Now You're Talking (Guest Interviews): Recent Episodes

Stewart Pink

Now You’re Talking is a chat show that let’s the guests do the talking. The podcast that started out as a byproduct of Stewart Pink’s radio shows has now became it’s own chat show that includes exclusive content you won’t hear on the radio featuring funny, interesting and/or inspiring people from every walk of life. With guests ranging from the future stars of music, comedy icons and film stars to community heroes, legends of rock, school kids and 104 year old chicken farmers - it’s all going on. So pull up a virtual chair, download, subscribe and join Stewart’s guests for a chat.

Ahead of this week’s show I caught up with singer/songwriter Rachel Croft all about her music and upcoming European tour. We covered all sorts from Rachel’s musical beginnings busking on the streets of York to performing all over the world, musical inspirations and a little background to her latest EP “Reap What You Sow” as well as some fantastic advice for other musicians about staying true to yourself.

Seeing Lola performing alongside her mum, Annie Lennox during a livestream was one of the highlights of the lockdown so it was great to finally get the chance to speak to Lola Lennox all about her music and the release of her debut EP "Dreamer" which came out on Friday. We talked all about the meaning behind some of the tracks, what it was like putting it together and how it became a real family affair. We also covered all sorts of other stuff too from rediscovering the songs she wrote when she was fourteen to performing Live at The Royal Albert Hall recently plus, most importantly, what's her favourite easter egg?

Ahead of The #AsYetUntitledRockShow I caught up with Callum from Brentwood’s own Ocean Flaws for a chat about their new single Soul Kiss. We covered all sorts of other stuff too from their new analogue sound to the new line up and their upcoming show at The Water Rats in London on 29th April. Plus how they made the most budget friendly music video yet and we both relived a few terrifying experiences involving seagulls!

Last time we spoke, Kieran and his brother Brandon were in the middle of a round of golf. This time, with a brand new album looming, it was great to catch up so we could finally find out who won! We also talked about some of his favourite memories from the World I Understand Tour, who is the worst person to bunk with in the tour bus and of course, we heard all about their headline tour in October and The Sherlocks' new album "People Like You And Me" out 11th August!

Ahead of The #AsYetUntitledRockShow I caught up with D3lta for a chat all about his debut EP Into The Rabbit Hole. We covered all sorts of other things too from how inspiration for one of his songs struck in a hospital car park to upcoming tours, working with Arctic Monkeys’ producer and his mixed Anglo-Greek heritage… plus the exciting news that he’ll be moving from Athens to London next week!

We were joined by London based singer song writer Morena Santi for a chat all about her new music and upcoming EP. Plus we covered all sorts from how inspiration for the new single came from a studio jam to hugely exciting gigs coming up including performing at The Royal Albert Hall on 1st April.

Tonight The #AsYetUntitledRockShow returns with a special guest and friend of the show! Shauna from Rews joins us for a chat all about her latest music and plans for 2023 and we’ll find out a little about the inspiration behind some her most anthem tracks yet! Plus, we talk train timetables and throwing underwear at gigs!

Ahead of Monday's Drive I caught up with Ben Francis. Previous guest and friend of the show, Ben joined us around Christmas for a chat about his charity single raising funds for The Grand Appeal as Seeking Benjamin. Back with new music releasing under his own name "Ben Francis" it was great to hear about his upcoming plans of a new EP, live dates and festivals as well as a chat about his latest single "Morning Glow"

Ahead of Wednesday's Drive I caught up with Barry and Danny from Irish rock band Modernlove. We talked about all sorts from their upcoming headline tour in the US & UK to their upcoming album, EP and their latest single ONLY EVER ONLY YOU.

Ahead of Monday's Drive I caught up pride of Essex and all round top man, Perry Blake. Founder of the 21 Up Movement, we spoke about his latest updates and plans for the work he's doing to inspire, support and enable young people. From youth clubs and live events to talks, education lessons and mountain climbing, there's loads happening at 21 Up.

On Tuesday's I caught up with Essex-based singer songwriter Louise Parker all about her upcoming release "Table For One" out this Friday. We covered all sorts of other things too from setting goals and battling self doubt to soothing anxiety through the power of movies. Plus... dinosaurs!

Ahead of Thursday’s Drive it was great to chat with The Jordan. You will undoubtedly recognise the voice of dutch singer/songwriter Caroline Van Der Leeuw from Caro Emerald and it was great to talk to Caroline about why, after many years of success and touring as Caro Emerald, it was time to shake things up and embark on a new and exciting solo journey. She opened up about what it felt like to loose and reignite her passion for performing and we covered all sorts from a few teasers ahead of her debut solo album and tour to the inspiration behind some of the tracks already released.

Nowhere Near The Sky by The Jordan is out 10th February. Click here to listen on Spotify.

Ahead of Monday’s Drive I was joined by lead singer and rhythm guitarist Eric LaBossiere of Canadian-American pop/rock band Hello Fiasco. Long before they released music these guys have been recording music together and building their sound around a shared vision and it was great to chat to Eric about how they formed, how it feels to see their debut album unleashed on the world. With radio play all over the globe and gaining huge streaming numbers the album is travelling fast – to find out more about Hello Fiasco, their debut album “Find The Shoreline”, their debut single “Hold Me Close” and more click play. Find The Shoreline by Hello Fiasco is out now. Click here to listen on Spotify.

On Friday’s Drive I was joined by local singer, songwriter Sophie Griffiths. We had a lovely catch up about all sorts from what’s been happening since releasing her debut EP “Stuck In My Head” to what it’s like hearing her own songs featuring on TV shows like Love Island and I’m A Celebrity. We also talked about how Gen Z dating inspired Sophie’s latest single “Modern Love” plus would she ever go on Love Island and what’s the worst chat up line EVER?

Modern Love by Sophie Griffiths is out now. Click here to listen on Spotify.

Ahead of Monday’s Drive I caught up with singer, songwriter Benjamin Francis AKA Seeking Benjamin about his wonderful Christmas song. We talked about all sorts from his earliest memories of songwriting and his musical beginnings to playing live in freezing temperatures this winter. We also talked about his new Christmas single “Santa, Leave Something For Me” raising funds and awareness of the Cots For Tots charity who have been a huge support to Ben’s family while his son was receiving treatment in hospital. Through their support, the family were able to stay together for the four months that Oscar was in hospital. The lyrics in the single were written by Ben’s son Oscar while they spent time together in the studio. “Santa, Leave Something For Me” by Seeking Benjamin is out now. click here to listen on Spotify. This christmas single is included in this year’s Drivetime Christmas Chart, click here for details about how you can vote for it!

Ahead of Friday’s Drive I caught up with singer, songwriter and multi instrumentalist Katie Cole. We talked about all sorts from a crazy couple of years on tour and developing, releasing and performing new music as part of The Smashing Pumpkins to Katie’s plans for a new solo EP in 2023, her latest Christmas single “Baby, It’s Christmas” and how Christmas in Australia compares to the US and UK! Plus Katie talked about what it’s like playing small venues compared to huge arenas like Madison Square Garden and shared some fantastic advice for solo musicians about developing confidence on stage too. Katie has a growing collection of fantastic original Christmas songs to her name and as we’ve got Cliff and the US has Mariah… I’m pitching Katie Cole as the Australian Queen of Christmas!

“Baby, It’s Christmas” by Katie Cole is out now. click here to listen on Spotify.

This christmas single is included in this year’s Drivetime Christmas Chart, click here for details about how you can vote for it!

Ahead of Thursday’s Drive I caught up with singer, songwriter, broadcaster and reigning champion of last year’s Drivetime Christmas number one, Mal Pope. It was lovely to catch up with Mal after his busy year releasing some of my favourite tracks of 2022 and we talked about all sorts including his current Christmas single featuring fellow Welsh icon Bronwen Lewis. We also covered all sorts from the World Cup to his plans for 2023. We talked about how his old school friend, Carolyn Harris MP managed to persuade him to release an entire album for the Everyone Deserves A Christmas campaign, how Mal’s fundraising efforts have included a video starring Catherine Zeta-Jones, calling a favour from his neighbourhood links to Nashville, working with a 200-strong choir of ladies and how he even managed to get the ACTUAL Jesus Christ Superstar on the album too! To find out more or about the Everyone Deserves A Christmas Campaign and to donate visit www.malpope.com.

“Christmas With The Pope & Friends” the album is out now. Click here to listen on Spotify.

This christmas single is included in this year’s Drivetime Christmas Chart, click here for details about how you can vote for it!

To hear Mal’s previous interview on Phoenix FM, in the summer of 2021, click here.

Ahead of Wednesday’s Drive I caught up with singer/songwriter Ben Drake of The Ben Drake Collective. We covered all sorts from his new venture into learning piano and how it became part of his gorgeous new Christmas song written to capture the Christmas spirit as a thank you, of sorts, for our loved ones who care for us in our times of need. We also talked about how songwriting helped him to process grief since losing his father. Since then, Ben has became an ambassador for The Pulmonary Fibrosis Trust and is releasing a charity Christmas single to raise vital funds for them. To find out more about the trust and the song listen to the full interview. To find out more about The Pulmonary Fibrosis Trust visit www.pulmonaryfibrosistrust.org

Christmas Time by The Ben Drake Collective is out now. Click here to listen on Spotify.

This christmas single is included in this year’s Drivetime Christmas Chart, click here for details about how you can vote for it!

Ahead of Thursday’s Drive I caught up with Andrew & Charles, founding members of Irish folk band The Mary Wallopers. We covered all sorts from their debut self-titled album to their UK Tour and what it’s been like bringing their Irish folk songs to England, Scotland and Wales. We also talked about their fantastic meditation retreats, what they’ve had thrown at them, that infamous photo you’ll see in their local pub (and in their album sleeve!) plus, of course, their latest single Cod Liver & The Orange Juice.

On Wednesday’s Drive I was joined by youth mentor, proud Dad, singer/songwriter, founder of The 21 Up Movementand all round genuine top bloke, Perry Blake AKA Foebt Fully. Perry spoke openly about a his turbulent youth and how he turned the challenges and adversities in his own life into a positive force for change. He spoke openly about his passion to improve the lives of young people and how he’s proactively supporting and creating opportunities for others through The 21 UP Movement. We also talked about all sorts of other things from parenting to public speaking and from youth clubs to snapback caps!

Perry is launching a new youth club in Brentwood at The Hermit Club every Friday from 3:15pm starting this week on Friday 25th November.

You can find out more about The 21 Up Movement here.

You can also checkout Perry’s music under his musical alias of Foebt Fully. Click here to listen on Spotify.

On Thursday’s Drive I was joined by local singer/songwriter Ellie-Marie for a chat all about her new single “Promise” and a catch up on some of her upcoming gigs too. We talked about all sorts from the inspiration behind her new single and what’s coming up in the new year plus how and why she recently re-wrote lyrics for a lettuce and of course, a little bit of JLS.

On Friday’s Drive I was joined by local singer/songwriter Louise Parker to celebrate the release of her brand new single “Littel Bit Drnk” which landed at number one in the UK country charts! Louise brought her guitar to play her new single live in the studio for us, we talked about all sorts from her earliest songwriting memories, the inspiration behind her new single and upcoming gigs to Taylor Swfiting through life and mistaking sick bowls for cowboy hats!

On Friday’s Drive it was great to have Alex from Brentwood’s own Ocean Flaws live in the studio for a chat all about their highly anticipated debut EP “Zoo Doo Magic”. We talked about Alex’s experience returning to Doddinghurst Road to our studio and almost passing his childhood home on the way. Along with something of a track-by-track of the full EP we heard a little about how it all came together both musically and logistically… we even covered some essential band admin including the infamous Ocean Flaws shared Google Drive! As, always there were a lot of laughs along the way and Alex even became the latest musically gifted victim/supporter of the Stylophone-in… I’m still waiting to hear whether or not they’ll let me join the band for stylophone solos.

Ahead of Thursday’s Drive I caught up with Scott Feierstein AKA Just Scott for a chat about his new single “Take Back The Night” out Friday 28th October. We talked about all sorts from Scott’s musical beginnings playing trumpet in school and how storm sandy wiped out his beloved guitar pedals to how covid inspired him to get back into music and why watching the news inspired his latest single. We also did an 80s music quiz which was definitely not as easy as either of us thought! How did you do?!

Take Back The Night by Just Scott is out now. Click here to listen on Spotify.

