The XS Noize Podcast
Mark Millar | XS Noize 294 episodes Nov 9, 2026
The XS Noize Podcast is a weekly music interview show hosted by Mark Millar, editor-in-chief of the music site XS Noize. Each episode features in-depth conversations with musicians, producers, and managers, offering insight into the contemporary music industry. Past guests have included a broad range of well-known artists from across rock, pop, and alternative music. The show is a go-to for fans who want to hear behind-the-scenes stories and perspectives from the people making music today.
Episodes
Steve Cradock on Making Ocean Colour Scene's 'Moseley Shoals' (#307)
In this episode of the XS Noize Podcast, Ocean Colour Scene guitarist Steve Cradock joins Mark Millar to mark 30 years of Moseley Shoals and tell the story of how the band made it. Steve recalls playing the intro to "Hey Joe" at his audition in his parents' garage, how the Stone Roses influenced the band's early sound, and why making their debut album convinced them to start recording on their own
Passenger on Finding Love After 'Let Her Go' & His New Album 'Wild Love' (#306)
In this episode of the XS Noize Podcast, Passenger's Mike Rosenberg joins Mark Millar to discuss his new album, Wild Love, and finding the personal happiness that musical success alone couldn't provide. Mike reflects on living alone during lockdown, questioning what was missing, and falling in love with Rebecca, his manager of ten years. He explains the risks of taking that leap and how getting ma
Editors' Justin Lockey on 'Surface, Echo & Sound' & Why the Band Kept Going (#305)
In this episode of the XS Noize Podcast, Editors guitarist and producer Justin Lockey joins Mark Millar to discuss the band's new album, Surface, Echo & Sound, returning to playing together in a room, and the turning point that helped secure Editors' future. Following the electronics of EBM, Justin explains how the band built the new record around Tom Smith's acoustic guitar, keeping the arran
Nickelback's Mike Kroeger on 'Everything Under The Sun' & His Brush with Death (#304)
In episode #304 of the XS Noize Podcast, Nickelback bassist Mike Kroeger joins Mark Millar to discuss the band's new album, Everything Under The Sun, growing up with his brother Chad, and the brush with death that changed his outlook on life. Mike explains why Nickelback wanted to make music at their own pace, shares his initial doubts about recording "Last Night Was Fun," and discusses bringing i
Steven Wilson on 'Requiem For A Village' & Why Music Needs Imperfection (#303)
In episode #303 of the XS Noize Podcast, Steven Wilson joins Mark Millar to discuss his new album, Requiem For A Village, embracing musical imperfections, and why he believes the human touch matters more than ever in an age of artificial intelligence. Following the cosmic scale of The Overview, Steven explains why he wanted to explore British folklore, childhood memories and the unsettling atm
Gabriella Cilmi on 'Pure Love', 'Sweet About Me' & Finding Herself Again (#302)
Gabriella Cilmi joins Mark Millar on the XS Noize Podcast to discuss her new album, Pure Love, being signed at just 13, the worldwide success of 'Sweet About Me', and finding her way back to herself as an artist. Gabriella reflects on the pressures of becoming famous at 16, losing creative control and eventually stepping away to rebuild on her own terms. She also reveals how watching footage of he
Jim James on Wowed Out, Sobriety & the Future of My Morning Jacket (#301)
My Morning Jacket frontman Jim James joins Mark Millar on the XS Noize Podcast to discuss his new solo album, Wowed Out, rediscovering music from his past, his journey towards sobriety and self-acceptance, and what's next for My Morning Jacket. His fifth solo LP and first new solo album in eight years, Wowed Out grew from a collection of abandoned film-score recordings Jim created with compose
Clint Boon on Manchester Chronicles & Inspiral Carpets (#300)
In this episode of the XS Noize Podcast, Mark Millar is joined by Clint Boon to discuss his autobiography, Manchester Chronicles: True Tales of Music, Madness and Mayhem 1976–2006, the rise of Inspiral Carpets and the remarkable highs and lows of his life in music. Clint recalls seeing the Sex Pistols at Manchester's Electric Circus in 1976—the night that convinced him he could form a band. He dis
Stephen Mallinder: Cabaret Voltaire, CODE & the Final Tour (#299)
Stephen Mallinder joins Mark Millar on the XS Noize Podcast to discuss Cabaret Voltaire's final tour, the return of Chris Watson, and the remastered edition of CODE. Stephen reflects on why these final shows are both a celebration and an ending, and why he was determined not to let Cabaret Voltaire become its own tribute act. He talks about reconnecting with Chris Watson, rebuilding the music usin
