Can't Find My Way Home...
By Craig
Can't Find My Way Home...Nov 07, 2021
Ben Osborne - "In the studio, you need to deliver this whole world as part of the song…" | S4 EP17
In this episode of Can't Find My Way Home, I was joined by Ben Osborne.
It had maybe been about a year or so since we originally talked about doing an episode together, but it was definitely worth the wait.
Ben talks us through his early days as a musician in Oxford, and how after moving to university, his musical expectations were about to change. For the better...
We also get into the move to Berlin (back when it was a lot cheaper to do so), as well as his work with Open Music Lab, where he is the Project Manager & Workshop Organizer, as well as the Co-Founder. From their website -
"The Open Music Lab is a space where anyone can learn how to create, record, and share. All of our workshops and courses are free of charge for the students and offer a place for Berlin’s diverse communities to connect and create together."
We chat about Ben's back catalogue, his own very distinctive musical style, performing live after a long break, his work on theatre and film soundtracks, and his work as a libretti...writing lyrics for opera.
There's a new piece he's written, which will see him go to Japan in the New Year, the joy of writing lyrics, anarchic pantomimes, and why we should be listening to Kate Bush...and The Pixies...
I really enjoyed our conversation and I'm sure that you will too...
Craig
http://ben-osborn.com/
@_ben_osborn_
https://www.facebook.com/benosbornmusic
https://www.openmusiclab.org
Greg Clifford - "Sometimes it feels like a juggling act on a unicycle…"| S4 EP16
In this episode of Can't Find My Way Home, I was joined by Greg Clifford.
Greg, originally from Dublin, now based in Berlin, has a new single out (Shoot The Messenger) on the 30th of August, and of course, we get into the story behind the song, as well as the excellent accompanying video.
We explore music's gravitational pull, his last album Lines of Desire, breaking up a band on stage, dancing in the kitchen, as well as the genius of Mark E Smith.
Greg also opens up about his work in higher education, his love of video and the editing process, the state of the music industry today, and what projects he's got planned in the near future.
Aside from his solo music endeavors Clifford also works as a session musician, producer and arranger. He has also toured internationally with the Diversus Guitar Ensemble, scored for the RTE Concert Orchestra and guest lectures and composes avant-garde works for the Sound Training Centre.
All this and just who is the other Greg Clifford?
Check out Greg's work:
https://www.instagram.com/gregcliffordmusic
https://www.gregcliffordmusic.com/
https://linktr.ee/cantfindmywayhome
Claire Hawkins - "I always feel like I want to live in at least three cities at the same time..."| S4 EP15
In this episode of Can't Find My Way Home, I was joined by Claire Hawkins. Claire talks us through her musical and travel journey -so far, as well as the release of her new EP and the latest tracks - The Name and Choosing To Stay.
We talk musical influences, the writing process, DIY Tours and participating in The Odyssée artist-in-residency programme, in Southern France, and life as a Digital Nomad.
Claire's Youtube channel has just gone over one million views and we talk about the content creation process, the fun of making vlogs, and finding audiences in some surprising places - in a good way.
All this and a super Top 5. Let's get right to it...Claire Hawkins.
https://www.clairehawkinsmusic.com/
@imclairehawkins
@ClaireHawkins
https://linktr.ee/cantfindmywayhome
Dom Fricot - "It's really about the amount of work and motivation you're willing to put in..."| S4 EP14
In this episode of Can't Find My Way Home, I was joined by Canadian singer-songwriter, Dom Fricot.
Dom tells us how he landed in Berlin and his many adventures along the way. We also get into the live, musical differences between Canadian and European audiences, 'Toplining', The Bundys, and why you should always reply to emails.
Dom shares some of his musical influences and who we should be listening to, as well as his roots projects Flora Falls and Folk Road Show and the forthcoming tours and new releases.
Silent concerts (which look amazing, so I can only imagine they sound amazing), the most unusual gig venues, and the real joy of singing...
Check out Dom's work below...
https://linktr.ee/dominiquefricot
https://linktr.ee/cantfindmywayhome
Jonny Whitlam - " I think the more unique stuff outside of me and my personality, is to come..." | Can't Find My Way Home | S4 EP13
In this episode of Can't Find My Way Home, I was joined by Jonny Whitlam.
Jonny has been a Berlin tour guide since 2010, and has been showing travellers from across the world the fascinating history of Berlin ever since.
We talk about the tour industry in Berlin, Jonny's favourite tour that he offers, embracing your inner-nerd, the online video map that you'll find on his excellent website, as well as working as a freelancer.
Jonny talks us through the leading a tour to the former concentration camp in Sachsenhausen, how to not pull any punches, but at the same time maintain the utmost respect for those who suffered there.
There's a hot take on the best 'short time' trips in the city, his impressive daily step count, and what you'll find (or not as the case may be) when you visit the grave of the legendary film director, F.W. Murnau.
Find Jonny below...
https://www.whitlams-berlin-tours.com/
@whitlamsberlintours on instagram and facebook
Karl Culley - "“I hope I no longer play with fireworks…I think it’s all about the songs now…” S4 EP12
In this week’s episode of Can’t Find My Way Home, I was joined by Karl Culley.
Karl starts by telling us about his guitar journey and how his distinctive playing style. We get into his new album, ‘Stories Save Our Lives’ as well as Karl’s back catalogue.
There’s talk of the doomed, dangerous sound of a Bond song, the power of the hook, and how he landed in Kraków. Karl also had the pleasure of recording his first album on the remote Scottish island of Jura, and we find out all about the logistical and meteorological challenges of working there. Definitely worth it though…
We talk about the work of the producer, live performances, why not buying records changed everything, and the joys of music theory…and a super Top 5.
Let’s get right to it…Karl Culley…
https://linktr.ee/cantfindmywayhome
Davy Lyons - "I went to a lot of jam sessions. It was like dating. It involved a lot of rejection..." | Can't Find My Way Home | S4 EP11
In this week’s episode of Can’t Find My Way Home, I was joined by Davy Lyons.
Davy is an Irish songwriter, musician, poet, and actor.
We talk about how he started as a musician, singing at family gatherings, finding his voice, and busking on the streets of Dublin.
Davy first moved abroad, volunteering with the World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms program , which brought him to live and make wine in a Tuscan castle and stay for four months in the mythic Parisian bookshop, Shakespeare & Co. In 2016, he moved to Barcelona where he still resides today.
