What Do You Call That Noise? The XTC Podcast
Mark Fisher
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Interviews and discussions about XTC, from White Music to Wasp Star and beyond
Available episodes
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Nov 10, 2023
XTC: any kind of love is alright
Peter Pumpkinhead proclaims that "Any kind of love is alright" and gets nailed to a chunk of wood for saying so. What does that tell us about XTC's attitude to love and human relationships? In particular, how welcoming does this heterosexual band seem to those who aren't heterosexual themselves?
This episode of What Do You Call That Noise? The XTC Podcast looks at XTC from an LGBTQI+ perspective. Guest host Darryl Bullock is joined by Keeley Moss, Tim Kendrick and Soizic De St John Rosse to talk about everything from The Loving to Towers of London.
Music by Tim Pike and Slowrush.
Darryl Bullock
Keeley
2025 XTC Fans Festival, Friday 20–Sunday 22 June 2025
Slowrush
What Do You Call That Noise? An XTC Discovery Book available from www.xtclimelight.com
If you’ve enjoyed What Do You Call That Noise? The XTC Podcast, please show your support at https://www.patreon.com/markfisher
Thanks to the Pink Things, Humble Daisies and Knights in Shining Karma who’ve done the same. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
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Sep 15, 2023
XTC's The Big Express in 5.1 and Dolby Atmos
Steven Wilson has returned to XTC's 1984 masterpiece and given it not only a stunning 5.1 surround remix but also, for the first time with XTC, a Dolby Atmos mix. Released on 29 September 2023, The Big Express comes complete with a two-disc digipack sleeve and 16-page booklet.
Mark Reed, Mark Smotroff, Jon Jacques, David White and Steve Cox have enjoyed an early preview of the new mixes. They share their excitement on What Do You Call That Noise? The XTC Podcast.
Music courtesy of Nigel Collyer
The Big Express available from Burning Shed
Thanks to Julie Blore-Bizot of L-Acoustics for her help.
What Do You Call That Noise? An XTC Discovery Book available from www.xtclimelight.com
If you’ve enjoyed What Do You Call That Noise? The XTC Podcast, please show your support at https://www.patreon.com/markfisher
Thanks to the Pink Things, Humble Daisies and Knights in Shining Karma who’ve done the same. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
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Aug 4, 2023
Chris Braide on songwriting (ft XTC's Andy Partridge)
Chris Braide, one of the most successful songwriters of his generation, talks to What Do You Call That Noise? The XTC Podcast about his collaborations with Andy Partridge, including Goodbye to You (Sister Shame) on Celestial Songs, the latest album by the Downes Braide Association, and the six-track Queen of the Planet Wow! EP expected out in 2024.
Chris Braide
Music courtesy of Chris Carry
What Do You Call That Noise? An XTC Discovery Book available from www.xtclimelight.com
If you’ve enjoyed What Do You Call That Noise? The XTC Podcast, please show your support at https://www.patreon.com/markfisher
Thanks to the Pink Things, Humble Daisies and Knights in Shining Karma who’ve done the same. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
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Jul 7, 2023
Steve Conte on songwriting (ft XTC's Andy Partridge)
As Steve Conte releases his Fourth of July single, the guitarist and singer talks about writing songs with his XTC hero, joining the New York Dolls and playing on stage with Chuck Berry. He also gives tantalising pointers to his forthcoming album of co-writes with Andy Partridge.
This episode of What Do You Call That Noise? The XTC Podcast also includes comments from Andy Partridge himself, plus sad news about Ian C Stewart.
Music courtesy of Don Kerr and Communism.
Steve Conte
Limited edition Fourth of July on 7" blue vinyl
Communism
XTC fan tribute compilations by the late Ian C Stewart:
https://archive.org/details/TheXtcFansTribute-Skylacking
https://archive.org/details/TheXtcFansTribute-ObsceneCollection
https://archive.org/details/TheXtcFansTribute-BeastsIveSeen/
What Do You Call That Noise? An XTC Discovery Book available from www.xtclimelight.com
If you’ve enjoyed What Do You Call That Noise? The XTC Podcast, please show your support at https://www.patreon.com/markfisher
Thanks to the Pink Things, Humble Daisies and Knights in Shining Karma who’ve done the same. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
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May 19, 2023
The 3 Clubmen III: Andy Partridge (XTC)
Andy Partridge and Stu Rowe have been working together since the recording of Monstrance in 2006. Andy then produced Jen Olive's album Warm Robot in 2009 and Stu produced Jen's album The Breaks in 2013. Somewhere in between all that they laid down a series of improvisatory ideas that have become The 3 Clubmen EP.
In this third episode, XTC's Andy Partridge talks about the unexpected joys of collaboration, the secret origins of Meccanik Dancing and his latest songwriting partnerships.
The 3 Clubmen EP is released 30 June 2023 and available from Burning Shed
The 3 Clubmen
Stu Rowe
Jen Olive
Andy Partridge's Ape House on Burning Shed
Music courtesy of Mario Rodríguez Centeno, from La Jvnta
What Do You Call That Noise? An XTC Discovery Book available from www.xtclimelight.com
If you’ve enjoyed What Do You Call That Noise? The XTC Podcast, please show your support at https://www.patreon.com/markfisher
Thanks to the Pink Things, Humble Daisies and Knights in Shining Karma who’ve done the same. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
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May 12, 2023
The 3 Clubmen II: Jen Olive
Ten years ago Stu Rowe, Jen Olive and XTC's Andy Partridge started working on material which, after all these years, is finally – and gloriously seeing the light of day. To celebrate the arrival of The 3 Clubmen, we're talking to each of the brilliant musicians in turn.
This week, Jen Olive talks about the genesis of the 3 Clubmen EP as well as working with Andy Partridge on her album Warm Robot and with Stu Rowe on The Breaks.
