Indie Voices Podcast

I never really know what to say when describing an artists music. Most of the time I feel like I’m just making it up. So when I say Middle Management are a post punk, socially conscious, funky, guitar driven, synth layered slice of Teesside’s musical best, take it with a pinch of salt and just come up with your own blurb. I can’t remember how I first stumbled across their music, but it was their song “Influencer Influenza” which made me love them. Then I saw them perform live in November 2024 and they blew me away.Carl and I have been trying to arrange this chat for around 18 months. In that time we’ve had various text based conversations. One of the recurring themes is a love of a good cheese board. Something very close, and probably by now, within my heart. Hence the one time new feature - Desert Island Magic Cheese Board.For a relatively new band, Middle Management have hit the ground running. Something Carl puts down to the supportive nature of the Teesside music scene. I think this links back to the relationships the band developed through their previous projects.In this episode, Carl talks about his musical background, upcoming gigs and releases, his love of the Teesside music scene, and as always much more.Middle Management, release their next single - The Comedian and the Boxer in the near future. Upcoming gigs:Stockton Calling Festival, ARC 2 - 4th April 2026.Rift Festival - 1st - 3rd May 2026 - Dormans Club, Middlesbrough. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit indievoicespodcast.substack.com

Last year in August I had the opportunity to play keys for Marina at Kendal Calling. I’ve provided dep keys for many original artists over the years. Aside from the high quality of the songs, the one thing that made this gig so memorable for me was seeing how much she was enjoying herself on stage. It was an energy that quickly transferred to the audience who had gathered to hear her soul infused, highly personal songs. Within the first verse and pre-chorus of of the first track “Fool Like Me” the crowd was moving in time, eyes fixed on Marina.The rehearsal, a few days before the show, gave me a glimpse into the professionalism and focus that has guided Marina to recent successes. Achievements such as BBC Introducing One To Watch and receiving funding from PRS Foundation.This was the first episode after a 5 month break from Indie Voices, and I couldn’t have asked for a better guest to start again with. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit indievoicespodcast.substack.com

Having successfully evaded any type of life changing success in music, I’ve always been intrigued by those who achieve in music. So when I had the opportunity to chat with Evan Sult, one of the guys who wrote and recorded Flagpole Sitta, the theme song for Peep Show, I jumped at the chance. I don’t want to go on about it too much, as he’s working on a new project called The Open Flames, the subject of this episode, but I wanted to ask him one question about musical success. You’ll have to listen to the episode to find out what it was.The Open Flames are a psychedelic, raw, punky, indie rock band. They recorded their excellent album - Same Time Next Year - bi-annually in London. It’s such a brilliant album, and I wanted to learn as much as I could about their writing and recording process. The album was released on Subjangle in early 2025 and they’re already working on a follow up.The Open Flames are 4 veteran musicians - Dave Eastman, Evan Sult, Paige Brubeck and Len Bendel. Their musical background involves bands such as Sleepy Kitty, Harvey Danger and Say Yes, Do Nothing.Download, listen to the podcast and find out how they went about making their brilliant album - Same Time Next Year. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit indievoicespodcast.substack.com

I really wanted Bridie and Nick to tell me something more poetic about why they recorded their album Flowers in the winter of 2024. It turns out the answer was really ordinary and had something to do with frolicking in the summer sun. Around ten years ago, maybe more, I was introduced to a song called Scarecrow by a mate called Scott. Correction, I was Scott’s manager and I was a much better recipient of music suggestions than I was a boss. Anyway, a few months ago, out of curiosity, I searched for the artist, Bridie Jackson and the Arbour and came across a new project - Staithe. Staithe is Nick and Bridie, and their new album Flowers is a beautiful collection of classical, electronica inspired, storytelling folk songs.This was a really fun conversation, even though everyone dies and Staithe couldn’t make up something more poetic about why they recorded the album in the winter. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit indievoicespodcast.substack.com

There’s a church called St Mary’s in Lastingham. When you step inside, it feels like its 1,371-year history has soaked into the stone and timber. Time hasn’t just passed through the place, it lives there, in every brick, beam and pew.I feel the same about some acoustic instruments. My old piano, a 1950s upright, always felt like it held echoes of everything it had ever played. Old songs, long-forgotten lessons, they still seemed to vibrate inside it.I’ve always been drawn to the way certain places and objects hold on to the ghosts of what’s come and gone.Thirty-three years ago, Vienna by Ultravox was re-recorded at Berwick Street Studios in London. It’s one of my favourite songs. Whenever I hear it, I’m transported, not to a clear memory, but to a feeling of my mam.So when I read that La Nouvelle Musique had recorded their new album there, I wanted to know if they felt it too, that sense of history, solemnity, reverence. Whether it somehow soaked into the recording process. Whether the place left its mark on the music.Their new album is breathtaking in its poetry and scope. From wintery finger-picked guitars and haunting vocals, to cinema-esque pieces with horns, timpani and strings, it has something for everyone.In this episode, we talk about the husband and wife duos songwriting process, navigating creative disagreement, hopes for the future of independent music and as always much more. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit indievoicespodcast.substack.com

