ifitbeyourwill S04E07 • Max Bergé of Castle Frank

Can one night change your entire life? Join us as we reconnect with Max from Castle Frank, reflecting on a turbulent yet transformative period following his record launch back in June 2023. Despite the album's acclaim, including a rave review from Exclaim, Max faced a personal crisis on the night of his release show, where excessive drinking led to a subpar performance. This wake-up call sparked his decision to quit alcohol entirely, driving a year of profound personal growth and resilience. Max’s candid recounting of his journey provides invaluable lessons on overcoming both artistic and personal challenges.

But that's not where Max's story ends. In a thrilling new chapter, Max transitions from artist to producer, teaming up with Elliot Isaac on a groundbreaking album blending acoustic, electronic, and hip-hop elements. We'll explore the intricate creative process behind building captivating soundscapes and the unique hurdles and triumphs of remote collaboration. With the first single set to drop in February, this episode offers a sneak peek into the innovative sounds and heartfelt collaborations that will soon grace our ears. Get ready for an inspiring exploration of redemption, creativity, and the relentless pursuit of musical excellence.

 

The wisdom contained within In Your Blood seems preternatural, too great for its bounds. Bergé began work on the album at 19, after arriving in Toronto from the West Coast. The young songwriter wrote the album's nine tracks so as to synthesize his experiences in his new home city. Produced by Nixon Boyd (of now-defunct Hollerado) and Matt Lederman (who's produced and mixed for the Rural Alberta Advantage), the album contains a weather-beaten wisdom, the kind of bravery that a person so young ought not to have shored up, at least not yet. That Bergé possesses the knowledge shared through In Your Blood is part and parcel of the album's gift.  Exclaim!

https://www.castlefrankmusic.com/

Run Remedy • Disciple • 2024

"[Like They Were] is really a beautiful song" - Guy Garvey, BBC 6 Music

 

"Genre bending brilliance" - BBC Radio Manchester

 

"Candid and cool, raw and tender" - The Autumn Roses

 

"[Like They Were] is one of the most beautifully sincere pieces of music of the year." 

- When the Horn Blows

Instagram

Run Remedy, the musical project of New Jersey-born, Manchester-based artist Robin Koob, has released a striking new single titled ‘Disciple’. Known for her genre-defying sound that blends elements of singer-songwriter intimacy, experimental rock dynamics, and psychedelic folk experimentation, Run Remedy's latest track delivers a potent mix of candour, confrontation, and catharsis.

ifitbeyourwill S04E06 • John Andrew Frederick of The Black Watch

Can relentless creativity be a double-edged sword? In our latest episode, we sit down with John Andrew Frederick of The Black Watch, a band boasting an extraordinary catalog of 24 records. Hear John's inspiring journey from a childhood accident to his academic ventures in English literature, revealing how these experiences shaped his prolific musical career. We chat about the band's humble beginnings, including one of their first gigs with Toad the Wet Sprocket.

The transformative role of producers and engineers, the influence of bands like The Beatles and The Cure, and the impact of different band members—John covers it all. Explore how The Black Watch's sound has evolved over decades. Finally, reflect on the changing landscape of the music industry since their first record in 1988, offering valuable insights for both emerging and seasoned musicians navigating today's digital age.

 

“Most of the music comes with a slightly dreamy quality, a perfect match for Fredrick’s lyrics. Some touches of the Cure peak through, but the Black Watch sounds more drawn toward New Zealand or Australia (The Go-Betweens make a reliable reference point)” - Dusted Magazine - dustedmagazine.tumblr.com

Tom Russell • Who's Gonna Build Your Wall • 2022

Nilüfer Yanya • Just A Western • 2024

Speaking about “Method Actor” Nilüfer describes how the concept for the song came together, “I was researching method acting - and from what I read, it’s based on finding this one memory in your life, a life-altering, life-changing memory. The reason why some people find method acting traumatic and maybe not safe mentally, is because you're always going back to that moment. It can be good or bad but you're always feeding off the energy, something that's defined you - and that's what helps you become the character. It’s a bit like being a musician. When you’re performing, you’re still trying to invoke the energy and emotion of when you first wrote it, in that moment. It definitely feels like you're having to recreate or step into that headspace.”

Stars • Set Yourself On Fire (20th Anniversary Edition) • 2024

https://starsband.bandcamp.com/album/set-yourself-on-fire-20th-anniversary-edition

Artists of effortlessly accessible complication, on Set Yourself On Fire, Stars took our worst fears - both personal and global - and slayed the anxieties with their perfect pop music. Widely lauded as amongst their most ambitious, accomplished, and affecting works of their storied existence, Stars Set Yourself On Fire (20th Anniversary Edition) carries the torch of the magical songs that has set so many hearts alight. Vinyl limited to 2000 copies.