The 3 Clubmen EP is released 30 June 2023 and available from Burning Shed https://burningshed.com/the-3-clubmen_the-3-clubmen-ep_cd
* The 3 Clubmen https://www.facebook.com/the3clubmen
* Stu Rowe https://www.facebook.com/stu.rowe.3
* Jen Olive https://www.facebook.com/jen.olive.5
* Andy Partridge's Ape House on Burning Shed https://burningshed.com/store/ape
Music courtesy of Mark Sander and Cone of Silence whose album Sixty-Grit Sandpaper and Other Delights can be streamed on major platforms including Spotify https://open.spotify.com/album/2NScWtLyNgLkSzsOddYCCC
What Do You Call That Noise? An XTC Discovery Book available from www.xtclimelight.com
If you’ve enjoyed What Do You Call That Noise? The XTC Podcast, please show your support at https://www.patreon.com/markfisher
Thanks to the Pink Things, Humble Daisies and Knights in Shining Karma who’ve done the same. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
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May 5, 2023
The 3 Clubmen I: Stu Rowe
It's the music we've been awaiting for a decade – and now it's out! Stu Rowe, Jen Olive and Andy Partridge have gone public with The 3 Clubmen and their very wonderful eponymous four-track EP is released at the end of June. But with three such gifted musicians to choose from, what's a humble podcaster to do?
There can be only one answer: three weekly podcasts!
In the first episode, Stu Rowe talks about working with XTC's Andy Partridge, Colin Moulding, Terry Chambers, Barry Andrews and Dave Gregory, as well as Jen Olive and most musicians in Swindon.
The 3 Clubmen EP is released 30 June 2023 and available from Burning Shed https://burningshed.com/the-3-clubmen_the-3-clubmen-ep_cd
* The 3 Clubmen https://www.facebook.com/the3clubmen
* Stu Rowe https://www.facebook.com/stu.rowe.3
* Jen Olive https://www.facebook.com/jen.olive.5
* Andy Partridge's Ape House on Burning Shed https://burningshed.com/store/ape
* Music courtesy of Joel Bell https://soundcloud.com/joel-bell-4/sets/limelight-fuzzy-warbles-for-mark-f
What Do You Call That Noise? An XTC Discovery Book available from www.xtclimelight.com
If you’ve enjoyed What Do You Call That Noise? The XTC Podcast, please show your support at https://www.patreon.com/markfisher
Thanks to the Pink Things, Humble Daisies and Knights in Shining Karma who’ve done the same. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
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Apr 7, 2023
XTC’s best B-sides
Oh we do like to be beside the B-sides. In this month’s episode of What Do You Call That Noise? The XTC Podcast, Mia Rankin, Ashley LeCron, Crawford Blair and Mark Fisher pick their favourite non-album songs , ranging from She's So Square to The World Is Full of Angry Young Men.
Music provided by Jeff Nicholson.
The episode was inspired by Mia’s ranking of all XTC B-sides on her Dead Letter Offices substack
What Do You Call That Noise? An XTC Discovery Book available from www.xtclimelight.com
If you’ve enjoyed What Do You Call That Noise? The XTC Podcast, please show your support at https://www.patreon.com/markfisher
Thanks to the Pink Things, Humble Daisies and Knights in Shining Karma who’ve done the same. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
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Mar 3, 2023
XTC and Religion – from Dear God to Scatter Me
What happens when a Christian, a Humanist and a Buddhist congregate to talk about the songs of XTC? Will they give praise? Or will they be torn asunder?
David White, Belinda Blanchard and Ash Jñānagarbha share a pew with Mark Fisher to discuss Dear God, Dying, The Ballad of Peter Pumpkinhead, Easter Theatre, The Man Who Sailed Around His Soul, Scatter Me and Senses Working Overtime.
Music by Christopher Underwood and 5 Guys Named Lars
Ash Jñānagarbha
Belinda Blanchard in Dear God
David White's S.C.R.A.P.E.S
What Do You Call That Noise? An XTC Discovery Book available from www.xtclimelight.com
If you’ve enjoyed What Do You Call That Noise? The XTC Podcast, please show your support at https://www.patreon.com/markfisher
Thanks to the Pink Things, Humble Daisies and Knights in Shining Karma who’ve done the same. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
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Feb 3, 2023
XTC's White Music: 45 years on (part two)
In the second of a two-part conversation for What Do You Call That Noise? The XTC Podcast, five fans, journalists and photographers recall what it was like to witness XTC explode onto the scene. On 20 January 1978, XTC released their debut album, White Music, setting our radios in motion for the next 45 years.
Tony Mitchell, editorial staffer on Sounds, followed XTC to Hamburg, Amsterdam and Japan. Photographer Jill Furmanovsky was on the same trip to Hamburg in 1978 and subsequent publicity sessions. Beverley Glick, who wrote for Sounds under the name of Betty Page, joined XTC in New York in 1980. Paul Burgess and Andy Poulton were at school at Headlands in Swindon, where the caretaker was Colin Moulding's dad.
Music by Warren Butson.
XTC's White Music: 45 years on (part one)
What Do You Call That Noise? An XTC Discovery Book available from www.xtclimelight.com
If you’ve enjoyed What Do You Call That Noise? The XTC Podcast, please show your support at https://www.patreon.com/markfisher
Thanks to the Pink Things, Humble Daisies and Knights in Shining Karma who’ve done the same.
Paul Burgess
This Is Hardcore
Warren Butson
Helter Skelter
Jill Furmanovsky
Website
Rock Archive
Swindon Works: XTC 1978 Hanging Around books
Beverley Glick
Website
Tony Mitchell
Website
Andy Poulton
Website
Sounds Clips
Twitter ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
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Jan 6, 2023
XTC's White Music: 45 years on (part one)
On 20 January 1978, XTC released their debut album with its defiant cry of This Is Pop! In the first of a two-part conversation for What Do You Call That Noise? The XTC Podcast, five fans, journalists and photographers recall what it was like to witness XTC explode onto the scene with White Music.