Ahead of Monday’s Drive I caught up with our very own Michelle Ward. As well as being the star of her own daily radio show right here on Phoenix FM (Eat My Brunch 10am-1pm) Michelle is also a singer, songwriter and all round superstar of the local music scene. It was great to catch up about Michelle’s music and talk in detail about her debut EP “Directions” which comes out on 26th October. We talked about the inspiration behind the lead track “Try” and in amongst a lot of laughs Michelle shared some inspiring life advice on why it’s never too late in life to achieve your goals. We also talked about what it was like working with some fantastic musicians on the EP from producer Ed Rome to recording a track with The Condriacs plus everything from TikTok, tambourines and Michael Bublé.

Fresh from her incredible live show and EP launch at Hot Box in Chelmsford, singer/songwriter Roisin O’Hagan brought her guitar to the studio for a very special live acoustic session and performed three stripped back tracks from the new EP. We also had another chat about all sorts including a post-gig debrief, an introduction and radio debut for her new guitar “Wally” and the official naming and unveiling of a newly “up-cycled” guitar that I rescued, restored and repurposed. Roisin renamed it “Helda” and became the first of many musical stars to sign it! (The last time Roisin signed a guitar she wrote her name next to Neil Young…)

Dreamstate by Roisin O’Hagan is out now. Click here to listen on Spotify.

To hear us talk in more detail about the full EP alongside an exclusive track-by-track with Roisin click here.

Ahead of Friday’s Drive I caught up with singer/songwriter Roisin O’Hagan for a chat about her new EP Dreamstate. Roisin joined us for an exclusive track-by-track of the new EP and as well as each individual song we talked about all sorts from her upcoming live show at Hotbox Chelmsford and a little insight into future releases to her first experience in co-writing, some outstanding life advice for anyone who needs a confidence boost and an amazing story about meeting the OTHER Roisin O’Hagan!

Dreamstate by Roisin O’Hagan is out now. Click here to listen on Spotify.

You can see Roisin O’Hagan performing the full EP live at Hot Box, Chelmsford on Saturday 8th October click here for tickets.

Ahead of Tuesday’s Drive I was joined by Bruce Foxton and Russel Hostings of From The Jam. After The Jam split, bassist Bruce Foxton formed From The Jam to continue touring the band’s huge hits and since joining forces Foxton & Hastings have released two studio albums. It was great to chat to both of them ahead of their third studio album, The Butterfly Effect. We covered all sorts from what it’s like playing The Jam’s hits live, how a Covid induced touring break lead them to the studio and what we’ve got to look forward to in the new album. Plus a top tip for drying a wet phone and a few thoughts on the charts and modern radio.

Lula by Foxton & Hastings is out now. Click here to listen on Spotify. The new album ‘The Butterfly Effect’ is due out on 28th October 2022.

Ahead of the next As Yet Untitled Rock Show I caught up with welsh rock band Himalayas. We talked about their phenomenal new singles “Out Of The Dark & Into The Light” and a few details about their upcoming album as well as their UK tour. We also covered all sorts of other things too from how the band formed, effective methods for tidying up and how Joe’s health scare motivated him to write differently. Oh and I began a campaign to persuade them to write a song about cake. Grab your Battenberg! Out Of The Dark & Into The Light by Himalayas is out now. Click here to listen on Spotify. You can also see Himalayas live on Tour.

On Wednesday’s Drive I was joined by local singer, songwriter Sophie Griffiths. We caught up talked about all sorts from her fantastic new single “Monster” to her upcoming EP “Stuck In My Head” and her live headline show to celebrate the release at The Grace, London. We also found out where you might see a few stickers dotted around the local area – send us a selfie if you spot one!

Monster by Sophie Griffiths is out now. Click here to listen on Spotify.

Every now and then, you get the chance to meet your heroes. One of my first ever gigs was seeing Status Quo so it was awesome to be zooming into Francis Rossi’s home for a chat! We covered all sorts from memories of playing around Essex and some great advice for new musicians to flies, orangeries and the new Quo album!

Quo’ing In – The Best Of The Noughties by Status Quo is out now. Click here to listen on Spotify. You can also see Status Quo live on thier Out Out Quoing Tour.

Ahead of Wednesday’s Drive George and I caught up with Johnny, frontman and singer from one of Essex’s favourite punk bands, Pet Needs. We talked about all sorts from how the two brothers formed the band at a loose end to their recent experience touring the US. We also discussed their upcoming album Primetime Entertainment, what it was like working with Frank Turner as producer and blending punk with orchestra plus Johnny shared some fantastic advice on how to stand out as a support band on tour. Fear For The Whole Damn World by Pet Needs is out now. Click here to listen on Spotify. The album Primetime Entertainment will be released on September 9th.

Ahead of Thursday’s Drive I caught up with Olly from Manchester based Uno Mas. We talked about their crowd pleasing new single “High” and all sorts of other stuff from their recent gig at The Shacklewell Arms and why filming the new video lead to lots of laughs/falls/bruises to Kasabian, lockdown walks, Shanghai Knights, dog masks and Bruno Mars! High by Uno Mas is out now. Click here to listen on Spotify.

On Friday’s Drive I was joined by singer, songwriter, podcaster and all round top bloke Fraser Morgan. As well as playing an awesome live acoustic set for us, we chatted about all sorts from his passion for gigs, words and meeting people to raising awareness and support for mental health, the inspiration behind some of his songs and all sorts of other things from Ralph’s shed to Kermit the frog! Home Is Where The Heart Is by Fraser Morgan is out now. Click here to listen on Spotify.

Ahead of Monday’s Drive I caught up with singer, songwriter, musician and producer Jazz Robertson. We talked about her fantastic new single “It Ain’t Me” plus all sorts of other things from learning the violin to writing poetry and loads more.

It Ain’t Me by Jazz Robertson is out now. Click here to listen on Spotify.

On Monday’s Drive I was joined by singer, songwriter Maya Lane for a live acoustic session. We had a chat too about all sorts from applying for festival slots aged 12 to her current gigs and what inspired her latest release “When You Need Me” plus loads of other things too like some of her earliest memories performing in the school show and some top tips for finding vintage fashion! When You Need Me by Maya Lane is out now. Click here to listen on Spotify.

Ahead of Tuesday’s Drive I caught up with singer, songwriter Breeze Redwine. We talked about her latest release “Pretty Tough Girl” and the empowering message behind it as well as her recent experience performing the track during the Euros, her musical journey, upcoming gigs and all sorts… including her staring role in the school show! Pretty Tough Girl by Breeze Redwine is out now. Click here to listen on Spotify.

Ahead of Friday’s Drive I caught up with Sean from Brentwood based Ocean Flaws to introduce their new single Zoo Doo Magic. Exciting times are afoot for the band as they new single is the title track from their upcoming debut EP due for lease later this year. We talked all about the new single, a cheeky preview of what’s to come over the next few months and debriefed after their incredible headline show at The Shacklewell Arms plus we covered all the other key subjects like topless crowd surfing and why Callum can’t pass a MacDonald’s without experiencing PTSD.

Zoo Doo Magic by Ocean Flaws is out now. Click here to listen on Spotify.

Reflecting on the Lionesses incredible performance both on and off the pitch during the European Championships I caught up with Co-chair of West Ham’s Pride Of Irons, women’s officer for pride in football, passionate football fan, podcast host and fellow Phoenix FM presenter Jo Bailey. As well as a first-hand account of the awesome scenes that unfolded at Wembley last Sunday, Jo talked about how we can build on the momentum of the tournament to change the future of women’s football, what can be done to improve access for young girls at school and club level and how a one club mentality is the way foreword.

On Wednesday’s Drive I was joined by local singer-songwriter Ellie-Marie for a chat all about her new single “2 Sides” and her latest musical endeavours. We covered all sorts of other stuff too from memories of writing her first song lyrics in a princess notepad to being inspired by JLS! 2 Sides by Ellie-Marie is out on Friday 29th July. Click here to listen on Spotify.

On Monday’s Drive I was joined by music blogger, radio host and singer, songwriter Grace Calver for a live acoustic session. We had a chat too about all sorts from how she began her journey into radio, The Grace Note Blog, her music and what it’s been like playing live festivals this year. We also covered other important things like what’s it like when someone finds out you wrote a song about them and losing your guitar capo. Plus Grace joined in with the Stylophone-in!

Bored Of U by Grace Calver is out now. Click here to listen on Spotify.

Ahead of Wednesday’s Drive I caught up with now London based singer songwriter Alice Merton. Alice’s breakthrough single “No Roots” was an instant anthem for anyone with experience of relocating their lives so it was great to chat to her about her feelings looking back on a childhood of living in different countries. We covered all sorts of other stuff too from her fantastic new album S.I.D.E.S and touring with Bastille to how making music helps her process emotions and come through the “other side” – plus that time she rocked the mic so hard it broke!

S.I.D.E.S by Alice Merton is out now. Click here to listen on Spotify.

Ahead of Monday’s Drive I caught up with director, producer and writer Max Newsom for a chat about his latest movie Iceland Is Best. The film tells the story of Sigga, a 17 year-old girl trying to leave home in Iceland, and make her way to California. We talked about how the film was inspired by a chance meeting with an Icelandic woman who had an incredible story to tell, how Max and the production team made the film and what it was like filming on location in such a stunning but dangerous landscape plus lots more. Iceland is Best is out now and available to purchase or rent on DVD via iTunes and Prime Video. For a list of other streaming platforms, click here.

On Wednesday’s Drive I was joined by local singer, songwriter Sophie Griffiths. We caught up on her recent headline show and upcoming gigs to the inspiration behind her stunning new single “Evergreen”. We also covered all sorts of other things from songwriting to petrol prices and her Nan’s new-found TikTok fame!

Evergreen by Sophie Griffiths is out now. Click here to listen on Spotify.

Ahead of Thursday’s Drive I caught up with London based Italian-English singer songwriter Morena Santi for a chat about all sorts from her recent rebranding channeling her inner Mediterranean roots and her new single “Good Intentions” to Vans, holidaying in Italy and beatboxing.

Good Intentions by Morena Santi is out now. Click here to listen on Spotify.

Ahead of Monday’s Drive I caught up with pianist, comedian, singer and Britain’s Got Talent winner, Jon Courtenay. We covered all sorts from his memories of life as a variety performer before his BGT appearance to his famous golden-buzzer moment and beyond. Jon also spoke openly about his battle with cancer and how writing material based on his experience was difficult but important plus why he might be feeling a few butterflies ahead of the first preview of his new show at Brentwood Theatre on Tuesday!

You can see Jon Courtenay performing his one man show “Against The Odds” at Brentwood Theatre on Tuesday 14th May, click here for tickets. For more information about Jon and where else you can see him perform, click here.

On Tuesday’s Drive I was joined by singer, songwriter Shea Rafferty for a very special live acoustic session. We had a chat too about Shea’s musical beginnings, from the first song he wrote to his mist recent release and how it was written in tribute to his mum. We also covered all sorts from live gigs and his upcoming album to his radio show.

You’ll Be There by Shea Rafferty is out now. Click here to listen on Spotify.

You can see Shea performing live at the Underbelly in Hoxton on 18th June. Click here for tickets.

Ahead of Wednesday’s Drive I caught up with keyboardist, songwriter and producer Geoff Downes. Geoff plays keyboard in several iconic bands including YES, ASIA and The Buggles so it was great to chat about what it’s like juggling being in several successful bands at once, what it’s like to be in a “supergroup” and whether new material written for one band ever finds it’s way into the other band! We also covered the upcoming tour with YES, a very special ASIA live box set and, despite the success of all his bands, how he still gets a buzz hearing one of their songs on the radio.

You can see YES on the tour celebrating the 50th anniversary of their iconic Close To the Edge album featuring the album played in full along with other classic tracks from YES’s extensive catalogue. Click here for tickets.

You can pre-order your copy of ASIA Live At The Budokan Arena in 1983. The deluxe boxset includes 2LP, 2CD, 40 page 12″ book, Blu-ray DVD, printed memorabilia and ASIA pin badge. Released on BMG Records on 10th June. Click here to get yours.

Ahead of this edition of The #AsYetUntitledRockShow I was joined in the studio by Southend based rock band Under One Sun for an incredible live acoustic set plus full band interview about their new single Blood Paper. We covered all sorts from what it’s like to be in a band with your brother to initiation ceremonies for new members and dreams of a guitar solo on the rides at Adventure Island! We also talked about how the band found creative energy in lockdown, what they’ve got coming soon and a few live gigs in the local area.