Jamie Webster: Running Round The Sun, Success & Self-Doubt (#298)
Jamie Webster joins Mark Millar on the XS Noize Podcast to discuss his fourth studio album, Running Round The Sun, and the success, self-doubt and personal experiences behind his most reflective record yet. Jamie looks back on his journey from playing Liverpool pubs for a pint of Coke and a packet of Quavers to huge headline shows, and reflects on why achieving his dreams hasn't necessarily ma
The Proclaimers: What Offends Us—and Why We Never Look Back (#297)
The Proclaimers have never been interested in becoming a nostalgia act. Craig and Charlie Reid join Mark Millar on the XS Noize Podcast to discuss what still drives—and offends—them nearly 40 years after This Is the Story. The brothers explore their uncompromising 13th studio album, You May Offend, whether people have become easier to offend and the political anger running through the record. They
Inside George Michael's Lost Album with Andros Georgiou (#296)
Andros Georgiou joins Mark Millar on the XS Noize Podcast to reveal the remarkable story behind Trojan Souls—the ambitious George Michael album that was never completed. Andros discusses growing up alongside George, recognising his extraordinary musical ability at an early age and their work together on Boogie Box High's version of "Jive Talkin'," which featured an uncredited lead vocal from Georg
MYSTERY JETS: Grief, Hope & A Hole to See the Sky Through (#295)
In this episode of the XS Noize Podcast, Mark Millar is joined by Mystery Jets' Blaine Harrison and Ollie Taylor to discuss their seventh studio album, A Hole to See the Sky Through. Blaine explains how a postcard artwork by Yoko Ono became the album's title, cover and guiding light. They also discuss recording with Leo Abrahams, the spontaneous creation of 'Black Sage' and how Ollie and his b
LE BOOM on Immersive Shows, Irish Identity & Community (#294)
LE BOOM's Christy Leech joins Mark Millar on the XS Noize Podcast ahead of the duo's 360° immersive floor show at Limelight 1, Belfast. Christy explains how secret raves and unconventional venues inspired LE BOOM to perform in the middle of the audience, removing the separation between the band and the crowd. He also recalls an unforgettable show on a boat in Sydney Harbour and discusses the commu
Danny O'Donoghue on The Script's New Album, Songwriting & Being Human (#293)
The Script's Danny O'Donoghue joins Mark Millar on the XS Noize Podcast to discuss the ideas, stories and songwriting behind the band's new album, "The User's Guide to Being Human." Danny reveals how an unusual moment in Los Angeles inspired the album's title, why he returned to the studio within a week of finishing the Satellites tour, and how sobriety has changed his approach to making music. He
Tim Wheeler on Ash's 1977 at 30, Girl From Mars & Coming of Age at 19 (#292)
Tim Wheeler joins Mark Millar on the XS Noize Podcast to discuss Ash's landmark debut album 1977, its 30th Anniversary Edition, "Girl From Mars," "Goldfinger," Owen Morris, young fame, Northern Ireland and taking the album back out on the road. Originally released in 1996, 1977 turned Ash from teenage upstarts from Downpatrick into one of the defining guitar bands of the era. Featuring "Girl From
Tony Visconti on David Bowie, Marc Bolan, Thin Lizzy & Blackstar (#291)
Tony Visconti joins Mark Millar on the XS Noize Podcast to discuss David Bowie, Marc Bolan, T. Rex, Thin Lizzy, Phil Lynott, Blackstar, Scary Monsters, Holy Holy and the art of producing timeless records. Best known as one of the most celebrated producers in music history, Tony played on Bowie's early records and went on to produce some of the most important albums of David Bowie's career. He also
Rosa Walton on 'Tell Me It's A Dream,' Let's Eat Grandma and Cyberpunk 2077 (#290)
Rosa Walton joins Mark Millar on the XS Noize Podcast to discuss her debut solo album, Tell Me It's A Dream, out now via Transgressive Records. Best known as one half of Let's Eat Grandma alongside Jenny Hollingworth, Rosa steps into a bold new chapter with her most personal and expansive work to date — a record full of light, colour, open skies, friendship, dreams and emotional honesty. In this c
Dea Matrona on 'Hate That I Care,' Self-Producing and Creative Independence (#289)
Belfast rock duo Dea Matrona join Mark Millar on the XS Noize Podcast to discuss their second album, Hate That I Care — a bold, more personal and self-assured new chapter for Mollie McGinn and Orláith Forsythe. Written, recorded and produced entirely by the band, Hate That I Care finds Dea Matrona leaning further into alt-rock while exploring vulnerability, identity, pressure, friendship, self-pro
Embrace's Danny McNamara on The Good Will Out, Avalanche and 30 Years of the Band (#288)
