Audio Wave Cafe: Recent Episodes
A Ray Barrie Podcast
The Audio Wave Cafe podcasts are a mix of guest interviews, current topics, and music. As well as interviewing musicians and others from the arts, I look to the past to talk about long gone recording studios, music venues, and bands, that made a significant contribution to the local music scene. I also add an interactive element where I encourage artists and bands to send in possibly long forgotten demo recordings, as I believe there is great locally produced original music just waiting to be played to a receptive audience. Also included is a segment on current music-related topics of interest that are equally relevant to a wider audience beyond the city limits.
It’s a new episode of the Audio Wave Cafe podcast. My guest is Ska singer, songwriter from New Jersey, Roger Apollon JR. He talks about his recent visit to The Coventry Music Museum, and his latest band project, The Phenslc.
I also bring you my Music News and Views segment, and I shine a Spotlight on legendary Music Producer, Timbaland.
Oh, and I also get to play an original song by The Phenslc, ‘War Inside’.
You just gotta check it out!
It’s a new episode of the Audio Wave Cafe podcast, and my guest is music producer and DJ, Chris Long better known as the Rhythm DR. He talks about his beginnings in the 1970’s Coventry music scene, right up to the present with his own record label project. I also bring you my Music News And Views segment, and I shine A Spotlight on the ‘Philly Sound’.
Oh, and I get to play an original track by Coventry band ‘Skeet’ released on Chris Long's record label, Almost Unknown. You just gotta check it out!
It’s a new episode of the Audio Wave Cafe podcast and my guest is record producer, songwriter, Dutch Van Spall. I also bring you ‘Music News And Views’, and I shine a spotlight on Peter Gabriel’s Real World Studios in the village of Box, in Wiltshire, England.
Oh, and I get to play ‘You’re Done’ a song written and produced by Dutch, with Nicky Newman on vocals.
You just gotta check it out!
It’s a new episode of the Audio Wave Cafe podcast. My Guest is singer songwriter Paul Gibson. First I bring you Music News And Views, and I shine a Spotlight on the Dixie Chicks acclaimed album ‘Taking The Long Way.’
Oh, and I’ll also be playing a song off Paul Gibson's 'Chasing Sunsets’ EP titled ’Travelling Days’.
You just gotta check it out!
It’s a new episode of the Audio Wave cafe podcast, and my guest is former Specials guitarist Roddy ‘Radiation’ Byers who now fronts his band The Ska Billy Rebels. In the interview he shares vivid insights about his long music career. Roddy also told me this is the very last time he will agree to be interviewed!
First I bring you ‘Music News And Views’ and I shine a ‘Spotlight’ on iconic Sun Studio in Memphis USA.
Oh, and I also get to play ‘Hey Little Rich Girl’ an original song written by Roddy and recorded by his band, The Ska Billy Rebels.
You just gotta check it out!
It’s a new episode of the Audio Wave cafe podcast, and my guest is singer songwriter Guy Surtees. I also bring you music news and views, and I shine a spotlight on the iconic album ‘White Ladder’ by David Gray. Oh, and I get to play an original track by Guy, titled, ‘Thanking God I’m Alive’. You just gotta check it out!
On this episode of the Audio Wave Cafe podcast, my guest is lead guitarist, Archie of Rugby based Indie rock band ’Sun Roof.’ So far the band have recorded 2 songs, played a number of gigs, and radio interviews all while still at school.
I also bring you music news and views, and I shine a spotlight on Michael Jackson’s fascinating Netflix documentary, ‘This Is It.’ A film about preparations for his series of sold-out shows at the O2 arena London in 2009.
Oh, and I play an original song by SunRoof, ‘Play Along’. You just gotta check it out!
I’m having a break from podcasting until Sunday 3rd of September. Instead of the usual podcast episode, I bring you an Audio Wave Cafe ‘Showcase Session’ recorded several months ago.
Together with drummer John Hewitt we play and review 6 songs provided by previous podcast guests, Bob Jackson of Badfinger, Martin Bowes of Attrition, Lizzie and Demus, Kirsten Smitten, Paul Willo of The Skapones, and Nigel Meffen, of the Del Chronics.
