May who was the saxophonist in the brilliant Roaring Boys, who also features Neil MacColl, son of Peggy and Ewan and half brother of KirstyThe Roaring Boys evolved from established Cambridge signed band The Models, They found themselves at the centre of a bidding war. However although they got signed, The Roaring Boys suffered perhaps by having 6 strong personalities and no clear leader, Coupled with maybe being in the wrong scene at the wrong time, this translated to not breaking out in the UK or the U.S. to the level we think they deserved.Tim later went on to become a series producer for the BBC Series Arena. DA

*This episode features excerpts of 3rd party music*We welcome, Ian McNay, founder and chairman of Cherry Red records, which still remains today, one of the most prolific independent record institutions in operation.Ian takes the time to tell us the Cherry Red story, detailing many of the key moments and signings that decorate his path to success, maintaining an ethos for supporting the truly unique and the different, with independent spirit. from Everything But The Girl, Felt, Dead Kennedeys to a wealth of heritage acts enjoying a resurgence of reissues away from the majors. Not to mention his involvement with his beloved AFC Wimbeldon. DA

*This episode includes excerpts of 3rd paty music*Welcome Ross middleton, Scottish singer who along side musician Gary Barnacle, formed Leisure Process, signed by Muff Winwood.

*This episode contains excerpts of 3rd party music*in this edition we welcome Bobby Hodgens from Scottish jangle pop band The Bluebells. Associated with the Postcard Records scene early on, hearing Orange Juice, Altered Images and Simple Minds inspired him to start a band.The Bluebells had a hugely infectious body of songs and at one time their personel included Craig Gannon who was poached from Aztec Camera, before going on to join The Smiths.Their enormous hit 'Young At Heart' has seen the band enjoy what is seen as their 3rd wind as they continue to play huge shows ands share their music with the world.Bobby chooses some fantastic tracks for this short but very sweet episode - DA

*This episode contains 3rd party music excerpts*We welcome composer Paul Fishman, most famed for his role as keyboardist in 80s new wave band Re-Flex.As the son of Jack Fishman, co composer with Roy Budd and the nephew of Vera Lynn, Paul's life in music was inevitable.He talks about his work as a signed artist starting in the 70s with Prog project 'In Search Of Ancient Gods', through to his partnership with Dee Harris from Fashion, making Disco 12s for MCA and working for Motown. Also making an album on a label associated with Kraftwerk's Florien Schneider, with Ped Gill from FGTH whilst being signed under Trevor Horn's Sarm umbrella, to his extensive composition and mastering work in the Soundtrack world for hundreds of films including Deathwish, The Wild Geese, Breakdance and of course Get Carter and the Roy Budd catalogue.Paul is still releasing music with a recent collection of medidation music of which he is very proud. Go to :www.paulfishmanmusic.co.uk for more information - DA

*Contains language that may offend**This episode contains excerpts of 3rd party music*In this edition we welcome a titan of the Record industry, Dave "Robbo" Robinson, co founder of Stiff Records.A talented photographer in the early 60s who snapped amongst others, The Beatles at The Cavern, who at that time were "not particularly memorable". Band management took Dave from London to Majorca. From an interrogation in a Spanish jail, to having his band at the time appointed as tour support for Jimi Hendrix. An incident with Vanilla Fudge and the son of a NJ mafia boss pushing a gun in his mouth, taught him to adapt later in life.Signing Madness, The Damned, The Pogues & Elvis Costello to name just a few, made him the envy of the majors at that time. A merge to Island Records saw Dave mastermind the rise of FGTH's Relax into the top .10 and his follow up campaign for Bob Marley's 'Legend' became the biggest selling reggae album of all time.Our conversation with Dave is loaded with tales, wisdom and truth, for which we are truly thankful. A parting gift could well be in the shape of a typical Stiff ad slogan from back in the day: "Don't Fart Until Your Arse Is Ready!" - wise words!DA.