The Ladybug Transistor • The Albemarle Sound (25th Anniversary Expanded Edition) • 2024

For the 25th anniversary of The Albemarle Sound, the record has been lovingly reissued on silver vinyl by Happy Happy Birthday to Me Records. The CD includes 12 bonus tracks which break open the year-long recording process with the inclusion of rare B-sides, four-track demos, instrumentals and alternate mixes, further highlighting the band’s mastery of songcraft while teasing out the intricate worlds those songs contain, making a case, as fans of The Ladybug Transistor have known for decades now, that The Albemarle Sound is as infinitely rewarding to return to as it is to visit for the first time.

linktr.ee/theladybugtransistor

p:ano • ba ba ba • 2024

 

‘ba ba ba’ is made out of unwieldy observations about these kinds of changes - impressions about being alive with friends and family and loved ones from the vantage of a very different time, and filtering it all with a sense of bewilderment and gratitude for the here and now. All in its own funny way, and most notably, all for love. 

https://mintrecs.com/pano

Ben Lee • Positive Energy • 2024

https://www.ben-lee.com/

ifitbeyourwill S04E05 • Julia-Sophie

What happens when music becomes both a lifeline and a battleground? Julia-Sophie opens up about her late introduction to music within her French family, where singing was a cherished form of personal expression. She candidly shares her journey starting from learning guitar at 16 and writing her first song to honor her grandfather, to the thrill and hard knocks of busking and forming a pop band at 17. The excitement of being noticed by a Sony representative quickly turned bittersweet, leading her band to disband. Julia reflects on those early days filled with fun, naivety, and a sense of camaraderie that shaped her identity as a musician.

Navigating the transition from band life to a solo career, Julia discusses the challenges and rewards of staying true to herself amid tempting but conflicting opportunities, such as turning down a tobacco advert. She provides a unique perspective on the creative process, contrasting the collaborative energy of a band with the solitary freedom and responsibility of solo work. Julia also offers a peek into her latest album, "Forgive Too Slow," where emotions and traditional songwriting structures play a pivotal role.

Finally, Julia takes us through the tumultuous emotional landscape of releasing music independently. From the self-doubt and isolation of working without a record label to the near-abandonment of her album, her story is one of resilience. The unexpected lifeline from Ba Da Bing Records revitalized her confidence and provided a sense of redemption. Julia shares intimate details about facing rejection and public scrutiny. Yet, through it all, she found validation and connection with listeners worldwide, proving that perseverance in the music industry can lead to profound personal and professional fulfillment.

Instagram

MAITA • I used to feel different • 2024

https://www.maitamusic.com/

The Japanese-American singer-songwriter applies that same approach to her band, MAITA; she only writes songs she intends to finish. She only makes cuts in service of the whole. And once the debris has been blown away, the melodies remain — vibrant, sharp, and often heartbreaking. Fluff

My Morning Jacket • Aren’t We One? • 2024

MYMORNINGJACKET.COM

“Music is the invisible architecture holding up the entire universe,” says Jim James.. Music is the great reminder that life, despite its challenges, still brims with so much beauty. Music connects us back to the source -- the heartbeat of existence, the force of love that binds us all, that boundless ocean of cosmic energy.

“In these times of great confusion and shifting energies, let us remember love, equality, and unity. Let us move past the divide-and-conquer mentality holding us back and come together to uplift one another and heal our planet. A rainbow is the greatest example we have of this in life, where all of the diverse colors come together to form something much greater than they ever could have done on their own. No matter what walk of life one may stroll- who doesn’t enjoy the majesty of a rainbow out in nature?! We are all part of that great ever-changing living rainbow called life. 

Let us act with compassion and listen to the heartbeat of the universe, the voice of conscience within our souls, guiding us towards peace, reminding us that we are all one… all part of the same love. 

“Please help support organizations like @doctorswithoutborders, @amnesty, @glbctzn, and others fighting for a better world.

“Most importantly, register to VOTE and exercise your right to choose. Your voice matters. Every vote counts. Don't let your voice go unheard. In the upcoming election we believe in the leadership of @kamalaharris and @timwallz, who are working tirelessly to create a world of fairness, equality, and peace. Visit @headcountorg for information on registering to vote or voting in your area.”

ifitbeyourwill S04E04 • James Smith of Good Good Blood

Can music heal a broken heart? Join us for an emotional and inspiring conversation with James Smith of Good Good Blood as he returns to the podcast, revealing the profound transformations in his life and music since we last spoke in January 2023. James opens up about the deeply personal loss of his baby girl, Poppy, and how this tragedy shaped his latest album, "Forever Scars," allowing him to channel his grief and creativity into something beautiful and raw.