Tony Mitchell, editorial staffer on Sounds, followed XTC to Hamburg, Amsterdam and Japan. Photographer Jill Furmanovsky was on the same trip to Hamburg in 1978 and subsequent publicity sessions. Beverley Glick, who wrote for Sounds under the name of Betty Page, joined XTC in New York in 1980. Paul Burgess and Andy Poulton were at school at Headlands in Swindon, where the caretaker was Colin Moulding's dad.
Music by Jon Bicknell.
What Do You Call That Noise? An XTC Discovery Book available from www.xtclimelight.com
If you’ve enjoyed What Do You Call That Noise? The XTC Podcast, please show your support at https://www.patreon.com/markfisher
Thanks to the Pink Things, Humble Daisies and K…
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Dec 2, 2022
Young XTC Fan Takeover – Christmas Edition
Illustration: Ashley LeCron
In October 2020, we handed over What Do You Call That Noise? The XTC Podcast to a bunch of fans in their 20s. Time has passed and we're ready to hear from an even newer generation of XTC fans who are as wise and articulate as the last.
In a lively conversation, Ashley LeCron, Lexie Ward, Lee Saunders and Lewis Wilkinson share their enthusiasm not only for XTC but also the bands that led them to discover XTC.
And because it's that time of year, they are in party spirit.
They've even put together a companion playlist.
What Do You Call That Noise? An XTC Discovery Book available from www.xtclimelight.com
If you’ve enjoyed What Do You Call That Noise? The XTC Podcast, please show your support at https://www.patreon.com/markfisher
Thanks to the Pink Things, Humble Daisies and Knights in Shining Karma who’ve done the same. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
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Nov 4, 2022
XTC Road Stories with Terry Chambers, Allan Jones, Pete Dewhirst and Steve Warren
Picture © Lou Dommett Young
What was it like to be on the road with one of the hardest working bands of the late 70s and early 80s? We find out from four veterans of XTC's touring years: drummer Terry Chambers, journalist Allan Jones and roadies Pete Dewhirst and Steve Warren.
Many thanks to Mike Smith and Steve Manning and the other XTC Convention organisers for making it all possible.
What Do You Call That Noise? An XTC Discovery Book available from www.xtclimelight.com
If you’ve enjoyed What Do You Call That Noise? The XTC Podcast, please show your support at https://www.patreon.com/markfisher
Thanks to the Pink Things, Humble Daisies and Knights in Shining Karma who’ve done the same. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
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Oct 7, 2022
John Leckie on XTC: from White Music to the Dukes
Picture © Lou Dommett Young
One of the many highlights of the 2022 XTC Convention in Swindon was an in-depth interview with producer John Leckie. Talking to co-organiser Darryl Bullock, he recalled his formative studio experience working with former members of the Beatles and the excitement of going into the studio with XTC for their first two albums.
After that came the sonic experiments of Go+ and Take Away/The Lure of Salvage and, of course, 25 O’Clock and Psonic Psunspot for the Dukes of Stratosphear.
Many thanks to Darryl for conducting the interview and sound engineer Paul Bullimore who made the audio possible – not just for this but the whole weekend.
What Do You Call That Noise? An XTC Discovery Book available from www.xtclimelight.com
If you’ve enjoyed What Do You Call That Noise? The XTC Podcast, please show your support at https://www.patreon.com/markfisher
Thanks to the Pink Things, Humble Daisies and Knights in Shining Karma who’ve done the same. ★ Suppor…
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Sep 2, 2022
Fossil Fools: XTC covered
As they prepare for one last run around the block, the members of Fossil Fools, the UK's longest running tribute to XTC, talk about their origins, their famous fans and their appearance at the XTC Convention 2022.
Under Mark Fisher's intense questioning about their final set list, Terry Arnett (drums), Ed Percival (guitar), Dan Farmer (keyboard) and Matt Bell (bass) stay tight-lipped.
* XTC Convention, Friday 16–Sunday 18 September 2022
* The Water Rats, Gray's Inn Road, London, 29 October 2022
* The Vic, Swindon, 25 November 2022
What Do You Call That Noise? An XTC Discovery Book available from https://www.xtclimelight.com
If you've enjoyed What Do You Call That Noise? The XTC Podcast, please show your support at https://www.patreon.com/markfisher
Thanks to the Pink Things, Humble Daisies and Knights in Shining Karma who've done the same. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
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Aug 5, 2022
Scarecrow People: XTC covers, Sydney-style
It takes seven musicians to reproduce the sound of XTC when the fantastic Scarecrow People take to the stage. In this episode of What Do You Call That Noise? The XTC Podcast, we talk to three of them about keeping the XTC flame alive in Australia.
As they prepare for their next gig at Camelot Lounge, Marrickville on 29 October 2022, Les Rankin (guitar), John Encarnacao (guitar) and Rob Child (bass) talk about set lists, musicianship and last-minute line-up changes.
More about Scarecrow People
More about The Nature Strip
Scarecrow People play Scarecrow People
What Do You Call That Noise? An XTC Discovery Book available from https://www.xtclimelight.com
If you've enjoyed What Do You Call That Noise? The XTC Podcast, please show your support at https://www.patreon.com/markfisher
Thanks to the Pink Things, Humble Daisies and Knights in Shining Karma who've done the same. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
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Jul 8, 2022
XTC's best middle eights: Great Fire to Season Cycle
In this episode of What Do You Call That Noise? The XTC Podcast, we dig deep into the centre of the songs of XTC with a celebration of some of the band's best middle eights – and there are a lot to choose from.
The musically minded XTC fans picking their favourites are:
* Crawford "Me and the Wind" Blair
* Kavus "Jason and the Argonauts" Torabi
* Sarah "I Can't Own Her" Palmer
* Laurie "I Wonder Why the Wonderfalls" Langan
* David "No Language in our Lungs" White
* Mark "Pale and Precious" Fisher
Supplying the new music is Gary O'Donnell.