In 2019 he released his first album, Evidence, and his second record, ‘The Human Factor’ produced by compatriot David Duffy, was released in Feb 2023 with Dutch label King Forward Records. We talk more about his live band, performances, and also some new projects in the pipeline. Let’s get right to it…Davy Lyons
https://davylyons.com/
https://linktr.ee/davylyons
Ethan Smith - "In Cape Town, if you were an educated musician, busking wasn't the thing to do..." | Can't Find My Way Home | S4 EP10
Can't Find My Way Home is a podcast where Expats from around the world talk about the music and arts scene in their new home. In this episode, I was joined by multi-instrumentalist Ethan Smith. Ethan describes how he landed in Krakow from Cape Town, his many musical adventures, the projects he's working on at the moment, as well as his new EP 'Times Remembered'. We get into his musical education, and the differences in studying in South Africa and in Norway. Yes, he's travelled that much! Ethan also shares his musical influences from the jazz world as well as his continued participation in the Viva Kultura organization, which started the whole travelling thing off in the first place. https://bit.ly/3q4YjqP
https://bit.ly/3pZLbTQ
https://www.instagram.com/ethan.altosax.smith/
https://www.facebook.com/ethansmithcreates
Steve Wallis - I'm decidedly the only Australian and the only folk singer around here...| Can't Find My Way Home | S4 EP09
Can't Find My Way Home is a podcast where Expats from around the world talk about the music and arts scene in their new home.
In this episode, I was joined by folk singer-songwriter Steve Wallis.
Steve was raised in Byron Bay, Australia, but after spending more than a decade playing in bands around the country, he relocated to Paris, France in 2014.Steve talks about the local music scene, his musical influences, his album ‘Nothing Stays The Same Way For Long’ (released September 16 2022), and working on his stage presence. We talk about going to a band camp with The Milk Carton Kids (and others, of course), his Guild M-20 guitar, and having one of your tunes licensed into a Playstation game.
Find out more about Steve and his music
www.stevewallismusic.com
https://linktr.ee/cantfindmywayhome
Chris Darwa - "What does it take to get an 80 minute set..." - Video EP
In this episode of Can’t Find My Way Home, I was joined by Chris Darwa.
Chris is originally from Canberra, Australia and has lived in Qatar, Germany and London before moving to Switzerland. He worked as a trainer in the fitness industry for 8 years before committing to stand up comedy and acting in 2012.
You’ll find this episode as we recorded it, with some light editing, here and there.
Chris had just returned to his home in Zurich the morning that we recorded, after completing his first solo European tour.
Chris talks us through his journey so far in the world of comedy, the ups and downs of performing, his first paid gig and doing things that don’t make any rational sense to other people.
Find out about his background in wrestling (the WWE kind), the nuances of Swiss audiences,
All this and just what it takes to work up to performing an 80 minute set…you’d be surprised.
Let’s get right to it…Chris Darwa
www.instagram.com/chrisdarwa
www.facebook.com/chris.darwa/
linktr.ee/cantfindmywayhome
Chris Darwa: "Comedy’s become the full, complete, all-encompassing obsession for me…" - | Can't Find My Way Home | S4 EP08
In this episode of Can’t Find My Way Home, I was joined by Chris Darwa.
Chris is originally from Canberra, Australia and has lived in Qatar, Germany and London before moving to Switzerland. He worked as a trainer in the fitness industry for 8 years before committing to stand up comedy and acting in 2012.
You’ll find this episode as we recorded it, with some light editing, here and there.
Chris had just returned to his home in Zurich the morning that we recorded, after completing his first solo European tour.
Chris talks us through his journey so far in the world of comedy, the ups and downs of performing, his first paid gig and doing things that don’t make any rational sense to other people.
Find out about his background in wrestling (the WWE kind), the nuances of Swiss audiences,
All this and just what it takes to work up to performing an 80 minute set…you’d be surprised.
Let’s get right to it…Chris Darwa
www.instagram.com/chrisdarwa
https://www.facebook.com/chris.darwa/
https://linktr.ee/cantfindmywayhome
Steen Agro: “Try Again. Fail Again. Fail Better.” And I was failing better…a lot." | Can't Find My Way Home | S4 EP07
In this episode of Can’t Find My Way Home, I was joined by Steen Agro.
Steen is a filmmaker, writer, and director, based in Prague.
In his own words, Some bloke who's been making films since he was a kid. Didn't go to film school, just kept shooting instead, figuring shit out...specialises in humour, character and story.
Steen talks us through his vast experiences in the world of filmmaking, commercials, the improv group Script For Brains, that he’s a performing member of, 48 Hour Film Challenges…Electric Dinosaur…meeting Richard Attenborough, and directing a feature film…All this and turning down Saatchi and Saatchi for all the wrong reasons…plus a super Top 5…Let’s get right to it…Steen Agro
https://www.instagram.com/kinosteeno/
https://www.facebook.com/ScriptforBrains/
https://linktr.ee/cantfindmywayhome
Matt Paull: "I’m gonna make this thing work and no one can stop me…" | Can't Find My Way Home | S4 EP06
In this episode of Can’t Find My Way Home, I was joined by Matt Paull.
Matt, born in the UK, raised mostly in New Zealand, and now a resident in Berlin since 2016, talks us through both his musical and expat journey - so far.
We talk about social media, being a multi-instrumentalist, marketing yourself in a new country, some of the logistic challenges of settling in Berlin, as well as all things NORD.
Matt shares some of the artists he’s played with since moving to Berlin, and we get into his own debut album ‘Reminiscence’...what’s it’s like to conduct a musical and a super TOP 5…All this and trying to keep the reggae police happy…let’s get right to it…Matt Paull
@mattpaullmusic
@matthewpaullpiano
https://www.facebook.com/mattpaullmusic/
David Duffy: “I like musical experiences to feel almost otherworldly…to bring you somewhere special.” | Can't Find My Way Home | S4 EP05
In this episode of Can’t Find My Way Home, I was joined by David Duffy.
Originally from Cork, Ireland, and now based in Barcelona, David is a renowned musician and composer in his own right.
David talks us through his musical journey from picking up the bass as a teenager, discovering jazz and then moving on to study music full-time. We talk through the academic audition process and some unique prep tips, as well as some of his experiences when he was a student.
We also get into some of David’s musical projects, both as a musician and as a composer. The Niall McCabe Band, the Eat My Noise project, the making of the video for his track “Self”, the pros and cons of arts funding, and just what is IDM?
There’s a look into what David’s working on at the moment, his commercial work, the inspirational work of Olafur Arnalds, and the live scene in Barcelona.
A super Top 5 PLUS…George Michael’s exploding reverb sound…
https://davidduffymusic.com/
https://linktr.ee/cantfindmywayhome
Heavy Heavy: "A lot of our songs on the album are dealing with concepts of mortality, morality and the unknown…" | Can't Find My Way Home | S4 EP04
In this episode of Can’t Find My Way Home, I was joined by Chance from the Berlin-based rock band, Heavy Heavy.
We start our conversation with Chance telling us how the band came to be, what his musical influences are, and the thriving rock scene in Berlin.
We get into the band’s latest album ‘I Think It’s Permanent…’ and some of the themes that the songs cover. As well as Chance’s first role in directing one of the band’s new videos, we discuss Heavy Heavy’s fantastic use of visuals.
There’s talk of the recording process, the unenviable task of writing lyrics, the trouble booking tours today, how the band get their sound both live and in the studio…and a fun Top 5.