Ahead of Wednesday’s Drive I caught up with singer, songwriter and TikTok star Chloe Collins for a chat about her storming new song “That’s On You”. We covered all sorts of other stuff too from birthdays and TikTok livestreams to the dangers of dating a songwriter! We also talked about Chloe’s growing list of songs that have made tv soundtracks, her love of US TV show Criminal Minds and how it definitely doesn’t compare to Midsomer Murders. Plus, she’s coming to the UK soon!

That’s On You by Chloe Collins is out now. Click here to listen on Spotify.

Ahead of Monday’s Drive I caught up with singer, songwriter and sunflower pop gal, Jaz Beeson for a lovely chat about her wonderful new single, Coffee Machine Sounds. We spoke about how being stuck in the office inspired the track and the intimacy of the new desk demo edit of the song featuring the ingenious musical invention of chickpeas in gravy! We covered all sorts of other stuff too from Jaz’s route into music and her upcoming live shows to misheard song lyrics, singing to the steering wheel and Colin the Caterpillar.

Coffee Machine Sounds (Desk Demo) by Jaz Beeson is out now. Click here to listen on Spotify.

Click here to listen to Jaz performing in session on Phoenix FM with Andy Gardener.

Ahead of Friday’s Drive I caught up with two cool kids Alex & Hamish from Brentwood’s Ocean Flaws for a chat about their new single “Keep It Cool”. We covered all sorts from the juicy lyrical and musical details of the new single to their upcoming live gigs and forthcoming EP. As always, we also covered the serious subjects like who would be the most likely member of the band to go on Strictly, stealing Kit Kats and Scientology to crowdsurfing a kitchen sink. Plus, Alex told us about his heroic efforts to raise funds for Mind.

Keep it Cool by Ocean Flaws is out now. Click here to listen on Spotify.

To support Alex in his fundraising visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/alex-pattle4.

Ahead of Wednesday’s Drive I caught up with George from Big Image, a new band creating some of the most exciting new sounds out of Birmingham! We talked about how the C-word inspired their rebrand and breathed new life into their music, how they manage to get the sounds and visions in their heads and the inspiration behind their euphoric new single “Something”. We also covered their debut EP “Human Touch Is Forever” and their passion for live music plus their recent gig at Villa Park!

Human Touch Is Forever by Big Image is out now. Click here to listen on Spotify.

Ahead of Thursday’s Drive I caught up with Southend based musician, singer, songwriter Ted Groves. Ted, complete with drum kit, zoomed in part way through a recording session to have a lovely chat about his new single, Daydreams. We also covered all sorts from his musical influences, gigging with his brother, signing to Cool Thing Records and layering his music to why drummers might not be the best next door neighbours!

Ahead of Tuesday’s Drive I caught up with singer and Debbie Harry lookalike, Chloe from Blondie Tribute Band, Totally Blondie. Whilst, hanging on the telephone we covered all sorts from Chloe’s own musical background singing on Terry Wogan’s radio show with an outstanding list of household names to how lockdown inspired virtual gigs and recording their own reworking of some Blondie classics. We also talked about the band’s current tour and all the details of their upcoming show at Chelmsford Social Club on 28th April.

Ahead of Friday’s Drive I caught up with singer, songwriter from Brentwood Josie Beth for a chat about her fantastic debut single. We covered all sorts from juggling her musical endeavours alongside a uni degree to inventive ways to name a song and why we’ll probably never hear her song about the days of the week!

Wish I Could Too by Josie Beth is out now. Click here to listen on Spotify.

Ahead of Wednesday’s Drive I caught up with Hutton based singer, songwriter Sophie Griffiths. We covered everything from Sophie’s hilarious TikTok cover songs to her incredible new single “Machine” inspired by her experiences of anxiety. Naturally, we covered all sorts of other topics too from Colin the Caterpillar and a quiz to discover “how old is your soul” to her upcoming headline gig and performing at The Great Escape Festival.

Machine by Sophie Griffiths is out now. Click here to listen on Spotify.

Ahead of Wednesday’s Drive I caught up with Essex based singer, songwriter Roisin O’Hagan. Part way through a trip to the US recording in Nashville, Roisin zoomed in for a chat about her latest releases, her fantastic new single “Sunset Valley” and the new music video plus all sorts from finding Taylor Swift’s mic to gigging at Liverpool’s legendary Cavern Club and more.

Ahead of Tuesday’s Drive I caught up with musician, singer, songwriter and star of The Josh Ramsay Show, Josh Ramsay! With songwriting credits on huge hits by the likes of Nickelback, Carly Rae Jepson and 5 Seconds of Summer plus being the frontman of Canadian rockers Marianas Trench, Josh is certainly no stranger to the music industry. The Josh Ramsay Show is Josh’s debut solo album so it was great to chat to him his first solo venture, how he put together one of the most eclectic and varied albums out there and working with a range of Canadian icons from Chad Kroeger to Bryan Adams!

Ahead of Friday’s Drive I caught up with musician, singer, songwriter Will Joseph Cook. An undisputed TikTok star I talked to Will about his breakthrough single “Be Around Me”, what it was like putting together his highly anticipated third album, his latest single “Little Miss” and all sorts from the pros and cons of releasing on his own record label and his love of Nintendo to playing live in a hot air balloon in Mexico!

Every Single Thing by Will Joseph Cook is out 10th June on Bad Hotel / The Vertex and you can also see him playing live on tour in all the following places…

Thursday 17 March – The Joiners, Southampton

Friday 18 March – The Prince Albert, Brighton

Saturday 19 March – The Castle & Falcon, Birmingham

Sunday 20 March – Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff

Tuesday 22 March – Think Tank, Newcastle

Wednesday 23 March – King Tut’s, Glasgow

Thursday 24 March – The Deaf Institute, Manchester

Friday 25 March – The Wardrobe, Leeds

Sunday 27 March – Lafayette, London

Ahead of Monday’s Drive I caught up with London based singer, songwriter and musician Viji. We talked about all sorts from growing up in Vienna in a musical family and making her own instruments to getting inspiration from books and movies, recording from home and how a cold British winter inspired her most sun-soaked single “Cali”.

Cali by Viji is out 11th March and you can also see her headline London’s Dream Bags Jaguar Shoes on 11th March. Click here for details.

Ahead of Thursday’s Drive I caught up with local mum and paramedic Serena De Lastic. Inspired by her patients, family and her own experience of working through the pandemic as a paramedic and in vaccination clinics, Serena has written a poem and a short story. Witchy Poos and the Covid Fairy is a short illustrated story to help children with any anxieties and questions they may have around getting a vaccine. We talked about how Serena was inspired to write the story, how her daughter Raven’s puppets and drawings brought the characters to life and how her colleague Fran Montgomerie helped to illustrate this wonderful story. We also talked about the crowdfunding campaign to get this story into schools and children’s hands, where you might see Witchy Poos again in the near future and you can even hear Serena reading the book on my Poetry Podcast!

To support Serena in publishing and getting more copies of this book into schools click here to visit her Crowdfunding page.

Ahead of Tuesday’s Drive I caught up with musician, composer, author, lecturer and Queen of Kingston University Stylophone Orchestra, Dr Leah Kardos. We talked about her work at Kingston University and Visconti Studio, how a car boot full of stylophones inspired their album and getting Tony Visconti involved to produce their version of Space Oddity. We also talked about Leah’s new book Blackstar Theory: The Last Works of David Bowie and how limitations can inspire creativity.

Stylophonika, the debut album from Kingston University Stylophone Orchestra is out now on Spun Out Of Control Records. For more information about Visconti Studio click here and to find out more about Dr Leah Kardos including more of her music and writing, click here.

On Friday’s Drive I was joined by Callum & Hamish from Brentwood based Ocean Flaws to introduce their new single Karmageddon. We talked about how the single came into being, how the song evolved musically & lyrically plus all sorts of other stuff from Hamish’s new moustache to the whereabouts of the blowup doll and drinking in a field on a sofa in Doddinghurst!

You can download the new single, find out more and follow Ocean Flaws if you click here.

For over 55 years this all girls marching band has given young girls an opportunity to learn music, make friends, gain confidence and travel the world to perform. With the departure of the band master in recent years, they have struggled to find a permanent replacement and so Jessica joined us for a chat about the history of The Haverettes, her fond memories performing with the group as a young musician and why it is so important that they continue to offer future generations of young girls the opportunity to join The Haverettes.

Formed in 1965, because their daughter and other girls were only allowed to march behind the Hornchurch Drum and Trumpet Corps (an all boys band) as majorettes, Alf and Sylvia Smith from Hornchurch in Essex decided to form an all girls marching band. Over the years the band then went from strength to strength, going from a one song routine to a huge repertoire and various displays under their belt. The girls had a major impact at various levels in National Competitions and compete at the highest level in TYMBA contests, formerly national champions. The band are often invited to perform in various shows and carnivals across the UK and Europe as well as being in various music videos including the Inspiral Carpets and Enya, on ITV’s This Morning and even TV adverts too. The latest being the Mulberry Christmas Advert 2018, the 12 days of Christmas (look out for their feet / drums!).

The Haverettes are holding an extraordinary general meeting on Sunday 13th February 6:30pm – 8:30pm at Elm Park Assembly Hall to discuss the future of the band. If you or somebody you know would be interested in helping to support the continuation of the group then please do attend or get in touch as soon as possible by contacting them here.

Ahead of Friday’s Drive our resident film critic on Phoenix FM, Mark Searby caught up with Actor Stephen Moyer about his latest film Confession, his roots in the local area and how his True Blood co-star, now wife, Anna Paquin has picked up plenty of Essex slang! A local boy, Stephen grew up in Brentwood, his mother still lives in Billericay and for many years he was the patron of Brentwood Theatre. Although he now lives in LA, Stephen shared many fond memories of life in Brentwood from some of his early jobs at various places in the high street, buying his first single at Kelly’s Records, how Brentwood’s cinema used to be the centre of his universe and even confessed some naughty stories involving the back page ads in the Brentwood Gazette!

Ahead of Monday’s Drive I caught up with local crime writer, journalist, teacher and all round top bloke Trevor Warman about his new book “Don’t Look Back Hungover“. Writing from his own personal experience of problem drinking, Trevor’s empowering story explains how he went from believing he would never be able to end an unhealthy relationship with alcohol to living a happier life of sobriety. We talked about how he got into writing, his original crime series, how his passion for writing and teaching combine to pass on the art of his craft and how he overcame the challenges of writing about such a personal subject in this book. Trevor also shared some terrific advice for writers, and a little about how Andy’s Man Club can help men through a difficult time.

Don't Look Back Hungover: how to handle your drinking demons

Ahead of Thursday’s Drive I caught up with Sarah Brown. Throughout an incredible career as a vocalist Sarah has sung with the likes of Stevie Wonder, George Michael, Pink Floyd, Simply Red, Roxy Music, Duran Duran, a huge list of other iconic artists and is about to embark on another tour with Simple Minds. Today, she releases her debut solo single ahead of her debut solo album and it was great to talk to Sarah about the release and how Mahalia Jackson inspired not only this song but has been a constant source of inspiration for Sarah’s career. We also talked about her route into music, some of the obstacles she had to overcome and Sarah also shared some priceless advice for anyone struggling with self doubt PLUS of all the people she’s worked with… who wouldn’t she introduce to her mum?!

Ahead of a special edition of The #AsYetUntitledRockShow I caught up with previous guest of the show and prog rock royalty, Ian Anderson for a chat about Jethro Tull’s new album. It’s been almost 20 years since the band released their last studio album and as Ian spoke of new music when he was last on the show back in 2019 – it was great to finally hear and get to talk about his latest work. We also talked about how he drew inspiration from the bible, recording from home and how, despite the vinyl revival, he prefers to listen to music on a digital device! The Zealot Gene is out on 28th January 2022.

Ahead of The #AsYetUntitledRockShow I caught up with Henry from British rock trio Nova Bloom for a chat about the band, live gigs, why their dog supports West Ham and their latest single Out Tonight.

