The L.E.S. Show: Recent Episodes
The L.E.S.
Time spent drinking beers and attending gigs has created what is now known as The L.E.S. – an independent platform for music podcasts.
The L.E.S. boys are everymen music fans, having the conversations all music heads have down the pub, at the gig or deep in the sofa in the early hours of the morning.
Hosted by James Bain, Alexander Davies and Callum MacHattie, the pod proves the verve of British music is as impactful as ever. Turning hot air into energy, The L.E.S. conversation flows through the album making process, the important gigs of the moment and chats with the bands flying our flag.
It's time for us to now bow out of what has been an incredible three years. In this final episode, we recorded a Cardiff special. On our bikes, we cycled between 6 of the city's finest pubs, each with their own segment:
- Day at your Dream Festival
- Bain's Gizz Quiz
- Cal's Finish The Lyric
- Al's £1m Music Makeover
- The L.E.S. Top 10
- Final Playlist
With 3 seasons under our belt, a beer sponsorship from Tiny Rebel and a whole load of talented musician friends made, we can only say that as 3 music loving mates who started a little project over a couple of cans, to see what it has since become feels like an overwhelming success. Too much is said about music not being what it was, blah blah blah, but what we're most proud of is making content that goes some way towards proving that the artists who make up our current scene are the some of BEST to ever do it and it was an absolute blast for us to shine a little bit more light on them. There's too many highlights to list, so BIG thankyou to everyone who ever came on whether it was podcast, insta or even helping us spin some tunes when we were live on radio.
Al and Cal will be continuing the content on the instagram page over the summer. We've always attended festivals as punters, but this year we'll be attending some as press 🎤 So keep your eyes tuned to The L.E.S. insta as there will be a whole load of visual content with even more artists coming!
For the last time, sit down and soak it up. Thankyou everybody!
For this week's Deep Dive, Angel Hotel broke down their latest single Rumpy Pumpy. Fitting into Sion's "under 20 minutes to write" policy, this is a love-making pop banger that only Angel Hotel can write! Have a listen below:
https://open.spotify.com/track/4OqJY1KYmnxyMc3RMgEvuC?si=7dc61fa87f854737
Sit down and soak it up.
This week Angel Hotel, the Cardiff 4-piece inspired by retro nostalgia, 80s flicks and 'big power pop hooks' drop by to chat to the boys. They talk solo songwriting deals, 'geek-chic' sounds and what representing the Welsh music scene means to them. Sion and Carys bring complete authenticity to Tiny Rebel in this episode and proudly fly the flag for musicians who unashamedly pursue their own sounds. In the Deep Dive this week they break down their latest single 'Rumpy Pumpy'.
In keeping with their sound, the playlist for this episode is a tour-de-force of 80's hits... On their part anyway.
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/3zKao8eSI7oxi2cESsQiZV?si=1ed7b330f2744973
Sit down and soak it up!
In this installment of The Deep Dive we get chatting to The Family Battenberg to discuss their ripper of a tune "Feed Yer (Nganga)." From the conception of the riff, to the lyrical content, we rarrive at some far reaching corners to get to the essence of this tune. Checkout the single in the link below.
Sit down and soak it up.
https://open.spotify.com/track/1y2K0VDxho2yz4eUQGlcfU?si=b2d334c8d66a427d
In this ripper of an episode we get around the mic with the psych wizards that are The Family Battenberg, we dicuss everything from big foot, fuzz pedals and Palo Mayombe rituals. This weeks playlist delivers some of the freshest and unconventional songs to date going from Monet, The Flaming Lips to CROOKS INC.
Listen to the playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7mU49DzjKCcRdNAISLtLoP?si=7e439824425644f6
Sit down and soak it up.
In this weeks episode the boys get around the mic to chat with Huw Stephens, legendary BBC Radio presenter (across number of stations), founder of Swn Festival, Llais Music Awards and arguably Rookwood Llandough Hospital Radio's most decorated alumnus. This conversation covers the genesis of Huw's career, his hand in the development of the Welsh music scene and our mutual love for championing the brightest new tunes that the masses need to hear. This week's playlist is a ripper and mighty fresh to boot.
Sit down and soak it up.
