The Northern Chorus Podcast

The new Ash album 'Ad Astra' is out now, and this week we're releasing our interview with frontman Tim Wheeler!He tells us all about the new record and working with Graham Coxon. He also talks 30 years of Girl From Mars, the Oasis reunion and plenty more.ORDER AD ASTRA HERE: https://ash-official.com/

This week, we discuss the rumours surrounding an Arctic Monkeys return, with a potential new album and tour on the horizon. We discuss the band's history and the divisive nature of their most recent records.Charlie talks Tramlines Festival, Westside Cowboy, and The Libertines, and we look ahead to Green Man & Fontaines D.C. at Wythenshawe Park, Manchester. Also plenty of new music chat, including The Last Dinner Party, The Royston Club, Royel Otis & more.Photo Credit: NME

This week, after an overdue recap of Glastonbury Festival 2025, we're discussing the Oasis reunion and their triumphant homecoming shows at Heaton Park, Manchester. We discuss setlist, Gallagher Hill, performances, support bands, and whether we can expect any new music...Photo Credit: Big Brother Recordings

This week, we're talking all about Pulp, including new album "More" and the Secretglasto unveiling of the band as Glastonbury's "Patchwork" secret set. We also talk new music, including Wolf Alice and Shame, and finalise our secret set predictions for Glastonbury, including Haim, Mumford & Sons, Lewis Capaldi & Lorde!PHOTO CREDIT: Sacha Lecca/Rolling Stone via Getty Images

This week, we are joined by The Farm's frontman Peter Hooton to discuss their first new album in three decades, "Let The Music (Take Control)", out Friday June 20th.Peter tells us about how Nile Rodgers influenced the new album and what fans can expect from the record, including his personal favourite track. He also takes us back to the 1990's and The Farm's early days, with stories about Liverpool, Manchester, Oasis, Alan McGee, The Clash, Happy Mondays and plenty more.

This week, we're embracing festival season, picking out some stand-out festivals lineups from the UK and aboard, before honing in on Glastonbury. We discuss who we think could be performing a secret set at Glastonbury this year, and the controversy surrounding Kneecap's slot. We also discuss the sad news about The Leadmill's legal eviction challenge, and there's plenty of new music chat.

This week, we are joined by Chris McClure to discuss the Day Fever tour - the UK & Ireland's biggest daytime party! Chris discusses the origins of the event and working alongside his brother Jon (Reverend & The Makers) and Vicky McClure (Line of Duty, This Is England). We also discuss Chris's fame as the face of Arctic Monkeys' iconic debut album cover - "Whatever People Say I Am, That's What I'm Not", and his association with the Sheffield music scene. And Chris discusses those Steve Bracknall comparisons...

This week, we have something a little bit different on the podcast. We are joined by PDC Darts Referee and Spotter, Owen Binks. Owen is a huge music fan, and not only does he tell us about his own favourite bands and gigs, he talks to us about the connection between music and darts, from the walk-on music to making the big events. Owen even choose his own walk-on song... He also talks all about darts, from how he got into refereeing to the effect Luke Littler's emergence has had on the sport!

The Snuts' frontman Jack Cochrane joins us to discuss their slot at Neighbourhood Weekender next month. He tells us about the band's forthcoming new music, family life as fathers and husbands, and how the "Millennials" chapter went for The Snuts. Photo Credit: Gary Williamson

The former frontman of Fun Lovin' Criminals is releasing a solo album and heading out on tour, and Huey Morgan is on the podcast this week to tell us all about it. He talks about leaving the band and how he feels about his former bandmates continuing without him. He tells us about working with Alan McGee and what to expect from the new music. Photo Credit: Ashley Greb

This week, we are building our dream band lineups.. A drummer, bassist, rhythm guitar, lead guitar, and vocalist - dead or alive - plus 1 additional inclusion of our choice. We also discuss the BRIT Awards ceremony and the Glastonbury lineup, as well as plenty of new music.

Ryan Durrans from The Lathums joins us this week to discuss the band's third album release, "Matter Does Not Define", out this Friday (28th February)! We also talk about their huge upcoming tour which includes 2 nights at the Manchester Apollo and Barrowlands. And we talk all about their hometown Wigan. From that Robin Park gig last year to their admirable community charity work. Photo Credit: Ewan Ogden

James Walsh from Starsailor joins us this week to discuss Starsailor's 25th anniversary celebrations, including two special shows at Liverpool's Tung Auditorium on Saturday with Joe Duddell and a string ensemble. We talk about the North West music scene, including Wigan & Warrington, and the impact of the Oasis reunion. We also talk NME awards, touring with The Rolling Stones and plenty more.