More from Crawford Blair
More from Kavus Torabi
More from Sarah and Laurie from Fassine
More from David White
More from Gary O'Donnell's The Forever Behaviours
What Do You Call That Noise? An XTC Discovery Book available from https://www.xtclimelight.com
If you've enjoyed What Do You Call That Noise? The XTC Podcast, please show your support at https://www.patreon.com/markfisher
Thanks to the Pink Things, Humble Daisies…
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Jun 3, 2022
XTC, Skylarking & Dear God: Jasmine Veillette & Ralph Legnini
What was it like being the eight-year-old asked to sing on XTC’s landmark album? Thirty-five years after recording Dear God, Jasmine Veillette looks back at the making of Skylarking with studio manager Ralph Legnini.
And, in a podcast exclusive, the two of them reveal their plans to re-record Dear God with the support of a crowdfunding campaign (details to follow).
Asking the questions in this month's episode of What Do You Call That Noise? The XTC Podcast are Leslie Gooch and Mark Fisher. Supplying the new music is Craig Stevens.
Follow Jasmine Veillette
Catch up with Ralph Legnini
Listen to Not a Loan by Craig Stevens
What Do You Call That Noise? An XTC Discovery Book available from https://www.xtclimelight.com
If you've enjoyed What Do You Call That Noise? The XTC Podcast, please show your support at https://www.patreon.com/markfisher
Thanks to the Pink Things, Humble Daisies and Knights in Shining Karma who've done the same. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
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May 6, 2022
XTC's Mummer with Tim Bowness, Sean McGhee and Crawford Blair
In this month's episode of What Do You Call That Noise? The XTC Podcast, we reassess XTC's most frequently neglected album in the company of some of its biggest fans.
Mummer is the eleventh in a series of XTC classics to be issued on 200g vinyl. Joining in the celebrations are sound engineer Crawford Blair, who was briefly a member of the XTC cover band X-sTatiC, Sean McGhee, who is a singer, songwriter and Alison Moyet's musical director and Tim Bowness, who as well as being a musician, is co-host of The Album Years podcast with Steven Wilson and co-founder of Burning Shed, the online record shop.
All this, plus new music from Chris Badley and Dave Marson aka Foolish Men.
Order the re-release of Mummer on 200g vinyl
Order Butterfly Mind by Tim Bowness
Listen to Round and Around by Foolish Men
What Do You Call That Noise? An XTC Discovery Book available from https://www.xtclimelight.com
If you've enjoyed What Do You Call That Noise? The XTC Podcast, please show your support at h…
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Apr 1, 2022
EXTC's Matt Hughes and XTC's last ever gig
In this month's episode of What Do You Call That Noise? The XTC Podcast, we're thinking about XTC music played live – in the past and the present.
Bass player Matt Hughes talks about joining EXTC and discovering the XTC catalogue, as he hits the road with Terry Chambers' band. Margaret Brown and Julie Matthews ask the questions. Julie also talks about the forthcoming XTC convention.
Meanwhile, John Heath recalls seeing XTC in 1979 and Kevin Chanel describes their very last gig in San Diego in 1982.
All this, plus new music from Garry Perkins.
Keep up to date with EXTC
Check out the XTC Convention 2022
Listen to What Do You Call That Noise? by Garry Perkins
What Do You Call That Noise? An XTC Discovery Book available from xtclimelight.com
If you've enjoyed What Do You Call That Noise? The XTC Podcast, please show your support at https://www.patreon.com/markfisher
Thanks to the Pink Things, Humble Daisies and Knights in Shining Karma who've done the same. ★ Support this pod…
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Mar 4, 2022
XTC live in Manchester
It was 18 March 1982 at La Palace in Paris when Andy Partridge left the stage for the last time, overwhelmed by the pressures of relentless touring and Valium withdrawal.
Until that point, XTC were one of the hardest working live bands on the circuit and in this episode of What Do You Call That Noise? The XTC Podcast, music journalists David Nolan and Mick Middles remember what it was like to see them. They are joined by Brenna Ehrlich, senior news editor at Rolling Stone magazine, and Mark Fisher.
* Music provided by David White: listen to Still Got It on Soundcloud
* Brenna Ehrlich's Killing Time available here
* More on David Nolan here
* More on Mick Middles here
Further reading in What Do You Call That Noise? An XTC Discovery Book
If you’ve enjoyed What Do You Call That Noise? The XTC Podcast, please show your support at https://www.patreon.com/markfisher
Thanks to the Pink Things, Humble Daisies and Knights in Shining Karma who’ve done the same. ★ Support this…
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Feb 4, 2022
XTC's English Settlement with Dave Gregory and Hugh Padgham
On 12 February 1982, XTC's English Settlement was released. Forty years on, What Do You Call That Noise? The XTC Podcast reunites guitarist Dave Gregory and co-producer Hugh Padgham to look back at the recording of one of the greatest ever double albums. They talk about favourite songs, hanging out at the Manor and Andy Partridge's after-hours tomfoolery.
Asking the questions are Mark Fisher and Sue Charles. Musical interlude by Ed Stainsby.
Further reading in What Do You Call That Noise? An XTC Discovery Book available from https://www.xtclimelight.com
If you've enjoyed What Do You Call That Noise? The XTC Podcast, please show your support at https://www.patreon.com/markfisher
Thanks to the Pink Things, Humble Daisies and Knights in Shining Karma who've done the same. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
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Jan 7, 2022
XTC's English Settlement: The Expert View
What does the Bishop of Leeds think of All of a Sudden? What does Pat Kane of Hue and Cry make of Leisure? What can classicist Charlotte Higgins tell us about Jason and the Argonauts?
It's the 40th anniversary of XTC's English Settlement and, in the first of two special birthday episodes, What Do You Call That Noise? The XTC Podcast asks the experts to guide us through the album track by track.
Every guest is a specialist in the theme of each song – and every one of them responds with enthusiasm and insight. Essential listening!