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1q6FjoqqOB1ISz3MMBKjfM?si=f3200ae5522b4f2b
In this weeks episode the boys get around the mic to chat with Huw Stephens, legandary BBC Radio presenter (across number of stations), founder of Swn Festival, Llais Music Awards and arguably Rookwood Llandough Hospital Radio's most decorated alumnus. This conversation covers the genesis of Huw's career, his hand in the development of the Welsh music scene and our mutual love for championing the brightest new tunes that the masses need to hear. This week's playlist is a ripper and mighty fresh to boot.
Sit down and soak it up.
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1q6FjoqqOB1ISz3MMBKjfM?si=f3200ae5522b4f2b
In this episode Al and Cal get a sneak peak into the inner workings of End of the Road (EOTR) festival with their Director and Curator Simon Taffe at EOTR HQ. From running the financial risks in the early days to the idyllic dream day at EOTR, and everything in between - no stone is left unturned. This weeks playlist also see's a great selection of some gems that Simon has booked for this years festival and some top shelf tunes from further afield.
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2O6V8b0EDOIP7zW4Fe1MjD?si=9e498bf00fbb4432
Sit down and soak it up.
The boys may have missed frontman Dave for this one but they still bring some cool insights into the song's sonic conception. I Don't Feel is a true modern britpop banger and if this earmarks the future sound of Saloon Dion, we are incredibly excited.
Episode playlist below:
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/28As6UNwYpalZBfY9b652F?si=60dc9181e9c14541
Sit down and soak it up.
The Bristol community serve The L.E.S another one of its favourite bands this week as Tom and Luke from Saloon Dion join the boys. Recorded in Moles, Bath ahead of their support show for Pip Blom the band sat down and discussed everything that has been going on amidst their latest single releases. From self-portrait tattoos to rude audience members, these lads have seen a lot of what the U.K. circuit has to offer!
Their latest single 'I Don't Feel' features on the deep dive this week and the playlist celebrates Saloon Dion's greatest friends from Slagheap and Grandmas house to Flat Party and Melin Melyn.
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/28As6UNwYpalZBfY9b652F?si=60dc9181e9c14541
Sit down and soak it up.
In this little mini episode called the Deep Dive, we take aim at one of our guests songs and fire the questions we've had burning to ask. In this episode we discuss, with Panic Shack, their track "The Ick." Listen to find plenty of anecdotes to accompany the story told by the song, find out who Panic Shacks riffmaster is and perhaps the best do-not-do's when navigating making a cup of tea for a prospective romantic partner... or any cup of tea for that matter!
Listen to "The Ick" here: https://open.spotify.com/track/6QrFV5Z2K5kvSHPzM3vjI3?si=336482e2c06a4917
Sit down and soak it up.
In this episode, our dear friends Romy, Meg and Sarah of Panic Shack, join us around the mic at Tiny Rebel Cardiff to discuss their time on the road, what its like to sell out the majority of their first headline tour of the UK and taking on TikTok trolls head first. We also deep dive into their tune "The Ick" which is littered with anecdotes. And as ever, this episodes playlist is another ripper with some top selections from Panic Shack.
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1nA06nPmRgZHhjltlA6rTD?si=7c36793e0bb44ed8
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Here lies part 2 of our exclusive track by track with CVC in which we delve into Side B of their debut record "Get Real." This episodes covers the tracks: Good Morning Vietnam, Woman of Mine, Music Stuff, Mademoiselle, Docking the Pay and American Ultra. The lads get stuck into the recording and writing process of the songs. There's a few surprises along the way and even an acoustic rendition of the initial concept of one of CVC's biggest hitters…No playlist for this weeks episode, go get stuck into Get Real now: https://open.spotify.com/album/2CP4v1zIXBxJab2lmoVHED?si=dBNNWtwZRLWTmM-Lgx5NDg
In this episode the L.E.S. boys are around the mic with CVC for an exclusive track by track of their smash hit debut album "Get Real" in which we discuss each track at length with a little taste of each song sprinkled throughout the episode. This episode covers Side A of the record which includes tracks; Hail Mary, Winston, Knock Knock, Sophie and Anogo. Side B is to follow shortly, so keep your eyes peeled or subscribe to be notified of its release.
There is no playlist for this weeks episode, only a link to the album itself... https://open.spotify.com/album/2CP4v1zIXBxJab2lmoVHED?si=8_2tDBwVSUKAxxOAyC694A
Sit down and Soak it up.
--- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Here's a little special Christmas episode for ya. The boys gather around the mic and sit on Santa's lap to disclose all that is on their musical Christmas list this year wrapped up in format of 12 days of Christmas. From red letter experience days to time machine locations, the boys share some tasty anecdotes and laughs to get you in to the Christmas cheer. This weeks playlist features a healthy and eclectic mix, from Fred Again to Orlando Weeks to NEU! get at it in the link below.
In the faithful words of Justin Hawkins; "don't let the bells-end."
Sit down and soak it up.
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5AZcTxDl7Jwymrbt3MW6eP?si=af7fb9d86cc54c1b
The 14 minute epic that saw the world introduced to the incredible Alice Low is a sprawling journey of genre defying music that shows all of her incredible qualities in one. Where to begin? We didn't know either, but we tried.
Listen to the full song here: https://open.spotify.com/track/3Joyo5A52KlDFHucSBfWyg?si=0f0f3a3874fe4dfa
Radio edit: https://open.spotify.com/track/2PnT3q5Sods3wOj3ULlbYq?si=ec9ab9494b8e45e8
--- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
In terms of solo artists in the U.K. scene, they don't get as exciting as Alice Low. 14 minute debut singles and genre defying soundscapes have created an artist truly unique and with the ability to stop you in your tracks and make you listen. That's what her songs have done since her launch and now it's time to do that in the pod. We met up with Alice at Tiny Rebel in Cardiff to learn more about her development as an artist, from supporting Cate Le Bon, to performing with a new band and self recording tonnes of albums. And on this week's deep dive, we do our best to sound qualified by taking a deep breath in and taking on the mammoth and wonderful single 'Ladydaddy'.
This week's playlist will be an education for you all... and us. Sorry we didn't know them all Alice.
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/4gk2EQqxHx37HlGdOI3f6z?si=c3ac1ca97a954806
Sit down and soak it up
--- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Gwenllian, Heledd and Hollie of Adwaith tell us all bout their ripper of a tune Lan y Mor; through from the genesis of the song, to what it is like to playing live and getting the venue pumping. Follow the link(s) for the song, and stay for the rest of the album.
https://open.spotify.com/track/3g3fK4wq0JiVviqzLqgBFM?si=9fa416cb01fb4e69
https://adwaithmusic.bandcamp.com/album/bato-mato
Welsh language hit makers Adwaith join Bain & Alex at Tiny Rebel HQ ahead of their performance at Llais, the Welsh Music Awards 2022, to discuss all things Adwaith. Not only were Adwaith nominated for the Llais awards, they also became the recipient of the award for the second time with their album Bato Mato. Tune in to hear of tales of tours in Siberia and closer to home, the rapid development of the band and a deep dive of their tune "Lan y Mor."
Playlist link: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1WOBaRNqc3kcZJ09HQJQI2?si=5651bdd8e9fd4e57
Sit down and soak it up.
Ben and Josh of Getdown Services discuss the making and the meaning behind two of their songs Throbber and Biscuit, you're in for a treat. Sit down and Soak it up.
Listen to the songs by the following links:
https://open.spotify.com/track/5KfM1qYnliWhk9919zlvi9?si=2713f7659f0f4fa1
https://open.spotify.com/track/0c9pFYUkXI1JwvFxXO6noQ?si=0d70a4a2e1c342c6
The Bristol duo Getdown Services join up with the boys at The Louisiana for a chat before their headline show. Josh and Ben quickly caught the attention of the podcast with their tunes M5 Overdrive and Throbber, and they broke the making of all of those down. As well as that, they uncovered the role of humour in modern music production as well as the importance of removing the structures of old, to free it up, have fun and get down.
In an episode filled with mutual appreciation, the playlist aptly follows suit.
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2n05VyfITZA5L8V8LiWQBn?si=750a900e31484220
Sit down and soak it up.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
IDLES drummer Jon Beavis breaks down the making of their foot stomping hit, War.
Listen to the full song here: https://open.spotify.com/track/2kYn0VPQY1iTY3XpCvUaPt?si=bffad1102c114c23
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
The drummer of arguably the country's most important band is the latest guest to sit on the sofa: Jon Beavis: the beating heart of the IDLES engine room. In a career that's taken him to music's dizziest heights, it's difficult to cover it all - but in their chat, they lift the lid on the band's touring secrets, trusting their instincts when writing and what is next for a band who have cemented their position in the hall of fame. Amidst all the seriousness, Jon takes plenty of time to dish out some chat towards the boys and we can guarantee you'll love
True to form, relentless drumming anchors Jon's choices for this week's playlist.