I’ve always loved short stories. The ones where the author says just enough to give you the outlines of what they’re trying to convey. The kind of stories where your imagination does the heavy lifting. So when I read the Bandcamp description of These Witching Hours I felt the same frisson. Dale describes the EP as 5 character studies born from introspection, growth and confidence through crisis. There’s an enigmatic line about a dog lost over Kilton. In this episode, I stealthily steered the conversation to North Yorkshire mythology, which I think Dale shares the same fascination for. Be very thankful that this episode isn’t just twenty minutes of me trying to get Dale to talk about Hobs, Peg Powler and the Barghest.Enjoyed this episode? Discover more episodes here on Substack or follow Indie Voices on Apple and Spotify so you never miss an episodes. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit indievoicespodcast.substack.com

Robyn Errico is a song writer and musician from Darlington. Over the last six months Robyn has been earning well deserved recognition for the epic and cinematic nature of her music. With interviews, festival slots and support gigs filling up her diary IO wanted to speak to a fellow keys player about making music, gear, songwriting and much more.https://www.instagram.com/robyn.errico/https://www.tracksdarlington.co.uk/last-train-homehttps://www.instagram.com/butterflyeffectfestival/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit indievoicespodcast.substack.com

Henry is an award winning music industry freelancer. His background involves songwriting, touring, artist management and development, mentoring and he also organises and runs Twisterella Festival. In this episode we had a fascinating conversation about henrys work as an manager and mentor, how artists can make it easier for fans to support them, the future of independent music and as always, much more.https://quietcrown.co.uk/https://twisterella.co.uk/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit indievoicespodcast.substack.com

In this episode I'm joined by North East singer-songwriter Jodie Nicholson, whose music sits at the intersection of ambient indie, introspective pop, and cinematic songwriting. With her collaborative new EP, We Can Talk releasing on 27th June, we talk about her journey from Golden Hour (2019) and what it means to be an independent artist in an ever-changing music landscape. Expect reflections on trusting your instincts, collaborative writing and why being part of a creative community matters more than ever.Cover photo by Ellen Dixon. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit indievoicespodcast.substack.com

In this episode of Indie Voices, I chat with Rob Glover from North East UK punk band Specky Cult about how it all started—as an idea for a musical—and grew into a full-blown band. From acoustic roots to a louder edge, they talk about finding their voice, tackling real-life themes with humour, and giving people a fresh way to see the world through raw, honest music. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit indievoicespodcast.substack.com

Kirsten Izer, a New Jersey-born songwriter, has been crafting stories through music since she was 11. Influenced by artists like Kate Bush, St. Vincent, and Caroline Polachek, her music blends evocative storytelling with rich instrumental textures. After five years as a music publicist and journalist in New York, she moved to Los Angeles to focus on her own artistry. With three acclaimed singles and self-directed music videos under her belt, Kirsten released her latest single, “You”, on February 27th, 2025. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit indievoicespodcast.substack.com

It’s been 18 months since June Holland set out on her solo music journey, and she’s joining me for a chat about how it’s all going. We talk about her goals, what keeps her inspired, how she creates her music, and loads more. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit indievoicespodcast.substack.com

London-based powerhouse Nathalie Miranda blends soul, blues, and classic rock into high-energy retro pop. With support from BBC Radio and Future Hits Radio, her music champions underdogs with themes of empowerment and resilience. She’s performed on Later...with Jools and at iconic London venues like The Troubadour and The Bedford. Fluent in four languages, Nathalie is a sought-after collaborator, lending her vocals and songwriting skills to international artists and dance tracks. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit indievoicespodcast.substack.com

Smith & Liddle are Billy Smith and Elizabeth Liddle, two of the UK's brightest rising stars of the independent music scene. In this episode we talk about their upcoming album, melding the warm organic sounds of the 60's and 70's with modern influences, their upcoming tour with Young Gun and Silver Fox and more. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit indievoicespodcast.substack.com

Dossers are a grungy punk band hailing from Teesside, a region in the North East of England close to the Gulf of Yorkshire. In this episode we talk about the bands inspirations, the state of the world and lots of other things. There's adult language throughout despite our best efforts. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit indievoicespodcast.substack.com