*This episode contains excerpts of 3rd party music content*HAPPY NEW YEAR!In this episode, find out what OUR origin stories are and what our 80's was like. Expect factually incorrect musings, a Midge Ure impression from Dave, punctuated with excellent music choices throughout. Oh and a lot of swearing and a Ouija board story from John.Normal service will resume in the next episode - We promise!DA

*This episode contains excerpts of 3rd party music content*In this episode we welcome actress Francoise Pascal who as well as acting along side many national treasures like Peter Sellers, Diana Dors and Terry Scott, has also recorded singles and been a model. Appearing in TV Dramas on both sides of the Atlantic in Coronation Street and The Young & The restless, She was also a regular on panel quiz shows like Celebrity squares and Blankety Blank. However, it was in the multi cultural comedy show, Mind Your language that she became a fixture of our TV youth.Francoise has an open and honest chat with us about her life, her experiences, her career and we barely scratch the surface of her supply of showbiz tales!Now hosting a weekly radio show for Radio Free Marseille in France, Francoise is currently writing the script for her One-Woman-tells-all show about her life, set to hit the CAA club in London and more venues besides in the near future - DA

*This episode contains excerpts of 3rd party music content*Welcome Corinne & Andy from Grammy nominated Jazz pop darlings Swing Out Sister.From her beginnings in fashion design at St. Martins, London where Sade was also in attendance, Corinne made her live debut auditioning for Working Week (standing in for Tracey Thorn) at The Hacienda in Manchester with Andy in the audience (then still in A Certain Ratio).The pair tell us all about Swing Out Sister's somewhat reluctant rise to pop stardom after signing just a 2 single deal as an A&R learning project. Upon 'Breakout' becoming a massive hit, they were thrust into creating an album by the "seat of their pants" with a studio battle of retaining their indie chic vs. the "snazzy pop sheen" of record company demands.Their 8 CD retrospective, a real treat for the fans, 'Certain Shades Of Limelight' is available now on Cherry Red.DA

*Content disclaimer * this episode contains very strong language and subject matter some listeners may find triggering as well as containing excerpts of 3rd party music content*We present a frank but fun chin wag with TV presenter vet Steve blacknell, about the highs and lows of his career. From being a nurse and falling for his first love Kate Bush, to PR work with Record companies, life at the BBC, anchoring Live Aid and at the flip of a coin, an exodus to Hollywood.With a book out and a new radio show coming soon, get stuck into Steve's episode to find out more.

*This episode contains excerpts of 3rd party music content*This episode sees John explore the work that the Misty Moon team do, with Stuart & Jen Morris, who lovingly curate in South London, celebrating TV & Film nostalgia from Friday the 13th to The Sweeney.

*This episode contains excerpts of 3rd party music content*Mancunian musician Graham Massey joins us for a chat about his career, starting with the early band Biting Tongues signed to Factory, to the monster that became 808 State. Graham talks about his love of A-Tonal jazz, experimental music, writing with Bjork, rave culture, the strong arm influence of the staff at Eastern Bloc Records, The Stone Roses' Spike Island experience being a bit dull and getting signed to ZTT With a UK tour EX:EL 2025 over November/ December 2025 tickets are available now - https://www.ticketmaster.co.uk/search?q=808-state

*This episode contains excerpts of 3rd party music content*We have a great chin wag with Scouse Actor Victor Mcguire about his career in TV and film, covering the popular series Bread and Goodnight Sweetheart as well as Phantom Of The Opera and Star Wars to name a few!!It was no surprise to us to find that Vic is a warm, humble and down to earth guy who was never comfortable with celebrity. He also chooses some 80s tunes for us that haven't been chosen before. Enjoy - DA.

*This episode contains excerpts of 3rd party music content*Welcome Writer, Author Andrew Cartmel. John interviews this a man whose writing includes of course Doctor Who.