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/4umdqtuN4ZSEenzrpPStSs?si=727071b8c1d3460e
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Josh from Langkamer breaks down the making of their lead single Humdinger.
Listen to the full song here: https://open.spotify.com/track/790RuvdpJxbg5JrQqafu9X?si=372914389610426e
Sit down and soak it up.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Bristol's main music aficionado - Josh, from Langkamer and Breakfast Records sat down on the sofa to get Season 3 underway. Between running an indie music promotions company and fronting the Bristol indie band, Langkamer, Josh is well placed to give his thoughts on the modern music landscape. We talk putting on events and shooting delirious music videos before sitting down for our new section 'The Deep Dive'. In 'The Deep Dive' we break down Langkamer's lead single from their debut album: Humdinger.
Josh gave the boys a bit of a schooling on this week's playlist. Let us know in the comments what your favourite song from the selection is.
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/6ogqLImzXqcZunqzOJWzSR?si=2a7ab87051484bba
Sit down and soak it up.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Well well well, what a series it has been for the boys. Whilst still trying to find their podcasting feet, they interviewed some of their favourite bands and industry figures. The podcast aims to give a platform to smaller bands and documents the thriving scenes of British music and as they look back over series 2, they can proudly say they have begun to achieve that. In this final episode, they pick their favourite moments before teeing up the even bigger and better series 3. But perhaps most importantly, this final episode brings the announcement you have all been waiting for.
New guests feature heavily on this series closing playlist.
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5mcQpEMa4HdFfOxF5sgkST?si=754d6a55788448e1
Sit down and soak it up.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Glam? Punk? Rock? The answer can't be given. Telgate are just a massive band with an even bigger attitude. Their recorded songs and live shows are earning them an exciting reputation and we were lucky enough to pin them down for a chat. Casper and Chris bring both jokes and insight, as well as vulnerability and sincerity in a conversation that exposed the personalities behind this incredible band. Also prepare to be shocked when you find out how old they were when they wrote Cherrytight...
Chris couldn't be talked out of a bit of Zappa in this week's playlist.
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/62iV9FgSpmRRV2sMfbo4sI?si=c53df1a4c8b84265
Sit down and soak it up.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
After months of pestering them to come on, Clwb Fuzz finally take a seat on the sofa. Clwb Fuzz are rocking the Cardiff scene with their uniquely loud sound and delicate song writing. After not-so-quietly making waves in the local scene, they've began turning big heads and booking even bigger shows. We were lucky enough to catch them before the catapult!
Joe and Hayden bring an expected mix of songs and even unknowingly received the continental memo... Take a listen to find out.
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/68w5ttQ2o6TjFPxeod8V6n?si=0afaee113d0b42ae
Sit down and soak it up.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
This week the boys meet another of the music industry's most important figures. The one and only Tiny Rebel brewery. As well as taking the craft beer world by storm, Tiny Rebel have placed themselves at the very heart of our country's thriving scene, by supporting local bands. They've epitomised a culture of independence through beers and music, and to have them on this week was a real honour.
Hungover master of ceremonies Ethan delivers a quick fire selection of pub sing along hits.
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/4FVLmqZuAxNKXmno0r3Hka?si=61aec8d8fe294a91
Sit down and soak it up.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
This week the boys spend a Saturday afternoon on the beers and bring the mics with them. Given that all good opinions come from sharing a beer, they spend time closely critiquing the already announced line ups before pitching their Glasto headliners. All in the name of securing the power to host a future fest. End of The Road, Wide Awake, All Points East are all in the firing line. Let us know if you agree with their thoughts!
The spoils of three playlist picks each arguably make for one of the show's finest playlists.
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7BVMZRj9Y7MpRcgwptoYox?si=2392560eb9864774
Sit down and soak it up.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
This week the boys are joined by The Rotanas. With big thoughts and even bigger tunes, they are cutting through the Cardiff scene with huge vocals and stadium melodies. In this chat front man Harry opens the door to his mind and introduces us to several of his hottest industry takes whilst guitarist Aaron breaks down their songwriting process.
A big sound is the order of this week’s playlist.