Ahead of Friday’s Drive I caught up with actress & co-producer Carianne Dunford to chat about a short story with a long reach, The Long Walk. Based on a true story, this uplifting and thought-provoking psychological drama part-filmed in Essex puts mental health in the spotlight and is now in post-production. Carianne talked a little about her character and exclusively revealed two of the profile actors in the film. Two familiar faces of British TV, Michelle Collins (Coronation Street, Dr Who, Casualty) and Daniel Casey (Eastenders, Midsomer Murders, Marchlands, The Bill) – if that wasn’t enough to tempt you it also features Phoenix FM’s own Nick Field and Stewart Pink as extras!

The short film has gained the majority of its finances from a successful crowdfunding campaign and to raise the funds needed to finalise production and help towards distribution costs you are invited to join members of the cast and crew at a virtual quiz night. The quiz will take place via zoom on Sunday 12th December from 7pm, tickets are £5 and 20% of all proceeds from the quiz will go to the charity MIND. For more information and to purchase tickets email info1thelongwalkfilm@gmail.com or visit http://greenlit.com/project/long-walk.

Ahead of Thursday’s Drive I caught up with director, writer, producer, podcaster and all round top bloke Paul Tanter. We talked about his latest film “Stealing Chaplin” which tells the story of two brothers who plot to steal the body of Charlie Chaplin and ransom it for a fortune. A dark but brilliantly comical story, this British film was directed by Paul and is now out on DVD and on all usual streaming platforms. We talked about the new film, his route into directing, his podcast Talking Bottom, directing TV series such as Age of The Living Dead and No Easy Days, his experiences in front of the camera as well as behind it and the moment a Hollywood actor tried to incorporate a cowboy hat into a scene!

Ahead of Tuesday’s Drive I caught up with producer, arranger, conductor, multi-instrumentalist and the man behind The RAH Band, Richard Hewson. He zoomed in through the clouds across Sussex for a chat about the history of The RAH Band, the inspiration behind their iconic 80s hit Clouds Across The Moon and, of course, their uplifting and inspiring new single, One Day We’ll Smile Again, featuring the heartfelt vocals of nineteen year old Bella Hutton.

I also had the pleasure of catching up with another previous guest and friend of the show, Oleg Piskunov from Big Ban. Their recent video went viral after Slash caused an internet storm and their new EP Fallen King is a whole new level of epic.

Ahead of Tuesday’s Drive I caught up with folk/punk superstar Frank Turner! I last saw Frank for a chat backstage at Southend Cliffs Pavilion during his Lost Evenings Tour a few days before Covid brought the tour to a halt. This time the Wessex boy turned Essex boy zoomed in for a catch up about his latest releases and his new album FTHC, his live shows and restarting the Never Ending Tour of Everywhere from January 2022! We covered his relocation to Essex, recording from his home studio, how FTHC became a more confessional, autobiographical album and writing with “the wince” from his own experience of mental health and anxiety plus why he’s hungrier than ever to blast people away with live music!

Click here to listen from 3pm on Tuesday 16th November on Phoenix FM or click play below to hear the full, uninterrupted interview now.

Frank Turner’s ninth studio album FTHC will be released on 11th February 2021 click here to pre-order and you can see Frank performing live on The Never Ending Tour Of Everywhere 2022 starting in January.

The first time that the beat drops in the bar it’s going to be biblical.

Ahead of Friday’s Drive and to celebrate NSPCC Childline’s 35th birthday, I caught up Sarah Laffling, Fundraising Manager for NSPCC in East Anglia. After a few updates on fundraising, the Childline 35 Club and our “Drive Aid” fundraiser – the Childline 35 Challenge, Dame Esther Rantzen also took the time to share a few memories of founding Childline in 1986 plus some words of support to the fundraisers and volunteers who still keep Childline running 35 years later. We also covered the many different ways you can contact childline both online or via email, message board or telephone.

For more information on Childline 35 Club click here. For more events and information about NSPCC East Anglia visit their Facebook page and for more information or support from NSPCC visit www.nspcc.org.uk.

Ahead of Wednesday’s Drive I caught up with Jasper from Isla Rico for a chat about the band’s latest single, Butterflies. We also covered all sorts from the formation and rebranding of the band to song inspirations, advice for budding musicians, Elton John, One Direction, Dua Lipa and we even find out who chipped a tooth on stage! In the full podcast edition we also get through a whole bunch of your questions too as part of Isla Rico’s fan Q&A!

You can see Isla Rico live in London & in Manchester in December. Click here for tickets.

Ahead of Tuesday’s Drive I caught up with Dan and Lorna of folk punk band Skinny Lister. We talked about their fantastic new album, A Matter Of Life And Love, breaking out the sax, their upcoming tour, how lockdown came early, pizza, trampolining and another near miss with my stylophone!

The fifth studio album from Skinny Lifter, A Matter Of Life And Love is out now, to listen and for tickets to their upcoming tours visit www.skinnylister.com.

Ahead of Thursday’s Drive I caught up with Hutton based singer, songwriter Sophie Griffiths for a chat about her latest single, Home, taking inspiration from reflections on her hometown and family. We also covered all sorts from singing with Mum, Dad’s record collection and Sophie’s upcoming gigs to lockdown walks, getting lost in a field and Adele’s new album!

Ahead of Wednesday’s Drive I caught up with Leanne, Paul and Ian who together with Ashley combine musical forces to bring us LeAnne Burke Band. United via internet during lockdown they previously joined us to talk about their charity single “Save Our Heroes” but with the musical companionship as strong as ever it was great to catch up about their new music and to unleash their debut single “Today”. We also talked about songwriting in a group that have never met in person and a shocking twist as to the origins of the band name!

Ahead of Friday’s Drive I caught up with singer, songwriter, musician, producer and synth pop star BYFYN for a chat about her fantastic new single “Everything’s Not Lost”. We also covered the distinct lack of deserts in the UK, mastering the guitar in 4 weeks, her latest music video, live gigs, lockdown sessions and some fantastic advice for rediscovering your “mojo” and inspiration as an artist.

Ahead of Wednesday’s Drive I was joined by Sarah Laffling, Fundraising Manager for NSPCC in East Anglia for a catch up about NSPCC’s Parents In Sport Week, the Childline 35 Club and our first “Drive Aid” fundraiser – the Childline 35 Challenge; a new fundraising campaign to celebrate 35 years of Childline by taking on your own fundraising challenge with the number 35 as inspiration. For a few ideas take a listen… or click here to join the “Drive Aid” fundraising team and support the Childline 35 Challenge.

For more information on Childline 35 Club click here. For more events and information about NSPCC East Anglia visit their Facebook page and for more information or support from NSPCC visit www.nspcc.org.uk.

Ahead of Monday’s Drive I caught up with singer, songwriter, musician and all round icon Gary Kempfor a chat about his new album “INSOLO”. Since Spandau Ballet Gary has been involved with a myriad of projects from albums and films to podcasts. We chatted about his Rockonterus podcast, collaborating with Guy Pratt of Pink Floyd, Roger Taylor of Queen and brother Martin Kemp on the new album. We also covered his memories of Soho, Spandau Ballet, tour plans and my mum’s first experience of Shazam!

Click here to listen from 3pm on Monday 4th October on Phoenix FM or click play below to hear the full, uninterrupted interview now.

Gary Kemp’s new solo album, “INSOLO” is out now, to hear it and for more information visit www.garykemp.com.

Ahead of Thursday’s Drive I caught up with local children’s author Tersha Cutmore for a chat about her debut children’s book “Luca… The Lion Who Couldn’t Eat Meat“. Inspired by her own son Luca, his allergies and their experiences as a family, the story follows Luca the lion as he starts school and begins to really struggle with his feelings and emotions as he watches his friends eat and drink things that he can’t. His friends help him see he is not the only one and encourage him to focus on the positives and look on the bright side of life.

We talked about the message behind the story, Tersha’s experience as a first-time parent understanding and diagnosing allergies, how her son inspired the book, Victoria’s beautiful illustrations and a few top tips for debut writers plus what’s to come in Tersha’s next book.

Luca… The Lion Who Couldn’t Eat Meat is a rhyming, witty and touching story written by Tersha Cutmore and illustrated by Victoria Ward-Fowler. Recommended for age 3+ it’s a must have in any therapeutic/paediatric setting and school or home library, this book is not only for allergy sufferers but for any child who feels different, whatever the reason.

If you or someone you know has written a book, I’d love to hear from you! Click here to get in touch.

Luca the Lion Who Couldn't Eat Meat

On Friday’s Drive I caught up with Gary Mills of Vix20 for a chat about the band’s fantastic new single “Orla The Octopus”. We also covered the petrol crisis, supermarket flowers and 11+ exams but most importantly, had a disco in the deep blue sea as Gary introduced the new track, talked about Michelle Ward’s incredible vocals as Orla, the new video, upcoming singles and live gigs!

On Thursday’s Drive I caught up with local poet Roger Hornett for a chat about his debut poetry collection “The Covid Verses“. Inspired by the events of the pandemic and written from the perspective of a fictional epidemiologist these poems superbly capture a moment in our history whilst questioning the narrative of national media coverage.

“The Covid Verses” by Roger Hornett is available in most book stores now and to get you copy or find out more click here.

If you or someone you know has written a book, I’d love to hear from you! Click here to get in touch.

Ahead of this week’s #AsYetUntitledRockShow I caught up with Kiaran from Sheffield based rock icons The Sherlocks for a chat about their upcoming third album, “World I Understand” which comes out 19th November. Their latest two singles taken from the album feature 2 new members so we chatted about the band’s new make up, their incredible new sound and touring with Liam Gallagher. Plus, as we joined them for a quick game of golf, find out which of the Crook brothers won this round!

The new album “World I Understand” by The Sherlocks is out on 19th November. Click here to pre-order.

Ahead of this week’s #AsYetUntitledRockShow I caught up with Birmingham based singer songwriter Lauren Hoyle for a chat about her debut solo EP “Fun” out 17th September on Babywoman Records. We covered all sorts from songwriting and drawing inspiration from breakups to Gregory Porter and rockstar admin!

Ahead of Wednesday’s Drive I was joined by Sarah Laffling, Fundraising Manager for NSPCC in East Anglia for a catch up about the Childline 35 Club, a new fundraising campaign to celebrate 35 years of Childline plus and a few ideas about how you can help run Childline for a day. We also spoke about some good advice for parents and guardians on helping children deal with the challenges of returning to school this September and some of the ways children and young people can contact Childline or find resources to help at NSPCC.org.uk. Plus find out how a few local fundraising heroes are raising money and how I’ll be taking my first steps towards a mountainous fundraising challenge for NSPCC.

Ahead of Tuesday’s Drive I caught up with Kierran Pearce from Multi Schools Council, a CIC working with schools and young people to challenge negative perceptions towards children with special educational needs and mental health difficulties. We were also joined by singer, songwriter Justine Leigh Harrington who has written a new single featuring 6 school children from across Essex with various learning challenges. The first single from an album out 29th September.

To find out more information about Multi Schools Council click here and for more of Justine’s music click here.

On Friday’s Drive I was joined by Alex Pattle from Brentwood based four-piece Ocean Flaws to introduce their new single Hologram. Their third release in relatively quick succession, I was keen to clarify the rumours that a prop used in their recent video for Hannah’s Ray Gun was locked, loaded and stored in a bucket under a sink in Brentwood. With ray gun myths dispelled we then covered the band’s new single, their new video, upcoming gigs and the exciting news that Hologram currently sits at 2nd place in the iTunes chart!

You can download the new single, find out more and follow Ocean Flaws if you click here.

Ahead of Wednesday’s Drive I caught up with animator, illustrator, creative director and very soon to be a published children’s author Gary Carse. We caught up on a whole bunch of things from his first experience discovering his passion for animation at school to running his animation company Carse & Waterman – Stoke’s answer to Pixar! We also covered his latest venture into writing and illustrating his first children’s book, The Crab Who Went To The Moon.

For the full interview including some great advice for budding animators, how Carse & Waterman lunchbreaks are the BEST and why Gary’s new book is a must read for 8-12 year olds, get listening!

The Crab Who Went To The Moon by Gary Carse is out on Monday 30th August and is available in a multitude of book shops. For more details and to get your copy visit garycarsechildrensbooks.com.

Ahead of Thursday’s Drive I caught up with Andy McCluskey of Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark for a chat about their UK Arena Tour to celebrate the 40th anniversary of their seminal album Architecture & Morality. We also covered all sorts from the formation of OMD and having creative freedom as an artist to his son’s band MiG15, his daughter’s Gameboy and being mostly responsible for Atomic Kitten! Plus… find out why Andy’s banned me from all venues.