Let’s get right to it…Chance
https://linktr.ee/heavyheavyberlin
https://heavyheavysdumburl.wixsite.com/official
https://s7g.show/about/
Can't Find My Way Home - Viktor Haraszti's Top 5
Big thanks to @viomusic.art for sharing his Top 5. Some guilty pleasures, a particularly unique live venue, his go to Karaoke song...and more.
Viktor Haraszti is a Hungarian-born, Holland-based musician, sax player-multiinstrumentalist, producer, and sound engineer. Hitting his first notes behind the piano as a seven-year-old, he later picked up the clarinet at age 11. Seven years later, he got his first diploma at the famous Bela Bartok Conservatory in Budapest. Influenced by a visit to Fats Domino's Budapest concert in the late '80s, the Rock & Roll set off his passion and inspired him to pick up the saxophone right after graduation. Learning the traditions of Rhythm & Blues and playing with different local bands helped him to develop his interest in jazz. Discovering Parker, Miles, and Coltrane's works while he was working at the music library made him set his direction in music
Follow Viktor and check out some of his recordings, live performances, as well as some cool collaborations.
https://www.viomusic.art/
Viktor Haraszti: "My friends infected me with Rock'n'Roll...it was a streeetwise thing" | Can't Find My Way Home | S4 EP03
In this episode of Can’t Find My Way Home, I was joined by Viktor Haraszti.
Viktor talks us through his expat and musical journey: from growing up in Hungary in the 80’s, to his now home of many years in the Netherlands.
As well as being an acomplished Saxophonist and composer Viktor is also a multi- instrumentalist, producer and sound engineer.
Viktor talks us through his musical education in Hungary, the countless hours of practice, and discovering there was so much more to music as he got older.
We talk about innovation and creativity, the differences in musical training and education, AND breaking the rules of the jazz police.
More recently, Viktor created ViOmusic, his creative platform, and record label. We also discuss some of his musical collaborations, his solo album, as well as organsing a local festival in the Netherlands this summer.
All this and carrying a harp to the gig…let’s get right to it…Viktor Haraszti.
Follow Viktor https://www.viomusic.art/
Russ van den Berg: “I think to be creative, you’ve got to be dysfunctional.” | Can't Find My Way Home | S4 EP02
In this episode of Can’t Find My Way Home, I was joined by Russ van den Berg, from his home in Valencia.
We started our conversation with Russ explaining why he moved to Spain and we both get to share our feelings on the ‘B’ Word - Brexit. Russ shares his musical background and how he got into the clarinet, then the saxophone, as a teenager.
We get into creativity and being dysfunctional, the scary nature of jazz as a genre, and Russ’s academic background which led him to a professorship at Trinity College, London at just 25 years old.
We talk ‘Wokeness’, cancel culture in education, what you can expect from the music scene in Valencia, and why it’s such an inspirational place for Russ. Taking risks as a musician, what goes into a practice routine, and a really fun Top 5.
All this and the importance of having shiny shoes…Let’s get right to it…
Russ van den Berg.
Follow Russ
https://www.facebook.com/russell.v.berg
https://www.youtube.com/@CentreLine2/
https://russellvandenberg.bandcamp.com/
https://linktr.ee/cantfindmywayhome
Daniel Beaver: "Afterwards, it felt like something horrible inside. My soul is dead…nobody’s laughing." | Can't Find My Way Home | S4 EP01
In this episode of Can’t Find My Way Home, I was joined by Daniel Beaver. Daniel’s been a long-time resident in Munich and hails from Preston, England.
We open our chat with discussion about one of Daniel’s podcasts - ‘Beavercast’, where he and some comedian buddies, discuss the latest news and happenings.
We get into the comedy scene in Munich, where you can find a show, the performers and what kind of atmosphere you can expect.
Daniel recalls what it was that brough him to Germany and what other opportunities has he been able to explore since arriving? There’s talk about performing at the Edinburgh Fringe, some advice for those who’re thinking of performing at an open mic, stealing jokes, and a super Top 5.
All this and learning to swear properly…let’s get right to it…Daniel Beaver
https://linktr.ee/danielbeaver
https://linktr.ee/cantfindmywayhome
Robbie Aaron: I've Become An Expert at Fighting Against The Grain...| Can't Find My Way Home S3 EP11
Can't Find My Way Home is a podcast where Expats from around the world talk about the music and arts scene in their new home.
In this episode, I was joined by Robbie Aaron.
In this excerpt, Robbie talks us through the process of making the video for the band's first single, 'Break The Cycle'.
Follow Ocean's Away - https://linktr.ee/OceansAway
Can’t Find My Way Home - https://linktr.ee/cantfindmywayhome
Robert Castelli: Today's Musical Landscape Has Changed... | Can't Find My Way Home S3 EP10
Can't Find My Way Home is a podcast where Expats from around the world talk about the music and arts scene in their new home.
In this episode, I was joined by Robert Castelli. In this excerpt, Robert tells us about how life as a working musician has changed immeasurably in the past twenty years. We get into a few other things along the way too. Robert is a native of Ossining, New York…Born into a family of drummers (a grandfather, two uncles & his father) and currently resides in Barcelona, Spain.
You can listen to the episode in full, here : https://spotifyanchor-web.app.link/e/QfNBnLVBlwb
Follow Robert https://www.robertcastelli.com/
Spotify bit.ly/3tIOm0X
Youtube bit.ly/3Gw6JgZ
Can't Find My Way Home https://linktr.ee/cantfindmywayhome
SJ The Artisan: From Youngstown to Shenzhen. The story so far... | Can't Find My Way Home | S3 EP09
Can't Find My Way Home is a podcast where Expats from around the world talk about the music and arts scene in their new home.
In this episode, I was joined by SJ The Artisan.
In this excerpt, SJ tells us about growing up in Youngstown, Ohio and how he moved to Shenzhen, China.
SJ also details how he got into music in the first place, those early influences, and how he merged his musical and beat making skills to take him to the next level.
We also get some insight into the songwriting, production, and beat making process…and his excellent website.
Let's get right to it...
https://www.instagram.com/sjtheartisan/
Nancy Ruth: Being a Musician Today is... | Can't Find My Way Home | S3 EP08
Can't Find My Way Home is a podcast where Expats from around the world talk about the music and arts scene in their new home.
In this episode, I was joined by Nancy Ruth. Nancy is a singer, songwriter, composer, and recording artist. Her Spanish roots eventually led her to Málaga, Spain, where she has been based for the past 20 years or so. An early love of jazz was ignited by family jam sessions while growing up in British Columbia, Canada and she went on to study music at the Royal Conservatory of Music, Douglas College, and Berklee College of Music.
In this excerpt, Nancy talks us through the challenges of being a musician today. We talk shorts and reels, everything you don't learn in music school, and the gig scene in the south of Spain.
www.nancyruth.com
https://linktr.ee/cantfindmywayhome
Mark Will: What was your first exposure to punk? |Can't Find My Way Home S3 EP07
In this clip from EP65 of Can't Find My Way Home Mark Will gives us a look inside his new podcast, 'Texting' and the commitment of producing a weekly podcast episode. He also gives us an outline of what to expect in an episode (Sex Pistols - God Save The Queen) and there's our thoughts on the Beatles Documentary, Get Back. All this and me forgetting how to ask questions AND the names of just about everything!