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0yyifK2nIb8Ddshopp7hrS?si=IQJrEwbLR9aLzvqnwkD3YA
Sit down and soak it up.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Oli from one of Bristol's finest post-punk bands, Heavy Lungs, joins the boys on the sofa this week. After a prolific rise pre-covid, the band have had time to reflect on their sound and decide what is next. In this chat, Oli recalls some of the early stories of their infamous live shows, as well as reveal what it was like to team up with fellow Bristolians, IDLES, on a split single release. Heavy Lungs have been one of the most exciting bands on the circuit and their fans will be pleased to know that Oli lifts the lid on both their writing process and band member behaviours. Which member do you think has only just discovered Oasis?
Oli fires from the hip on his choices, by reeling off songs that he's added to his most recent playlist.
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2ivTCLTHmYvwTxGG8iWsX2?si=47d0f9f688784c1e
Sit down and soak it up.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Heard of Domino? Well if you are one of the few who haven't you would have definitely heard something they released. Arctic Monkeys, Wet Leg and Georgia are just a selection of their artists. Their radio plugger and all round good bloke, Oscar Lawrence, drops by to chat about how it all works and how radio still rules our listening habits.
Oscar brings his 'best of 2021' to the playlist this week.
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2SOeH43YmdH9t1aoJpUoMX?si=e096d4245cdb4836
Sit down and soak it up.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Relive the boys' debut radio show, at the one and only Green Man festival. Produced by the incredible Pam Muir, the boys stumbled their way through a live show in one of the country's most treasured music venues. Their set went through songs they personally loved, as well as tunes from the festivals best acts. Get involved and support the boys' journey through live broadcast.
This week's playlist is a mock up of the radio set list in full - without the colourful language in between.
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/6NlSOroiCHZVH5EzF3BWpr?si=7da9122abe6f44fb
Sit down and soak it up.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Like every year, the boys uncover their listening habits thanks to the Spotify Wrapped playlist. Will King Gizz still be top for Bain? Will Cal up his minute intake? And who is the unsuspected artist that has crept into Al's top 5? All to be revealed in this episode.
The boys pick the best songs that featured in their top of 2021 playlist.
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/4DF6OGPN8iv3jSm1NY4eSS?si=8d138b70cbe34d52
Sit down and soak it up.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
On the back of Buzzard Buzzard Buzzard's meteoric rise, lead singer Tom Rees stops by for a chat that covers a whole load of topics. From facing adolescence in a tight knit band, choosing the right record label and performing that seminal Green Man set. Tom proves he is not only musically talented, but comedically too - packing his answers with some hilarious anecdotes.
Despite being a self-proclaimed folk disliker, Tom packs this weeks playlist with folk songs.
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/4F0IPgMw73mXlKHeWSwz56?si=a33f9d94f19c4bfc
Sit down and soak it up.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
The chief of Cardiff entertainment, Cal Ellis, stops by for a chat. He explains how he has got himself to a point of ultimate enjoyment in all creative aspects. From writing comedy sketches with Razzed Up Productions and doing stand-up gigs, to fronting the princes of bonafide rock n roll - The Shackles of Shame. Cal has been on an incredible personal journey and he is honest enough to share it all with us. This is a great chat, with plenty of laughs and moments of support for anyone who is struggling out there.
There is a lesson in old school tunes this week, with one particular choice hoping to make the next Shackles set list.
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2PO9DmDHpqGZZoOPUqcWnF?si=9b590c1998f542fe
Sit down and soak it up.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
The L.E.S. boys return with a bang for series 2, chatting to one of the country's most exciting bands: CVC. Dave, Cesco and Nanial sit down with the boys to discuss how their band was formed through a shared love of the Chilli's, the importance of ruthlessly taking the piss out of yourselves and how they've managed swells of industry excitement despite only releasing a couple of songs. Tune in if you want to hear from music's next superstars.
Fresh off a summer of festivals, the playlist picks are designed to get listeners going.
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/4spT1RdXcPMRmKVunKF8f9?si=22cfc0629fbd42c8
Sit down and soak it up.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
The boys finish season one they way they begun it - the three of them just chatting on a sofa. They look back over fond memories of their first year and pick out their favourite moments: interviews, radio slots and attending festivals. Then they look forward, and excitedly preview what's next. The boys tease the upcoming season two and all the added extras that are coming with it.
In the episode playlist, the boys fire from the hip as they re-adjust to the power of three picks each.