It was all a bit of fun, reviewing the songs by talented and diverse local artists and bands. So do check it out!
It’s a new episode of the Audio Wave Cafe podcast. My guests are Joe Harcourt and Dave Hutchinson of Rock band Three Mile Island. Lead guitarist Joe is a previous podcast guest of mine and he’s back with vocalist Dave, and they are excited to talk about their new band. I also bring you music news and views and I shine a spotlight on Green Day’s classic album ‘American Idiot’. Oh and I get to play an original song by Three Mile Island titled ‘Ride Your Luck’. You just gotta check it out!
On this episode of the Audio Wave Cafe podcast, my guest is Dean ‘Hazza’ Harrison, keyboard player with Stoke On Trent Ska band The Rough Kutz. He talks about the bands latest album release’ Strictly Anti-Cabaret’ and the enduring appeal of Ska music.
As well as bringing you music news and views I shine a spotlight on classic album ’Synchronicity’ by the Police. Oh and I get to play an original song by The Rough Kutz, ‘Tommy Ten Men’. You just gotta check it out!
On this episode of the Audio Wave Cafe podcast, my guest is guitarist Carol Lane of Coventry punk band Army Of Skanks. She gives her blunt opinions on a number of subjects, You just gotta check it out!
I also bring you the latest music news, and I shine a spotlight on iconic album ‘London Calling’ by The Clash’. I have drummer Peter Drew from Leamington Spa talking about Sydnifest 23, a charity event involving many local musicians. ‘The Arches’ live music venue in Coventry is in danger of closing for good, find out how you can help save it. Oh and I get to play ‘Red Emma’ by Army Of Skanks!
On this episode of the Audio Wave Cafe podcast, my guest is singer songwriter Daniel Barrie. He talks about how he promotes his music, and his experiences at the Academy Of Contemporary Music in Guilford. I also bring you the latest music news and views, and I shine a spotlight on Coldplay’s debut album ‘Parachutes’. Oh, and I play an original song written by Daniel, ‘Empty Bed’.
You just gotta check it out!
On this episode of the Audio Wave Cafe podcast, my guest is singer songwriter Chrissie Dux. She talks about her songwriting process, and how music has helped her with her mental health issues. I bring you the latest music news and views, and I shine a spotlight on The late, great Ami Winehouse and her iconic album,' Back To Black' Oh, and I get to play an original song written and recorded by Chrissie, 'The Liar And The fool'. You just gotta check it out!
On this episode of the Audio Wave Cafe podcast, my guest is music producer Stephen 'Dill' Davies. He talks about his days in 80's Coventry band 'Gods Toys', when close to success, the band suddenly split up. 'Dill' talks about his songwriting process, and his current interest in AI generated music.
I also bring you the latest music news and views, and I shine a spotlight on Muscle Shoals Sound Studio in Alabama. Oh I also get to play 'Ah Ha The Mass Star' written, and recorded by Stephen.
You just gotta check it out!
On this episode of the Audio Wave Cafe podcast, my guest is songwriter, and music producer, Harry Pentony. He shares with us anecdotes about his music career, from when he was a young boy right up to the present day. I also bring you the latest music news and views, and I shine a spotlight on the 2007 album release by Radiohead, when without a recording contract the band self released ‘In Rainbows’, and why was it a seminal moment in the bands history. And I also get to play Harry Pentony’s self penned song ‘Waiting For A Feeling’
You just gotta check it out!
Check out the latest episode of Audio Wave Cafe podcasts, where I interview Singer Julie Bateman. She talks about her music career spanning more than 20 years including her time with hugely successful band Smackee . Oh and I get to play her co-written song ‘Can’t Keep Waiting’. I also run through the latest music news and views, and I shine a spotlight on Detroits legendary Motown record company and recording studio ’Hitsville USA.’
You just gotta check it out!
It’s a new episode of the Audio Wave Cafe podcast, and my guest is Ben Taylor, vocalist and rhythm guitarist of Leamington Spa band Man Made Moon.
I get to play an original song by the band ‘Lets Grow Old Together’ recorded at Leamington’s ‘Complete Sound Studio.’ I also bring you the latest music news and views, and I shine a spotlight on Michael Jackson’s 1983 sensational music video, 'Thriller'.