We have both been to see music biopics this week and discuss Timothée Chalamet's portrayal of Bob Dylan in "A Complete Unknown", and a CGI monkey as Robbie Williams in "Better Man". We also discuss the reaction from the Grammy Awards, including Beyonce, Kanye West, Charli XCX, The Dare, Chappell Roan, The Beatles, and The Rolling Stones. And the BRIT Awards have released the 2025 nominations list. We discuss the good and the bad... As always, we round off with some new music suggestions. Featuring Black Country, New Road!

Ahead of her debut album release "Dancing At The Edge Of The World", out tomorrow (Friday 31st January), we spoke to Scottish artist Brooke Combe. Brooke tells us about the new record, working with The Coral's James Skelly, headlining Barrowlands and ticking off bucket lists. We also discuss the business side of Brooke's music, reading negativity online and plenty more!

Ahead of their new album (out tomorrow), we caught up with BILK's frontman Sol Abrahams to discuss the record and forthcoming UK & European tour. Sol discusses being the outsiders in the modern era and how it feels to be a divisive band. He also praises Louis Tomlinson who has supported BILK from early on in their career, while being open and honest about the pros and cons of the music industry today.

What was the best album, song and live show of 2024? We discuss! We also discuss who could be in for a breakthrough year in 2025 and the things to look forward to in the world of music this year...

This week, we discuss Kneecap scooping seven awards at British Independent Film Awards and winning their legal battle with the UK government for the Arts Council grant. We talk about Kate Nash's "Butts For Tour Buses" campaign on Only Fans which has been criticised online. We also discuss Spotify Wrapped, the IDLES show at Manchester Apollo, Charlie XCX BRAT show at Coop Live, new music and lots more!

We discuss the controversy surrounding the BBC Sound of 2025 list which features Chappell Roan, Confidence Man, English Teacher, and Ezra Collective. We also talk about the UK music report an d the £1 Grassroots Levy confirmation, along with Glastonbury tickets (and rumoured headliners), and gigs from Courteeners, The Royston Club, Amyl and the Sniffers, The Libertines and more. Plus new music chat including Sam Fender, Hooton Tennis Club, Fat Dog and more!

This week, we discuss the return of Sam Fender, including the People Watching arena tour ticket prices, £1 Grassroots Levy, Glastonbury, and postcode ballots. We also talk about the confirmation of Richard Ashcroft as support for the Oasis reunion tour. Is it underwhelming? Should new bands be given the chance instead? As always, we chat new music as well as the Primavera Sound lineup and plenty more! (Photo Credit: Owen Humphreys/PA Wire)

This week, we discuss two bands in the spotlight for the wrong reasons. Firstly, Catfish and the Bottlemen have announced a Heaton Park show after cancelling their Australia and US tours. Could they improve their communication? Secondly, The Last Dinner Party solo male gig-goers reported frustration with the Engine Shed's entry policy in Lincoln... We also discuss Float Along Festival in Sheffield, MORE Oasis news, and plenty of new music!

English Teacher have won the 2024 Mercury Prize with their debut album "This Could Be Texas". We discuss the Leeds band's victory and what this could lead to in the future. We also discuss the latest Oasis developments as Andy Bell looks set to rejoin the band for the 2025 reunion tour. There is also a new ticket structure, two extra dates, new LG tweets, and a strong support rumour.

This weekend, This Feeling By The Sea returns to Bridlington Spa, hosted by John "Fenners" Fendley. We talk to Fenners about the event and new music tips, as well as Soccer AM, the FC Bullard podcast, and last month's day drinking encounter with Liam Gallagher. We ask John if Liam told him about the reunion around the corner...

In case you haven't heard... Oasis are back, and Liam & Noel Gallagher's feud will cease next year for the UK & Ireland "OASIS LIVE '25" tour. We discuss the controversy around Ticketmaster's dynamic ticket pricing, the potential band lineup, and the rumoured support slots. We also talk new music, including Fontaines DC 'Romance', Wunderhorse 'Midas' and plenty more... Photo Credit: Simon Emmett

This week we are joined by an icon of the Manchester music scene, as former Joy Division and New Order bassist, Peter Hook, joins us to talk all about Peter Hook & The Light's Substance tour - this October & November across the UK & Ireland! He delves into the history of two of Manchester's most iconic bands, along with the legacy and influence both Joy Division, New Order, and Ian Curtis have on today's music.