Find the entire episode on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and all the usual suspects...
"Any time you see me on stage, I’m having the best time of my life…" |S3 EP06| with Matt Castellvi
In this episode of Can’t Find My Way Home, I was joined by Matt Castellvi.
Matt is a Chicago native comedian who has been performing worldwide for the past 15 years.
Matt tells us about moving to Amsterdam in January 2020 to start working at Boom Chiacgo, then in February 2020 he had to stop work because of the pandemic. Not quite the start he was anticipating…
Since then, Matt’s committed to a packed schedule, performing at least 5 nights per week, as well as touring as much as he can.
We get into Matt’s path into improv and stand up, turn ons and offs, the never ending battle with the audience, and why there’s no better feeling than performing on stage,...and just what makes Boom Chicago special.
There’s talk of future tours, where Matt WOULD really like to perform…as well as a fun-filled Top 5 featuring opening for Alan Carr, not getting The Office, Smash Mouth’s All Star, and gigging with Romanian stand-up, Victor Patrascan.
All this, and why there’s not enough bandwidth for people’s attention…
Follow Matt
https://www.castellvicomedy.com/
@lolztellvi
Can't Find My Way Home
https://linktr.ee/cantfindmywayhome
"I have an unending curiosity for music…" S3 EP05 with Robert Castelli
In this episode of Can’t Find My Way Home, I was joined by Robert Castelli.
Robert is a native of Ossining, New York…Born into a family of drummers (a grandfather, two uncles & his father), Robert learned the basics from his father, who, along with his Uncle, were lifetime members of the NYC Musicians Union.
We get into the finer aspects of Robert’s expat journey and how it’s taken him first to Austria and now on to Barcelona where he’s called home for six years.
Robert and I discuss his family roots in the music business. What’s it like being a drummer who writes music for the band? How he got into jazz in the first place, his musical influences, the modern economic model for musicians today, how the perception of music has changed,as well as apocryphal tales of Frank Zappa.
We get a bit grammatical - pre and post covid plans, and Robert tells us how working as an investment broker in New York enabled him to pursue his career in music.
In the Top 5, we have Iggy Pop, singing drummers…and the complexities there of, Medeski Martin & Wood, not being fans of Ginger Baker or Keith Moon (in a manner of speaking), and late night Karaoke in NYC, and why all roads lead to Miles Davis…
All this and we ponder - just what are the three things people don’t have any more?
Follow Robert
https://www.robertcastelli.com/
https://www.facebook.com/robert.castelli.54
Spotify bit.ly/3tIOm0X
Youtube bit.ly/3Gw6JgZ
Can't Find My Way Home
https://linktr.ee/cantfindmywayhome
"I’m so excited to be moving forward with new music and I want to share that inspiration"...S3 EP04 with SJ The Artisan
In this episode of Can’t Find My Way Home, I was joined by SJ - aka SJ The Artisan
SJ grew up in Youngstown, Ohio and has been living in Shenzhen, China for a few years now.
SJ details how he got into music in the first place, those early influences, and how he merged his musical and beat making skills to take him to the next level.
We also get some insight into the songwriting, production, and beat making process…
And why it’s essential to get the lyrics, production, and the mix right…
What’s it like to play to audiences in Asia? What kind of reaction does he get to his music? And just what kind of effect the pandemic has had on his career.? Just some of the topics we get into.
There’s his film-making projects, releasing a single a month, the clothing line that’s in the works, as well as the online music course that he’s putting together.
Let’s get right to it…SJ The Artisan
https://www.instagram.com/sjtheartisan/
https://www.facebook.com/sjtheartisan/
http://www.1093entertainment.com/
"Attention, textual deviants!"...S3 EP03 with Mark Will
In this week’s episode of Can’t Find My Way Home, I was joined by one half of the duo responsible for the podcast ‘Texting’ - Mark Will.
Mark tells us about how he and his co-host, Tomek, came up with the idea, why using Substack as a platform made sense as a way to grow an audience, and the wide variety of texts they discuss and debate on each episode.
We get into the pros and cons of audio and video podcasts, some tech details on how it’s done, and forgetting to plug in your mic (it happens to the best of us)...and adding a ‘paid model’ to your podcast. Of course, we also discuss the themes of the podcast, how they’re chosen, and how you can also get involved.
Mark also gives us an update on some of the other projects he’s working on. Novels,music, and a whole bunch more. Links in the description…I think we have to say that in every episode…
In a Top 5 with a twist, we blether on about books about music - fiction or non-fiction, biography and autobiography. Miles Davis, Zappa, The Beatles (Mark) and Nick Hornby, Peter Guralnick, Slash, Booking Vince Neil on Cameo, the genius of Jimmy Webb, with notable mentions to Peter Hook and Dave Grohl for good measure…All this and recording in your underwear…
Follow Mark Will and Texting
https://markwillwrite.substack.com/
https://bit.ly/3U7yDUa
https://amzn.to/3FMtbSX
Can't Find My Way Home
https://linktr.ee/cantfindmywayhome
“I travelled an ocean away to start the damn thing…the rest is history.” S3 EP02 with Robbie Aaron
I was joined by Robbie Aaron in this latest episode of Can’t Find My Way Home.
Robbie talks us through his musical and expat journey from growing up in LA to now residing in Munich.
We get into how Robbie’s early days as a teen were spent playing in punk bands, finding structure in the music and some ups and downs along the way.
Fast forward to January 2021 and Robbie found himself in Munich, to start a new chapter with his girlfriend whom he’d met while in LA.
We get into the significant changes and pace of lifestyle between the two locations, where Robbie found inspiration for new music, and the writing process.
Robbie lifts the lid on the future of the band, forthcoming new material, the single ‘break the cycle’, the spotify algorhythm, and the artisitic joys of making music videos.
In the Top 5 we talk Nu Metal, why we should be listening to Authority Zero, Breaking In A Sequence, Social Distortion… The House of Blues in Anaheim, and we get a bit philosophical about just what is good music…and the inclusive nature of the punk music scene.
All this and what difference being an Aries makes…
Let’s get right to it…Robbie Aaron
Follow Ocean's Away - https://linktr.ee/OceansAway
Can’t Find My Way Home - https://linktr.ee/cantfindmywayhome
"Being a musician these days is like an extreme sport..." S3 EP01 with Nancy Ruth
In this episode of Can’t Find My Way Home, I was joined by Nancy Ruth.
Nancy is a singer, songwriter, composer, and recording artist. Her Spanish roots eventually led her to Málaga, Spain, where she has been based for the past 20 years or so. An early love of jazz was ignited by family jam sessions while growing up in British Columbia, Canada and she went on to study music at the Royal Conservatory of Music, Douglas College, and Berklee College of Music.