Hiraeth is a welsh word which loosely translates as a deep, bittersweet feeling of longing and nostalgia for something that is absent or lost. This feeling is perfectly encapsulated in the latest album from Twelve Days In June, called Hiraeth. In this record Dave has explored themes of grief, isolation and mortality. Its a guitar forward, 90's alternative rock inspired piece of magic which I have been looking forward to chatting with Dave about. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit indievoicespodcast.substack.com

East London based singer songwriter Art Block has been busily carving a name for himself in the Alt-Folk music scene. With a knack for working with amazing musicians and producers Art has created a distinctive body of work addressing a range of deeply relatable themes and issues.I thoroughly enjoyed speaking with Art, his music covers a range of genres and moods and his strength as a songwriter shines through on each of his tracks. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit indievoicespodcast.substack.com

Luke Evans has been a part of the independent music scene for a good few years. From 2007 to 2019 he provided drums and backing vocals to the highly acclaimed Young Rebel Set. Alongside other music projects he also fronts the excellent We Tibetans. In this episode we talk about music and mental health, touring, songwriting and much more.https://www.facebook.com/wetibetans/?locale=en_GBhttps://open.spotify.com/artist/4Oj94iZYajhp3qaOBph7Q8?si=knCo98itSXKhFUzhXhBb6A This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit indievoicespodcast.substack.com

Luke Evans has been working in the independent music scene for a while. From 2007 to 2015 he contributed drums and backing vocals to the highly acclaimed Young Rebel Set and recently he has been fronting the brilliant We Tibetans. In this episode we talk about music and mental health, songwriting, touring and much more. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit indievoicespodcast.substack.com

In this episode we dive into the dreamy, nostalgic world of Pale Moon, the Icelandic\Siberian indie duo based in Barcelona, blending smooth indie sounds with new wave influences. Inspired by legends like Billy Joel, David Bowie, and The Beach Boys, Árni Gudjonsson and Nata Sushchenko create music that captures both idealism and escapism. With recent hits like the funky “Spaghetti” and upbeat “Dopamine,” Pale Moon continues to make waves ahead of their recent album Carpets, Cables and Sweaty Hearts. Discover the story behind their poetic, heartfelt journey and the challenge and reward of creating music independently.https://palemoonmusic.com/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit indievoicespodcast.substack.com

Known for her strong and evocative lyricism Emma Robson has been making a name for herself on the UK music scene for a few years. Whether working on her solo material or her other projects such as Moonwax, listeners love the quality of Emma's voice. In this episode we spoke about Emma's latest single "Aliens on Mars", how the early hours can spark creativity, dream collaborations and more.In preparing this episode I listened to the excellent The Support Act Podcast which can be found herehttps://open.spotify.com/episode/3bHi3W3PvKNKrWqfOl9k4x?si=e05081a1ad8a46c6I also read a couple of articles in the brilliant Narc. magazine which can be found herehttps://narcmagazine.com/?s=emma+robson This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit indievoicespodcast.substack.com

Lavender Fire is the artist name for talented singer/songwriter Cecilee. Cecilee lives and works in the vibrant independent music community of South Virginia. This was a really interesting and fun episode to make. Not only because I learned about Cecilee's music and approach to composition. We also discussed Cecilee's thoughts on LGBT representation in the music industry. We spoke about composing at the piano, live performance, Kate Bush, Chappell Roan, New Artist Spotlight and much more.I also got the location of Mothman wrong. Sorry Mothman. https://www.newartistspotlight.orghttps://open.spotify.com/show/2BMeFMBRolkqh85AyNHaQh?si=e4eb7f57afcd414bhttps://open.spotify.com/artist/0gy1Y9ur7R5mAqzzoELs07?si=jcz81QY4So-ZllNRL8STsQ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit indievoicespodcast.substack.com

The Noire Project is the musical outlet for talented singer/songwriter Erin Mccafferty. Hailing from the midlands and currently studying at Leeds Conservatoire Erin is making a name for herself as the composer of ethereal, orchestral and emotionally charged songs. What first drew me into Erin's music were the superb lyrics and haunting melody of her song "Slowly". Coming from her latest EP "Ruin" the track is a perfect example of how to use orchestration and arrangement as a way to amplify the story being told in the lyrics. As a keyboard player I was massively impressed by the expert use of synth pads to accentuate key elements of the song. In this episode we discuss the creative process behind the songs, using social media to build a following, overcoming social anxiety and harnessing new experiences to create rich and emotive lyrics and as always much more. Erin Mccafferty/The Noire Project, one to watch in my opinion.⁠https://thenoireproject.wixsite.com/noire⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/e.noiree/⁠ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit indievoicespodcast.substack.com