You can see OMD on their UK arena tour starting in November 2021 all over the the UK and they’re coming to London on Saturday 13th November at the Eventim Apollo. They’ll be playing their Architecture & Morality album in full to celebrate its 40th anniversary along with all the hits PLUS they’ll be supported by Scruti Politi too. For a full list of all the dates and to find out where you can get your tickets click here.

Ahead of Friday’s Drive I caught up with director, producer and writer Max Newsom to discuss his new film “Iceland Is Best.” The film tells the story of Sigga, a 17 year-old girl trying to leave home in Iceland, and make her way to California. Filmed on location in an unforgiven and stunning Icelandic landscape Max had plenty of stories to tell about the production from battling gale-force winds and unpredictable snowstorms to the real-life inspiration of the film and the incredible journey that making the movie took Max, the cast and the crew on. We discussed a few interesting film industry insights too from financing a movie and how it works casting Hollywood A-listers to the importance of shooting a pre-production mood board and digital filming vs film stock.

Iceland Is Best is coming to selected cinemas and will be screening at Everyman Cinema in Chelmsford on Tuesday 31st August 6pm. The screening is followed by a live Q&A with writer and director Max Newsom, director of photography and producer Dankuro Shinma and producer Will Randall-Coath. The Q&A will be hosted by yours truly, Stewart Pink – so for a continuation of the interview… get your tickets and see you there!

Ahead of Tuesday’s Drive I was joined by Sarah Laffling, Fundraising Manager for NSPCC in East Anglia for a catch up about the Childline 35 Club, a new fundraising project to celebrate 35 years of Childline plus the new Home Or Out Alone campaign designed to help parents and guardians decide whether children are safe to be left home or allowed out on their own.

Ahead of Tuesday’s Drive I caught up with singer/songwriter, multi-instrumentalist and producer Oscar Lang for a chat about his new album Chew The Scenery. We also covered everything from Total Guitar Magazine, his musical mates like Beabadoobee, vinyl records and songwriting to moving out of his parents house, the Piccadilly line and oven meals!

Oscar’s new album Chew The Scenery is out on Friday 13th August and for more information or to pre-order click here.

On Friday’s Drive I was joined by Jasper, Cal and Harvey from Isla Rico to introduce their debut single “Laying In The Summer Rain”. After a successful tour under their previous name as Offshore, which kicked off with a studio session on Phoenix FM (click here), they return with a new name, a whole new vibe and it’s the unmistakable sound of summer.

On Wednesday’s Drive I was joined by Nick Sillitoe of Billericay Mayflower Rotary Club for a chat about this year’s Summer Fest. The free event returns on Sunday 8th August at Sun Corner Field from 11am – 5pm and amongst the attractions will be local musicians performing, a kid’s fun fair, a classic car show, donkey rides, owl display, zorbing, traction engines, local craft and food stalls, a bar and farmer’s market plus loads more.

Ahead of Tuesday’s Drive I caught up with 1/4 of The Overtones and fellow Essex man Darren Everest. We talked about their new album 10 celebrating 10 years since their debut single and the story so far from being discovered on a decorating job to singing (and dancing with) The Queen, Stevie Wonder and Tom Hanks! We also covered Darren’s early footballing days and I briefly joined the band for a whistle-along edition of their latest single Rose Tinted!

On Friday’s Drive I was joined by singer, songwriter and friend of the show, Scott McWatt. We caught up about vaccines, a rather cool new tattoo and his upcoming album, Past Lives. Scott introduced his fantastic new single, Summertime Soul.

Ahead of Monday’s Drive I was joined by Chris Mason & Luke Woods of Chelmsford Business Partnerships for an update on current local CBP events including the Young Business Owners Q&A Meet Up on Friday 30th July.

Ahead of this week’s #AsYetUntitledRockShow I caught up with Charlotte Johnston of Colchester based punk rock band The Broken Johnny’s for a chat about an exciting new addition to the line up, the return of live gigs and new music coming soon!

Ahead of Friday’s Drive I caught up with singer/songwriter and fellow Phoenix FM presenter Michelle Ward. We talked about what it means for her to support new and unsigned musical talent on her show and all about life away from Phoenix FM HQ as a singer. She introduced her terrific debut single Dolly Daydreaming and we also, bizarrely, got to meet the ghost of studio 2.

On Tuesday’s Drive I was joined by Kaye Bundy, Befriending Facilitator for Essex Befriends and long-term Befriender Eliane, for a chat about what befriending is, how it can benefit both the befriender and the befriendee plus, what support is offered and how even just a few minutes out of each week can make a difference.

For more information on Essex Befriends visit www.essexbefriends.org.uk, for more information on Mind in West Essex click here and for more about the Essex map, a free tool designed to bring our communities closer together by helping you to find the services, groups, and activities available in your area, visit www.essexmap.co.uk.

Ahead of this week’s #AsYetUntitledRockShow I caught up with Hels, lead singer of Cambridge based rock band Planet Fatale. We talked about the band’s relatively recent formation, their storming new single “Talking To Myself” and their upcoming album “The Cycle Repeats” out 17th September. We also covered one of Hels’ earliest vocal performances – rocking Whiskey In The Jar at school!

Ahead of Thursday’s Drive I was joined by Sarah Laffling, Fundraising Manager for NSPCC in East Anglia for a catch up about the superhero fundraising efforts of Lexdon Lodge Kindergarten and the success of childhood day, a new annual event. We also discussed Childline 35 Club, a new fundraising project to celebrate 35 years of Childline.

Childline service is there to give young people a voice when no one else is listening. Whatever problems or dangers they’re facing, Childline provides a place for them to turn to for support any time of day or night. NSPCC are looking for 35 companies to each raise money for Childline this year with a target to raise £30,000 which covers the cost to run Childline for one day. The fundraiser also encourages individuals to use the number 35 as inspiration for their fundraising activities.

For more information on Childline 35 Club click here. For more events and information about NSPCC East Anglia visit their Facebook page and for more information or support from NSPCC visit www.nspcc.org.uk.

Ahead of Thursday’s Drive I was joined by fellow Phoenix FM presenter and fellow poet, Rob West. As well as co-presenting Phoenix FM’s Arts Programme Rob has found time during the pandemic to gather together a lifetime collection of his poems and publish them all alongside the story behind each one. Words, Words, Words features poems Rob has written in recent times as well as a few childhood gems that even won house points in school! We talked about his experience bringing together a lifetime collection of his poetry, what it was like revisiting some old ones, the memories they brought back and we even had a go at a new poetry podcast exclusive – a poem off!

Ahead of Tuesday’s Drive Swedish pop super star Darin zoomed in from sunny Greece to join us for a chat about his feel-good dance inducing single “Can’t Stay Away”, celebrating pride month, his new music video and his next album coming soon!

On Monday’s Drive I was joined by Ian Braysher of Chelmsford Business Partnerships for an update. In addition to their breakfast, lunch and wellbeing events CBP have some long-awaited covid secure face-to-face meetings planned in June and July. They recently reached a milestone 50th member and have scheduled their first young persons event for the end of July.

To find out more, click play in the box below and listen to the full interview.

For more information visit www.chelmsfordbusinesspartnerships.org.uk

I caught up with Ian Nicholson of Beaulieu Wills and Estate Planning. Ian recently agreed to jump out of a plane as part of his extreme will writing service, aiming to raise £1,000 for Haven’s Hospice and I'm delighted to say that, as promised, he dialled in to report a safe landing! Click here to find out more and to support Ian in his heroic fundraising efforts!

Ahead of this week’s #AsYetUntitledRockShow I caught up with one half of Brighton based rock duo Wrex, Mae Seaton. Mae told us how a few drinks at a bar lead to forming a band with musical soulmate George, we talked about their debut single Wide Eyes, brand new track Halfway, future album plans and being TOO happy!

On Friday’s Drive we were joined by Executive Producers Andrew Alton Read & Leigh Trifari to chat about a short story with a long reach, The Long Walk. Based on a true story, this uplifting and thought-provoking psychological drama part-filmed in Essex puts mental health in the spotlight and is currently in pre-production. Andrew & Leigh talked to us about the short film and how we can all be a part of supporting their crowdfunding campaign. From one-to-one mentoring sessions to signed posters and shoutouts on Facebook, there are all sorts of perks available and more information about the crowdfunding campaign for The Long Walk can be found at http://greenlit.com/project/long-walk. Andrew also spoke about his own experiences of mental health, using those experiences as an actor and a few tips for better mental health.

For more information on the film, casting and/or crowdfunding contact info1thelongwalkfilm@gmail.com

Ahead of Thursday’s Drive I caught up with Stacey Jackson to discuss some huge news! From her cameo in the movie Reboot Camp, to her a new single “Live It Up: Rebooted” and her brand new TV show “Stacey Jackson In The 80s” – it’s all going on the Jackson house!

Hamish Monk from Essex based quartet Ocean Flaws dialled in from the wild, wild west of Brentwood to introduce their gunslinging new single Hannah’s Ray Gun, inspired by a modern take on the spaghetti western and complete with a real life prototype ray gun... powered by AAA batteries!

Ahead of today’s Drive I caught with Ian Nicholson of Beaulieu Wills and Estate Planning. Ian is a valued supporter of Phoenix FM and writes a regular blog “The Unspeakable Conversation“. Ian recently agreed to jump out of a plane as part of his extreme will writing service, aiming to raise £1,000 for Haven’s Hospice and significantly raise his blood pressure in the process. Click here to find out more and to support Ian in his heroic fundraising efforts! Ian is also offering up his professional services in a free will draw and you can enter by emailing Emma, Legacy and in-memory Fundraiser at ehamilton@havenshospices.org.uk. Please could you email her by the end of Children’s Hospice Week on Sunday 27th June and the draw will take place on Monday 28th June.

Today I had the absolute please of meeting Welsh musician, composer, presenter and all round legend of the music scene Mal Pope!

From making his radio debut with the legendary John Peel and signing with Elton John’s Rocket Records at 13, to hosting The Mal Pope Show on TV and the BBC Radio Wales breakfast show, Mal has met, performed and worked with some of the biggest names in music.

It was fantastic to chat to Mal about his life and work. We talked about all sorts, from his spectacular new single “I Still Think About You” to some of the memories of his life growing up as a young artist. We covered this week’s Welsh win in the euros, entering a song for Europe, some priceless life advice from Mal on how to cope with setbacks and, of course, The Fireman Sam theme tune, beating Elton John at subbuteo, watching The Who record Pinball Wizard and countless more fascinating stories!

Mal’s new single “I Still Think About You” is out now. To keep up with all of Mal’s latest projects and to find out more visit www.malpope.com.

Ahead of this week’s #AsYetUntitledRockShow I caught up with Essex based rocker and the self confessed “poster boy for trouble” JJ Revival. We talked about his rock roots, "the vault" and how he’s breathing new life into the classic rock movement plus he introduces his new single Westwood Grove out on Friday 18th June, exclusively on the #AsYetUntitledRockShow Saturday 12th June.

Ahead of this week’s #AsYetUntitledRockShow I caught up with Luke and Ian from Canadian rock duo Cleopatrick to discuss their thoroughly homegrown debut album “Bummer” out next week. We also chatted about their noble stead Vannah Montanah, Family Van the video game and how they went from discussing superheroes in the classroom to forging the new rock mafia.

Ahead of Friday’s #One2ThreeShow I caught up with London based, French composer for stage and screen Anne Chmelewsky. Anne’s composition credits include Ricky Gervais’ DEREK (Netflix) and BAFTA-winning director Amma Asante’s feature film WHERE HANDS TOUCH, for which Anne was nominated for ‘Discovery of the Year’ at the 2019 World Soundtrack Awards. Anne recently composed the music for the 007 No time to Die x Nokia spot and a star-studded Coronavirus vaccine advert that featured Sir Lenny Henry!

We talked about where the film composer joins in the process of film making, a musical gift for a struggling friend that spawned a new album and how sometimes music can say what words can’t. Anne introduced three of her own stunning tracks and even shared an ingenious new way of washing your clothes without a washing machine!