Nancy talks us through her musical influences, the changes in the music business, and why there’s so much more you need to know to survive in today’s marketplace. We talk about the power of the riff, the pros and cons of monetizing content, her own music (of course) and the concept behind it, and why we should all be adopting the Alexander Technique.
There’s musical adventures in Morocco, a who’s who in Flamenco, performing on cruise ships (it’s not all plain sailing…), and getting the gig to play for the Royal Family in Brunei.
In the Top 5, there’s Taylor Swift, 80’s Rock, jam tunes, playing an international jazz festival in Senegal, as well as a hot list of who we should be listening to….All this and why being a musician these days is like an extreme sport.
Let’s get right to it…Nancy Ruth.
Follow Nancy
Can’t Find My Way Home
"My first band was like the Wu Tang of Open Mics…" S2 EP27 with Adrian Black
In this episode, the final one of 2021, I was joined by Adrian Black.
Adrian joined me from Valencia, Spain, and talks us through his journey from the US to Shenzhen, China, where he started work on an English teaching program. From the early ensemble days of open mics with co-workers, to playing with countless different bands on the weekends, Adrian was lucky enough to hone his skills and make a name for himself in the local scene.
We talk about the numerous opportunities that expats have abroad, compared to being at home, as well as how Adrian got into drumming in his younger days.
We get into musical inspirations, playing in house bands and expanding your musical vocabulary, as well as Adrian’s main project in Valencia - the band AY Trick, and how to grow a following organically.
We wax lyrical about our shared appreciation of Charles Bradley, social media marketing, and making that move as an Expat.
In the Top 5, we feature Kanye, Reggaeton, playing gigs in football stadiums and on the big stage at festivals, Hotel California, the music of Tarrus Riley, and a super selection from Adrian’s own ‘New to Me’ playlist…
All this and what songs would you sing on The Voice…
Let’s get right to it…Adrian Black.
You can follow Adrian here
https://www.instagram.com/adrianblackva/
https://www.instagram.com/aytrickvlc/
https://spoti.fi/3GFI3jc
https://bit.ly/3yhaAsh
Can’t Find My Way Home
"I think we did become Rock Stars for one night at least..." S2 EP26 with Gary Hurlstone
In this episode of Can’t Find My Way Home, I was joined by Gary Hurlstone
Gary shares with us his musical journey. From first picking up the acoustic guitar after hearing Bert Jansch’s ‘Anji’, to joining local bands and the numerous styles and genres of music that he’s played over the years.
Gary takes us through the recording process for both of his recent solo albums, the locations, the musicians, and of course, during these covid times - some unique circumstances.
There’s talk of touring throughout China, the Chinese Glastonbury, staying in Yurts, the transient nature of being an Expat musician and being in a band, playing on the most unusual of stages, and the appetite for Western music in the country at that time.
In the Top5, we blether on about getting lost in music, armies of songwriters, playing at the WOMAD Festival and for the British Council, and the joy of Snarky Puppy.
All this and just how many musicians can you fit into a Tiny Desk performance...Let’s get right to it...Gary Hurlstone
Follow Gary
https://www.garyhurlstonemusic.com/
Can’t Find My Way Home
"It’s just about expressing yourself. Something needs to get out." S2 EP25 with Chris Davis
In this episode of Can’t Find My Way Home, I was joined by Chris Davis.
Chris and I both hail from the same hometown in Scotland, (Cumbernauld - the only Scottish town to be labelled “Scotland’s most dismal town” twice.), so we name check a few cultural references in the episode.
Chris went to university in Aberdeen, graduated, and then headed for Berlin in 2008.
Chris tells us about his early days in Berlin, working in bars, and getting into the improv comedy scene in the city. After two years in the improv scene, Chris decided to spread his wings and to go it alone in stand-up comedy, and has been a regular on the scene for the last ten years.
We also find out about ‘The Wandering Barman’ persona, the immersive and interactive nature of the act, and where it’s heading next.
Alongside Chris’s comedy journey, he’s also been serving cocktails in numerous high-end establishments, Michelin Star restaurants, as well as on stage. We blether on about alcohol-free gin, pretentious ingredients, Chris’s own podcast - Lifting Yer Spirits, his new one hour show aptly named ‘The Death of a Barman’, and we both share our experiences of playing to disinterested audiences.
In the Top 5, we talk Coldplay, Foreigner, The Barrowlands in Glasgow, first gigs, The Smiths, Aldous Harding and Adam Curtis.
All this and just what is a gas mark 5 palate...let’s get right to it...Chris Davis
Follow Chris:
Website - https://www.thewanderingbarman.net
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/comedianchrisdavis/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thewanderingbarman/
LinkedIN - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thewanderingbarman/
YouTube - http://bit.ly/3niyDQB
Spotify - http://spoti.fi/3rHZskz.
Support - http://www.buymeacoff.ee/thewb
Can’t Find My Way Home
"One of the joys of being a musician is the crippling self-doubt and impostor syndrome..."S2 EP24 with Freddie Dickson
In this episode of Can’t Find My Way Home, I was joined by Freddie Dickson.
Freddie’s a singer and songwriter from London, now living in Berlin.
Before moving to Germany, Freddie cut his teeth in the London music scene, eventually signing with Columbia Records 8 years ago. But after his contract finished he decided to move and to try something radical,
Freddie fills us in on what type of music was on around the house when he was growing up, playing at Glastonbury, how the world of blogging helped elevate and promote artists at the time, and just how difficult it is to compete for space on the internet these days.
There’s talk about Freddie’s songwriting work with different artists and how to fit something into their particular style, the challenges of trying to make the Berlin scene grow, worst gigs ever, and all you need to know about his latest EP ‘Idiot’s Dream’.
In the Top 5, you’ll hear from Taylor Swift, new music from King Hannah, restricted views at music venues, me not knowing who Blue are/were, just how overrated is John Mayer, and I manage to sneak in the German youth word of the year…
Let’s get right to it...Freddie Dickson
https://www.freddiedickson.com/
Spotify - https://spoti.fi/3wHhk1L
Youtube - https://youtu.be/-JdhBQK9XYE
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/freddiedickson/
Can't Find My Way Home
https://linktr.ee/cantfindmywayhome
"Songwriting is literature. Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise." S2 EP23 with Mark Will
In this episode of Can’t Find My Way Home, I was joined by Mark Will.
Based on the island of Taiwan, pop-rock collective [ai] are set to release their forthcoming album, No Cure for the Princess Disease, scheduled for November 2021.
Mark and I first met in 2009 and we worked on his songs for the original Princess Disease album along with Jeff Valley (guitar) and Fred Glover (bass guitar).
Mark takes us through the through process behind the re-imagining of the album, as well as the differences in the recording process. We find out just what is the ‘Far East Trilogy’, the album as a medium in today’s streaming age, as well as the right way to say the band’s name and the meaning behind it.