Danny McNamara from Embrace joins Mark Millar on the XS Noize Podcast to discuss the band's new album Avalanche, 30 years of Embrace, and why he feels more inspired now than ever. In this conversation, Danny reflects on the band's landmark debut The Good Will Out, the huge comeback with Out Of Nothing, and why new music — not nostalgia — is still what drives him. Danny also talks about the life le
The Hoosiers on New Album 'Compassion,' Toxicity & Finding Joy Again (#287)
In this episode of the XS Noize Podcast, Mark Millar is joined by Irwin Sparkes and Alan Sharland from The Hoosiers to discuss their new album Compassion, the toxicity that inspired it, and how the band found joy, self-belief and purpose again. The band first broke through in 2007 with their debut album The Trick to Life, featuring huge singles including "Worried About Ray" and "Goodbye Mr A." But
Robert Arkins on The Commitments, Jimmy Rabbitte and Life After the Film (#286)
In this episode of the XS Noize Podcast, Mark Millar is joined by Robert Arkins, best known to millions as Jimmy Rabbitte in Alan Parker's classic 1991 film The Commitments. Robert looks back on life before the film, his musical roots, fronting his own band Housebroken, and how his sister first introduced him to Roddy Doyle's book. He reflects on why he initially saw The Commitments as a possible
Nerina Pallot on 25 Years of Music and Why Hope Still Matters (#285)
Nerina Pallot joins Mark Millar on the XS Noize Podcast to discuss 25 years of music, her new career-spanning collection Fire Escape Symphonies: The Best of Nerina Pallot, and the songs, fans and experiences that have shaped her journey. In this episode, Nerina reflects on looking back across her catalogue, the emotional weight of "Everybody's Gone To War," taking an anti-war song onto Top of the
Broken Social Scene on "Remember The Humans," grief and why music still saves people (#284)
In this episode of the XS Noize Podcast, Mark Millar is joined by Kevin Drew and Charles Spearin of Broken Social Scene to discuss the band's new album, Remember The Humans. Kevin and Charles talk about where the title came from, how a joke about AI ended up capturing the emotional centre of the record, and why Broken Social Scene returned now with their first new studio album in nearly a decade.
Deb Googe & Cara Tivey on da Googie, The Golden Thread & My Bloody Valentine (#283)
Deb Googe and Cara Tivey join Mark Millar on the XS Noize Podcast to discuss The Golden Thread — their debut full-length album together as da Googie + Cara Tivey. da Googie is the solo project of Deb Googe, best known as the bass player in My Bloody Valentine and Thurston Moore Group. Cara Tivey is a pianist and composer whose career includes work with Billy Bragg, Everything But The Girl, Blur, A
Glen Hansard on Don+t Settle - (Vol 1 Transmissions East), Bob Dylan, Busking and Capturing Songs in the Moment (#282)
In this episode of the XS Noize Podcast, Mark Millar is joined by Glen Hansard for a warm, honest and deeply reflective conversation about his new live album, Don+t Settle - (Vol 1 Transmissions East). Recorded at Berlin's historic Funkhaus with his road-hardened live band, the album brings together songs from Glen's solo career, The Frames and The Swell Season, captured with almost no fixes. Rath
Miles Hunt on 40 Years of The Wonder Stuff, Burnout, Vent 414 and Starting Over (#281)
Miles Hunt joins Mark Millar on the XS Noize Podcast to reflect on 40 years of The Wonder Stuff — from the band's rise through the late '80s and early '90s to what it means to still be carrying it forward today. With The Wonder Stuff set for a major 40th anniversary UK tour in October 2026, Miles looks back on audience loyalty, writing the early records, the impact of albums including HUP, Never L
Carol Decker on success, heartbreak, and finding her way back with T'Pau (#280)
Carol Decker joins Mark Millar on the XS Noize Podcast to talk about T'Pau's return with Be Wonderful — the band's first album of original material since Pleasure and Pain in 2015. In this candid conversation, Carol reflects on the long gap between records, reconnecting creatively with Ronnie Rogers, and what finally brought her back into the right headspace to make new music again. She also looks
The Boxer Rebellion on 'The Second I'm Asleep' and 25 years together (#279)
The Boxer Rebellion join Mark Millar on the XS Noize Podcast to talk about The Second I'm Asleep, their first full-length studio album since 2018. In this episode, Nathan Nicholson and Piers Hewitt discuss the six-year gap between records, the reset the band needed, and how the new album came together through a more instinctive, less overthought creative process. They talk about writing quickly, t
The Dandy Warhols: Courtney Taylor-Taylor on Dig!, Pin Ups & the "Assassination Piece" (#278)