The Royston Club are one of the breakthrough indie bands of the last few years, and we chatted to Tom Faithfull (frontman) and Ben Mathias (guitarist & main songwriter). We discuss the new single "The Patch Where Nothing Grows", and their stellar debut album "Shaking Hips & Crashing Cars". We discuss selling out two nights at Liverpool Academy, upcoming shows in Cardiff & Newcastle, and the Hollywood impact on their home town of Wrexham. The Royston Club will also headline This Feeling By The Sea Friday 6th-7th September. Photo Credit: Sam Crowston

This week, we discuss two shows at Castlefield Bowl - Loyle Carner and Jungle - and question whether this is Manchester's best venue? We discuss the venues from across the city, including Albert Hall, YES, Apollo, Academy, Co-op Live, and plenty more. We also preview Manchester Psych Festival 2024, and discuss new music from Courteeners, Wunderhorse, The Lathums, Michael Kiwanuka and many more. Photo Credit: Tom Martin

In Part 2, we continue with Saturday's artists and cover the highs and lows of the final day at Glastonbury Festival 2024. We discuss Yard Act, Coldplay and SZA's Pyramid Stage headline slots, and the iconic legends slot which was performed by Shania Twain. Other chat includes Soft Play, Bob Vylan, Seasick Steve, Arlo Parks, Newdad, Baxter Dury, Noname, Kim Deal (Breeders), and Nia Archives. We close with new music and our shouts for Glastonbury 2025 headliners! Photo Credit: Harry Durrant/Getty Images

In Part 1 of our "Glastonbury Debrief", we discuss Friday and Saturday performances, including Dua Lipa's headline set, IDLES' controversial Banksy moment, and Fontaines DC's incredible Park Stage headline show. We also discuss Jamie XX, Jungle, Confidence Man, Paul Heaton (including Rianne Downey & Fatboy Slim / Norman Cook), The Mary Wallopers, and Damon Albarn's special guest appearance with Bombay Bicycle Club. Other mentions include LCD Soundsystem, Bloc Party, Kneecap, Bar Italia, The Last Dinner Party, Michael Kiwanuka, Little Simz, and Kasabian's secret set! Photo Credit: Getty Images

This week, we discuss the clip circulating from a Foo Fighters show in London where Dave Grohl appeared to accuse Taylor Swift of not playing live... We also discuss Foo Fighters show at Emirates Old Trafford in Manchester, and is the cricket ground going backwards as a music venue? As well as general chat on the huge success of the Eras Tour, and how one of us ended up staying in the same hotel as Taylor Swift... We end with the usual new music chat, including Fontaines DC's new track, "Favourite", and plenty more. Read our "Glastonbury From The Sofa" preview here: Glastonbury From The Sofa: All The Unmissable Acts to Catch – Northern Chorus Photo Credit: Lester Cohen/WireImage

This week, we are joined for an interview episode with Merseyside band, The Mysterines, ahead of their 2nd album release on June 21st, "Afraid of Tomorrows". We speak to Lia and Paul all about the album, tour dates, and their slot at NBHD Festival later this year. We also discuss their experience supporting Arctic Monkeys on their recent stadium tour. Photo Credit: Sylas Agtarap (@ShotBySig)

This week, we discuss the full reveal of the 2024 Glastonbury lineup, including Nadine Shah's comments and who could potentially be in line for the secret sets. We also look into why bands and artists are boycotting festivals, with the most recent being Latitude, following The Great Escape and SXSW. As always, we unveil our new music tips, including Blossoms' new album and single reveal. Photo Credit: Leon Neal/Getty Images

We are (not so) fresh back from Bearded Theory and Slam Dunk Leeds, and we discuss the start of festival season. Featuring chat on Bob Vylan, English Teacher, Amyl & The Sniffers, Lambrini Girls & more... We also talk new music, including Charlie's latest punk suggestions, Sabrina Carpenter's "Espresso", The Magic Gang's farewell & plenty more! PHOTO CREDIT: Richard Etteridge / Alamy Live News

This week, we are joined by Manchester punk band, Loose Articles, ahead of their debut album, "Scream If You Wanna Go Faster", out June 7th via Alcopop! Records. We also discuss their huge support slot with Foo Fighters at Emirates Old Trafford, UK tour dates & plenty more! Photo Credit: Piran Aston

In this episode, we delve into the Co-op Live Arena and the chaos surrounding their opening events in Manchester. We also discuss the Misogyny in Music Report which has been provided to the government. In the new music section, we talk Sean Dyche & Blossoms, Fontaines DC's Starburster, and plenty more! Photo Credit: Alice Lorenzato-Lloyd

This week, we discuss Blur's performance at Coachella where Damon Albarn wasn't impressed with the American crowd... We talk about the Grassroots Levy proposals for music venues. And we discuss new music, with particular focus on English Teacher & Wunderhorse...