*This episode contains excerpts of 3rd party music content*We welcome Actress Nicola Bryant most know for her role as Doctor Who's companion Peri Brown - John's favourite companion to John's favourite Doctor. To this end, although David did the noble thing and let John go a bit silly on a solo mission, he still did the hard work to make him sound less silly...sort of.Nicola was an absolutely lovely guest and told us all about her career and her choice of 80s music was from the heart. DA

*This episode contains excerpts of 3rd party music content**Some strong language, listener discretion is advised*Ahead of Britpop by some 5 years, Ben Addison and his twin brother Scott forged a band that were a magic blend, steeped in references. channelling his Anthony Newley via Bowie, kicking out Who licks in power pop punk troupe Boys Wonder. This was a riveting conversation with someone who was a visionary with a clear sense of what he could and could not abide in 1980s culture.Ben chooses some great 80s tracks for us, has a couple of great spooky stories and tells us about the new Boys Wonder releases aswell as the book of photography that has just been released - DA

*This episode contains excerpts of 3rd party music content*Welcome to Melbourne born studio legend, Julian Mendelsohn, who tells us all bout his journey from his 'Radio Shack' electronics obsession that developed into recording gear and studio equipment, which after a family move to England drove him into a career doing exactly that. Julian has worked with just about everybody and his name featured heavily on the backs of our records in the 80s + 90s.We hope you enjoy our chinwag with this modest and unaffected industry professional who has given us so much pleasure over the years. Julian also chooses his five 80s tracks for us. DA.

*This episode contains excerpts of 3rd party music content*Simon was one half of 80s folk pop sensation Big Bam Boo, along with Shark they stormed America destined for big things with a big budget. David was lucky enough to see them live several times in London venues supporting various bands in the late 80s.Simon's journey through the world of writing and performing has been a very interesting one going right back to the early 70s, involving publishing deals, record deals, recordings and shenanigans that include amongst other things kit sharing with Kraftwerk!!Simon lives and works in France and continues to release albums and play shows. We hope you enjoy Simon's story. DA

*This episode features 3rd party musical content*John talks the hind legs off Super 8 and VHS expert Mark Williams, about his days at paramount in Wardour Street, working with Michael Man, possible dodgy dealings in the good days of VHS and all things niche in the world of horror.Mark's film VHS Forever and his book Bootlace Cinema are available now - DA

*This episode contains excerpts of 3rd party Musical content*In this edition we welcome American songwriter Bob Beland who offers a different view of the 80s from across the Atlantic at the top of the decade, writing in his band Stealing Cars with Stephen Hague, dalliances with Tom Waits, culminating in a collaboration with 10CC drummer Kevin Godley,- DA

*This episode features excerpts of 3rd party musical content*Welcome the esteemed studio legend, Peter Boyd Smith, responsible for the production and mixing on some of our favourite 80s records from The Bible, Sting and the incredible second album from The Adventures, The Sea Of Love.A humble and down to earth pro with great taste in music including the pedestal statement regarding Peter Gabriel's Sledge Hammer! - DA

*This episode features excerpts of 3rd party musical content*We speak with New Zealand singer songwriter JJ Mist, who is currently releasing original material through the lens of the 80s, making a stir in the genre recognised as Synthwave.Born to a touring musician Mother, JJ has been raised in a musical family and has developed her own writing with the help of fellow producer Alex Markham, moving from a kind of dance pop into a more 'Pat Benatar cinematic rock sound - DA

*This episode features excerpts of 3rd party music content*This is the story of veteran Kent born Musican and songwriter Martin Ansell, who having been in a grammar school band supporting Gong in Chatham, he began his 'London' career doing the odd session in Rockstar studios owned by John Springate of the Glitter Band. It was here that he met Rod Bowkett and together they formed many ideas under such names as President President and The Quarks, with producer, Tony Mansfield from New Musik.Having been signed three times. Firstly to the maligned 'Toy Label' Magnet, then the somewhat dismissive EMI and finally to Island, who whilst Chris Blackwell was encouraging, others there weren't so keen to push or promote. Martin gave us an inside view as a 'low rosta' artist and a true account with no bed of roses.Having also sessioned for Captain Sensible and Tom Robinson, Martin had a few stories to tell, not to mention a genuine ghost story too. His five songs from the 80s were exquisite. Enjoy - DA

*This episode contains excerpts of 3rd party musical content*Welcome Mark Wood - Woking's other walking musical encyclopedia after Mr.Weller.Mark has been a key person in the back catalogue part of the record industry for years doing great work at Virgin, Universal and Demon records. This is a great look back at the decade from the point of view of a boy whose love of music began at a young age (See photo), and led him up the rungs of the record shop retail ladder, to a stint at Smash Hits magazine and eventually instigating superb reissue packages, looking after acts like Soft Cell, Bryan Ferry, Grace Jones and Suede.Mark has assembled two outstanding 5 disc sets, 'Box Of Sin' & "More Sin", which go some way to demonstrate just what the 80s music scene was really like in London's gay club land.Mark's recollections of cultural history are thrilling as are the pictures he paints depicting his journey through the 80s, a genuine Small town Boy.We thought it would be a nice idea to dedicate Mark's episode to the memory of Aunty Janet - DA.