For the full interview click play in the box below. For the music you’ll have to tune in to Phoenix FM on Friday 21st May

Ahead of this week’s #AsYetUntitledRockShow I caught up with regular listeners and long-time friends of the show Suzanne and Rye from Texas based rock band The Metal Byrds! We talked all about their pandemic inspired EP Life In 20, their storming new single Spitfire Pete and what’s coming up next in the Byrds nest PLUS we covered pretty much everything else from alligators to snake dibble and the Stewart Pink song (hell yeah!) to Uncle Paul from the next ranch.

Ahead of this week’s #AsYetUntitledRockShow I caught up with Charlotte Johnston of Colchester based punk rock band The Broken Johnny’s for a rundown of the band, all the details about their debut album Fever and, of course… the paddle boarding scene in Tollesbury!

Ahead of this week’s #AsYetUntitledRockShow I caught up with legendary rock art photographer Nick Elliott. Nick’s star-studded portfolio and friends list is a who’s who of rock royalty featuring the likes of Alice Cooper, Blondie, Bon Jovi, Def Leppard, Motorhead, Metallica, Nickelback, Ozzy Osborne, Robert Plant, Status Quo, Thin Lizzy, ZZ Top and The Darkness to name just a few! He’s also worked with royalty in other forms from HM Queen Elizabeth II to Moto GP royalty; Barry Sheen!

We talked about a few of his favourite “pinch me” moments such as sipping a scotch with racing legend Agostini and sharing a cuppa with Robert Plant, I pressed Nick for his thoughts on who’s the MOST rock’n’roll rockstar off-camera, how to capture a great gig photo, his upcoming US tour, his dark art project, his book, his TV show and rockumentary projects! For more about Nick’s latest projects visit his website www.nickelliott.info

To celebrate the launch of my first ever ebook Pandemic Poetry: The Covid Collection, I was chuffed to be invited on to Michelle Ward's Eat My Brunch radio show as a guest on Phoenix FM. After more than 100 interviews in the presenter seat, it was a delight to be on the receiving end of the questions for a change! We talked about my standup comedy, the origins of my witty ditties and how a weekly instalment of pandemic poetry has immortalised the story of a year in lockdown. Plus there's a couple of live poems and I profess my longing to be in a conga!

Pandemic Poetry: The Covid Collection: Witty little rhymes from a year in lockdown

Ahead of Friday’s #One2ThreeShow I caught with Alan and Aled of local band Modern Motive. Amidst an exclusive studio session playing from their studio to ours, we also talked about the band, their love of The Manic Street Preachers and their brand new single Mr Materialistic, out on Friday. We also heard about how you can “sponsor a drummer” for £3 a month and when studio sessions go wrong!

For the music you’ll have to tune in on Good Friday or visit PhoenixFM.com after the show.

Ahed of this week's #One2ThreeShow I caught up with singer/songwriter Siân Alex of London-based Gold Baby to chat about their incredible new EP “Rabbits” out today. We also covered creativity in lockdown, songwriting, morning pages and Pizza!

Ahead of this week’s #AsYetUntitledRockShow I caught up with Tarek Jafar of The Blue Stones. We talked about their incredible new album Hidden Gems, his experience finding direction as a young man and budding musician and we even unearthed his deepest TikTok ambitions!

Ahead of this week’s #AsYetUntitledRockShow I caught up with Brentwood’s finest; Ocean Flaws to celebrate the landing of their awesome new single Touching Down. We talked about their first visit to the studio since lockdown and what’s next for the band. We also covered Sean’s jumpers, Alex’s morph suits and the lengths they went to get a sofa to a field for their latest music video!

Ahead of this week’s #AsYetUntitledRockShow I caught up with Dominic Greenwood of East Anglian five piece alt-rock band Dead Reynolds. We talked about the band’s upcoming debut album Breathing With Strangers, had a listen to and a chat about some of their latest singles from their latest EP and the Dead Reynolds Rockumentary with legendary rock art photographer Nick Elliott!

Ahead of this week’s #AsYetUntitledRockShow I caught up with Aiym & Rosie of London-based rock band DORJA. We talked about the band’s previous album Gemini, had a listen to and a chat about their new single “Ghost Town” out next week, the new EP Persephone out 16th April and we even found out who features in the tour bus playlist!

Ahead of today’s #One2ThreeShow I caught up with Gary Mills of Vix 20 to chat about the band’s epic new single Broken Melody. We also discussed Tron, luminous socks and the three points on his license thanks to the middle eight of his own track! For the full interview click play in the box below.

Ahead of this week’s #AsYetUntitledRockShow I caught up with Neu Mannas of Los Angeles based rock band The Matchstick Skeletons. We talked about his previous band Head Of The Heard, touring with the likes of Guns n Roses, how The Matchstick Skeletons were born and all about their upcoming debut album Change The Channel. We also met the star of their upcoming video for “I’m the dog!”

Ahead of this week’s #AsYetUntitledRockShow I talked to Cal & Cedric of Swiss rock band Daxx & Roxane. We talked all about the band, how they went from hanging out together in skate parks to gigging alongside Slayer, their blistering debut album Ticket To Rock and their self-titled sophomore album Daxx & Roxane. We also discussed options for band merch including a Daxx Swiss cheese or a special edition Toblerone!

There’s no denying Foo fighters are a household name with 9 albums under the belt and more singles than I can be bothered to count. They’ve been part of our lives for over 26 years (yeah, I feel old too) but you don’t get to be on top for a quarter of a century without staying current. Foo fighters, like other great bands who have stood the test of time, have a way of keeping their signature sound yet still managing to evolve and stay fresh. Their 10th album, Medicine At Midnight marks another milestone for the band and they wanted to try something new. Here's what Dave, Taylor, Nate, Chris, Pat and Rami had to say about the album...

Ahead of this week’s #AsYetUntitledRockShow I talked to Oleg Piskunov of Russian/Italian rock band Big Ban. Oleg zoomed onto the show from Moscow and we talked all about Big Ban, their debut EP Babe which comes out next week and we even discussed Vladimir Putin’s musical taste… we agreed Vlad would love the #AsYetUntitledRockShow!

Ahead of this week’s #AsYetUntitledRockShow I talked to Liam of A Cause In Distress. We caught up about the band’s origins, their latest single Modern Commerce and what’s next for this exciting new three piece.

Ahead of today’s show I had the pleasure of chatting to Scott McWatt. We talked about his experience of lockdown life, he played some fantastic acoustic tracks and introduced his brand new single out 1st Jan 2021, Where We’ll Be. Click here to pre-order Scott’s new single.

I caught up with my favourite Romanian comedian, Dragos Mostenescu ahead of the show and he introduced two of his own brand new Christmas songs featuring Dominic Cummings and Burning Santa Clause!

Ahead of today’s #One2ThreeShow I had the pleasure of chatting to Colin Cripps of Me and The Digits. We talked about his experience of lockdown life and how he’s embraced music as a way of processing the strange events of 2020. Colin’s album, 2020 Vision is available to download here.

Ahead of Friday’s #One2ThreeShow I spoke to a young lady battling an extremely rare form of ocular cancer metastasised in her liver, on top of that she needs to raise £240,000 to pay for her treatment as it isn’t available through the NHS. In just a few weeks, with the amazing support of family, friends and loved ones she’s raised an impressive £90,000 and started the first round of her treatment but with another 7 rounds still to pay for the fight goes on and every penny helps.

To take part and support Ella’s Fight, or to find out more click here to visit her Go Fund Me page. you can also take part in a variety of fundraising events, raffles and even win prizes on her Facebook page if you click here.

Ahead of this week’s #AsYetUntitledRockShow I talked to Callum & Hamish of Brentwood’s very own Ocean Flaws to find out what the Deep Sea Dreamers have been up to in 2020 and as well as introducing their brand new single “Spirit Level” we covered just about everything from music videos & ghosts to vinyl record smells, live-streaming & superhero costumes.

Ahead of this week’s #AsYetUntitledRockShow I talked to Sally Elsey & Albert Vinasco of international, 100% virtual and internet-based rock band Gabriel. They’ve been rocking from Buenos Aires to Brentwood, from Rochford to Rosario for over 10 years so it was great to talk about the origins of Gabriel, how their music connects them and their latest album, Asmodeus; a collection of some of their greatest hits and a flavour of their 7 album discography.

Ahead of this week’s #AsYetUntitledRockShow I talked to Henrik Steenholdt from British rock band Empyre.

A frequent fixture of our playlist, Empyre are one of the most exciting, well rounded bands on the circuit with huge range in their back catalogue. We spoke to guitarist Did Coles last year after the release of their fantastic debut album, Self Aware and the band have been busy reworking some of their tracks into acoustic format during lockdown.

I caught up with frontman and the incredible voice of Empyre, Henrik to talk about post-covid life, socially distanced gigs, their acoustic adventures, singing in the shower and all things Empyre!

Ahead of today’s #One2ThreeShow I caught up with John Brandler of Brandler Galleries. Not only do we reveal the true identity of the anonymous street artist Banksy but we also talked about all things Brandler Galleries, the spike in community spirit during the pandemic, the zoom boom, art as an investment, the importance of passing experience forward and how he got into art dealership.

I caught up with Andreas, Andrew & Craig from 3 piece Edinburgh based rock band Black Lesion to chat about their debut EP “Mindless Feeding Device”. Full of complex, gut busting guitar riffs, head banging choruses and the odd face melting solo thrown in this EP is kicking open the doors of the rock saloon, making an entrance you can’t miss!

Black Lesion’s new EP Mindless Feeding Device is out now.

Ahead of this week’s #AsYetUntitledRockShow I talked to Shauna Tohill, Rews’ chief warrior about the anthemic new Rews album, Warriors.

We caught up with Shauna about her virtual tours and how she’s been shining a light on some amazing women during lockdown. We also talked about some of her favourite tracks, influences and inspirations for the new album, mastering at Abbey Road studios, her mate Roger Taylor, the awesome new fan video and loads more – plus we tried singing backwards!

The new Rews album Warriors is out now with more fist pumping anthemic choruses than you can shake a spear at and songs to heal your battle scars – prepare for the irresistible urge to throw shapes.

Ahead of this week’s #One2ThreeShow I talked to writer, musician and director Chris Wade.

As a musician, Chris Wade’s band Dodson and Fogg has an impressive back catalogue and has featured the likes of Nigel Planer and Toya Wilcox, he’s written and directed documentaries and films and has written several audiobooks with Wisdom Twins Books. His previous release “Cutey and the Sofaguard” narrated by Rik Mayall, gained a large cult following and his latest release “Raymonds Room” narrated by Nigel Planer is written in similar vein; funny, energetic, relatable yet imaginative and is guaranteed to connect with and cheer up your inner loser! We talk about Chris’ music, his audiobooks, some invaluable tips for creators and his surreal experiences working with comedy heroes Nigel and Rik. Plus how does Mark Searby measure on the Bastard scale?

Ahead of this week’s #One2ThreeShow I talked to actor, comedian, playwright and all-round national treasure Nigel Planer.

Nigel, of course, is most famous for his role as everybody’s favourite long-haired hippy, Neil, from The Young Ones, has been in countless TV and West End stage productions and narrated several audiobooks. We talk about some of his favourite West End roles, what it was like taking comedy to a new level in the 80s, his latest project “Raymond’s Room”, theatre in the time of Covid19, his upcoming album “five songs left” and his new play “All Above Board”. Plus was Rik Mayall really a bastard?

On this week’s #AsYetUntitledRockShow we’re joined by Eddie King from Edinburgh-based rock band RumRunners.

We caught up with Eddie about what RumRunners have been getting up to in isolation, how they’re enhancing the power of livestream to bring a more realistic gig experience to their fans and we checked in on the safety of his eyebrows. (Standard)

On this week’s #AsYetUntitledRockShow we’re joined by “Bamm Bamm” from heavy metal country rockers Bootyard Bandits, a five-strong group of outlaws from wild, wild Worcester breaking all the rules of “serious” rock music with hilarious and occasionally gruesome videos accompanying their singles.

Bootyard Bandits are a bootscootin’ heavy country rock band hotly tipped to become one of the UK’s “most wanted” bands.

Comprised of ex-members of The Defiled, Grim Reaper, Fury and Villains, these cowboys come armed with an arsenal of catchy anthems such as “Hoedown Showdown”, “Cøuntry Music” and “One Hell Of A Night”, and bring a live show like no other t’boot.

We talked to “Bamm Bamm” all about the band, their recent lockdown adventures, what it was like combining rock, lego and tomato ketchup plus what’s next for Bootyard Bandits.