Featuring:
* Runaways: Sarah Smith, CEO, Link Living
* Ball and Chain: Noel Ponting, writer, Swindon Heritage
* Senses Working Overtime: James Wannerton, president, UK Synaesthesia Association
* Jason and the Argonauts: Charlotte Higgins, journalist and author, Greek Myths: A New Retelling
* No Thugs in our House: Nigel Fielding, emeritus professor and author, The National Front
* Yacht Dance: Helen Horsfall, Royal Forth Yacht Club
*…
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Dec 3, 2021
XTC Collectors: from Science Friction to Wrapped in Grey
What is the holy grail for the XTC completist? Is it the 7in Science Friction with picture sleeve? Or is it the 7in Wrapped in Grey that was never officially released? Or perhaps it's a one-of-a-kind poster from the days of Star Park.
In this episode of What Do You Call That Noise? The XTC Podcast, dedicated collectors Darryl Bullock and Per Aronsson show each other their XTC treasures and discuss their most prized possessions. What is the rarest of them all?
Mark Fisher and Leslie Gooch get top collecting tips and Chez Preston gives the drink recommendation.
This episode is available in video and audio formats.
See more of Darryl Bullock's XTC collection here: https://www.instagram.com/my_xtc_collection
Further reading in The XTC Bumper Book of Fun for Boys and Girls (nearly sold out) and What Do You Call That Noise? An XTC Discovery Book available from https://www.xtclimelight.com
If you've enjoyed What Do You Call That Noise? The XTC Podcast, please show your support at https:…
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Nov 5, 2021
Nick Heyward and Thomas Walsh: Haircut 100, Pugwash and XTC
Nick Heyward first saw XTC at the Croydon Greyhound in 1978, two days after the release of White Music. The Haircut 100 frontman has been a fan ever since.
Thomas Walsh has written with Andy Partridge and collaborated with Dave Gregory. He also appeared on Colin Moulding's Say It.
The two musicians talk about meeting their heroes, the collaborations that nearly happened and those that might happen yet...
Mark Fisher and Kevin Birt ask the questions. Florrie Thomas gives the drink recommendation.
Nick Heyward's website
Thomas Walsh and Pugwash
Further reading in The XTC Bumper Book of Fun for Boys and Girls (nearly sold out) and What Do You Call That Noise? An XTC Discovery Book available from https://www.xtclimelight.com
If you've enjoyed What Do You Call That Noise? The XTC Podcast, please show your support at https://www.patreon.com/markfisher
Thanks to the Pink Things, Humble Daisies and Knights in Shining Karma who've done the same. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
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Oct 1, 2021
Terry Chambers and Steve Tilling: From XTC to EXTC
After being delayed 18 months by the pandemic, Terry Chambers is finally out on the road, giving XTC classics the live airing they deserve with his new band EXTC. The drummer is our very special guest on this episode of What Do You Call That Noise? The XTC Podcast along with bandmate, frontman and all-round multitasker Steve Tilling.
We also hear from fans who caught the band's gig at the Wedgewood Rooms in Portsmouth on 7 September 2021.
Drink recommendation from Karen Neill.
Mark Fisher's review of the gig is here
Follow EXTC on Facebook
Further reading in The XTC Bumper Book of Fun for Boys and Girls and What Do You Call That Noise? An XTC Discovery Book available from https://www.xtclimelight.com
If you've enjoyed the XTC Podcast, please show your support on Patreon
Thanks to the Pink Things, Humble Daisies and Knights in Shining Karma who've done the same.
Picture: Lou Dommett Young ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
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Sep 3, 2021
Steven Wilson remixing XTC
Headphones at the ready as audio-guru Steven Wilson talks to What Do You Call That Noise? The XTC Podcast about his stereo mixes and 5.1 surround versions of XTC classics.
Quizzed by three Marks – Fisher, Reed and Smotroff – the Porcupine Tree musician takes a deep dive into Drums and Wires, Black Sea, Skylarking, Oranges and Lemons and Nonsuch– not forgetting the Dukes of Stratosphear.
In a fascinating conversation, Wilson also reflects on his remixing work for Tears for Fears, Yes, King Crimson and Jethro Tull.
This episode's drink recommendation comes from Marianna Silva.
Further reading in The XTC Bumper Book of Fun for Boys and Girls and What Do You Call That Noise? An XTC Discovery Book available from https://www.xtclimelight.com
If you've enjoyed the XTC Podcast, please show your support at https://www.patreon.com/markfisher
Thanks to the Pink Things, Humble Daisies and Knights in Shining Karma who've done the same. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
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Jul 30, 2021
XTC's Andy Partridge – My Failed Songwriting Career
To mark the release of My Failed Songwriting Career Volume One, XTC's Andy Partridge talks about writing to order, the collaborations that work – and those that don't – and the perils of being a songwriter for hire.
As well as sharing insights into the four songs on the first EP, the XTC frontman gives a sneak preview of the four that follow on Volume Two.
Mark Fisher asks the questions and Rachel Treffry provides the drink recommendation.
My Failed Songwriting Career is available from shops including Burning Shed
Further reading in The XTC Bumper Book of Fun for Boys and Girls and What Do You Call That Noise? An XTC Discovery Book available from https://www.xtclimelight.com
If you’ve enjoyed the XTC Podcast, please show your support at https://www.patreon.com/markfisher
Thanks to the Pink Things, Humble Daisies and Knights in Shining Karma who’ve done the same. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
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Jun 25, 2021
Colin Moulding: The Hardest Battle
To mark the release of The Hardest Battle (2 July 2021), the mighty Colin Moulding talks about being true to himself, avoiding cliches and fighting off being beige.
The XTC bassist and songwriter reveals the inspiration behind his first solo single since 1980's Too Many Cooks in the Kitchen to Mark Fisher, Sarah Palmer and Peter Mills, who ask:
· Who are his favourite poets?
· What makes him cry?
· Analogue or digital?
As well as The Hardest Battle, Colin remembers Say It, Bungalow, Boarded Up, Scatter Me and Dying, not to mention playing live with Terry Chambers.
Drink recommendation from Kate Catalina.