James's journey is not just about crafting songs but about coping with unimaginable pain and finding solace in the process. He shares poignant insights into how Poppy's short life touched many, from family members to medical staff, and how songwriting has been his lifeline through this difficult period. This episode captures the essence of James's transformation—how he's evolved from a "pre-Poppy" to a "post-Poppy" version of himself, with his music reflecting this profound shift. Listen to a heart-wrenching live performance of "Little Sparrow," a testament to the raw vulnerability and authenticity that now define his work.

The conversation also delves into the collaborative efforts that have breathed new life into James's music. Hear about his unique approach to achieving a lo-fi sound using second-hand instruments and the invaluable partnership with his friend Paul, who brings a meticulous touch to James's spontaneous creativity. Discover how older tracks like "Forever Scars" and "Flowers Bloom" have been reimagined with deeper emotional layers, and get a glimpse into the creation of new songs that push the boundaries of his artistic expression. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking inspiration, resilience, and the healing power of music.

this collection of songs are dedicated to our baby daughter Poppy who unfortunately passed away in December 2023 at just a couple of days old.

the grief of losing a child has really taken its toll - the only real thing I have had to cling onto is making music.

I started tentatively making some new songs before Poppy was born but had to put all that on hold when she arrived.

after she died and we’d had her funeral, I returned to the nebulous versions I had made and was totally overwhelmed by how they resonated with what had happened.

the vibe and words were so on point it was crazy, like the songs knew what was coming.

so I kept at them and finished them and here they are.

i hope you find something in there to enjoy.

thank you x

Avery Lynch • somebody new • 2024

Website

With its delicate piano melody and Avery’s soothing vocals, “somebody new” draws listeners in with its raw, unfiltered honesty. The song is a poignant reflection on a love so profound that it transcends personal desires. “It’s about loving someone so deeply that you wish them happiness, even if it means they find it with someone else,” Avery shares. The song’s beauty lies in its simplicity, making it both deeply touching and profoundly resonant.

Gold Connections • Easy • 2024

http://www.goldconnectionsmusic.com/

Princess Goes • “Armageddon Suite (Re-Armed)” • 2024

https://onerpm.link/702069617448

"A Bowie influence of futurism, freedom, and reinvention is present in the dozen songs on Princess Goes’ haunting Come of Age."
- FLOOD Magazine

"Princess Goes’ music manages to be both touching and visceral with a collection of mesmerizing songs led by Hall’s arresting voice [...] True to its title, the atmospheric 'Shimmer' features glistening production as Hall’s vocals imbue the song with a dream-like quality."
- UPROXX Indie Mixtape

"Princess Goes are back on the scene with an exceptional album that recalls the heady days of the new wave scene where The Human League, OMD, ABC, Depeche Mode and numerous keyboard leading bands ran rampant in the UK. These guys are totally up to scratch with their own modern take on that scene."
- Louder Than War

"'Blur' showcases a different side to their artistry; it is more ambient and it has a retro ’80s synth-pop new wave vibe to it [...] The bass drum and guitar helps adds to its overall appeal, and the melody ranges from soft to piercing. It has a stirring vibe that will resonate with fans and listeners."
- Digital Journal

Susan O'Neill • Drive Live on The Tommy Tiernan Show •

https://susanoneill.ie/

Full Performance 

The Boys With The Perpetual Nervousness • Dead Calm (Deluxe Edition) • 2024

Bobo Integral Records announces the Deluxe Edition of "Dead Calm," the debut album by The Boys With The Perpetual Nervousness, available September 13, 2024. This edition enriches the original tracks (now remastered), which were met with immediate success and critical acclaim, with new material and acoustic demos. Also incorporates an expected insert with all lyrics.

“The most perfect voice in jangle/power-pop at present (sorry Teenage Fanclub fans!)” - Janglepophub

“A brand new international pop overthrow is afoot and The Boys With The Perpetual Nervousness are at the vanguard" – Post-Trash

“Las guitarras cincelan armonías celestiales en canciones que te arreglan el día en cuanto empiezan a sonar” – El País

ifitbeyourwill S04E03 • Arthur Alligood of phoneswithchords

Ever wondered how a suburban kid from outside Nashville finds his musical path amidst the city's evolving soundscape? Arthur Alligood from phoneswithchords shares his fascinating journey from childhood oldies mixtapes to bedroom pop anthems. Arthur opens up about his mixed feelings toward Nashville's contemporary hits and his love for older country music, sparked by a spontaneous decision to pick up a guitar after quitting basketball. This episode offers an intimate look at how a simple choice can ignite a lifelong passion for creating original music.