On this week’s #One2ThreeShow we were joined by local hero, former Essex police and crime commissioner and chair of Essex Community Foundation, Nick Alston CBE DL. We talked about his background and the amazing role that the Essex Community Foundation has in supporting so many vital charities, voluntary groups and projects throughout the county. To find out more about the work they do matching people, ideas, resources and needs, to register a good cause, highlight a local issue or lend your support in many different ways visit the Essex Community Foundation website, www.essexcomunityfoundation.org.uk.

On this week’s #One2ThreeShow we were joined by Max Harris, head of music at St Martin’s School, Brentwood and students Sophie, Archie, Emily & Tom to talk about and share their virtual music performances.

The St Martin’s Summer Concert will be going online this year and to enjoy a virtual music performance you can watch the event live-streamed on the St Martin’s Music YouTube Channelfrom 6pm on Wednesday 24th June.

This week on the #AsYetUntitledRockShow we’re joined by drummer “extraordinaire” Dan Southall from British rock band These Wicked Rivers to chat about the band’s forthcoming debut album “Eden” out on 22nd May and introduce us to a couple of tracks.

On this week’s #One2ThreeShow, broadcasting from The Pink House Studios (my bedroom) we were joined by Nuala to introduce her latest single, Artemesia.

This week on the #AsYetUntitledRockShow we were joined by Blaine Harrison from Mystery Jets to chat about their forthcoming album A Billion Heartbeats, out 3rd April.

On this week’s #One2ThreeShow, broadcasting from The Pink House Studios (my bedroom) we were joined by rising star of the music scene, Irish singer/songwriter Aimée to introduce her debut EP Confession. She also brought the dog along and gave us a great tip to get a change of scene in lockdown!

This week on the #AsYetUntitledRockShow we were joined by Kurt from The Slow Readers Club to chat about their brand new album The Joy of The Return.

This week on the One2Three show I was broadcasting from The Pink House Studios (my bedroom) again and to make sure you had the authentic experience, Mum & Dad did the weather! We were joined by the fabulous Abigail Carter-Simpson to hear and chat about her uplifting and hilarious new song, Covid19 and we even managed to reenact THAT famous scene from last year’s feel-good movie of the year!

On this week’s #One2ThreeShow, broadcasting from The Pink House Studios (my bedroom) we were joined by Colin Wade from The Screens to introduce their latest album The Boy Who Waved At Trains.

On this week’s #One2ThreeShow, broadcasting from The Pink House Studios (my bedroom) we were joined by the iconic Stacey Jackson; singer, songwriter, full time mum, entrepreneur, author, actress and all round superstar to introduce her latest album StaePumped Volume 3. We caught up on life in lockdown, keeping fit at home, the new album and working/hanging with Snoop Dogg!

I caught up with everybody’s favourite Wessex Boy, Frank Turner, backstage at Southend Cliff’s Pavilion.

With Frank part way through his UK Solo Tour, Lost Evenings IV, we talked about the obvious challenges playing this tour and his thoughts on the future of the live music industry as a whole in the wake of the Coronavirus.

Plus, find out which song took 5 years and 20 minutes to write, the definition of “post studio stress disorder”, the experience of unearthing some untold stories with “No Man’s Land” and who looks after Frank’s cat on tour!

Tickets are still available for some of the remaining dates of the Lost Evenings IV Tour and to keep up to date with all things Frank, including tour updates follow him on social media or visit www.frank-turner.com

In honour of International Women’s Day on Sunday, I filled the entire show this week with some of the most inspiring/awesome women I’ve had the pleasure of meeting and interviewing on Phoenix FM. On this week’s One2Three show we talked to some amazing women from all walks of life; comedians, rockstars and former chicken farmers all had their own inspiring message to share from confronting “invisibility” and surrounding yourself with people you love to recognising breast implant illness, ageing gracefully and tackling adversity. Listen to the full show featuring clips from Cally Beaton, Charlotte Carpenter, Alessi’s Ark, Dorothy & Greta Brandler or hear the full interviews in previous episodes of this podcast.

I was joined on the #AsYetUntitledRockShow by Alex Pattle, drummer from Brentwood based indie band Ocean Flaws. We talked about the band’s new single “Deep Sea Dreaming”, the best (and shortest) caravan holiday of the year and what 2020 holds in store for the local band.

I was joined in the studio by YouTube star Asim Hussain AKA SuperRebel. With over 150k subscribers to his channel Asim is using his knowledge and expertise in online media and marketing to support businesses. We talked about how and why he started his own YouTube channel and picked his brains on how we can all post better videos and be more successful in online marketing. For more details on how Asim’s company can take your business to the next level visit www.mme-london.com.

I was joined on the #AsYetUntitledRockShow by Nikki Smash from Brighton rock trio The Rocket Dolls. We talked about the band’s latest single and music video for “The Grip”, their forthcoming third studio album “The Art of Disconnect” and what it’s really like playing with fire!

I was joined on the #AsYetUntitledRockShow by Andrew Hunt from Welsh rock band Buffalo Summer. We talked about the band’s latest single “Everybody’s Out For Number 1” and their forthcoming third studio album “Desolation Blue”.

I was joined by Nashville’s rising country star Chloe Collins. A songwriter since the age of 8 and influenced by the likes of Taylor Swift and Katy Perry, Chloe Collins has already had one of her tracks featured on the ABC family TV show ‘The Vineyard’ and on the 100th episode of NASHVILLE on CMT and with the ability to write songs faster than she can record them she’s certainly a talent you’ll hear a lot more of in the future.

On the #AsYetUntitledRockShow I was joined by Did Coles, guitarist from stadium-bound rock band EMPYRE. We talked about the band’s new video for the single “My Bad”, their epic debut album “Self Aware”, creative processes, their UK Tour supporting some mega rockstars and Henrik’s alleged six-pack.

I was joined on the phone by Alessi and Jason of Alessi’s Ark to introduce their new single “Woman”. Last time we spoke they’d just got engaged. (Congratulations!) This time we talked about what it’s like working with those closest to you and their upcoming tour… plus Jason’s Grandad Norman AKA “World Scrabble Champ” and we unofficially started a campaign to bring back free Vienetta.

The new single “Woman” by Alessi’s Ark is out now.

In other news, the final scrabble scores were;

Jason: 204

Alessi: 210

A rematch has been scheduled.

This week on the #AsYetUntitledRockShow we successfully managed to “raise hell” with the “flawless” Dorothy Martin from American rock band Dorothy joining us on the show! We talked about boobs, rock n roll, the hotly anticipated album number three and an empowering body-positive message from one of rock’s female icons! Dorothy talked openly about her experience of Beast Implant Illness and to find out more information or support about this visit www.healingbreastimplantillness.com.

My regular movie mate, cinematic chum and film friend also writes books. Mark Searby is a bit of a fan of all things Rik Mayall… he literally wrote the book on it. Mark gives a detailed, adoring account of Rik’s groundbreaking work featuring interviews with some of the people that knew and worked with Rik for a true glimpse into the life of one of the greatest British comedians of our time .

Every Friday from 1:30pm Mark joins me on air to give us the lowdown on the latest cinema and DVD film releases. To catch up on this week’s reviews or to check out more film reviews, click here.

To order a physical copy of Rik Mayall: Comedy Genius click here.

To order a digital copy of Rik Mayall: Comedy Genius click here.

Rik Mayall: Comedy Genius

Presenting a radio show, I've had the honour of meeting and talking to so many amazing people from rockstars, musicians, comedians and celebrities to inspiring community heroes. Last week, I met one of my favourite ever guests. I know you shouldn't have favourites but this was quite special. I had set aside half an hour to talk to 104 year old Greta Brandler at Beeches care and nursing home but when Greta welcomed me into her home we talked for nearly two hours and in that time she shared more wisdom and life advice than you could ever get from all the TED Talks in the world.

I condensed our chat down to a 30 minute listen and played the interview out on my show this week. Unsurprisingly, many of our listeners got in touch to say how much they enjoyed listening to Greta. This really is one to cherish.

I was joined on the #AsYetUntitledRockShow by James from Hometruths to introduce their brand new single "Daydream".

I was joined on the #AsYetUntitledRockShow by Eddie from RumRunners to introduce their brand new single "Burning For You".

I was joined by 4 piece alt pop rock band Offshore on the #AsYetUntitledRockShow. They played 3 tracks for us live in the studio and released not one but two brand new singles exclusively on Phoenix FM, we chatted all things Offshore and even got around to a twitter Q&A.

You can see Offshore performing live on tour now – for tickets and details visit www.alstarmusic.co.uk/alstarmusiclive.

I caught up with Shauna Tohill from Irish rock band Rews during their tour supporting glam rock icons The Darkness. We talked about the tour, debut album Pyro, musical roots & songwriting (including one you won’t hear written in the back of a tour bus!) what’s coming up in 2020 PLUS up close and personal with Frankie’s cowbell…

You can see Rews on The Phoenix Tour from March this year, click here or visit www.rewsmusic.com for tickets and further details.

As 2019 draws to a close I'm immensely proud of this little podcast and so grateful to all of my amazing guests I've had the pleasure of interviewing this year on Phoenix FM. To celebrate, here's a silly little montage of some of my favourite moments with all words taken entirely out of context.

I was joined by genuine rock royalty and probably the world’s most iconic flautist, Ian Anderson of Jethro Tull on this week's #AsYetUntitledRockShow.

Join us on a musical journey with Ian Anderson through some of the history of Jethro Tull and an exclusive peek behind the scenes of one of the greatest British rock bands of all time.

You can see Ian Anderson and Jethro Tull on multiple tours in 2020;

– The Prog Years UK Tour will draw heavily on material from Tull’s more ‘prog’ albums, focussing on the early ‘heavy hitters’ of the Tull catalogue and classic albums

– The Ian Anderson on Jethro Tull Tour will be visiting a number of England’s slightly smaller venues for an intimate evening of performance and chat with archive video footage covering his career and the history of Jethro Tull. Ian will be accompanied by guitarist Joe Parrish. The audience will be invited to pose interesting and challenging questions, a format following that of the successful Rubbing Elbows with… tours in America in 2002/3.

For tickets and further details about both tours visit www.jethrotull.com

Dom Major has been busy making more more music than you can shake a stick at releasing four singles in as many weeks and most importantly, they're all brilliant! I caught up with Dom to talk in detail about his music, what it's been like releasing them in a short space of time and what else is in his arsenal.

I was joined on the phone by Charlotte Carpenter to introduce her brand new release, officially this year’s unofficial Christmas song, “Another Year”. We also caught up on what’s been occurring since we last spoke at Latitude Festival. We talked about her inspiration behind the song, tours, the merits of a good dressing gown and writing a TEDx talk.

I was joined in the studio by Richard Pond to launch the first EVER Billericay Christmas Lights Trail, a bit of local festive fun in aid of The Bedroom Build project by Fraser And Friends. For more information and to get involved in the competition visit The Billericay Christmas Lights Facebook Page.

I was joined in the studio by Diane Matthews from the Brentwood/Montbazon Town Twinning Association to discuss their previous and upcoming activities and events including free conversational French lessons. For more information visit https://brentwoodfrenchtwinning.com

I was joined by Roger Davinson, CEO of The Brentwood Centre to discuss their events coming up over the Christmas period, for more information visit http://www.brentwood-centre.co.uk

Maggie Duggan and Jayne Herring from the Brentwood Care Centre came in to chat about their facility, located in Larchwood Gardens, Pilgrims Hatch, introduce their roles in the Centre, which specialises in dementia care, and talk about Christmas activities.

I was joined on the phone by Scott McWatt to introduce his as yet unreleased single "Gimme All Your Love". We also talked about songwriting from personal experiences, my favourite new word "life-ing", what it was like working with producer Mark Morrow and playing the guitar that starred in "Yesterday"!

I was joined in the studio by Brian McGovern to launch this year's Rucksack Project on behalf of Cool To Be Kind.

Cool To Be Kind are a Chelmsford based community project that supports rough sleepers in and around Essex. The Rucksack Project is an initiative to collect and distribute essential items to rough sleepers in order to make the winter months a little more comfortable for homeless people.

To find out more about Cool To Be Kind and The Rucksack Project go to www.c2bk.co.uk.

I was joined on the phone by Alessi and Jason of Alessi's Ark to introduce their new single "Born Free". We also talked about their recent engagement (congratulations!), touring with Mumford & Sons, songwriting, upcoming projects, Babywoman Records and Happy Days Children's Charity.