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/26RNeZ3mV93M4h3CB0Xeaj?si=f95ed22f3a5c4a7e
Sit down and soak it up.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
This week the boys are joined by electronic duo, Larch. From Berlin to Cardiff, Matt and Kai have had their fair share of experiences and they unpack how all of them fed into the current day Larch sound. Their commitment to addressing modern day issues through abstract arrangement landed them an opportunity to help curate a contemporary dance show - which is currently touring the U.K. Matt and Kai explain the shows creation from start to finish and how an open mind is the key to successful art. And it's an open mind you'll need for this week's playlist as the boys pack it with new tunes that will definitely broaden your tastes. https://open.spotify.com/playlist/74bY8URdRpKAspfTrYhobZ?si=fe137ea5b33d4b9d Sit down and soak it up.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
This week the boys are joined by up and comers Pigeon Wigs. With music releases round the corner, these boys are generating some serious hype around their sound that incorporates blues, swing and punk. With big shows coming up and plenty more music for us to hear, Pigeon Wigs tell us why the next few years are going to belong to them.
If you've got some mates round and fancy sinking into it, stick this week's playlist on.
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0GpptrHFmCoyVMh9g7orIH?si=6580875f0e1a436e
Sit down and soak it up.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
This week we are joined by Caitlin from CLW Music. Talking us through the label game in modern music, Caitlin touches upon important themes such equal representation, diverse music sounds and why small city scenes need more respect. This chat is all about the behind the scenes stuff that brings you your favourite tunes.
Caitlin impresses with her playlist picks that centre on the emotional pull of music.
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/03V4ng4jF9Ew1Hh3NI49n3?si=cf069d6927394f63
Sit down and soak it up.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Two days out from supporting Foals at Cardiff Castle, Curly from Islet joins the boys for a deep chat about all things music. Curly talks the boys through Islet's journey; playing in America, winning the Welsh Music Award and expressing yourself by playing tunes. Throughout the boys take breaks for anecdotes, discussions and plenty of laughs. You can feel the excitement in the room throughout this one so tune in and share a laugh with the boys.
Curly's appreciation for lo-fi diversity is celebrated in this week's playlist.
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5uUDozubmdmNEAEx513WhI?si=8c6c1b410b884f1a
Sit down and soak it up.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Two days out from supporting Foals at Cardiff Castle, Curly from Islet joins the boys for a deep chat about all things music. Curly talks the boys through Islet's journey; playing in America, winning the Welsh Music Award and expressing yourself by playing tunes. Throughout the boys take breaks for anecdotes, discussions and plenty of laughs. You can feel the excitement in the room throughout this one so tune in and share a laugh with the boys.
Curly's appreciation for lo-fi diversity is celebrated in this week's playlist.
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5uUDozubmdmNEAEx513WhI?si=8c6c1b410b884f1a
Sit down and soak it up.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
This week we are joined by Roshan Gurung from Dazed Music. Roshan tells us all about his journey from humble student and music fan, to Director of Dazed. Starting club nights at Blue Mountain, gaining respect in the industry and throwing parties in some of Europe’s most renowned skiing resorts are just a few of the many interesting anecdotes Roshan brings to the table.
For his playlist picks Roshan takes us on a trip down memory lane whilst the boys try pick some tunes that fit this week’s mould.
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/67m3oFQ3XtRPWdrvS8yb0y?si=4fb3e60e19e44eb9
Sit down and soak it up.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
This week the boys are joined by Heather from Rose Parade. As well as playing keys in TJ Roberts, Heather has founded Rose Parade Records; an artist driven and democratic label that aims to give artists the power to choose their own identity. With artists like Sam Barnes, TELGATE and Rona Mac to boast, Rose Parade have begun making some healthy waves in the music industry. To celebrate the label's diverse music, Heather's 6 picks for this week's playlist are all children of the Rose Parade Label. Al, Bain and Cal back her up with some tunes you may not have discovered. https://open.spotify.com/playlist/76znljxpSBFhwQlotPuR38?si=54a257ebeda34d71 Sit down and soak it up.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
This week the boys are joined by one of their favourite bands, Panic Shack. The Cardiff band are making big waves in the UK indie scene and the boys were told all about the journey. Emily, Meg and Romi chat all about not taking yourself seriously, making an impact in a male dominated industry and the importance backing yourself even when you don't know what you're doing.