You just gotta check it out!
On this episode of the Audio Wave Cafe podcast my guest is Singer Songwriter Ruth Kelly. She talks about the highs and lows of her music career. And I Get to play an original song written by Ruth ‘I Don’t Have You’.
I also bring you the latest music news and views, and I shine a spotlight on Queens iconic song Bohemian Rhapsody. You just gotta check it out!
On this episode of the Audio wave Cafe podcast, my guest is ex- pat songwriter, music producer, Dave Pepper. As well as sharing some of his experiences of playing in several local bands, he also opens up about his 20 years in America, and why he had to leave. Eventually settling in Spain, today he is still writing songs and still producing music.
I also talk about the latest music news and views, and I shine a spotlight on David Bowie's 2016 album, blackstar.
You just gotta check it out!
Edited segue music provided by Audionautix and Aiva.
In the latest episode of the Audio Wave Cafe podcast, my guest is singer songwriter, and musician, Kirsten Smitten. We talk about her songwriting, her music, and the musicians and bands that have defined her music career so far.
I also introduce a new segment called ‘music news and views’. And I shine a spotlight on Prince and the Revolution’s, groundbreaking 1984 album 'Purple Rain’. Oh, and I get to play ‘The Calling’ written and recorded by Kirsten Smitten . You just gotta check it out!
It’s a new episode of the Audio Wave Cafe podcast, and my guest is songwriter, musician, and music producer, John Bradley. I also talk about what the hell is the K Pop Phenomenon, and I shine a spotlight on the 1991 album, Nevermind by Nirvana. Oh, and I get to play ‘Lily in The Rain’ written and recorded by John Bradley, from the album Chemical Therapy. You just gotta check it out!
On this episode of the Audio Wave Cafe podcast, my guest is rhythm guitarist Joe Harcourt from local band, Roddy Radiation & The Skabilly Rebels. He talks about his time in the band and enthusiasm for his latest band project.
The topic of this episode is, why many professional musicians are considering quitting the Music industry. I also shine a spotlight on the 1980 iconic "Sent From Coventry' album. And I get to play 'All Look Blue' an original song written by Joe Harcourt. You gotta check it out!
On this episode of the Audio Wave Cafe podcast, my guest is Max Ash Sales Manager of Sam Ash Music Stores in New York. As well as talking about running a successful music instrument store, he is also a songwriter and musician.
The topic this episode is 'Why Are Major Artists And Bands Cancelling Shows And Tours'. And I shine a spotlight on American Ska. Oh, and I get to play 'Cryin' In The Club' co Written by Max. You gotta check it out!
On this episode, my guests are John Hewitt, Dec Byrne, and Bob Hackett, of Soul Junction the midland's premier Soul Band. As well as talking about the ins and outs of their time in the band, they also open up about writing and recording their first original song. The topic is ‘The Power Of Love' and I shine a spotlight on 'Northern Soul’.
Drummer John Hewitt and I also talk about much loved band 'Squeeze'. Oh, and I get to play ‘Love Crush’ by Soul Junction. You should check it out.
In this episode of ‘Audio Wave Cafe’ podcast, my guest is John Barrow, sax player and author of ‘How Not To Make It In ThePop World (diary of an almost has-been). He was also co -founder of 80’s band The Swinging Laurels. I also talk about a new code of conduct to eliminate racism in music. And I shine a light on 60’s pop star, Del Shannon and his Coventry connection. Oh, and I get to play ‘Daylight’ by Fun Lovin’ Criminals, with John Barrow on Sax. You’ve just gotta listen in!
On this episode of the Audio Wave Cafe podcast, my guest is ex-local drummer Paul Hooper. Formally in Indian Summer and the Dodgers, through to the Fortunes, Paul has been a professional drummer all his working life.
I also talk about Ticketmaster’s dynamic pricing outrage, and I shine a spotlight on pirate radio stations. I also get to play ‘I Don’t Want To Lose This Feeling’ by Prelude, with Paul Hooper on drums. Check it out!
On this episode of the Audio Wave Cafe podcast, my guest is musician and author Tim Constable. He talks about the highs of playing in his first couple of bands and the utter frustration of not realising his ultimate dream of playing his own compositions in a successful recording band. Tim also talks about his coauthored children's books and upcoming projects.
