The Strange Brew - artist stories behind the greatest music ever recorded

In the Laurel Canyon music scene, few left as indelible a mark as Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young. Their harmonies and diverse musical approach defined the sound of the era, and behind the lens, preserving the essence of CSN&Y’s journey, stood renowned rock photographer, Henry Diltz. As a fellow musician and a close friend of the group, Henry Diltz’s camera has been a constant compa...

Judy Collins discusses her musical journey in this career spanning podcast. We cover her early years in Colorado, the moment she heard Bob Dylan write ‘Mr Tambourine Man’, recording the hit version of ‘Both Sides Now’, her friendship with Leonard Cohen and the writing and recording some of her greatest songs. Further information Judy Collins – Spellbound 2023 UK Tour...

We delve into the the American music scene of 1967 with David Wells, as we hear highlights from a kaleidoscope of genres that included psychedelia, garage punk, folk-rock and sunshine pop. At the heart of the summer of love was San Francisco, radiating alternative culture across the United States. Further information March Of The Flower Children: The American Sounds Of 1967, 3CD Boxset Podcasts al...

Discover how Richmond upon Thames changed the face of rock music. Richmond’s Crawdaddy Club launched the careers of the Rolling Stones and the Yardbirds while at Eel Pie Island, Rod Stewart, David Bowie, Jeff Beck and Jimmy Page found inspiration. From 1956 to 1971, the riverside suburbs of Richmond, Twickenham, and Kingston were the breeding ground for a music scene that rocked the era. Joi...

The guitarists’ guitarist, Gordon Giltrap discusses highlights of his remarkable life, including collaborations with renowned musicians, his friendship with Pete Townshend, and work alongside Rick Wakeman and Paul Ward. Throughout his career, Gordon has crafted a unique style, embracing elements of folk, classical, and progressive rock. Ritchie Blackmore once stated, “Anyone who asks m...

Stephen Duffy from The Lilac Time takes us on a revealing journey through his musical career up until their latest album Dance Till All The Stars Come Down . From his formative years in the vibrant Birmingham music scene, his pivotal role in Duran Duran’s early days, highlights with The Lilac Time, solo ventures and collaborations with Nigel Kennedy and Robbie Williams, Stephen shares the st...

Nina Antonia, author of the authorized biography ‘Johnny Thunders: In Cold Blood’ takes us through Johnny Thunders’ early days with The New York Dolls, the gritty punk years with The Heartbreakers to his untimely death in 1991. Johnny Thunders was more than just a rock star with a reputation; he was a gifted and troubled soul who defied convention and became the voice of the dise...

While Geoff Bridgford’s time as the Bee Gees’ drummer in the early 1970s solidified his place in music history, his journey didn’t end there. In this podcast interview, Geoff charts his beginnings with groups like Steve & The Board, The Groove and Tin Tin. We also explore his significant contributions to Bee Gees albums Two Years On and Trafalgar, topping the US singles chart...

Discover the explosive era of American hard rock in the late 60s and early 70s with David Wells. Against the backdrop of the Vietnam War and powerful amps, bands like Blue Cheer, The Stooges, and ZZ Top pushed rock to new heights. We explore the evolution of hard rock, featuring lesser-known gems and the role of influential figures like Muddy Waters and Todd Rundgren. Join us as we trace the genre...

We explore the life of Nick Drake with Richard Morton Jack, author of Nick Drake: The Life . This authorised biography, written with the involvement of Nick’s sister Gabrielle and Estate, provides unprecedented access to his story through original research, interviews, and personal archives. In 1968, Nick Drake had all the ingredients for a promising life ahead. Born into a loving, creative...

Soul legend Bettye LaVette takes us on a remarkable journey through her career, discussing her new album LaVette! and reflecting on her most iconic songs including Let Me Down Easy . We explore her musical influences, iconic performances and how over the last two decades she has reinterpreted the British rock songbook, earning praise from Steve Winwood, Pete Townshend and Justin Hayward. Further i...

Scott Holiday, the guitarist and songwriter behind Rival Sons, a group known for seamlessly blending classic rock with a modern flair, reveals the stories behind their iconic songs. We also cover the background behind their highly anticipated Darkfighter album and its forthcoming companion, Lightbringer. Further information Rival Sons – Darkfighter Rival Sons Darkfighter 2023 Tour Rival Sons...