Join British singer-songwriter Elaine Palmer as she takes you on an intimate journey through her musical landscape, shaped by the wild beauty of the North Yorkshire Moors and the sun-soaked terrain of the American Southwest. In this podcast, Elaine shares stories behind her evocative songs, including those from her latest album, "Half Moon Rising," recorded in the hills of San Diego with an impressive lineup of musicians like Matt Lynott, Bobby Furgo, and Mike Butler.Hear about her adventures from an isolated Yorkshire village to the bustling music scenes of the UK and the US, where she’s shared the stage with legends like KT Tunstall and Patty Griffin. Elaine delves into the creative process behind her critically acclaimed albums, revealing the inspiration behind the songs that have captivated audiences on both sides of the Atlantic.With a rich and versatile voice that effortlessly moves from haunting whispers to powerful bluesy edges, Elaine’s storytelling will transport you to the heart of her musical journey, infused with New Country textures, heartfelt melodies, and a unique blend of British and American influences. Tune in for a captivating exploration of music, life, and the pursuit of art with Elaine Palmer.https://elaine-palmer.com/musichttps://elainepalmer.bandcamp.com/album/half-moon-risingArtwork for this episode by Natalie Pluckhttps://www.nataliepluck.com/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit indievoicespodcast.substack.com

This is a fascinating episode with acclaimed songwriter Rojor. Over 250000 streams, a brilliant back catalogue and a lovely guy. https://www.rojor.com/https://rojor.bandcamp.com/https://open.spotify.com/artist/1ZY363Wgakfclj5IYCNhtX?si=asgiyGgmSJO20oUNNJne_Q This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit indievoicespodcast.substack.com

Not only is Andrew Johnson an amazing musician, songwriter and frontman of various bands (The SouthMartins, Crimson Bloom, O'Blimeys). He also manages and supports the brilliant singer/songwriter Amelia Coburn. Andy has been writing and recording for years and his back catalogue boasts an eclectic, expansive and growing body of original music. In this episode we spoke about the story behind his beautiful song I Left My Boots In Santiago, his advice to new songwriters and much more. Links to Andys various projects are below:https://ameliacoburn.bandcamp.com/album/between-the-moon-and-the-milkmanhttps://andrewjohnson1.bandcamp.com/https://www.thesouthmartins.com/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit indievoicespodcast.substack.com

Laura Jayne is a singer/songwriter from Teesside in the North East of England. Laura is building a loyal following through her excellent writing, live performances and generally being a lovely person. Today we talked about her brilliant track Kiss Me On A Friday Night, her approach to songwriting and production and much more.We also discussed Lauras attempt to cycle across India while performing as a ventriloquist. On X-Factor. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit indievoicespodcast.substack.com

J.P Riggall (audio only) This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit indievoicespodcast.substack.com

Hello and welcome to the very first Indie Voices video episode. Firstly, it wouldnt have been possible without the expertise and input of Dan Higgins at Deep Grain Studios. Dan is a world class musician, producer and mixing and mastering engineer. If you're a songwriter, podcaster, musician or any other type of creative person you can get in touch with him here:https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61563832532633https://www.instagram.com/deepgrainstudios/J.P Riggall is an acclaimed songwriter and performer from Teesside. His music contains elements of mystery, loss, being lost and isolation. He writes and gigs his solo project or with his band Weathership. The things he told me about his songwriting process blew my mind.....You can find his music and socials here:https://www.instagram.com/j.p.riggall/https://www.facebook.com/J.P.Riggallhttps://jpriggall.bandcamp.com/https://open.spotify.com/artist/3SM7goJAsKwxiZTtok4qgG?si=Ua4HyysLQDSPpQXWPg7xAgThis episode was fimed at Deep Grain Studios. It was produced and edited by Dan Higgins.Intro and Outro music by Chris Groom.Featured track is The Vagrant by J.P Riggall. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit indievoicespodcast.substack.com

I've been a fan of George Moorey and Shane Young ever since I heard their musical offerings back in November '23. Shane's lyrics and George's arrangements combine to offer emotional and beautiful insights into a range of human experiences. The two songs featured in this episode - What's Left Of The Day and Winnie - are two completely different styles of music which demonstrate their versatility and excellence as songwriters and producers. It's my pleasure to introduce you to The Powdered Earth.https://www.thepowderedearth.co.ukhttps://open.spotify.com/artist/42P3kHZJuWLD5imtvjk9OL?si=ic2Ug-2JSGiHbR8kVFxVfAhttps://thepowderedearth.bandcamp.com This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit indievoicespodcast.substack.com

An interview with Matthew Fox aka Boy Found Sound about his music, approach to songwriting, upcoming projects and inspirations.https://open.spotify.com/artist/7p0dbsPw3JazUmoMec229C?si=-SHRKP60SWOivzQaX08Zow This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit indievoicespodcast.substack.com