The Hardest Battle is available here
The Monkees, Head and the 60s by Peter Mills is available here
Fassine featuring Sarah Palmer hang out here
Kate Catalina does stuff here
Further reading in The XTC Bumper Book of Fun for Boys and Girls and What Do You Call That Noise? An XTC Discovery Book available from https://www.xtclimelight.com
If you've enjoyed the XTC Podcast,…
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Jun 4, 2021
Oranges and Ladybirds – part two
In this second deep dive into XTC's lyrical references, we talk about the flora and fauna of River of Orchids, the one-way traffic of English Roundabout and the coastal retreat of Bungalow.
In a lively and, above all, morally uplifting discussion, we swing from the suburban angst of New Town Animal to the assembly-hall nostalgia of Harvest Festival.
Comparing notes are Mark Fisher, Belinda Blanchard, Peter Mills, Sandy Leffew and Ami Parkerson.
The fabulous musical soundtrack comes courtesy of Sarah Palmer and Lotte Fisher, who also provides the episode illustration. Drink tips from Donna Rees.
Further reading in The XTC Bumper Book of Fun for Boys and Girls and What Do You Call That Noise? An XTC Discovery Book available from https://www.xtclimelight.com
If you've enjoyed the XTC Podcast, please show your support at https://www.patreon.com/markfisher
Thanks to the Pink Things, Humble Daisies and Knights in Shining Karma who've done the same. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon…
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May 7, 2021
XTC: This Is Power Pop? with Brian Vander Ark and Paul Myers
After enjoying a stateside hit with The Freshmen in 1997, Brian Vander Ark of the Verve Pipe got the chance to write with his hero Andy Partridge. His band had already recorded a cover of Wake Up (and an unreleased Blue Beret) and now he'd fly to Swindon to co-write Blow You Away.
It's a story he tells in Go Further: More Literary Appreciations of Power Pop (Rare Bird Lit, 2021), an anthology of essays about everyone from Squeeze to Teenage Fanclub and the Ramones.
In this episode of What Do You Call That Noise?, Vander Ark joins co-editor Paul Myers and power-pop fan Melanie (@mixtape64) to talk about harmony, songwriting and their love of XTC. Mark Fisher is the host.
Find out more at:
* Brian Vander Ark
* The Record Store Day Podcast with Paul Myers
* The XTC Bumper Book of Fun for Boys and Girls and What Do You Call That Noise? An XTC Discovery Book
If you've enjoyed the XTC Podcast, please show your support at https://www.patreon.com/markfisher
Thanks to the Pink Thi…
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Apr 2, 2021
Oranges and Ladybirds – part one
With their allusions to town and country, chalkhills and steam trains, XTC have deep Swindon roots. But how well do their references travel?
In the first of two episodes exploring XTC's Wiltshire worldview, we look at the influence of British nursery rhymes on songs ranging from Ladybird to We're All Light, Ballet for a Rainy Day and Brainiac's Daughter.
Sharing their UK expertise are Belinda Blanchard and Peter Mills, while our American cousins Sandy Leffew and Ami Parkerson talk about British invasions and exotic accents. Mark Fisher is the host.
The fabulous musical soundtrack comes courtesy of Sarah Palmer and Lotte Fisher, who also provides the episode illustration.
Further reading in The XTC Bumper Book of Fun for Boys and Girls and What Do You Call That Noise? An XTC Discovery Book available from https://www.xtclimelight.com
If you've enjoyed the XTC Podcast, please show your support at https://www.patreon.com/markfisher
Thanks to the Pink Things, Humble Daisies and Knight…
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Mar 5, 2021
Church of Women
"You think they're going to zig and they zag," says Ami Parkerson about XTC. In this multinational episode, our guest presenter introduces fellow fans Orit Friedland, Ondine PM, Ursula Marie and Leslie Randall to talk about Ladybird, Church of Women, Take This Town, The Last Balloon and The Mayor of Simpleton – not to mention The Woman's Encyclopedia of Myths and Secrets.
Elsewhere, Cathy Forster shares a top drinking tip, while young XTC fans Esther and Arthur talk about the wide range of XTC songs they love – with English-language voiceovers by Polly and Hamish, courtesy of Strange Town theatre
Further reading in The XTC Bumper Book of Fun for Boys and Girls and What Do You Call That Noise? An XTC Discovery Book available from https://www.xtclimelight.com
If you've enjoyed the XTC Podcast, please show your support at https://www.patreon.com/markfisher
Thanks to the Pink Things, Humble Daisies and Knights in Shining Karma who've done the same. ★ Support this podcast on Patr…
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Feb 5, 2021
The authors: Twomey, Bernhardt and Fisher
Guest presenter Kevin Winser discovers XTC are as good to read about as they are to listen to as he chats to three of the authors who have put the band in print.
This episode features Chris Twomey, author of XTC: Chalkhills and Children, "the definitive biography", Todd Bernhardt, co-author with Andy Partridge of Complicated Game: Inside the Songs of XTC, and Mark Fisher, editor of Limelight, the 1980s fanzine, The XTC Bumper Book of Fun for Boys and Girls and What Do You Call That Noise? An XTC Discovery Book.
Elsewhere, young XTC fans Esther and Arthur pick some of their favourite songs – with English-language voiceovers by Polly and Hamish, courtesy of Strange Town theatre.
Further reading in The XTC Bumper Book of Fun for Boys and Girls and What Do You Call That Noise? An XTC Discovery Book available from https://www.xtclimelight.com
If you've enjoyed the XTC Podcast, please show your support at https://www.patreon.com/markfisher
Thanks to the Pink Things, Humble Daisies and…
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Jan 1, 2021
Making Plans for Nigel: What Happened Next
More than 40 years after its release, Making Plans for Nigel is still haunting the imagination. In this episode, Tom Clarke, formerly of The Enemy, explains why he has brought Colin Moulding's character into the 21st century on The Chronicles of Nigel. He's joined by Laurie Nankivell who talks about the influence of XTC on Squid, whose song Houseplants namechecks Making Plans for Nigel.