In this episode of the XS Noize Podcast, Mark Millar sits down with Courtney Taylor-Taylor — frontman of The Dandy Warhols — to talk about Pin Ups and the real story behind the Dig! documentary. Pin Ups brings together a collection of covers spanning the band's journey — but as Courtney explains, it feels less like a traditional covers album and more like a "3D map of the band's DNA," shaped by in
Scouting For Girls' Roy Stride on 'These Are The Good Days', wildfires and perspective (#277)
In this episode of the XS Noize Podcast, Mark Millar sits down with Roy Stride — frontman, songwriter and driving force behind Scouting For Girls — to talk about the band's uplifting new album These Are The Good Days. The album follows 2023's The Place We Used To Meet, which became the band's highest-charting record in eight years. This time, the focus is on perspective — and finding joy in the pr
The Twilight Sad: James Graham & Andy MacFarlane on 'It's The Long Goodbye' (#276)
In this episode of the XS Noize Podcast, Mark Millar sits down with James Graham and Andy MacFarlane — the creative core of Scottish band The Twilight Sad — to talk about their powerful sixth album It's The Long Goodbye. Written across a seven-year period, the album became the band's most personal and emotionally direct record to date. Much of it was shaped during a difficult chapter in James Grah
Damon Minchella on Ocean Colour Scene, Paul Weller & 'You'd Look Good on a Donkey'
In this episode of the XS Noize Podcast, Mark Millar sits down with Damon Minchella — founder of Ocean Colour Scene, longtime bass player for Paul Weller, and collaborator with Richard Ashcroft — to talk about his candid and often hilarious memoir You'd Look Good on a Donkey. Across a musical life that has ricocheted between some of the biggest names in music — from Paul McCartney and Jimmy Page t
Steve Lillywhite on Producing U2 — From Boy to Achtung Baby (#274)
In this episode of the XS Noize Podcast, Mark Millar sits down with legendary U2 producer Steve Lillywhite to discuss his work on landmark albums including Boy, War, The Joshua Tree, Achtung Baby, All That You Can't Leave Behind, How to Dismantle an Atomic Bomb, and No Line on the Horizon. Across a career spanning more than four decades, Lillywhite has worked with some of the most influential arti
Zak & Matty of The Dream Machine on Fort Perch Rock (#273)
In this episode of the XS Noize Podcast, Mark Millar sits down with Zak and Matty from The Dream Machine to talk about Fort Perch Rock — the band's third studio album and a record shaped by instinct, friendship and a deep connection to place. Formed in 2021, the band first emerged with their 2022 debut Thank God! It's The Dream Machine, followed by 2024's James Skelly-produced Small Time Monsters.
Archive's Dave Pen on 'Glass Minds' and 30 Years of Evolution (#272)
In this episode of the XS Noize Podcast, Mark Millar sits down with Dave Pen of Archive to talk about Glass Minds — the band's 13th studio album and a bold new chapter in a 30-year journey defined by reinvention, collaboration and creative risk. Formed in Croydon, South London in 1994, Archive have evolved from trip-hop pioneers into one of Europe's most respected alternative collectives. Glass Mi
Robert Levon Been of Black Rebel Motorcycle Club on Re-Examining Howl (#271)
Black Rebel Motorcycle Club's third album Howl was a risk — one that nearly broke the band. In this episode of the XS Noize Podcast, Mark Millar sits down with Robert Levon Been to revisit the record that stripped away the noise and reshaped their identity. Originally released in 2005, Howl arrived as an unexpected curveball. The reverb-drenched guitars and white noise that defined the band's earl
Mark Shaw of Then Jerico on The Return and bringing the band back on stage (#270)
In this episode of the XS Noize Podcast, Mark Millar sits down with Mark Shaw of Then Jerico to talk about The Return — a moment that reconnects legacy, live energy, and purpose as the band bring their full show to Ireland for the first time. Watch the full XS Noize Podcast conversation below. Then Jerico are currently touring the UK and Europe, with debut full-band Irish headline shows at Belfast
Crispian Mills of Kula Shaker on Wormslayer (#269)
In this episode of the XS Noize Podcast, Mark Millar sits down with Kula Shaker frontman Crispian Mills to talk about Wormslayer — a record that captures the band feeling revitalised, confident, and creatively fearless. Watch the full video conversation. Released on 30 January 2026, Wormslayer is Kula Shaker's eighth studio album and sees the original line-up distil their explosive live energy int
Dani Larkin on Next Of Kin (#268)
In this episode of the XS Noize Podcast, Mark Millar sits down with Dani Larkin to talk about Next Of Kin — a deeply emotive record shaped by time, patience, and a renewed sense of creative clarity. Released on 23 January 2026, Next Of Kin marks a bold progression in Larkin's sound and vision. Co-produced with Ruth O'Mahony Brady, the album expands her acclaimed storytelling into a cinematic, emo