We also get into the preferences of being a live band or a studio band, the musicians who played on the new album, how production notes were integral to the recording, and why there’s almost no interest from the Far East about the Far East Trilogy…
Let’s get right to it...Mark Will
Listen and Follow Mark
Subway Song (from the album No Cure for the Princess Disease) https://youtu.be/xhFRN8rlKKk
www.markwillwrite.com
Spotify https://spoti.fi/306K3Bd
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/carminaformosa/
Can't Find My Way Home
https://linktr.ee/cantfindmywayhome
"It’s going to be all dark disco tunes from now on..." S2 EP22 with Conor Kilkelly
In this episode of Can’t Find My Way Home, I was joined by Conor Kilkelly.
Conor takes us through his time living in Berlin, what it’s like making that leap of faith to become a full-time artist, the ups and downs of the lockdown, as well as some of the projects he’s working on at the moment.
There’s talk of the different processes he used to record his first album and the second one which is in the works. The Gut and Gutter Sessions - both on Youtube and now live on stage. We ponder if folk music is dark or not and is it better than dark Disco? Writing songs to order, and being part of the Berlin Folk Festival - in Sicilly.
The Top 5 features Blink 182, OMC’s ‘How Bizarre’, sibling rivalries, getting Depeche Mode wrong, sounding like The Tallest Man on Earth, and just how to find your own voice.
Follow Conor
Facebook @kilkellymusic
Instagram @kilkellymusic
Youtube https://youtu.be/YGVLJW8uVpo
Can’t Find My Way Home
"I listened to the banjo and it seemed more punk rock than anything..." S2 EP21 with David Stewart Ingleton
In this episode of Can’t Find My Way Home, I was joined by David Stewart Ingleton.
David joined me from his home in Berlin, and he takes us through his expat and musical journey. After leaving Australia in 2000, with a brief stay in London, David first settled in Munich, and has now been living in Berlin for the past few years.
We talk about the differences between Munich and Berlin, not only as places to live, but also where you can really flourish as an artist. I’ll let you work out which city?
We get into his passion for playing the banjo, his band ‘The Yonder Boys’ and their unique set-up, how to deal with Bluegrass traditionalists, as well as the open-mic he runs every Sunday.
The Top 5 features Whitney Houston, Ed Sheeran, Dolly Parton, supporting Billy Bragg in Munich, why Townes Van Zandt isn’t better known, and trying to fit a double bass into a taxi…
Let’s get right to it...David Stewart Ingleton.
Follow David here...
https://m.facebook.com/davidstewartingleton/
https://www.timezone-records.com/kuenstler/details/david-stewart-ingleton/
https://www.berlinstreetmusic.com/david-stewart-ingleton
Yonder Boys @Spotify
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/yonderboys
Youtube - https://youtu.be/WWUh74osz4s
Can’t Find My Way Home
https://linktr.ee/cantfindmywayhome
"You feel like Bob Dylan in the 60’s playing in there…" S2 EP20 with Michael Brinkworth
Michael Brinkworth
In this episode of Can’t Find My Way Home, I was joined by Michael Brinkworth.
Michael talks us through his expat journey from Australia, to Berlin, via The Americas and more. We talk musical influences, busking in Brisbane, and the transition from playing in bands to becoming a solo performer.
We get into the making of Michael’s new album ‘Wasted Wonder’, the excellent video accompaniments, bar busking in Berlin, feeling the harmonica, playing live post-lockdown, and the folk-scene in Berlin.
The Top 5 features ABBA, Hair Metal, Axl Rose, Twain, Paul Westerberg,, Mogwai and The Flaming Lips...All this and why living in a shed is cooler than it sounds…
Follow Michael
https://michaelbrinkworth.com/
Instagram @michaelbrinkworthmusic
Youtube https://bit.ly/3fERJ28
Spotify https://spoti.fi/3iy8dv0
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/michaelbrinkworthmusic/
Can’t Find My Way Home
"Busking is one of the best schools you can have as a performer" S2 EP19 with Zoe Hayter
In this episode of Can't Find My Way Home, I was joined by Zoe Hayter
Calling from France, where she was performing with the Footsbarn Theatre Company, Zoe tells us about growing up between London, Czech Republic and France, and how the theatre, performing in productions, writing and performing her own songs have all become so prominent in her life.
We talk musical influences, how working with Glen Hansard has really transformed and inspired her as a musician, as well as looking forward to studying movement and theatre at L'École Internationale de Théâtre Jacques Lecoq later in the year. What are the best spots in Prague for busking (pre-Covid) and why it’s such a great way to learn your trade as a performer? Zoe gives us the lowdown...
In the Top 5 there’s some favourite venues, music from Limoncello and Glen Hansard, Elton John and Bilie Eilish
Find more about Zoe Here
http://zoehayter.com/
http://www.footsbarn.com/
Can’t Find My Way Home
"This team I’m working with now. We’ve got a solid thing going on..." S2 EP18 with David Gaffney
In this episode of Can’t Find My Way Home, I was joined by David Gaffney.
David, originally from Jersey in the Channel Islands takes us through his Expat story and his musical adventures.
An intrepid busker, David had been travelling throughout the UK from London to Brighton, and beyond. But it was on Mathew Street in Liverpool, where he was busking that things were about to change. David was approached by German actress Meret Becker who asked him to join her band on a German tour...and that chance meeting took him to Berlin. David tells us all about it...
We talk musical influences, Joel, Carole King, James Taylor, and some Hue and Cry...
As well as some of his on-going projects at the moment, the release of his new single, the realities of making a living in the music business, his success at the German and European songwriting Awards, as well performing at Song Slam and the buzz he gets from the audience.
In the Top 5, there’s Ed Sheeran (again), Nick Cave, Elton John not quite standing, why you should be listening to David Keenan...All this and opening for Pete Doherty at Huxley’s in Berlin
Follow David
Spotify https://spoti.fi/3rqje4k
Facebook https://bit.ly/3hLNWBu
Instagram @davidgaffneymusic
Youtube https://bit.ly/3kvcEI9
Can’t Find My Way Home
https://linktr.ee/cantfindmywayhome
"That’s what’s so much fun about being a songwriter, I just don’t have to do one thing..." S2 EP17 with Erik Alcock
In this episode of Can’t Find My Way Home, I caught up with songwriter, musician, and producer...Erik Alcock from his studio in Berlin.
Erik, originally from Toronto, Canada, has been residing in Berlin since 2019, and is flourishing in his new surroundings.
Erik talks us through what brought him to Berlin, as well as how his musical roots were sown back in Canada as a 17 year-old, first starting out in the music industry.
There’s tales of auditioning for the President of EMI Publishing, understanding how important collaboration is as a musician, pitching songs for Eminem’s ‘Recovery’ album, (and then hearing them on the radio), and the romanticized narrative of the music industry vs the reality of the business.