Join us as Arthur digs into his creative process, revealing how voice memos on his smartphone capture spontaneous musical ideas that blossom into full-fledged songs. Hear about the magical "gateway song" that sets the thematic course for his latest album, inspired by reflections on time and personal experiences. We also take a lively tour of Nashville's iconic country bar scene, savoring hot chicken and heartfelt moments. This captivating conversation underscores the importance of love, support, and mutual reliance, wrapping up with a touching musical piece that beautifully encapsulates these themes. Don't miss this emotional and insightful episode as we continue to kick off season four!

On his latest release, The Speed of Time (out September 13, 2024 via Totally Real Records), Alligood has truly leveled up. Gorgeous guitar tones, ranging from bright and buzzy to cacophonous and clean, soar through the mix as blown out vocals float effortlessly above. Stark, sparse arrangements give way to intense orchestrations including electronics, strings, and horns – all while wearing the album’s retro influences firmly on its sleeve. This all serves as a venerable vessel for the star of the show: Arthur’s intensely personal and introspective lyrics, which touch on aging, love, and the joy and agony of existing.

Taylor Hollingsworth • “Couldn’t Get To Heaven” • 2024

https://taylorhollingsworth.org/

Taylor's talent on the guitar has also led to him serving as the lead guitar player for Conor Oberst on several world wide tours as well as late-night TV appearances, demonstrating his exceptional skill and versatility. Despite brushes with major industry players, record deals, and high-profile agents, Taylor's unwavering commitment to artistic and personal freedoms led him to walk away or be dropped from these opportunities. Undeterred, he redirected his focus inward, prioritizing his family and his own artistic vision, and paved his own path as a full-time local musician.

Future Star • It's About Time • 2024

https://futurestar.rocks/

While dreaming about houses that have been torn down and shows that happened in venues that don't exist anymore, Future Star explores the space between now and then with their upcoming album It's About Time!. A retrospective on seven years of songwriting, It's About Time! reminds us that a moment can go on infinitely, a memory can be shared, and something might have changed when you weren't looking.

Guidon Bear • Internal Systems • 2024

"all the invention and heart we’ve come to expect from Guidon Bear, capturing the experience of real life with a unique sound" - Various Small Flames

"infused with tremendous energy and an authentic approach...exudes a warm, homemade atmosphere." - Start Track

"glistening and cheery melodies and harmonies, perfectly soundtracking lyrics from the real world and lived experiences, reflective and occasionally noir in nature. The result is all-original and

catchy compositions that have that undeniable ear-worm quality." - Aldora Britain Records

ifitbeyourwill S04E02 • Sumner Bright of The Clearwater Swimmers

What drives an artist to bare their soul on stage, and how does that vulnerability shape their musical journey? Join us as we sit down with Sumner Bright of Clearwater Swimmers to uncover the transformative experiences that have brought his music to life. Sumner shares candid memories from his high school performance days, the formative role of mentorship, and the pivotal moments in college that led to the birth of his band. His authentic storytelling offers a rare glimpse into the personal challenges and victories that have defined his path as a musician.

Sumner takes us behind the scenes of the Clearwater Swimmers' creative process, from rekindling a college friendship with bandmate Sander to embarking on a spontaneous mini tour in the Northeast. With vivid reflections, Sumner recounts their exhilarating recording sessions at Big Nice studio, where engineer Bradford Krieger helped them capture a raw, live sound over three intense days. We also delve into the deeper themes of their music—memory, loss, and the passage of time—each woven together like water flowing through a valley. This episode promises a heartfelt and poetic exploration of artistic growth, making it a must-listen for anyone passionate about music and life's ever-flowing journey.

linktr.ee/theclearwaterswimmers

 

Half Happy • Bloom • 2024

Detailing their latest release, frontwoman Rosalie Miller revealed: “‘Bloom’ is about getting caught in the middle of your mate’s relationships. For the first minute of the track you are almost trapped by the vocal and synth, just like you’re stuck in an awkward conversation. You have no idea how you can help, what to say, don’t want to drop anyone in it. Then going into the chorus has always felt to us like jumping into the sea, feels like a huge relief how the guitars and synth swell together. A floaty relationship track which doesn’t know yet whether to love them or dump them”.