Paul Draper on Mansun Retold: revisiting old songs with new perspective (#267)
In this episode of the XS Noize Podcast, Mark Millar sits down with Paul Draper to talk about Mansun Retold — a project shaped by distance, perspective, and the strange experience of meeting your younger self through song. Watch the full video conversation. Releasing on 20 February, Mansun Retold sees Draper revisit and reimagine key songs from the Mansun catalogue, rebuilding them from the ground
Alexander Wolfe on 'Everythinglessness' and confronting masculinity through music (#266)
In this episode of the XS Noize Podcast, Mark Millar sits down with Alexander Wolfe to talk about his deeply personal new album Everythinglessness. Watch the full video conversation. Written after a period of intense personal reckoning — including time spent in a mental health rehabilitation facility in 2023 — Everythinglessness explores masculinity, mental health, and emotional survival. Drawing
Callum Beattie on new album INDI and trusting his instinct (#265)
In this episode of the XS Noize Podcast, Mark Millar sits down with Callum Beattie to talk about a pivotal moment in his career and his forthcoming album INDI, released January 23rd. After landing two consecutive #1 albums on the Scottish Albums Chart, breaking into the UK Albums Chart with 2023's Vandals, clocking up over 50 million streams, and selling more than 100,000 tickets in Scotland, Call
Sleaford Mods' Jason Williamson on Planet X, cultural decay, and the evolution of the band (#264)
In this episode of the XS Noize Podcast, Mark Millar is joined by Jason Williamson, the fiercely articulate frontman of Sleaford Mods, to explore the band's most ambitious and unflinching record yet: The Demise Of Planet X, out 16 January 2026 via Rough Trade Records. Created with long-time collaborator Andrew Fearn, the album expands the Mods' sound both musically and emotionally, featuring rare
Oliver Murray on completing "The Beatles Anthology" and bringing Episode Nine to life (#263)
In this episode of the XS Noize Podcast, Mark Millar is joined by acclaimed filmmaker Oliver Murray — the British writer–director redefining modern music documentary through his bold, cinematic approach. Following his 2023 short film Now and Then, The Last Beatles Song — made in collaboration with Paul McCartney, Ringo Starr, Sean Lennon and the Harrison Estate to celebrate the release of the Beat
Steve Lillywhite: Making "Fairytale of New York" with Kirsty MacColl & The Pogues (#262)
In this episode of the XS Noize Podcast, Mark Millar is joined by legendary producer Steve Lillywhite — the Grammy-winning studio mastermind behind iconic records by U2, The Rolling Stones, Talking Heads, The Smiths, The Killers, Peter Gabriel, and many more. Steve talks about the release of a brand-new 4-track EP featuring a completely unreleased live version of "Fairytale of New York" — recorded
The Altered Hours: Cathal Mac Gabhann on Their Stunning New Self-Titled Album (#261)
In this episode of the XS Noize Podcast, Mark Millar is joined by guitarist and songwriter Cathal Mac Gabhann from Cork alt-rock and shoegaze outfit The Altered Hours — one of Ireland's most vital underground bands. The Altered Hours released their self-titled third album on November 7th via Pizza Pizza Records. Recorded to tape by analogue producer Julie McLarnon (New Order, Lankum, Happy Mondays
Pearce Macca: The Clause's Rise and Debut Album "Victim of a Casual Thing" (#260)
In this episode of the XS Noize Podcast, Mark Millar is joined by Pearce Macca — frontman of Birmingham indie-rockers The Clause, a band whose rise has become one of the most inspiring new stories in modern British guitar music. The Clause have just unveiled their long-awaited debut album Victim of a Casual Thing — a record built on pure graft, unshakable friendship, and more than a decade of refu
Roland Gift: 40 Years of Fine Young Cannibals & New Christmas Single (#259)
In this episode of the XS Noize Podcast, Mark Millar is joined by Roland Gift — the iconic voice of Fine Young Cannibals and one of the most instantly recognisable singers in British music. With era-defining hits like "She Drives Me Crazy," "Good Thing," "Johnny Come Home," and their electrifying version of "Ever Fallen In Love," Fine Young Cannibals became global chart-toppers — selling over five
ALKY on Breaking the Cycle with His Debut Album 'Rinse & Repeat' (#258)
In this episode of the XS Noize Podcast, Mark Millar is joined by ALKY — the Dublin-born indie-rock artist and former Emmy-nominated audio engineer whose raw, heartfelt songwriting is making serious waves across Ireland's indie scene. From his breakout singles "Dirty Tricks," "All Because of Love," "Perfect," and "How Do You?" to sold-out shows at Whelan's and The Workman's Club, ALKY has built a