**This episode features excerpts of 3rd party music content****Strong language disclaimer**Welcome Nick Whitecross, front man of one of Britain's most unique alternative pop bands from the 80s, Kissing The Pink.KTPs musical canvas began with a kind of cinematic brood in 'The last Film', but then transforms itself into MTV high class pop and eventually Weatherall-fuelled dance music. What a fabulous art troupe this band were and still are, with a 5 CD 1982-2024 Anthology out on Cherry Red Records.Nick has done all sorts of work for organisations - including Parliament, but is still writing and releasing music - DA

**This episode contains 3rd party musical content, excerpts of which have been used where ever possible**Welcome studio legend, Dave Bascombe, whose work mixing, engineering and producing some of the greatest British recording artists, has in itself created some incredible talking points and tales. Dave is one of the industry's back room super heroes, who seldom get the applaud from the record buying public. His work with Tears For Fears on Songs From The Big Chair and with Depeche Mode on Music For The Masses, brought his name to our attention. The list of artists he has worked with is stellar, from Peter Gabriel to The Verve to Erasure.it's no surprise that Dave's choice of eighties tracks for this episode were top drawer - DA

**This episode features 3rd party musical content, excerpts of which have been used where ever possible**Welcome to Ian Penman. Ian's story is a fascinating one for us because he began his career as a talented jobbing keyboard player auditioning for bands that had contracts, connections and that all seemed to be heading for success. From a band assembled around Lemmy's son, Paul Inder which happened to include Julian Lennon at some point, drummer Lez Warner who went on to play with The Cult and whose manager was Zepplin's Peter Grant!! To An Irish rock outfit called Zerra 1, to a formidable scouse duo called Two People, which is where we discovered Ian.Ian also produced and nurtured bands such as Raising cain working in proximity of infamous pop manager, Tom Watkins.These days Ian woks for a music law company based in Soho, called New media Law, doing some amazing work in the industry - DA

*This episode contains excerpts of 3rd party content*In Episode 68 things peak - New heights of name dropping and contract work!!! We welcome Sheffield legend David Clayton, school friend of Cabaret Voltaire and founder of synth funk (and early radio show signature tunesmiths) Person To Person. Dave tells us all about his career from the early days of funk outfit Hot Cuisine to going on to playing for everyone, working on a reputation by recommendation for ABC, The The, Paul McCartney, Simply Red, U2 and The Pet Shop Boys to name a few. But it was when he teamed up with Tim Simenon, Kerry Hopwood and Q to form Toy, Dave took up programming duties for Depeche Mode on the Ultra album. Which led to getting a call from *Kling Klang Studios* and an invitation to create some sounds for Kraftwerk for the Expo project!!!!This humble egoless keyboard player from Sheffield has quite a tale to tell.We hope you enjoy it - DA.

*This episode features excerpts of 3rd party musical content*Welcome Leigh Gorman. Born in a multicultural community in London's East End, hearing African, Caribbean and latin music, that in some way informed the world Rhythms that he would later create, for both Adam & The Ants and Bow Wow Wow songs, using Punk as his vessel.It was extensive illness that took the original Bow Wow Wow off the road to recover, during this time, the band's bank account and tour rig vanished.Leigh later set up his own studio, producing rave and urban dance releases for the likes of Soho, Silver Bullet, the Tam Tam label to name a few. Making commercials with Malcolm Maclaren followed along with an ill-fated soundtrack to a 90s Carry on film, 'Carry On Columbus'! As well as working on demos for one of Morrissey's finest albums 'You Are The Quarry', that were copied by another studio for release, but sadly not acknowledged -DA

*This episode contains excerpts of 3rd party musical content*In this edition we welcome someone from the new guard as it were, namely Ed Gamper AKA Sunglasses Kid, to talk about the old guard of 80s musicians and how they inspired him to create his vision. An evocative, cinematic and inspired take on 1980s music, making him king of the genre Synthwave.Ed loves Janet Jackson - DA.