We get into musical influences, his new project with Craig Walker (Archive/Power of Dreams) Craig Walker and The Cold, as well as some of the other musical ventures he has on the go. In the Top 5, there’s Pat Benatar, Taylor Swift, The Weeknd, the pros and cons of crediting songwriters, we ponder what the Arctic Monkeys and Dolly Parton would sound like if they worked together...and why losing a pint of blood at an audition wasn’t as bad as it sounds...
"Whatever I end up playing ends up coming out as rock'n'roll..." S2 EP16 with Georgie Fisher
In this episode of Can’t Find My Way Home, I was joined by Georgie Fisher.
Speaking to me from her adopted home in Berlin, she takes us through her expat journey from Sydney to London, and then on to the German capital.
We talk about our own respective expat journeys and the ups and downs of making these life-changing decisions.
On the music front, Georgie talks us through her early years and musical influences, and how she started performing on-stage in her mid-twenties for the first time. From hip-hop, roots and reggae and the transition to solo/acoustic performer and now fronting her own three-piece band.
We talk about the recording process, new singles, and writing songs for movies. Going on tour - pre and post-pandemic, and being in a band with your sister.
In the Top 5 there’s Madonna getting booed off stage, digging out some Belinda Carlisle tunes, Cardi B and the cult of personality, dancing to Toto in the kitchen, the Famous Gold Watch Studios and why you should always check the dates on your concert tickets!
Follow Georgie
https://www.georgiefisher.com
instagram - @georgiefisherofficial
Spotify - https://spoti.fi/36d4rQH
Facebook -georgiefisherofficial
Can’t Find My Way Home
https://linktr.ee/cantfindmywayhome
"That's pretty much me in a nutshell...Irish. Living in Berlin. Musician" S2 EP15 with Joey Ryan
In this episode of Can't Find My Way Home, I was joined by Joey Ryan.
Originally from Wexford, Ireland and has been living in Berlin since 2016
Joey takes through his musical journey, from first picking up the guitar at age 7 (he’s now 29), his wide array of musical influences, the early band days at high school, and the transition to solo performer/singer-songwriter.
After releasing a couple of albums and the subsequent move to Germany, Joey felt like he’d lost something in the music he was making and wanted to branch out creatively. His new sound was based on the influences and the music that he was listening to at that time and ORIAN was born.
We get into the recording process for the EP (Before it Weighs Us Down), collaborations, the crisp and cinematic sound that Joey was looking for (I think he found it), live drums versus programmed drums, and why Joey’s happier to explore the more softer, indie side of things, and why he prefers performing with the electric and not the acoustic guitar primarily.
There’s talk of getting back on stage this year, performing on RadioEins, touring in Germany, as well as some of the similarities and differences to playing in Ireland and Germany.
In the Top 5, there’s Billie Eilish and the power of social media, Phoebe Bridgers, smashing guitars, not getting Neil Young (but in a good way), Bon Jovi, Backstreet Boys, the Tempodrom in Berlin, and why you won’t find a capo in his guitar case…
Follow Joey here…
Instagram https://bit.ly/3w1KDKi
Youtube https://bit.ly/3dClj7F
Spotify https://spoti.fi/3qyA0O3
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/orianmusik/
"I'm kind of analytical when it comes to songwriting. I sit down and obsess over it." S2 EP14 with Robert John Hope
In this episode of Can’t Find My Way Home, I was joined by Robert John Hope.
Rob is an Irish, Berlin based singer/songwriter whose music is rooted in ambient folk and alternative pop/rock. We sat down and chatted about both his expat and musical journey so far.
As frontman of Irish outfit Senakah, Robert spent 8 years touring America and Europe both with the band and as a solo artist, releasing two albums to critical acclaim. With three top 20 chart hits in Ireland under his belt, he travelled to the US playing close to 300 shows in over 40 states, taking in legendary venues such as the Whisky A Go Go in Hollywood and the Boulder Theatre, as well as the South By Southwest Festival.
In April, 2021 he released his debut solo album - "Plasticine Heart” recorded on a ship in Berlin’s Treptower Park, to great reviews.
Rob details how the constant touring made him a better musician, as well as the ups and downs that it entails.
We talk about visual accompaniments, soundscapes and musical styles for the new album, as well as finding out more about the fantastic lead song on the album.
Rob recalls how working with Noel Hogan (Cranberries guitarist) helped elevate and develop his approach to recording new material. Rob will also be recording in Berlin’s famous Hansa Studios for his next project, later this year.
The Top 5 features Peter Schilling, Big Thief, Tennis, being disappointed by Modest Mouse, all this and what it’s like to play at the Red Rocks Amphitheatre in Colorado.
Let’s get right to it...Robert John Hope
Follow Rob here
https://www.robertjohnhope.com/
Can’t Find My Way Home
"Bob Dylan's 80th Birthday Bash" - S2 EP13
In this episode of Can’t Find My Way Home, I was joined by Tobias Panwitz.
Tobias is the organiser, participant, and host of the forthcoming Bob Dylan - 80th Birthday Concert which will be live streamed via Facebook on Monday 24th May at 8pm CET.
Singer Songwriters from Norway, France, Canada, England, Sweden, Finland, Denmark, Germany, Australia, Spain, Scotland, New Zealand, the Netherlands and USA are getting together for a virtual celebration of Bob Dylan's Music & 80th birthday.
29 artists. 14 countries. 80 years!
Tobias explains how the idea came to fruition, what are the logistics of putting an event like this together, how the tracks were chosen, as well as discovering some little-known gems that were picked by the performers.
As usual, I ask incredibly long questions, get song titles round the wrong way, and thankfully, you don’t get to hear me sing.
Let’s get right to it...Tobias Panwitz
Facebook Event
Can’t Find My Way Home
https://linktr.ee/cantfindmywayhome
"The Woodstock Stories" - S2 EP12
In this episode of Can’t Find My Way Home, we take a look at one of the live music landmarks in Seoul, South Korea - Woodstock, Itaewon.
This year marks the 4 year anniversary since I left South Korea after 17 years. Quite a stretch, you could say. The last gig I played, just a couple of days before heading back to Scotland, was at Woodstock, in Itaewon with my band - Sticky Fingers. True to form, Tom, Mike, Jeff, Josh and I started at 11pm and played on into the wee hours. A bunch of friends swung by and watched the show, then we drank some more, long into the night. It was a great, memorable way to leave the country I’d called home for so long. Loud music, friends, beer, grreat banter, late nights, then the long walk home with my cymbal bag, snare drum, and backpack full of sweaty tshirts, towels and a myriad of other things that only drummers would appreciate.
I’d played at Woodstock countless times over the years and forever cursed the increasing layer upon layer of duct tape on those (once fantastic sounding) drums...but that was part of the deal. Bandmates and I would often stay late after shows, air-drum to GnR or Van Halen, drinking brandy shots with Mr Woo. You’d get into conversation with all sorts of people, from all over the world, talking about music, drums, or why Alex Van Halen’s such an underrated drummer. There was always something going down.