The new single "Born Free" by Alessi's Ark is out now.

You can see Alessi's Ark perform live on November 30th at The Harisson, Kings Cross, London.

I was joined on the phone by singer/songwriter/guitarist/comedian Jaz Mattu to introduce his new single "The Journey". We also talked about his influences, writing songs for studio vs songs for live performance, how operatic training impacts songwriting, combining his comedy and musical talents and plans for an upcoming album.

The new single "The Journey" by Jaz Mattu is out now.

After a whole week of covering The Breakfast Show, I was joined on the phone by Saffron from Republica.

You can see Republica performing live on Saturday 2nd November at Hideaways in Chelmsford – click here or visit www.seetickets.com for tickets.

I was joined on the phone by Gary Michaels, standup comedian and the man behind London's most recommended open-mic comedy nights, Stand Up Nights London. Gary is creating a stand-up comedy pathway supporting comedians to move from open-mic to paid gigs. Happy Hour Comedy starts 8:30pm on Saturday 2nd November and every Saturday thereafter at the Nell Of Old Drury, 29 Catherine Street, Covent Garden.

I was joined in the studio by Catherine Loadman from Pinney Talfourd Solicitors to talk about their charity of the year and the firm's fundraising events.

For more information about The Havering Association for People with Disabilities visit www.hadhavering.co.uk

I was joined in the studio by Honey Luvnuts & Jo Jo. Honey Luvnuts is an international comedy drag queen and Jo Jo is living with Lyme disease, raising awareness of the condition and fundraising for UK Lyme & M.E Research. The dynamic duo have teamed up to host a glamorous night of entertainment at the County Hotel in Chelmsford featuring a live performance from 90's legend Baby D, DJ Ian Black and a "man auction" all hosted by Honey Luvnuts.

For more information and to purchase tickets visit www.benoxer.com

I spoke to Brian McGovern from Chelmsford based community project, Cool To Be Kind about the work they do to help and support rough sleepers in and around the South East. To see more details of all the work that Cool To Be Kind do and how you can get involved to help and support their projects visit www.c2bk.co.uk.

I spoke to Actor/Comedian/Satirist Tom Walker who is most widely known for his on-screen character, Jonathan Pie. You’ll recognise Jonathan from his viral YouTube videos as the fictional frustrated news reporter that satirises the world of politics and media. Known for explosive “off-air” rants, Pie’s online videos have been viewed by millions worldwide.

I asked Tom AKA Jonathan about his rise to viral success, the challenges and reaction that comes from performing political comedy, how he went about converting an on-screen character to stage, his upcoming “The Fake News Tour” and his support for a Chelmsford based community project, Cool To Be Kind.

You can see Jonathan Pie - The Fake News Tour at the Hammersmith Apollo on 1st & 2nd November, at the Southend Cliffs Pavilion on 13th November and all over the UK too - tickets are available here.

To see more details of all the work that Cool To Be Kind do and how you can get involved to help them support rough sleepers in and around the South East visit www.c2bk.co.uk.

For the first time this podcast went fully international with our first guest from the other side of the world as I was joined on the phone by Shotgun Mistress frontman, Glenn Patrick. We discussed the making of their upcoming debut album, the band’s first single, their plans to tour the UK and I may have mentioned Dave Grohl again (he started it!)

Steve Hogarth, lead singer of Marillion, talked to us about how he joined the band when Fish left, what it’s like to front a rock band for 30 years, playing live all over the world, conducting weddings in a cafe and something pretty special that Marillion have planned in November. As you'll heard from the man himself, you can see them performing live on tour with friends from the orchestra this November - all the dates are on their website at www.marillion.com - tickets are on sale now.

Micaela Blitz started comedy 6 months ago and she did her first open mic slots at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival this year! She talks about starting out in comedy and what it’s like taking on your first festival.

Rachel O’Connor co-stars in Actually Totes Amaze. She is also a qualified psychotherapist working with Objectively Funny to run mental health wellbeing workshops for performers at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. You can find out more about Rachel’s work at http://www.wisespacelondon.co.uk

I was joined in the studio by Paula, Becky and James from the Blackmore Players to talk about their latest production, Drinking Habits. The performance will mark the 50th anniversary for Blackmore Players and it promises to be something special.

Gaëlle is co-staring in "Suck Seed" at the Camden Fringe Festival.

Tegan is exercising her right to holiday so isn't in a fringe show this year but she phoned in nonetheless for a quick book review!

Dragos is starring in "All Aboard" at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival.

Lorrainne is co-starring in "Actually, Totes Amaze" at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival.

Andy is starring in "Still Awkward Life" at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival.

Roland is starring in "Trump's fake TV" at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival.

Jacqueline is starring in "Goddess" at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival.

Last time Matt Everard was in the Phoenix FM studio, the Billericay-based petrol head was just about to set out on a mission to break a Guinness World Record. This time, he joins us as the proud owner of a world record in Tuk Tuk, having achieved a staggering 74.3mph on a Tuk Tuk with his cousin Russell braving speeds no Tuk Tuk passenger has ever experienced before.

We talked about the Tuk Tuk, the world record and a brand new challenge that lies ahead.

For full details and web links click here.

Ben Keenan is starring in "Neon Hangover" at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival.

Sam Mitchell is starring in "Wham! Bam! Thank You, Sam" at the Camden Fringe Festival.

Rob Copland is starring in "Strange Jam" at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival.

Kallis kyriacou is starring in "One Flew Over The Kyriacou's Nest" at the Camden Fringe Festival.

Caitlin Burke is starring in "The Best Show We've Ever Done At The Edinburgh Fringe" with the rest of The Fish Girls at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival.

Will Preston is starring in "Everybody Be Cool This Is A Comedy" at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival.

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Stephen Catling is starring in "Stephen Catling vs Himself And Other Monsters" at the Camden Fringe Festival.

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Nathan Gibbons is starring in "The Ticked Boxes" at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival.

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I was joined in the studio by Essex Comedian of The Year, Luke Poulton. We talked about his journey into comedy, the good gigs and the bad gigs, Crazy Frog, Snakes on a Train and his staring role in his own documentary "You Don't Look Autistic"

I caught up with Rob Broderick AKA "Abandoman" - Ireland's finest improv hip-hop comedian, after his headline set at Standon Calling.

We talked about the key to improvisational comedy, tech drama horror stories, his journey into comedy, and why feedback from primary school kids can get you into trouble!

I caught up with this year's MC at Standon Calling, the very funny and very visable Cally Beaton.

We talked about what it's like to compere the comedy stage at a festival, dealing with kids in comedy, being a part of QI and her new Edinburgh Fringe show "Invisible". Plus, what's the worst thing that could happen before a gig?

I caught up with 50% of The Delightful Sausage and 100% standup comedian, Amy Gledhill before her set at Standon Calling.

We talked about what it's like performing as part of a comedy double act, her own stand up comedy, gigging in pyjamas and The Delightful Sausage's upcoming Edinburgh Show. Plus, what to do if you lose the lid to your champagne bottle.

For the first time as a fully fledged BYFan, I caught up with Ellie Isherwood (BYFYN) after her electrifying performance at Standon Calling. We talked about her festival experiences, her roots as a performer and the inspiration behind her brand new single “Trying”. Plus, would she rather be a sloth or an iguana?

I caught up with Flamingods backstage after their outstanding set at Standon Calling. We talked about their roots, writing as a band while living in different continents, their world tour, their latest album, Levitation and the movies that inspired them.

I caught up with Essex comedian, the voice of MTV and father to be Johnny Cochrane before his set at Latitude's Cabaret Theatre.

It was great to talk to him about his regular pilgrimage to Latitude and adapting his talents to kids comedy with Beano and CBBC. Plus a few tips for new comedians facing “The Blackout” and a top tip for pulling at festivals!

I spoke to the brilliant Maisie Adam after her set at Latitude’s Comedy Arena.

Winner of Amused Moose National New Comic 2018 and So You Think You're Funny 2017, Maisie’s debut show, 'Vague', earned her a nomination for Best Newcomer at last year's Edinburgh Comedy Awards. With ‘Mock The Week’ and ‘The Stand-Up Sketch Show' amongst a growing list of TV credits she’s well on her way to becoming a household name on the comedy scene.

We talked about Maisie’s new Edinburgh show and tour, the new series of ‘The Stand-Up Sketch Show’, her comedy heroes and Latitude’s Amusical.

You can see Maisie perform her fantastic new show, ‘Hang Fire’, at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival this year at the Gilded Balloon from 1st - 26th August, every day at 5pm. She’ll also be bringing the show on tour in the autumn.

I caught up with Ellie Isherwood, known on-stage as BYFYN, before her fabulous set at latitude’s BBC Introducing Stage.

We talked about her stage name, her music and live performances, geeked out hard on electronic music tech, her creative processes, releasing singles vs albums and her upcoming single ’Trying’.

As described in the interview, BYFYN truly performs her music live in an immersive way that makes every song an experience not to be missed! You can see her perform at Standon Calling on 27th July and at The Finsbury, London on August 16th.

I caught up with Michael Odewale after his set at Latitude’s Cabaret Theatre.

Michael has appeared on Comedy Central’s ‘Stand Up Central’, BBC Radio 4 and has also written for The Now Show. #Blackbearsmatter is Michael’s debut show and it’s set to take the Edinburgh Fringe Festival by storm having already scooped the award for Best New Show at Leicester Comedy Festival 2019.

We talked about his festival plans, comedy influences and his debut Edinburgh show.

You can see him at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival from 1st-25th August at Pleasance Courtyard, Edinburgh.

I caught up with Rich Legate, Emma Topolski and Ed Cares of Childcare after their brilliant set at Latitude’s Lake Stage.

We talked about the origins of their name, their earliest fans, their debut album Wabi-Sabi and latest single Sugarcane, their creative process, their live healing events and Ed’s mum!

You can see them perform live at Scala, London on Tuesday 17th December.

I caught up with Louisa, Liam, Jenny, Jamie & Jack ahead of their outstanding set at Latitude’s Lake Stage.

We talked about their first album, Memories of Another Future, their new album, Revolution of Mind, how the band formed, their influences and Louisa’s brother's festival antics!

The band’s latest single ‘Wolf and Bird’ is out now and you can catch them on their ’Trouble Everyday’ Tour in a whole host of places.

I caught up with Charlotte Carpenter ahead of her stunning set at latitude’s BBC Introducing Stage.

An independent artist, Charlotte runs Babywoman records as well as writing, performing and producing all of her music - a talented musician and an inspiration for young women in the music industry. She also makes amazing coffee!

We talked about her emotionally charged lyrics, what it means to be a record label boss and independent artist, her new single, her self-booked European tour and “the poo girl”!

Charlotte’s new single “Follow You Down” will be released on Friday 26th July.

I caught up with the one and only Tez Ilyas, ahead of his set at Latitude’s Comedy Arena.

Tez is one of the break out stars of British comedy with TV appearances on ‘Live at the Apollo’, ‘Mock The Week’, ‘The Last Leg’, ‘Man Like Mobeen’ and ‘Bounty’.

We talked about his brand new TV show, festival experiences, that night he cleared the arena and why he can’t organise the Christmas party.

You can catch Tez’s brand new TV show, The Tez O’clock Show, on channel 4 every Thursday night from 11pm. The satirical news show is a fast-paced mix of stand-up, sketches and studio antics, including provocative monologues and celebrity interviews hosted and anchored by Tez Ilyas, a northern working-class British Asian-Muslim and it’s set to blow the cobwebs off TV satire.

I caught up with Buzzard Buzzard Buzzard’s frontman, Tom Rees after their blazing set at Latitude’s Lake Stage.

We talked festival experiences, the best part of being in a rock band, their current tour, the band’s new single and their super-fan Noel Gallagher.

The new single “Love Forever” will be released on Friday 26th July and to mark its release, the band will be performing at Pop Brixton on 31st July.

I was joined by Sam Ingram ahead of his 50K hike raising funds for Snap Charity Brentwood, an essex based charity for families with children and young people who have any special need or disability. SNAP's aims are to inform, encourage and support parents and carers so that they can grow in strength and knowledge and become better equipped to give the best possible help to their children. We also discussed training for the hike and how you can get involved with the event or the fundraising.