Martin Blunt: The Charlatans: Inside 'We Are Love' (#257)
In this episode of the XS Noize Podcast, Mark Millar is joined by Martin Blunt — founding member and bassist of The Charlatans, one of Britain's most enduring and beloved bands. From their breakthrough with Some Friendly to the anthemic Tellin' Stories and the reflective Modern Nature, The Charlatans have spent more than three decades making music that moves between euphoria and heart. Now, with W
Mani: The Stone Roses, Primal Scream & the Resurrection (#256)
In this episode of the XS Noize Podcast, Mark Millar is joined by Mani — legendary bassist of The Stone Roses and Primal Scream, and one of the most influential figures in British rock history. From the euphoric rise of The Stone Roses — the band that defined a generation and changed the sound of British music — to the wild creative freedom of Primal Scream, Mani's journey has been nothing short o
Moya Brennan on 'Macalla' at 40 — Clannad's Timeless Legacy (#255)
In this episode of the XS Noize Podcast, Mark Millar is joined by Moya Brennan — the unmistakable voice of Clannad, often hailed as the First Lady of Celtic Music. This year marks the 40th anniversary of Clannad's landmark 1985 album Macalla — a record that bridged ancient Celtic roots with modern pop and ambient textures. Produced by Steve Nye (Japan, David Sylvian) and recorded across Dublin, Su
Glen Matlock: Reclaiming His Story in 'I Was a Teenage Sex Pistol' (#254)
In this episode, #254 of the XS Noize Podcast, Mark Millar is joined by a true architect of punk — Glen Matlock, the original bassist and founding spark of The Sex Pistols. Glen co-wrote ten of the twelve songs on the band's legendary 1977 album Never Mind the Bollocks, giving its chaos a melodic backbone that helped define an era. Now, he's reclaiming his story in the new documentary I Was a Teen
#253. White Lies: Inside the Sonic Freedom and Creative Telepathy of "Night Light"
In this episode of the XS Noize Podcast, Mark Millar is joined by Charles Cave and Jack Lawrence-Brown from White Lies to discuss their electrifying seventh album "Night Light". This bold, live-driven reinvention captures the band at their most instinctive and free-flowing. Recorded live in the room for the first time, Night Light sees White Lies embracing spontaneity and creative risk — from the
#252. The Slow Readers Club's Aaron Starkie: Celebrating "A Decade of Cavalcade"
In this episode, #252 of the XS Noize Podcast, Mark Millar talks with Aaron Starkie of The Slow Readers Club to celebrate A Decade of Cavalcade — the Manchester band's breakthrough album that defined their sound and changed everything. As Aaron reflects: "Cavalcade was the moment where it all started to click — we found our sound, our confidence, and that connection with the audience that's carrie
#251. Miles Kane on New Album 'Sunlight in the Shadows' & Working with Dan Auerbach
In this episode, Mark Millar is joined by Miles Kane to discuss his new album Sunlight in the Shadows — a swaggering, soulful record made with Dan Auerbach of The Black Keys. Recorded live in Nashville over three days, the album blends British beat energy, Motown soul, and Miles' unmistakable tremolo swagger. He opens up about the instant chemistry with Auerbach, finding calm and spirituality in h
#250. Bear's Den & Ciaran Lavery discuss their new collaborative EP "Promiser"
In episode #250 of the XS Noize Podcast, Mark Millar is joined by Andrew Davie from Bear's Den and Irish singer-songwriter Ciaran Lavery to discuss their beautiful new collaborative EP Promiser — a stripped-back collection celebrating love, simplicity, and connection. Quietly recorded over just five days in Andrew's home studio and released via Communion Records, Promiser explores the art of restr
#249. Moon Panda – Inside Their Dreamy New Album "Dumb Luck"
In this episode, #249 of the XS Noize Podcast, Mark Millar is joined by Maddy Myers and Gustav Moltke from the Californian-Danish dream-pop collective Moon Panda to talk about their stunning third album, Dumb Luck. Recorded between California and Copenhagen, Dumb Luck is a lush dream-pop record exploring love, luck, and creative rebirth — Moon Panda's most sensuous and emotionally open work to dat
#248. Rick McMurray on Ash's 30-Year Journey and New Album "Ad Astra"
In Episode #248 of the XS Noize Podcast, host Mark Millar is joined by Rick McMurray — drummer of Northern Irish rock legends Ash — for a deep dive into their brand-new ninth studio album, Ad Astra. Arriving just two years after Race the Night, Ad Astra finds Ash in rocket-fuelled form. Featuring collaborations with Graham Coxon and a wild cover of "Jump in the Line," the record fuses ferocious ri
#247. The Jacques' Finn O'Brien on New Album "Make Repetition!"
