Fantasy Pints Podcast: Recent Episodes

Northern Chorus

Interviews with guests where we ask the important question - if you could go for a drink with any three musicians past or present, who would you choose and why?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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We are joined this week by Thom Rylance from the Lottery Winners. We discuss his recent injury on stage, growing up in Leigh, and selling out Manchester Albert Hall. He also shares anecdotes about Boy George, Rick Astley, Frank Turner and more, as well as discussing their slot at next year's Neighbourhood Weekender - 27th & 28th May 2023 in Victoria Park, Warrington. Tickets here: https://nbhdweekender.com/

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In this bonus episode, we talk to comedian and actor, Omid Djalili, about his upcoming show at the Victoria Theatre in Halifax. We discuss the current situation in Iran, the World Cup, cancel culture and plenty more. Head to https://www.northernchorus.co.uk/ for ticket information and more. 

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We're finally back with a new episode, and it's worth the wait. Jonny Yerrell from The Reytons joins us this week to talk Sheffield Arena, UK tour, and the brand new album, "What's Rock and Roll?". We also discuss the live shows, the band's loyal fans and so much more!

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This week, we're joined by Simon and Neil from fast-rising Liverpool band, Red Rum Club. We discuss the band's latest album, 'How To Steal The World', Neighbourhood Weekender, the upcoming USA Tour & plenty more.

For interview clips, podcasts & more, head to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbmYNEt0W3NHftpmOtYhJ9A

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This week, we speak to Jake Dorsman from up and coming Wigan band, Stanleys. We discuss the new single, "Why Would I?", out this Friday, as well as next month's Gorilla gig, the Wigan music scene, overcoming adversity during the pandemic and plenty more!

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This week we're joined by a fast-rising singer-songwriter from Saddleworth, Seb Lowe! We discuss his rise on TikTok and his new EP, "The Other Half". We also talk about his recently announced slot at Glastonbury, gig at Gorilla and plenty more!

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Man of the moment, Tom A Smith joins us this week to talk about new single "Could I Live With Being Fake" and his career evolution since "Tom Mouse Smith". We discuss our chance encounter at 110 Above Festival, support slots with Gang of Youths and Miles Kane, stories about James Bay, Catfish and the Bottlemen, Tim Burgess & plenty more!

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This week, we're joined by social media's new music guru, Sam Shiner aka Shiner Sam! We discuss how a music fan grew her platform to become one of the most prominent online new music promoters. We talk about the first gig Sam put on with The Lathums, Robert Carlyle's recent influence on new music, the one thing she'd change about the industry and plenty more!

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Dan Haggis from The Wombats joins us this week to discuss Lollapalooza, US Tour, latest UK number one record "Fix Yourself, Not The World" and plenty more! We also talk about the Greek Tragedy viral Tik Tok hit, the history of the band as we approach 20 years since formation, and 2022 UK Tour & Festival dates.

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This week, we're joined by Presenter, Content Creator, and all round "music media person", Louise Schofield! We discuss best, worst and dream interviews, along with chat about This Feeling, Jake Bugg & Idris Elba. We also talk Spill the Sound, BBC Sesh, comedy & plenty more! Head to https://www.louiseschofield.co.uk/ for more info on this week's guest!

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This week, we're joined by Radio DJ & Presenter, Kemi Rodgers! We talk Capital FM & Capital Xtra, 'The Sip' on Snapchat, Kemi's career journey in the media & more!

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This week, we're joined by former Soccer AM producer and current co-host of Jaackmaate's Happy Hour, Robbie Knox! We discuss his career journey so far, including Soccer AM, YouTube, podcasting and beer brewing. We also talk all about music and of course, Robbie's three Fantasy Pints!

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For the first guest episode of Season 2, we are joined by up and coming Newcastle singer-songwriter, Andrew Cushin. We discuss his new single "You Don't Belong" and signing to Peter Doherty's record label. We also talk about working with Noel Gallagher, popularity in Italy, Sam Fender, the Newcastle scene & plenty more!

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Ahead of the first guest interview of Season 2, we look back at Season 1's guests, as well as some of our favourite 'Fantasy Pints' picks and memorable moments. S1 is available on all platforms and includes DMA's, Jamie Webster, Scheiffer Bates, Phoenix Nights' Clinton Baptiste & plenty more! Visit northernchorus.co.uk for more info.