This week is another special guest interview with noughties pop icon, Daniel Bedingfield. We discuss his comeback shows in Manchester, London & Birmingham, and the legacy of "Gotta Get Thru This". We also discuss his tech start-up to improve music distribution and plenty more! Photo Credit: Daniel Bedingfield (Instagram)

We are wrapping up our festival previews with Part 2, including Kendal Calling, Y Not Festival, Truck Festival, Victorious, and TRNSMT! We also talk the best and worst of new music, including more viral videos... Photo Credit: Tom Langford

In our second guest interview of the year, we had the pleasure of chatting to music icon and songwriting genius, Midge Ure. We discuss his upcoming UK Greatest Hits Tour, along with his work with Ultravox, Band Aid, Thin Lizzy, Rich Kids, and Visage. Midge also explains in detail about two of his biggest hits - "Vienna" and "Do They Know It's Christmas?"

We start the episode celebrating St. Patrick's Day and discussing the best in Irish music. We then move onto Part 1 of a 2 part special on 2024 festival lineups, where we review Glastonbury, Reading & Leeds, and the Isle of Wight Festival. As always, we end with some new music suggestions, and maybe one to avoid...

In this week's episode, we discuss the UMG v TikTok stand-off, what has caused it and will it be resolved? We also talk about what number 1 albums really mean in the modern industry, and discuss current chart-toppers Liam Gallagher and John Squire's visit to the Jonathan Ross Show. We discuss the relationship between sport and music following Manchester City's Oasis announcement and Mark Knopfler's reissue of "Going Home (Theme Of The Local Hero). And as always, there is more new music chat!

In this episode, we discuss Saturday's BRIT Awards, and wonder if are we out of touch? We talk all about the latest controversy surrounding The Last Dinner Party, including misquotes and their "favourite meals". We discuss some new album releases, including Yard Act, Nadine Shah, and Liam Gallagher / John Squire. And we delve into the news about the forthcoming Beatles' film releases, The Libertines comeback, and plenty more. Photo Credit: Bang Showbiz

For our first interview episode of the new series, we are joined by John Robb. John is a founding member of post-punk band, The Membranes, and is a highly regarded author, music commentator, and journalist, owning the Louder Than War magazine and website. We discuss: - His new tour, "Do You Believe In the Power Of Rock And Roll". - His book, "The Art Of Darkness: The History Of Goth". - Interviewing Nirvana! - Coining the phrase "Britpop"... And plenty more!

New year, new series, new era! We are discussing the big topics in the world of music this week, such as: - The Last Dinner Party, and are they an industry plant? - Why are people camping out to see The 1975? - The return of Catfish and the Bottlemen - Soaring ticket prices. Photo Credit: Emma Viola Lilja / NME

The final episode from our March specials is with the one and only, Miles Kane. Former member of The Rascals and now The Last Shadow Puppets, along with his successful solo career of course, we discuss the latest album "Change the Show" in the lead up to its release.

The third of four special episodes this month sees us re-visiting last year's interview with Roy Stride of Scouting For Girls. We talk Neighbourhood Weekender, the history of the band, songwriting for One Direction and plenty more!

The 2nd of our March special episodes sees us revisit our interview with broadcaster, writer, and former politician, Gyles Brandreth. We discuss Gyles' "Break a Leg" tour ahead of his Crewe Lyceum show in 2021. He shares plenty of anecdotes, including one about Dame Judi Dench!

In the first of four special episodes, we delve into the archives to release our interview with Heather Baron-Gracie from Pale Waves, recorded in October 2021 in the build up to their Victoria Warehouse show and third album release. 

The final episode of 2022 is with talented up and coming singer-songwriter, Rianne Downey. We discuss new single 'Home', moving from Scotland to Liverpool, the forthcoming EP, and plenty more! Link to Rianne's tickets & music: https://linktr.ee/riannedowney

We are joined this week by a very special guest in Clint Boon from the Inspiral Carpets. We discuss the reunion tour, Neighbourhood Weekender, Noel & Liam Gallagher & plenty more! Find Northern Chorus here:  http://www.northernchorus.co.uk/  http://www.twitter.com/NorthernChorus_  http://www.instagram.com/NorthernChorus  http://www.facebook.com/NorthernChorusUK