*This episode contains excerpts of 3rd party music content*We welcome two guests, Stephen Brotherstone & Dave Lawrence, hosts of the infamous Scarred For Life Podcast and authors of two excellent books - Scarred For Life volumes 1 & 2, that explore those television and film moments from the 70s & 80s pop culture that have left their marks on us as children. From animation, Hammer films, armchair thrillers, Public information films, advertising campaigns and the constant threat of nuclear war. There is also an abundance of spooky tales and sightings in the sky in this interview.We offer our scar recollections and our guests choose their favourite 80s tracks. Steve & Dave's third book will be released on July 27th 2024 and we strongly recommend you check them out. Link Below to place your order. - DAhttps://www.lulu.com/shop/dave-lawrence-and-stephen-brotherstone/scarred-for-life-volume-three/paperback/product-45mzvz2.html?q=scarred+for+life&page=1&pageSize=4

**This episode contains excerpts of 3rd party music content**We welcome London born actor Mark Baxter, who is best known for his role of Duane Orpington in Grange Hill, but also scored child roles in movies like The Omen and Stanley Kubrick's Barry Lyndon. Mark tells us all about his work on the stage in Oliver and is quite frank about how badly child actors were treated in the 70s & 80s, by way of low wages and were exploited as a cheap resource. As well as delivering a fantastic ghost story, he also chose some 80s bangers for us.Mark is very passionate about the inspiring and important charity work is now involved in - DA

*This episode contains excerpts of 3rd partry musical content*We welcome the legend that is Richard Jobson, front man of The Skids, whose career has moved through the arts from acting, TV presenter, singer, musician, but first and foremost, a writer and a vervacious reader.As a lifelong sufferer of epilepsy, Richard has lived his life with great attack and gusto, having always believed his time on this planet would be a short one. With a healthy body of work as a director, an impressive catalogue of albums as a songwriter and also as an author, Richard talks to us about the release of his latest novel, a kind of memoir entitled Kreuzberg Sonata, that tells a story centred in Berlin - DA

*This edition contains 3rd party musical content*In episode 60 we welcome Clark Datchler, songwriter and front man of Johnny Hates Jazz. An early 80s soul boy born into good Jazz stock on his Father's side.Employed as a songwriter at Micky Most's RAK studios, which is where he met the other members of what later became JHJ, working with the legendary engineer Phil Thornalley. We hear about perfecting the art of high end pop, the need to get out of the limelight, the disdain for critics and how hard it was in the 90s for an ex-80s pop star, releasing solo material.Johnny Hates Jazz are still touring and releasing material with renewed vigour - DA

*In this episode we use excerpts of 3rd party musical content*We welcome Martyn Ware, founder member of both seminal Sheffield based electronic bands The Human League and Heaven 17.Martyn talks us through his journey from the early days in The League to H17 presenting concept albums to stand as works of art, whilst the band maintained a heir of mystery, to producing artists under the parallel imprint of B.E.F. which lead them to being responsible for relaunching Tina Turner's career in the early 80s.Martyn is now working on 3D sound installations, and still touring the world with H17, whilst presenting the highly acclaimed podcast, "Electronically yours", the episodes of which are now digitally filed at The British Library as a source of reference and cultural archive - DA

*In this edition we use excerpts of 3rd party musical content*We welcome Nick Thorp from Curiosity Killed the Cat. A band that scored a deal based on their solid live act, releasing a string of hits and albums.A very easy conversation about feeling music from a very early age, self proclaimed wild child hanging round the King's Road, forming Curiosity, being in their element far more live than in the studio and how the band quite possibly, were the template, for a period of time at least, to the industry that later prioritised the whole 'boy band thing'.Still working on new music as well as doing some great charity work helping underprivileged children get in to music whilst quite literally rescuing them. We hope you enjoy this episode - DA