In Episode #247 of the XS Noize Podcast, host Mark Millar is joined by Finn O'Brien — frontman of London via Bristol indie band The Jacques — to discuss the band's powerful new album Make Repetition. The Jacques' story is one of resilience, tragedy, and survival. Formed as teenagers, they rose quickly with early festival slots and a Libertines support show at Hyde Park, before facing devastating s
#246. Gary Numan on "Telekon" at 45, Wembley Ghosts & His Glastonbury Debut
Gary Numan joins The XS Noize Podcast to reflect on Telekon at 45, his emotional Wembley return, debut at Glastonbury, and the future of AI in music. In one of his most open and revealing interviews, Numan discusses resilience, mental health, and the moments he nearly walked away from music — while revisiting the ghosts of his past and looking ahead to the creative future. From Cars and Are 'Frien
#245. The Divine Comedy's Neil Hannon Talks "Rainy Sunday Afternoon" & Songwriting
In Episode #245 of the XS Noize Podcast, host Mark Millar is joined by Neil Hannon — the brilliant mind behind The Divine Comedy — for a revealing conversation about his stunning new album, Rainy Sunday Afternoon, out this September on Divine Comedy Records. His 13th studio album and perhaps his finest to date, Rainy Sunday Afternoon, was recorded at Abbey Road and finds Hannon blending lush orche
#244. Editors' Tom Smith on Debut Solo Album 'There Is Nothing In The Dark That Isn't There In The Light'
In Episode #244 of the XS Noize Podcast, host Mark Millar chats with Tom Smith — frontman of Editors — about his debut solo album There Is Nothing In The Dark That Isn't There In The Light, released 5 December on Play It Again Sam. After two decades leading Editors through seven acclaimed albums and two records with Smith & Burrows, Tom is stepping into solo territory for the first time. Motivated
#243. The Milk's Rick Nunn on new album 'Borderlands': Love, Loss & Cinematic Soul
In Episode #243 of the XS Noize Podcast, host Mark Millar chats with Rick Nunn — vocalist and guitarist of The Milk — about the band's powerful new album Borderlands, released 19 September on WLS Records. Formed during their school days, The Milk have spent decades honing a sound that blends soul, funk, and rock with fearless live energy. From their major-label debut Tales from the Thames Delta to
#242. John Robb: From The Stone Roses to Oasis — Writing Rock's Biggest Stories
In Episode #242 of the XS Noize Podcast, host Mark Millar chats with John Robb — musician, journalist, author, broadcaster, and founder of Louder Than War — about his brand-new book Live Forever: The Rise, Fall and Resurrection of Oasis. From fronting cult punk bands The Membranes and Goldblade to coining the term Britpop and becoming the first UK journalist to interview Nirvana, John has been at
#241. The National's Matt Berninger on His New Solo Album 'Get Sunk' & European Tour
In Episode #241 of the XS Noize Podcast, host Mark Millar chats with Matt Berninger — frontman of The National and acclaimed solo artist — about his brand-new album Get Sunk. Best known for his baritone voice and evocative lyrics, Matt has spent over two decades with The National, shaping the sound of modern indie rock across landmark albums like Boxer, High Violet, and Sleep Well Beast. In 2020,
#240. The Subways: 20 Years of 'Young For Eternity' & What's Next
In Episode #240 of the XS Noize Podcast, Mark Millar is joined by Billy Lunn and Charlotte Cooper, from The Subways, to mark the 20th anniversary of their debut album Young For Eternity and the release of their new compilation album When I'm With You. Formed in the early 2000s, The Subways became one of the UK's most exciting indie rock bands, bursting onto the scene in 2005 with the release of Y
#239. Bob Stanley on Saint Etienne's Final Album "International" and 30 Years of Music
In Episode #239 of the XS Noize Podcast, Mark Millar is joined by Bob Stanley from Saint Etienne to discuss the legendary band's 13th and final album, International. For over 30 years, Saint Etienne have been one of Britain's most influential and inventive pop groups, fusing electronic music, indie pop, 60s influences, and modern storytelling. Now, with the release of International (out September
#238. Cam – Behind the Songs of 'All Things Light' and Life After a Grammy
In Episode #238 of the XS Noize Podcast, Mark Millar is joined by Grammy-winning singer-songwriter Cam to talk about her new album, All Things Light. From her multi-platinum hit "Burning House" to co-writing on Beyoncé's Cowboy Carter, Cam has become one of music's most distinctive voices. All Things Light — written during early motherhood and the pandemic — blends country, folk and pop while expl
#237. D:Ream – Peter Cunnah & Al Mackenzie on New Album 'Do It Anyway'
In this episode of the XS Noize Podcast, Mark Millar is joined by Peter Cunnah and Al Mackenzie — the pioneering duo behind D:Ream — to discuss their vibrant and defiant new album, Do It Anyway. Best known for their iconic #1 hit "Things Can Only Get Better," D:Ream became a cultural phenomenon throughout the '90s and beyond — from chart domination and BRIT Award nominations to political soundtrac
#236. Gavin Rossdale of Bush: Turning Pain Into Beauty on New Album "I Beat Loneliness."