The topic of this episode is 'what's right, what's wrong with tv talent shows'. And I shine a spotlight on local music producer and Grammy Award winner Roger Lomas.
Oh, and I get to play 'Don't Go To The Roxy' an original song by Tim Constable's band Paris.
On this episode of the Audio Wave Cafe podcast, my guest is record producer John Collins. He is perhaps best remembered as the producer of the Special's huge hit 'Ghost Town'.
John takes us through his early days as a record producer in Tottenham London, and to when Jerry Dammers asked him to produce a few songs for the Specials, the rest is history.
He also talks about one of his recent project, Choral Dub. An intriguing fusion of renaissance music and dub reggae.
The topic for this episode is, 'Why do Hip hop musicians end Up Killed?' And I shine a spotlight on 'The Rise Of 70's Punk'.
I also play one of John's Choral Dub tracks, 'If Ye Love Me'. Do check it out!
On this episode of the Audio Wave Cafe podcast my guest is Nigel Meffen, bass player with local punk band the Del Chronics. He talks about the bands latest album release ‘Urban Playground’ and I ask him if there is still an audience for 70’s punk.
My topic for this episode is ‘branding yourself as an artist’. and I shine a spotlight on the Coventry Music Museum.
Oh, and I play the Del Chronics single ‘Wreckin' It Up’, check it out!
In this latest episode of the Audio Wave Cafe podcast, my guest is Harley Feinstein the original drummer with legendary 70’s band, Sparks. Harley takes us through those early years up to his involvement with the 2021 film documentary titled The Sparks Brothers. He also talks about why he gave up drumming for many years, and life after Sparks.
I also talk about ‘Do you need a digital press kit’. If you are a working artist or band, maybe you should check this out! I also shine a spotlight on top local 80’s band, King.
On this episode of the Audio Wave Cafe podcast, my guests are Liz Maxted and Demus. Liz is a sax player in several local bands, and together with her partner Demus are also starting up their own recording studio in Coventry. They talk about setting up the studio and how much it cost to equip. I'll also play an original song of theirs 'My Man', the first to be produced at the studio.
For my topic, I talk about Indie record labels that are accepting demos. I also shine a spotlight on The Brit School for the performing arts based in Croydon.
On this episode of the Audio Wave Cafe podcast, my guest is respected local musician Bob Jackson. He walks us through his musical journey from his first band 'The Rochester Beaks' to supporting Eric Clapton, then on to reforming Badfinger in 2015. Bob also tells us why his name is on a blue plaque in Swansea.
In another segment I talk about musician's mental health, is it a problem? I am joined by musician and author Tim Constable, who opens up about his own mental health issues. I also shine a spotlight on Coventry band The Enemy, who later this year embark on a virtually sold out UK tour.
I interview Paul Willo lead singer with The Skapones from the north east in the Tees Valley. Who play quote; " A divine Ska of north east 2 Tone Ska". In this fascinating interview, Paul describes how a casual phone call got the band a 2 week tour in the US. I also get to play their single 'Northern Gods.'
My topic is, Is TokTok changing the music industry? Well, all the major record labels are taking it seriously, maybe you should too!
I also shine a spotlight on, When the British invaded America. A 60's phenomenon which saw many British artists and bands virtually take over the American pop charts, sinking the music careers of several top American artists, and even rattled Elvis Presley. It shook up the American music industry and permanently opened the door to British acts to make their way across the pond and share their music to a much larger appreciative audience.
In episode 7 my guest is sax player, poet, and songwriter, Joe Reynolds. We talk about some of the highlights of his music career. From soul/reggae band Stax to the Coventry City Of Culture Orchestra.
I then talk about, 'who buys vinyl records'. Are those grooved black discs really making a comeback? I also shine a spotlight on Bird Sound Studios. In the 70's bands from Leamington, Warwick, Coventry, and other towns made their way over to an outbuilding on the edge of a field in Snitterfield outside Stratford Upon Avon to record their songs.
Monty Bird together with Bob Young created a recording environment that still brings happy memories to many musicians.