*In this episode there are excerpts of 3rd party musical content*We welcome Craig Gannon to tell us his story and talk about his journey through the 80s via some incredible indie pop bands, from Aztec Camera, the Colourfield, Adult net, Cradle, Edwyn Collins, Black Grape and of course, The Smiths.Craig also has a chilling tale which he recalls fromrecording with Brix Smith in Jimmy page's famously haunted manor, which used to belong to Alistair Crowley!Now composing music for films and TV, Craig is planning to tour in a new project fronted by Alain Whyte which will also feature Boz Boorer and various ex Morrissey players - one for Smiths/ Morrissey fans to keep their eyes peeled for.Craig also chooses some fantastic tracks from the 80s for us - DA.

*This episode features excerpts of 3rd party musical content*This was a great chat with Pete & Gary from Irish rockers, Silent Running. A band who enjoyed 2 major label signings but because of the time spent in London and America, a loyal local Irish following wasn't really achieved at the time. However, some anthemic strong material formed a solid back catalogue With comparisons to U2 and Simple Minds.With a new album and a helping hand from The Arts Council Of Northern Ireland, a new lease of life has allowed the band to enjoy something of a revival.The guys also choose some great 80s tracks for us - DA.

*This episode contains excerpts of 3rd party music content*We Welcome Scouse lad, Eddie Lundon, one half of the writing duo China Crisis who have been the chameleons of British pop since 1982. Spreading their unique style across a back catalogue of some 7 superb albums.China Crisis were both naive and brave in the beginning. Refusing to have their album programmed, void of live instruments, ditching the producer and studio time, bunking home to Liverpool with the hump. However the moment 'Christian' was a hit in this country, Virgin records basically gave them the freedom they wanted. The band went on to tour with Simple Minds, The Police and David Bowie.Eddie tells us about his love of Eno, Talking Heads, Talk Talk and Steely Dan, the latter being galvanised by recording two albums with late Walter Becker. China Crisis Release a new double album 'China Greatness' comprising of orchestrated new versions of some hits and some obscurities at the end of this month on the formidable Last Night In Glasgow Label, embarking on a huge tour, as well as some UK dates with The Thompson Twins - DA

*In this episode we use excerpts of 3rd party mudsical content*We welcome the wonderful Maggie Dunne from the unparalleled Brummie band Fuzzbox. Maggie is honest and candid about the band's journey starting out by accident as a bunch of 15 year old girls, who learnt quickly how to own their tech and craft, to then be accepted and respected in a male industry.A band that regarded it almost a sport in winding up the record company who simply didn't understand this all girl group - who remain the only example to have earned an indie no.1, with lyrical content that challenged some deep subjects and as characters, presented a variety of non stereo types, for a female audience to identify with.Maggie is still writing, touring and is currently there is a book and documentary due for completion. Her choices of 80s tracks are eclectic and a real treat - DA

*In this edition we use excerpts of 3rd party musical content*We welcome Keith Atack, teen pop star turned pro guitarist with a career spanning some 45 years. Starting out in boy pop band Child in the late 70s, then with brother Tim, formed sophisticated pop outfit The Dual. After spending 20 odd years playing in the world's finest Eagles tribute band, The Illegal Eagles, Keith found his calling with the huge rock sound of his own band Atack.Keith was from a musical family, once married to Actress & Singer Kate Robbins whose Mother is the cousin of Sir Paul McCartney's and Keith is the very proud father of his TV/ Film star daughter Emily Atack.Keith also chooses his 5 favourite 80s tracks - DA

*In this edition we use excerpts of 3rd party musical content*Welcome Malcolm Garrett MBE, from the renowned graphic design agency, Assorted Images who pretty much designed half of your record collection!David declares Malcolm as one of his heroes with no hesitation.Cheshire born but the cultural son of Manchester, who's love of The Beatles still remains true as does his love of Barney Bubbles' design work on those early Hawkwind albums and the Stiff records canon.We talk out the detail of Malcolm's approach to design and how this played out working for Buzzcocks, Duran Duran & Simple Minds, his dalliance with the world of James Bond and his book design for David Buckley's book on Kraftwerk, which was probably deemed so accurate, that only the German's took umbrage!Malcolm also chooses 5 brilliant tracks from from the 80s - DA