Anyway, I digress…
Sadly Mr Woo passed away in April 2019 and more recently, the building has also been torn down. Itaewon and the music scene in Seoul, is a lesser place for it.
This episode is a collection of clips, interviews and written contributions from numerous friends and fellow musicians who had also played at Woodstock over the years.
You will hear, in order…
Brian Aylward - https://www.brianaylwardcomedy.com/
David Tizzard (and Craig Branch) - https://www.facebook.com/TampasDusk/
Kevin Lowe - https://www.facebook.com/urseoul
Tim Koelling - https://www.facebook.com/events/151527971681672
Tom Daly (and Craig Branch) - https://www.facebook.com/watch/bluetoothblues/
Lance Reegan-Diehl (and Craig Branch) - http://www.lrdmusic.com/
JJ Alexander (read by Craig Branch) -
Mark Will - https://www.markwillwrite.com/music-2
David Tizzard - https://www.facebook.com/seoulcitysuicides/
Can’t Find My Way Home
The Lost Top Fives Episode - S2 EP11
In this episode of Can’t Find My Way Home, we rediscover some of the Lost Top 5 episodes from Season 1.
Justin Jardine, from Episode 18, and in his Top 5 we talk all things ACDC, why you should be listening to Gillian Welsh and David Rawlins, the genius that is Clarence White...who’s credited with inventing the ‘B Bender’...Justin explains in more detail.
The Highwomen and Robert Earl Keen, Steelism’s ‘Caught In A Pickle’...as well as Justin’s own background with the pedal steel guitar. All this and why Axl Rose is such an arsehole...and is Noraebang a Scottish thing?
I was joined by Trevor Clements and Chris Johnson for Episode 21 of Can't Find My Way Home. We set up a Zoom call between Dortmund and Bandar Seri Begawan, in Brunei and we talked Expat lifestyles and musical adventures.
In thie Top 5, Trevor and Chris tell us about Justin Timberlake, Eyes for Telescopes, Gary Moore, Herbie Hancock, the ultimate rock trio, as well as unexpected surprises during gigs. All things and playing at Ming’s Cafe, in Miri, Malaysia.
I spoke with Zahra Jaan from her home in London, in episode 17.
Zahra takes us through her Expat journey of several years living and working in Seoul, South Korea, on to graduating with an MA in Sustainable Textile Design, and then working as a licenced designer for Disney and Warner Bros in London.
We get into Zahra’s new business ‘JaanSmithStudio’ and how motherhood has helped spark new creative ideas and energy. Her concept is to produce children’s wall art, incorporating bold, playful, colourful imagery. And it looks fantastic…
Zahra and her husband have also just become parents for the second time. Big congratulations to you all.
In the Top 5, there’s cheesy 90’s pop, Bjork not playing her good stuff in concert, songs that send babies to sleep and Pink Floyd exhibitions. Although those two things are not necessarily linked...Zahra takes us through her views on women in the design industry and gender equality. All this and shouting to Oasis at Karaoke and why are Travis just so moany...And The Horseshoe Bar in Glasgow.
You can follow Justin Jardine
Raindance Kid
https://www.facebook.com/raindancekid/
https://open.spotify.com/artist/25j5sfXQ0Nyd3dH8Ia2thp
https://youtu.be/A8bfYnyuGQo
https://timezonerecords.lnk.to/Swayer
https://www.instagram.com/raindance_kid/
Chris and Trevor
You can check out Mama Got a Jukebox's video for 'Dolores' here https://youtu.be/EeyJ1zqFNTs
Zahra Jaan
https://www.jaansmithstudio.com/
Facebook @jaansmithstudio/
Instagram @jaansmithstudio/
The Guilty Pleasure Episode (Part 1)...S2 EP10
In this episode of Can’t Find My Way Home, I thought I’d try out something a bit different from the norm.
This is the first part of the ‘Guilty Pleasures’ Special. Part 1 features guests from Season 1...in no particular order.
In each episode, guests are asked for their ‘Top 5’ and one of those questions is ‘What’s your guilty pleasure?
The answers are mostly music-related, but from time to time...well, you’ll hear for yourself.
I’d like to thank
Zahra Jaan @jaansmithstudio
Adam Fields http://www.adamfields.net/
Tommy Reynolds
Alex MacIntosh @macintosh2019
Tom Daly @facebook.com/bluetoothblues
Amelia Rose Judd @ameliaroseillustration
Michael Woods @woodsfineart
Sollee Bae @ https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/53231969-a-city-of-han
Ron Bandun
Andy Knowlton @andy_k_art
Peter @Ninja News Japan
Anthony Garcia @nthonymusic
Nick Barone @garbage_art_505
Brian Aylward facebook.com/brianaylwardcomedy
Mark Will @markwillwrite
Caleb Sekeres @nirvanagwangju
And
Justin Lavash @justin.lavash
You can listen to all the episodes in full, on Anchor.fm, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and wherever you get your podcasts from…
If you’d like to leave a review or a comment, I’d love to hear from you!
Cheers
Craig
Can’t Find My Way Home
"No matter how hard I try to write a happy song, for the most part, it doesn't work out."...S2 EP09 with Haider Jafri
In this episode of Can’t Find My Way Home, I was joined by Haider Jafri.
Haider shares some of his expat stories from his 6 years of living in Prague, as well as comparing and contrasting those to growing up in Dubai.
Haider left Dubai at 17 to go to Med School in Prague and is now only a couple of months from graduating. You’ll hear him talking about the considerable differences between living in Dubai and Prague - the weather, the buildings and of course, the arts scene.
Having started playing music in his teens, Haider explains what got him into it in the first place, what his influences were and the challenges of finding your own voice when covering other people’s songs.
Since moving to Prague, Haider’s not only dealt with studying medicine, and of course, the pandemic situation, but he’s also tried to maintain the creative process through his music.
We talk about the complexities in managing your time and the realization that one slip up, because of playing music, could see you kicked out of medical school.
We get into the creative process, the advantage of having short names for songs, Haider’s recording plans and the art of great lyrics...One Direction, The Cocteau Twins, and Tom Misch feature in a funTop 5...
All this and just who is the Grandmaster Penguin?
Let’s get right to it...Haider Jafri
Follow Haider on Instagram @haider_jafri
Can’t Find My Way Home
https://linktr.ee/cantfindmywayhome
What links Dortmund, Michael Jackson, and Kebabs?...Can't Find My Way Home with Mark Mulholland - (Top 5)
In this bonus clip from EP08 of Can’t Find My Way Home, I was joined by Mark Mulholland.
Mark shares his Top 5 which includes Billie Eilish, Emde, Sarah Bethe Nelson and the Weeknd.
He recalls playing at the 12 Bar in Denmark Street, not getting Lowfi folk some of the time, and we share some of our Rolling Stones stories. And stay tuned for the Michael Jackson connection...
You can hear Mark's full episode on this page, on Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts from.
You can also find us on Youtube if that's your thing...
Follow Mark on
facebook.com/markmulhollandmusic
Can’t Find My Way Home