I believe there are a lot of good locally produced music demos of original songs that have hardly ever been played in public. I want to change that.
Write to me Ray Barrie at; audiowavecafe@gmail.com and send in your original song demo in mp3 format, with where it was recorded, and who played what. Also, tell me a little about you or your band and I'll see about getting it played on a podcast.
In Episode 6 my guest is artist Carrie Reichardt. She created the 'Ska'd For Life' mural at Pool Meadow bus station Coventry. As well as talking about her art she discusses why she met and befriended deathrow inmates in America.
I also talk about racism in music in the UK. A couple of instances I mention were shocking. and I shine a spotlight on The Selecter. Formed in 1979, they were part of the original stable of bands on the Specials 2 Tone label.
I believe there are a lot of good locally produced music demos of original songs that have hardly ever been played in public. I want to change that.
Write to me at; audiowavecafe@gmail.com and send in your original song demo in mp3 format, with where it was recorded, and who played what. Also, tell me a little about you or your band and I'll see about getting it played on a podcast.
I interview John Hewitt of 9 piece band, Soul Junction, a top midlands soul band. John has also played in a number of Coventry bands including Blown Fuze, Team 23, and King, one of Coventry's top 80's bands. John played the drums on their biggest hit single 'Love and Pride'.
I also talk about NFTs, what are they? and I shine a spotlight on the first ever School of Rock.
I later play an original song by Team 23 released in 1981, titled 'Move to the Rhythm'.
In episode 4 my guest is Martin Bowes founder, instrumentalist, and producer, of darkwave, industrial band, Attrition. We talk about his music and his recording studio 'The Cage'.
I also talk about, 'Music cassettes, why they refuse to die off gracefully'. I shine a spotlight on the 'General Wolfe' pub Coventry's once nationally recognised live music venue.
I close with an original song by Attrition 'One Horse Rider' from their album 'The Unraveller of Angels'.
Write to me, Ray Barrie at; audiowavecafe@gmail.com and send in your original song demo in mp3 format, with where it was recorded, and who played what. Also, tell me a little about you or your band and I'll see about getting it played on a podcast.
I believe there are a lot of good locally produced music demos of original songs that have hardly ever been played in public. I want to change that.
Segue music by Audionautix
In episode 3 My guest is Rhys Scott of alternative rock band, 'Never Apart'. The topic I talk about, 'Is your music website gathering dust? I also shine a spotlight on 'The Lanch' once Coventry's top live music venue.
Music is by 'Never Apart' with an original song, 'Sick of It'.Write to me, Ray Barrie at; audiowavecafe@gmail.com and send in your original song demo in mp3 format, with where it was recorded, and who played what. Also, tell me a little about you or your band and I'll see about getting it played on a podcast.
I believe there are a lot of good locally produced music demos of original songs that have hardly ever been played in public. I want to change that.
In episode 2 my guest is author Ruth Cherrington. She will be talking about her book, 'Dirty Stop Outs Guide to 1970s Coventry.' I will also be talking about 'Is old music killing new music?
In the Spotlight series, I recall the Rockhouse, Coventry's Locarno /Tiffany's live music and dance venue. I'll also be playing one of my original songs, recorded with my mates at Horizon Studios, in 1979, titled 'Times Of Our Lives'.
Write to me, Ray Barrie at; audiowavecafe@gmail.com and send in your original song demo in mp3 format, with where it was recorded, and who played what. Also, tell me a little about you or your band and I'll see about getting it played on a podcast.
I believe there are a lot of good locally produced music demos of original songs that have hardly ever been played in public. I want to change that.
In the very first episode, my guest is Mark Rider founder and guitarist in Ska Waddy, a ska and reggae tribute band from Coventry. I also talk about streaming your music is it worth it?
Later I shine a spotlight on iconic Horizon Studios. I also play an original song written by Mark Rider and performed by Ska Waddy, 'Rude Boys'.Write to me, Ray Barrie at; audiowavecafe@gmail.com and send in your original song demo in mp3 format, with where it was recorded, and who played what. Also, tell me a little about you or your band and I'll see about getting it played on a podcast.
I believe are a lot of good locally produced music demos of original songs that have hardly ever been played in public. I want to change that.