Red Ribbon • Crying My Car • 2024

There's a blazing fierceness that permeates Red Ribbon, Danner's most unflinching work to date, informed in part by her recent foray into martial arts -- something she studied while making the record. Her time spent in the boxing gym and the studio were undeniably intertwined, each experience working in tandem to empower her to express anger, salacity and passion unabashedly. "I couldn't help but learn how to be 'a lady' growing up: always polite, always friendly, always likable. So it felt nice and necessary to finally exhale against all of that," she says. "I've always censored myself, but on Red Ribbon, I let myself be more free. This record feels visceral.”

Cuff The Duke • Ballad of the Breaking Dawn • 2024

https://linktr.ee/cufftheduke

With a foundation in Canadian roots rock and a penchant for crafting noisy guitar jams, Cuff the Duke's unique blend of genres has consistently escaped the confines of simple classification, earning them an honoured place under the umbrella of "alternative.”

Six albums, a pair of JUNO nods, countless miles clocked on the road, including sharing stages with iconic acts like Blue Rodeo, Hayden, Sloan, Nick Cave & the Bad Seeds, and Calexico. Then, poof! A ten-year vanishing act, playing only a handful of shows in that time. But like all great tales, theirs has a twist: Cuff the Duke has reemerged from the shadows.

The band's comeback album, "Breaking Dawn" is a deeply personal exploration of frontman Wayne Petti's journey with mental health. Petti, who has spent the past 8 years working as an artist manager for renowned acts like The National, Owen Pallett, Broken Social Scene, and Jennifer Castle, found himself struggling with the idea of balancing his roles as both a manager and an artist.  "I struggled with the idea of working with incredible and inspiring artists in that capacity and still being an artist in my own way. I finally realized that the only thing stopping me was ME. There are no rules about how one can and cannot be creative. I realized that it didn't matter to me how it came out and who listened to it; all that mattered was that I allowed myself to create something just because I finally felt that I needed to.”

the black watch • The Morning Papers Have Given Us The Vapours • 2024

“an immaculate run of late-period brilliance that began with 2020’s Brilliant Failures ) is perpetuated on Morning Papers. With aspects of his previous MBV/Go-Betweens-gone-Beatles indie rock paradise remain, the first half feels like a’80s KROQ U.K. fest from days of Robyn Hitchcock, Lucy Show, and post-1981 Bunnymen (“New Brooms Sweep Clean”) transmogrified into Fredrick’s delicious hooks. All excellent—but it’s the second half that really takes off, when Fredrick’s guitar deals more stimulating distortion. Start with the buzzy C86-gone-baroque beauty, “More Lies”; here, Frederick’s melodic powers and poetic soul take flight anew, into the standout, noisier, fantastic “There and Here” (satirizing callousness), then continuing unabated ’til the driving-yet-bass/drums-free closer, “The Morning Papers.” Wonders don’t cease.”

- The Big Takeover 

Clem snide • All Was Revealed • 2024

Everyone's life, in the end, is a blaze of glory! Amen.

https://ffm.to/allwasrevealed

linktr.ee/clemsnide

julia-sophie • telephone • 2024

“Elegant and smoky electronic pop…Widescreen and ambitious, embodying both the freedom that comes with independent musicianship.” – The Quietus

“A forward thinking avant-popster.” – Electronic Sound Magazine 

“Captivating synth textures, spiraling melodies, and intricate rhythms.” – The Line of Best Fit

“Mesmerizing…Worlds away from her garage-rock and pop beginnings in DIY bands...you can practically hear her tears within the soft, synth-led soundscape.” – Bandcamp Daily

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ifitbeyourwill S04E01 • Pang Attack

What if the quietness of rural Quebec could ignite a lifelong passion for music? Join us as we kick off Season Four of the ifitbeyourwill Podcast with the remarkable Alex Hackett from Pang Attack with Yann Geoffroy (drums), and Dave Clark (keys, bass). From his early days influenced by 80s pop and his mother's love for the radio, to his journey into the indie underground, Alex takes us on a nostalgic trip through his musical evolution.

Ever wondered how creative collaborations evolve over distance? Alex delves into the intricacies of band dynamics, the highs and lows of musical partnerships, and the unique chemistry that can be fostered even when miles apart. One standout story is the unexpected yet successful collaboration with Peter Holmstrom of The Dandy Warhols during the COVID era, which resulted in the evocative track "Sea of Eyes." 

Looking ahead, we explore the future of Pang Attack and the personal milestones that have influenced the band's creative journey. From the reflective themes in the song "Lowborn Man" to the integration of real strings, Alex shares his insights into the band's artistic process. As we anticipate the release of their final album in its current form, Alex opens up about what the future holds for him musically and the bittersweet emotions tied to closing this chapter. Don't miss this heartfelt and engaging start to our new season!

http://www.pangattack.com/