This episode is full of laughs, cans and banging tunes. Check them out here on a bouncing episode playlist:
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/34Ow276K1xRnPJh1PRjYPW?si=70bf6f0dc98c42c7
Sit down and soak it up.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
The boys welcome one of Bristol's most beloved music figures to the podcast: Big Jeff. Jeff is famed for his relentless attendance of gigs in the South West and eclectic appreciation of all things music. He's become as important to the live music scene as venues and bands, with DJ slots at Green Man festival and Soho Radio, as well as honorary shrines at venues like The Louisiana. Jeff tells his story to the boys from start to present, with lots of funny anecdotes in between.
With Jeff on board, this week's playlist was a melting pot of diversity. On top of Bain, Al and Cal's individual picks, Jeff brought 6 tunes you've likely never heard of and are even more likely to become your new favourites.
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1O7rk68HQcD2aJ2IOAtj67?si=43e6a1cf8b71467c
Sit down and soak it up.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
We are joined by Kit Trigg this week for a mindblower of a chat. Kit has just signed with Universal and chats to the boys following a trip to the states and a session in Joshua Tree. He talks to us about his new album that's deep rooted in blues rock and groove, and what the state of his new tour will look like. There's some funny stories about a book shop in there too.
He took us on a trip to the canon for the playlist, picking some of staples from any Muso's tape collection.
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/6Gs6zzTr9VhryTTtblsE7r?si=a5714df335df4380
Sit down and soak it up.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
In the second instalment of The L.E.S. In Conversation With, the boys chat with up and coming folk artist Gecko and The Bee. Since her beginnings in Dorset, she's toured the pub scene and won the OpenMic UK competition where she was exposed to some big industry decisions. In between that she's released several EP's, moved to London and tried making it on the festival circuit. With The L.E.S. being a big advocate of indie musicians, this was a great chat into the make up of the British independent scene. She brought 6 of her best tracks for the weekly playlist with the boys providing two each. https://open.spotify.com/playlist/6pk8DQzGsgLW2Dvhv2URHA?si=iNuuOyItSACSB6ZUdf_8TA Sit down and soak it up.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
The L.E.S. take on their first interview with Cardiff's very own Young Garbo. Joined by Owain (Vocals) and Arwel (Lead Guitar), The L.E.S. and Young Garbo chat about the band's beginnings in venues like The Moon, to line-up changes, playing for Alan McGee and recording in their very own studio barn. Of course, The L.E.S. is about more than just seriousness and the Young Garbo boys bring plenty of laughter to the table.
Owain and Arwel brought 3 tracks each to this week's playlist, with Bain, Al and Cal backing them up with one of their own.
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2lgVfx33pA2k7KnsbpSYQj?si=YwYh4oTBQp-0rig1eLZpLg
Sit down and soak it up.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
The boys sum up what has been a year of mixed emotions. No gigs and festivals to enjoy, but we did see the birth of The L.E.S. At the end of our first year as a platform, we round things up with a barroom chat filled with reflection, laughs and promises of the future. There's no more fitting way to see out the year than with a classic L.E.S. chat about British tunes.
The cap has been tipped to what's been a bleak year for music but exciting year for us. There's so much more to come in 2021 and the boys make sure to let you know in this final ep of 2020. To see out the year, the playlist is made up of our 9 favourite songs from 2020 and it is an absolute bouncer.
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0dqcHGK7GrPHuswiCTN34u?si=TEqz8IISTaSuopVAiIOYHQ
Sit down and soak it up.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
This week's episode and playlist centres round a classic challenge. 9 songs that act as lads' ultimate picks, were they to be stuck on a desert island. 6 of those picks are group choices and represent some funny stories in The L.E.S. history. The other 3 are individual picks, with the lads picking their ultimate song to help them survive island life. This is a funny walk down memory lane as the boys introduce you further into their world.
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5PK9tyhAeTGzF0OVKS57FV?si=gjFxb7VJQ5igHRLK0vGxag
Sit down and soak it up.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
The boys air out their laundry this week and berate their most hated aspects of music. They each pick a song, an artist and a miscellaneous subject to lock away in Room 101. Some are obvious, some are controversial, but all of them are justified by the lads in what makes for a funny discussion. Agree or disagree, let us know what you would put in Room 101 on our insta: @the.l.e.s
As it would be silly to make a playlist made up of songs we hate, we threw away the rulebook once again. This week's playlist is a compilation of songs the boys have been enjoying this week.