This episode also features Alex Parkinson introducing Making Pints for Nigel, a beer by Alphabet Brewing. And we hear from young drummer Lucas making an excellent attempt at the Terry Chambers pattern for Making Plans for Nigel.
Mark Fisher and Laura Wade ask the questions.
More about Making Pints for Nigel
More about Squid
More about Tom Clarke and The Chronicles of Nigel
Further reading in The XTC Bumper Book of Fun for Boys and Girls and What Do You Call That Noise? An XTC Discovery Book available from https://www.xtclimelight.com
If you've enjoyed the XTC Podcast, please show your support at…
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Dec 4, 2020
A Merry XTCmas: part two
The festive fun continues with the second Yuletide episode of What Do You Call That Noise? The XTC Podcast. The conversation continues as Andy Partridge and Chris Butler take us through some of their favourite seasonal songs.
Amid the sleigh bells and trumpets, you can hear about a Captain Beefheart song that never was, the secret of the Zippy zither and John Leckie's outrageous story about being in the studio with Phil Spector.
Questions from Mark Fisher, Mark Reed and David White.
Listen along to the accompanying Spotify playlist: A Merry XTCmas
Catch up with Chris Butler
Further reading in The XTC Bumper Book of Fun for Boys and Girls and What Do You Call That Noise? An XTC Discovery Book available from https://www.xtclimelight.com
If you've enjoyed the XTC Podcast, please show your support at https://www.patreon.com/markfisher
Thanks to the Pink Things, Humble Daisies and Knights in Shining Karma who've done the same. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
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Dec 4, 2020
A Merry XTCmas: part one
Prepare for a feast of seasonal excess with the first of two festive episodes of What Do You Call That Noise? The XTC Podcast.
First up is Martin Newell talking about Christmas in Suburbia and his fantastic Flowers in December EP.
Then comes Chris Butler of the Waitresses talking about Christmas Wrapping to Andy Partridge who names the XTC song it influenced.
This episode also features a Christmas song from Robert Lawlor and a visit from Rainer Fielder and his children Arthur and Esther. Questions from Mark Fisher, Mark Reed and David White.
Listen along to the accompanying Spotify playlist: A Merry XTCmas
Visit Martin Newell's website
Catch up with Chris Butler
Further reading in The XTC Bumper Book of Fun for Boys and Girls and What Do You Call That Noise? An XTC Discovery Book available from https://www.xtclimelight.com
If you've enjoyed the XTC Podcast, please show your support at https://www.patreon.com/markfisher
Thanks to the Pink Things, Humble Daisies and Knights in…
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Nov 6, 2020
X-sTatiC: the XTC cover band story
Between 2002 and 2005, X-sTatiC performed 61 XTC songs in the course of eight gigs. Along the way, they picked up famous fans and paved the path for the Fuzzy Warblers and now Fossil Fools.
Now, for the first time in over ten years, Dan Barrow (guitar), Ed Percival (bass), Adrian Ogden (drums) and Mick Casey (guitar) come together to talk about being unofficial XTC ambassadors as they remember the songs that challenged them and the ones that raised the roof.
More about the band at X-sTatiC and Facebook
This episode also showcases young XTC fans Lucas and Elsie sharing their talents in the Playground.
Further reading in The XTC Bumper Book of Fun for Boys and Girls and What Do You Call That Noise? An XTC Discovery Book available from https://www.xtclimelight.com
If you've enjoyed the XTC Podcast, please show your support at https://www.patreon.com/markfisher
Thanks to the Pink Things, Humble Daisies and Knights in Shining Karma who've done the same. ★ Support this podcast on Pa…
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Oct 2, 2020
Young generation takeover
All the guests in this episode of What Do You Call That Noise? The XTC Podcast are in their 20s. None was even born when Nonsuch was released. Yet all talk with passion and insight about XTC's enduring legacy.
So what does XTC mean to a young generation of music lovers?
From England, Scotland, Wales and the US, Margaret Brown, Myles Parsons, Huw Thomas, Rachel Treffry and Laura Wade come together to talk about music, art, creativity and the biggest question of all: how to pronounce the word Nihilon.
Listen here to their playlist of music they are enjoying right now: Spotify
Further reading in The XTC Bumper Book of Fun for Boys and Girls and What Do You Call That Noise? An XTC Discovery Book available from https://www.xtclimelight.com
If you've enjoyed the XTC Podcast, please show your support at https://www.patreon.com/markfisher
Thanks to the Pink Things, Humble Daisies and Knights in Shining Karma who've done the same. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
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Oct 1, 2020
What Do You Call That Noise? The XTC Podcast Trailer
What Do You Call That Noise? The XTC Podcast brings together fans and musicians alike to celebrate the enduring music of XTC. Every month, we take a fresh look at the band, from the singles to the albums, from the visuals to the personalities. It is witty, surprising and fun.
In this podcast trailer, host Mark Fisher gives a flavour of the episodes as well as introducing The XTC Bumper Book of Fun for Boys and Girls and What Do You Call That Noise? An XTC Discovery Book, both available at https://www.xtclimelight.com
If you've enjoyed the XTC Podcast, please show your support at https://www.patreon.com/markfisher ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
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Sep 25, 2020
Why comedians love XTC
In this special edition of What Do You Call That Noise? The XTC Podcast, recorded live as part of the online XTC Convention on 19 September 2020, author Mark Fisher talks to leading stand-up comedians about their love of XTC. He also gets them to join in some games and make up some nonsense – or do they?