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For the final episode of Season 1, we are joined by Mason from the DMA's, one of the biggest indie bands around today. We discuss their latest EP 'I Love You Unconditionally, Sure Am Going to Miss You', the UK tour, the band's affinity with the north and plenty more!

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Following the announcement of his new album 'Moments' (out January 28th), we are joined this week by Liverpool singer-songwriter, Jamie Webster! We discuss the forthcoming record, new single 'Going Out', last weekend's homecoming gig and plenty more!

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This week's episode is a chat we had with a local musician from the North West back in April, Dave Quilliam. We discuss the effects of the pandemic on the local music scene and plenty more, including a funny mix up of the podcast theme!

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This week, we are joined by Ben Taylor aka The Magic Mod! We discuss becoming a professional magician and his career highlights, including touring with the likes of Paul Weller, The Libertines and Shaun Ryder. We also talk about last weekend's trip to the brilliant 110 Above Festival!

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This week, we are joined by an up and coming singer-songwriter from Wales, Megan Wyn. We discuss how she got into music and the scene in Anglesey, as well as the breakthrough single 'Polaroid', support from This Feeling, what the future has in store and plenty more!

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This week, we are joined by radio DJ, event host & voiceover artist, Hattie Pearson. We talk about Hattie's career so far and the journey to Hits Radio, as well as Scruff of the Neck, Girls on Film and plenty more!

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This week, we are joined by voice actor and impressionist, Scheiffer Bates. Scheiffer talks about his career so far and a potential move to America, as well as his most requested impressions, dream collaborations, the impression he would love to master and, of course, a few impressions along the way!

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This week, we are joined by the man behind YouTube sensation, The ASMR Gamer - Ben Nicholls. We discuss ASMR, the rise in popularity of the channel, Ben's book 'ASMR: The Sleep Revolution', his new podcast 'The FLAAT Podcast' and plenty more!

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This week, we are joined by Max from indie pop band, Deco. We discuss lockdown 80s mashups, returning to play the London gigs, Radio 1's Big Weekend and plenty more!

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This week, we are joined by 2021 RivFest headliner, Abi Rose Kelly. We discuss the headline slot as well as Abi's journey in music, the latest single 'Your Time' and plenty more!

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This week, we are joined by singer-songwriter and talented young guitarist, Jake Heaton. We discuss his journey to becoming a finalist on Sky Arts show 'Guitar Star', leading to recording at Abbey Road studios and working with Black Sabbath's Tony Iommi. We also discuss his latest album 'Inside Jessica's Notebook', his move down to London to study music and plenty more!

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This week, we are joined by a rising star from the Isle of Wight, Lauran Hibberd. We discuss everything from dachshunds and cabbages through to the latest single 'How Am I Still Alive?' and gender misrepresentation in the music industry! Tickets & Merch: https://lauranhibberd.awesomedistro.com/

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This week, we are joined by a young singer-songwriter from Manchester, Felix Hill. We discuss his latest single 'Down by the Races', radio and social media praise, juggling music and A levels and plenty more!

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This week, we are joined by DJ and presenter, Katie Owen. We discuss playing in front of 5,000 people at Sefton Park, This Feeling, working on Radio 1 and lots more!

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This week, we are joined by Radio X DJ, Jack Wood. We discuss the Sefton Park pilot gig, MancMade, Scruff of the Neck and plenty more!

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This week, we are joined by XS Manchester evening show host and new music promoter, Jim Salveson. We discuss being a radio DJ during a pandemic, the best in new music, the Sport Social and plenty more!

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This week, we are joined by Sheffield United footballer, Ben Osborn. We discuss the European Super League, Elite Football Development, Ben's blog, The Snuts and lots more!

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This week we are joined by Joe Astley, a rising singer-songwriter from Wigan. As well as his fantasy pints, we discuss the thriving Wigan music scene, his latest music, upcoming gigs and plenty more!

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We are joined by our first special guests, none other than Phoenix Nights' hapless psychic, Clinton Baptiste, and actor, Alex Lowe! We talk about Clinton's upcoming tour, lockdown and all things music!

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A quick introduction to the podcast, website and hosts.