*In this edition we use excerpts of 3rd party musical content*Episode 34 allows Liverpool legend, Paul Simpson to tell his story, taking off the straight jacket after 30 plus years. His honest encounter is captured in his brave memoir published recently, "Revolutionary Spirit - A Post Punk Exorcism", in which he talks about betrayal, broken hearts, and losing the will to sing. Having been in an early incarnation of Teardrop Explodes, then the driving figure head of both versions of The much in demand band The Wild Swans, then accidentally landing a recording contract with Ian Broudie in the duo Care, but leaving the project before it's completion, knowing it was not going to heal his broken heart, still broken from having his band The Wild Swans rob him of his creative spirit. A band that nailed it at 20 yrs of age, with their sheer ambition. They later pushed Simpson aside to find success without him as The Lotus Eaters. Paul's is quite a heavy tail.However, Life is too short and the grudge he has been carrying for so long has finally worn thin. new fans finding a love for his bands' past work in the Philippines, has meant a change of heart for Paul. We hope you enjoy this episode which also features some incredible choices from Paul and a few tracks from his back catalogue that we absolutely love.Paul's memoir is available now - DAhttps://www.roughtrade.com/en-gb/product/paul-simpson/revolutionary-spirit-a-post-punk-exorcism-the-teardrop-explodes-care-the-wild-swans-and-beyond - DA

*This episode features excerpts of 3rd party musical content*In this edition we are pleased to have with us David Mcgillivray an actor, director and writer who has been responsible for many adult and horror films throughout the 70's and 80's. Also having worked as a joke writer for Julian Clary for many years as well as publishing his own books.David catches John on an off day but his humour got us through. We enjoyed the 80s tracks our guest chose for us- DA.

**This episode contains 3rd party music content and excerpts of which have been used where ever possible**We welcome our first Norwegian guest, Ole Paulsen, the voice and co-song writer from Dance Pop duo 2 Brave.These young lads put their dreams before their studies after receiving good feedback from EMI to their demos in Norway. They decided to come to London and pursue a career in music, embarking on gruelling club date promo tours, acquiring an abundance of screaming fans, generating more fan mail at London Records than label mates Bananarama, but frustratingly this never translated into hard sales figures.The duo eventually ending up in L.A. songwriting and living the dream.Ole is now a respected businessman with an influential book publication available, but is still enjoying creating music, and embracing AI in touching up the old 2 Brave compositions.

*In this edition, we use excerpts of 3rd party musical content*Episode 38 presents a rare appearance from the very finely spoken British Artist Karel Fialka whose unique stance of writing in the pop medium has spanned a career which began in 1979. Having moved through the art world with a huge love of Steeley Dan and Reggae music. Perhaps his biggest dalliance with the pop world came in the shape of the song 'Hey Matthew', written partly from his then young son's perspective. Though he didn't think to mention it, Karel has also written a song with John Lennon!!Karel also treats us to his 5 favourite 80s tracks - DALink to Karel's playlist : https://open.spotify.com/playlist/13VKpJF1ickDZo5O9KU5hv

*This episode features excerpts of 3rd party musical content*Welcome Chris Free, one half of the jazz pop duo A Craze, spotted by Paul Weller and signed to his Respond record label. Chris talks us through the journey from Cambridge punk days in his first signed band The Users, to the all important move to London, which led him to record sessions at the revered Solid Bond Studios.Chris went on to form The Sound Of Pop and continues to release material today, much to the demand of the Far East and is still performing live - DA

*In this Episode we use excerpts of 3rd party musical content*We Welcome Actor Keith Jayne, who's life in acting landed him roles in a number of much loved, cult British series, from Onedin line, Stig Of The Dump, to Murphy's Mob and Dr.Who.Keith tells us about how an accident in his youth stopped his natural growth and how this encouraged his agent to book him for younger roles.Planning his return to acting after a successful career in financial services, we wish Keith all the best - DA