Manchester’s answer to Brian Epstein, Harvey Lisberg had a musical ear, a knack for numbers and within a year of management, took Herman’s Hermits to number one with ‘I’m Into Something Good’. Harvey reveals the excesses of life on the road during The Who’s tour with Herman’s Hermits, nurturing the songwriting talent of Graham Gouldman, helping to rekindle the career of Neil Sedaka and the highs a...

John Blaney takes us through the history of pub rock and its influence on the emergence of new wave. He delves into the musical leaders who defined this scene. From the rebellious Joe Strummer to the charismatic Ian Dury, the talented Elvis Costello, and the accomplished Nick Lowe, these notable figures of the pub rock movement set the stage for the musical revolution to come. Further information...

In this tribute episode, we remember Pete Brown, the legendary lyricist for Cream, who passed away on 19 May 2023 at the age of 82. In 2021, Pete spoke about his songwriting partnership with Jack Bruce, the creative force behind iconic Cream songs like Sunshine of Your Love and White Room. Rediscover Pete’s diverse musical journey, from his involvement with the Battered Ornaments, Piblokto!,...

Robert Sellers and Nick Pendleton, authors of the new book ‘Marquee: The Story of the World’s Greatest Music Venue’ takes us on a journey through the history of the Marquee, the most famous and iconic music club in the world. Throughout the years, it became a focal point for the evolving trends in popular music, embracing rhythm and blues with artists like Alexis Korner, The Rolling St...

Mike d’Abo offers a unique glimpse into his life and career in this podcast. Best known for his time as the lead vocalist of Manfred Mann and classic singles Just Like A Woman and Mighty Quinn , Mike’s contribution to music goes far beyond that. In fact, he is the mastermind behind other massive hits, including Build Me Up Buttercup and Handbags and Gladrags , which we explore in depth...

In this episode, we have the privilege of interviewing Peggy Seeger. Peggy has been an influential figure in the folk music scene for over six decades. We start by discussing her latest single, a stunning new interpretation of the classic love song The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face , originally written for and about Peggy by her late husband Ewan MacColl. We also delve into Peggy’s politic...

Steve Howe reflects on his music career spanning from the 1960s to the present day. A standout moment in his journey was the release of Tomorrow’s debut album, which has recently undergone a reimagining. Alongside delving into Howe’s notable accomplishments with The Syndicats and in YES, we will also discuss his latest album with the group, Mirror To The Sky. Further information Steve Howe –...

Welcome to a special bonus episode on Syd Barrett with Rob Chapman, broadcaster, music journalist, and author of the critically acclaimed biography of Syd Barrett, A Very Irregular Head. In this interview, which took place in March 2023 at a CAT Club event in Pontefract, Yorkshire, Jason Barnard speaks to Rob about Syd and Pink Floyd’s The Piper at the Gates of Dawn. The event was sold out a...

Martin Fry of ABC talks about the writing and recording of The Lexicon Of Love and recreating their classic album live. Further information ABC – the Lexicon of Love – Live abcmartinfry.com Martin Fry – ABC podcast tracks The full written interview with Martin can be found here:  Martin Fry – ABC on The Lexicon of Love Also on The Strange Brew: Podcasts with  Trevor Horn ,  Gl...

We’re joined by legendary guitarist and songwriter Martin Turner, who was a founding member of the iconic rock band, Wishbone Ash. Martin talks to us about his time in music and two albums that have passed their 50th anniversary. Wishbone Ash’s legendary LP, Argus, has a new box set, and Martin and his band’s tour is commemorating the double album Live Dates. Further information...

In this episode, we had the pleasure of speaking with Geraint Watkins. Geraint is a gifted musician and songwriter with a storied career as both a solo artist and a sideman to some of the most iconic names in music, including Paul McCartney, Bill Wyman and Van Morrison. Watkins may have been one of the best-kept secrets in UK music, but his latest release Aide-mémoire , is set to change all of tha...

We explore the world of Goth music and culture with John Robb, author of The Art Of Darkness: The History of Goth . John provides a comprehensive overview of the Goth scene, from its origins in post-punk to its lasting legacy today. He starts his account with the goths sacking Ancient Rome and goes on to cover gothic literature and the musical influences and impact of bands like The Doors, The Vel...

We speak with Toby Amies, the director of the new documentary film In the Court of the Crimson King: King Crimson at 50 . The film explores the challenges and triumphs of being in one of the most demanding and creative rock bands in history. Toby shares his insights into Robert Fripp, the group, and its themes of art, discipline and mortality. Further information In the Court of the Crimson King r...