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/3CW3JfKj2J2NXjNPVBepDb?si=szHkgmoBRdK5YyPVA15kxQ
Sit down and soak it up.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
This week is all about women. The boys reflected on some voice notes sent in by our women friends that outlined the major flaws in British music culture. Holly, Caitlin, Mari and Amelia spoke about the times they've felt failed by British music and were left feeling intimidated, unheard and under-appreciated. James, Alexander and Cal spoke about their male privileges and responsibilities in response, to hopefully communicate the ways us men can improve in making women feel included and heard in music.
The playlist reigns were handed over to our contributors and so there are 12 songs in this weeks playlists. All songs have been chosen and performed by women.
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/4lz0WgWYiLpCm02in9gZIw?si=M683nzMuR2iKe3KaYflb6g
Sit down, soak it up and keep fighting against women's injustice.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Having to make do with Zoom again, the boys take an extensive look at 2020's Mercury Prize. As Britain's most prestigious awards ceremony, Bain, Al and Callum take some time to explain what makes it so special: the judging panel, previous winners and the cultural impact it has on artists. Then they go deep into the class of 2020 - analysing all 12 of this year's shortlisted albums and arguing their favourites. In the episode Spotify playlist, the boys have to play by the Mercury rules. Each host had to pick 3 songs that have been nominated for the Mercury's since it's inception in 1992 and one of those choices must be from the 2020 shortlist. In tribute to this year's winner, Michael Kiwanuka, there is a bonus 10th song on the playlist that acts as a unanimous choice. https://open.spotify.com/playlist/17FJD8z931L5wGv57mvltZ?si=_QpD5t5uR-mGGWnWoHS_QQ Sit down and soak it up.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
The L.E.S. boys take a deep dive into the catalogue of the world's most prolific producer, Rick Rubin. Chronicling his career through the decades: the dawn of Def Jam and B-Bop records in the 80's, RHCP madness in the 90's, pop dominance of the 00's and the diverse depths of 10's the boys pick out their stand-out career moves from the bearded wizard and uncover the sheer breadth of his brilliance. When the Rubin history lesson is done, the boys scramble their brains and pick two artists - past or present - that they would team with Rick in the halls of Shangri La.
You guessed it, this week's Spotify playlist is 100% Rick. The lads make some difficult sacrifices in whittling their favourite Rick Rubin tracks down to 3 each for the coolest of playlists.
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/4BKu0ePWkkNo45PVwO8Whz?si=g2kBmFB4RQmYf2LPRsjdAg
Sit down and soak it up.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
The boys respond to the Government Arts grant and what it means for the future of live music. They chat about all of the innovative ways the music industry has responded to the pandemic: Alternative live shows, funding schemes to pay venue overheads and ways of cheating the streaming system. As per usual, the boys support the little guy by shouting out some of the best venues Cardiff and Bristol has to offer and what their supporters can do to help, as well as calling out Spotify for mistreating bands of the future and what we want to change in order to keep music flowing.
This week the boys took the shackles off the Spotify playlist. There were no themes or rules to play by, instead Bain, Al and Callum chose 3 songs that have been getting some heavy rotation on their speakers.
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/3gg3CnCth8jf6Lo0tXMrKx?si=xe-lxVKmR3eRDezKr6Wy-g
Sit down and soak it up.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
With Glastonbury blues at an all time high in 2020, The L.E.S. boys try and unpack what makes Glastonbury Festival the best in the world. They take on the mammoth task of explaining it's charm before looking back on some of their favourite headliner performances of the past, from Jay-Z, to Arctic Monkeys and Metallica. Then, they debate who they think should stand on the pyramid stage in future years: RHCP, Foals, Wolf Alice or King Gizzard and The Lizard Wizzard.
In tribute to the world's greatest party, the episode Spotify playlist is a collection of songs made up of the boys' favourite past headliners:
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0GhsOqNZuRBhqqMcK5XNXU?si=VlLGCOW8QL-UriLlALSB_g
Sit down and soak it up.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
The L.E.S. boys begin their podcast venture in the confines of lockdown. With no gigs to attend, festivals to get lost in or bands to chat to, the lads make do with reliving live sets and listening to new releases. From the IDLES 2019 Glasto set, to the new releases from Baxter Dury and Little Simz the chat reflects the everyday experiences of a music fan in lockdown.
As per every episode, Alex, Bain and Callum pick their 3 songs for the episode Spotify playlist:
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2CbVE5eaRXR8eTYkJkCmea?si=MjFkAwaJR36ZIFOIGLXDEw
Sit down and soak it up.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app