On the panel are:
· Joanna Neary, who once performed a pastiche XTC song called Human Farm
· Stewart Lee, who once met Andy Partridge before a gig in Swindon
· Paul Putner, who befriended XTC after compiling a tape of their TV appearances
· Kevin Eldon, whose love of XTC rivals his quiz-winning obsession with the Beatles
· Andy Miller, a writer, editor and long-time Limelight reader whose books include 33 1/3: The Kinks Are The Village Green Preservation Society
Thanks to Mike, Steve, Julie, Darryl, Rachel and Joe and DJ Ivan for making the XTC Convention go with such a swing. Look out for more convention plans on the Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2657989…
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Sep 4, 2020
Black Sea at 40 with Hugh Padgham and Dave Gregory
"I still think XTC are one of the best bands ever," says Hugh Padgham – and he should know: he's worked with everyone from David Bowie to Brian Wilson, Kate Bush and The Police. Having enjoyed his earliest successes as sound engineer on Drums and Wires and Black Sea, and co-producer on English Settlement, he says XTC continue to hold a special place in his heart.
To celebrate the 40th anniversary of Black Sea on 12 September 2020, Padgham joins guitarist Dave Gregory for a special 90-minute edition of What Do You Call That Noise? The XTC Podcast. They talk about the clanking anvils of Towers of London, the one-note solo of Love at First Sight and the slow-build tension of No Language in Our Lungs. "We were always thinking progressively and pushing ourselves," says Gregory.
Questions about this landmark album come from Mark Fisher, David White and Mark Reed, with additional commentary from David Yazbek.
Further reading in The XTC Bumper Book of Fun for Boys and Girls and What Do Yo…
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Aug 7, 2020
Andrew Swainson: Designs on XTC
Illustrator and graphic designer Andrew Swainson has been collaborating with Andy Partridge for over 20 years. As well as working on XTC and Dukes of Stratosphear re-releases, such as Skylarking and The Complete and Utter Dukes, he helped create the distinctive look of records including:
* Powers, Partridge's tribute to abstract electronic artist Richard M Power, made to look like an early 60s paperback book
* Warm Robot by Jen Olive, with its sci-fi fold-out sleeve
* Gonwards, by Peter Blegvad and Andy Partridge, complete with Mexican-style loteria card game
* Orpheus: The Lowdown, another Blegvad/Partridge collaboration, with its haunting X-ray imagery
* Fuzzy Warbles, the gorgeous compendium of unreleased XTC rarities
In this episode, Swainson joins XTC fans Mark Fisher, Sarah Crookall, Laura Wade, David White and Peter Mills – not to mention a brief visit by Andy Partridge – to talk about his mesmerising designs.
More about Andrew Swainson at https://www.andre…
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Jul 3, 2020
Dave Gregory: Tunes of Good
Guitarist and keyboard player Dave Gregory talks about his contribution to the sound of XTC. In conversation with musician Hugh Nankivell, he reflects on the smell of guitars, playing an idolised instrument on Skylarking and the joy of making music with Colin Moulding and Andy Partridge. Recorded at home in Swindon in March 2018, the interview appears in full in What Do You Call That Noise? An XTC Discovery Book available from https://www.xtclimelight.com If you've enjoyed the XTC Podcast, please show your support at https://www.patreon.com/markfisher ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
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Jun 5, 2020
XTC vs Adam Ant (feat Andy Partridge)
Jordan Cooper of Don't Let's Start: A Podcast About They Might Be Giants joins Mark Fisher, Mark Reed and David White to talk about the connections between XTC, TMBG and Adam and the Ants. In a freewheeling conversation, they explore the head versus the heart, intellect versus instinct, and content versus form. Along the way, Andy Partridge drops by to share his opinions about Adam and the Ants and They Might Be Giants and remembers how XTC caught the eye of John Peel.
Thanks to the good people at Sodajerker for the KT Tunstall extract (listen to the full podcast here: https://www.sodajerker.com/episode-160-kt-tunstall/)
Support the podcast at https://www.patreon.com/markfisher and read about XTC in The XTC Bumper Book of Fun for Boys and Girls and What Do You Call That Noise? An XTC Discovery Book available at www.xtclimelight.com ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
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May 3, 2020
Andy Partridge Everything'll Be Alright
To cheer us up during the Covid-19 lockdown, Andy Partridge pays a call to What Do You Call That Noise? The XTC Podcast with the promise that Everything'll Be Alright. He talks to author Mark Fisher with characteristic wit and candour about the power of XTC as a live band, the chords for Roads Girdle the Globe and how Yacht Dance was nearly a song about bees. Essential listening for every XTC fan, this episode will leave you Burning With Optimism's Flames. Please support at Patreon and check out Mark Fisher's books, The XTC Bumper Book of Fun for Boys and Girls and What Do You Call That Noise? An XTC Discovery Book. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
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Apr 10, 2020
Breathing the Same Air with Andrew M Stafford
Author Andrew M Stafford talks about Breathing the Same Air, his memoir of his time with XTC during the making of The Big Express at Crescent Studios in Bath. Belinda Blanchard, who had her own brush with XTC when she starred in the video for Dear God, previews her performance at the XTC Convention 2020. Mark Fisher, Mark Reed and David White join in the chat – and Andy Partridge supplies the jingles. Support the podcast at https://www.patreon.com/markfisher ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
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Mar 5, 2020
Garden of Earthly Delights (feat Colin Moulding)
Giving a first listen to Garden of Earthly Delights: An XTC Celebration (Futureman Records), XTC fans Mark Fisher, David White and Mark Reed talk about:
* Don't Lose Your Temper covered by Derrick Anderson
* Your Dictionary covered by Mark McCrite
* Life Begins at the Hop covered by the Kickstand Band
* Seagulls Screaming Kiss Her Kiss Her covered by Casper Fandango & His Tiny Sick Tears
* Runaways covered by I Think Like Midnight
* We're All Light covered by Anton Barbeau
* Battery Brides covered by Cinderpop
* My Bird Performs covered by Myrtle Park's Fishing Club
Special guest Colin Moulding from XTC adds his thoughts about cover bands, My Bird Performs and X-Wires as covered by the Pop Up Book.
Futureman label boss Keith Klingensmith talks about putting the album together here: http://xtcbumperbookoffunforboysandgirls.blogspot.com/
The show is created by Mark Fisher, editor of The XTC Bumper Book of Fun for Boys and Girls and What Do You Call That Noise?…
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