In this episode of the XS Noize Podcast, Mark Millar is joined by Gavin Rossdale — the iconic frontman of Bush — to discuss their powerful new album, I Beat Loneliness. Since bursting onto the scene in the early '90s with Sixteen Stone, Bush have become one of the most defining bands of the post-grunge era, selling over 20 million records worldwide and headlining stages across the globe. Now, on t
#235. Amy Macdonald: Inside Her New Album "Is This What You've Been Waiting For?"
In this episode of the XS Noize Podcast, Mark Millar is joined by Scottish singer-songwriter Amy Macdonald to discuss her powerful new album, Is This What You've Been Waiting For? With over 12 million records sold worldwide and countless arena shows under her belt, Amy has become one of Scotland's most beloved artists. On her sixth album, she explores bold new sonic territory while staying true to
#234. Jet's Cam Muncey: Beyond the Band, Into 'Delusions of Grandeur'
In this episode of the XS Noize Podcast, Mark Millar is joined by Cam Muncey — guitarist, co-founder, and key songwriter of Australian rock legends Jet — to discuss his bold and unexpected debut solo album, Cam Muncey & the Delusions of Grandeur. Recorded in just 30 days with producer Jan Skubiszewski, Jet bassist Mark Wilson, and drummer Peter Marin, Delusions of Grandeur is an expansive, deeply
#233. Echobelly's Sonya Madan & Glenn Johansson Reflect on 30 Years of 'ON' — And What's Next
In this episode of the XS Noize Podcast, Mark Millar is joined by Sonya Madan and Glenn Johansson of Britpop icons Echobelly as they prepare to celebrate the 30th anniversary of their landmark second album ON with a UK tour this autumn. Released in 1995, ON became a defining record of the Britpop era — a Top 5 hit bursting with soaring melodies, razor-sharp lyrics, and timeless anthems like "Great
#232. Cast's John Power on 30 Years of All Change, Touring with Oasis & New Music
In this episode of the XS Noize Podcast, host Mark Millar is joined by John Power, frontman of Cast, as the legendary Britpop band celebrates a major milestone — 30 years since the release of their iconic debut album All Change. Cast are in the strongest position they've been in for decades. Their 2023 album Love Is The Call received widespread critical acclaim and earned their highest chart posit
#231. Peter Hooton on The Farm's Return After 30 Years – New Album 'Let The Music Take Control'
In this episode of the XS Noize Podcast, host Mark Millar is joined by Peter Hooton, frontman of Liverpool legends The Farm, to discuss their first new studio album in over 30 years — Let The Music (Take Control), out June 20th, 2025, on Modern Sky. Known for their chart-topping debut Spartacus and iconic singles like "Groovy Train" and "All Together Now," The Farm were key players in the indie-da
#230. Gary Lightbody on Grief, Healing & Snow Patrol's The Forest Is The Path
In this episode of the XS Noize Podcast, host Mark Millar is joined by Snow Patrol frontman Gary Lightbody — one of the most emotionally resonant voices in UK music. Gary delves into the making of The Forest Is The Path — Snow Patrol's chart-topping, critically acclaimed eighth studio album. Expansive, cinematic, and deeply reflective, the record marks a powerful creative resurgence for the band,
#229 Chesney Hawkes on New Album 'Living Arrows' and His Celebrity Big Brother Experience | XS Noize Podcast #229
In this episode of the XS Noize Podcast, host Mark Millar is joined by British pop icon Chesney Hawkes. Best known for his timeless hit 'The One and Only', Chesney talks about the momentum behind his new music — including the Radio 2 A-list success of 'Get A Hold of Yourself'. He dives into his new album, Living Arrows, out now. It is a raw and heartfelt collection inspired by Kahlil Gibran's poem
#228. Will Varley Breaks Down New Album 'Machines Will Never Learn To Make Mistakes Like Me'
In Episode #228 of the XS Noize Music Podcast, host Mark Millar is joined by English singer-songwriter Will Varley to discuss his upcoming seventh album, Machines Will Never Learn To Make Mistakes Like Me, out 30th May 2025. Recorded in a ramshackle Kent swamp studio with longtime collaborator Tom Farrer, the album introduces a bold new sound, pairing lush, cinematic production with Varley's trade
