Surprise Cast

Surprise Cast #234 Thistle Sifter (Peter Barnes)

Dear Pete, Sitting down with you on Surprise Cast was a pure delight. Thank you for coming back for round two.  I appreciate how we explored the new album in greater detail, including central themes--climate change, mass industries, and human cost in the Congo, media, and neoliberalism structures. You did a heck of a job translating these concerns into songs, whilst handling some pretty heavy quotes from Churchill, Chomsky, Monbiot, and more.  Congratulations on the new album--it seems more layered and varied, including the glorious string arrangements. Its mature sound really showcases your talent as a musician. Much continued success on the upcoming tour across Europe. Thank you for creating art that forces the listener to think more critically. Activism and craft sounded so good! Follow Thistle Sifter: https://linktr.ee/thistlesifter [https://linktr.ee/thistlesifter] Follow Surprise Cast: Amazon, Apple, iHeart, Podbean, Spotify, or YouTube

Surprise Cast #233 Charlie Nieland

Dear Charlie, It was so exciting to speak with you, Mr. Producer and Singer-Songwriter! You painted a vivid picture of the New York scene, including a great Thai restaurant and a community performance series at the Loser's Lounge. Sounds like a great place to enjoy talking and music.  Thank you for sharing your formative childhood experiences, family influences, and the impact David Bowie had on you. It was great to learn about the new record, 'Stories From The Borderlines,' and how you built these songs from programmed synth textures, knowing when to add or delete parts, and by inviting important collaborators to help deepen the arrangements. I love how you create songs that have "a place in time" and push the listener to consider the album's thematic concerns. Great stuff! Like New York City, thanks for bringing a great vibe to our conversation and your body of work. Follow Charlie Nieland: https://www.charlienieland.com/ [https://www.charlienieland.com/] Follow Surprise Cast: Amazon, Apple, iHeart, Podbean, Spotify, or YouTube Music included by David Bowie: https://www.davidbowie.com/

Surprise Cast #232 Carriers (Curt Kiser)

Dear Curt, A big high 5 for coming onto Surprise Cast! You brought wonderful energy and authenticity to the show. I loved hearing about your appreciation for Lebanon, Cincinnati, and their vibrant communities. Since your childhood, it's been clear that music has been a lifelong passion for you. Thank you for sharing how faith has played a role in your songwriting and artistic expression. So many layers and so complex.  I especially enjoyed your amazing reflections on the new album, 'Every Time I Feel Afraid'. It was fun taking a deeper dive into the inspirations behind some of the songs. Hearing about collaborations with other artists and the importance of genuine connections with them resonated with me. May the future hold more exciting projects for you, including new music, tours, and enriching collaborations. Follow Carriers: https://www.carrierstheband.com/ [https://www.carrierstheband.com/] Follow Surprise Cast: Amazon, Apple, Iheart, Podbean, Spotify, or YouTube Music also included by Arcade Fire: https://www.arcadefire.com/ [https://www.arcadefire.com/]

Surprise Cast #231 KEELEY

Hello KEELEY, I had a great time having y'all on Surprise Cast. What a fantastic way to launch season #3.  It was a blast exploring personal growth, the current state of indie music, music press, and the ongoing case of Inga Maria Hauser. Thank you for sharing insights into the band's artistic journey, the significance of collaboration, and the inspirations that drive your endless creativity. I LOVED hearing everyone's insights into the latest album, Girl on the Edge of the World, exploring themes of musical evolution and tremendous depth of analyzed songs. I enjoyed listening more about the songwriting process, live performances, and the importance of connecting with audiences through music. Long live your quote, "It's us versus the world!" Follow Keeley: https://keeleysound.com/ [https://keeleysound.com/] Follow Surprise Cast: Amazon, Apple, iHeart, Podbean, Spotify or YouTube Additional music courtesy of Suede: https://suede.co.uk/

Surprise Cast #230 Paine Proffitt

Dear Paine, Thanks a million for being a guest on Surprise Cast! I enjoyed hearing how traveling has broadened your mind and shaped your personal experiences. You are certainly well-traveled. It was great to learn that art is a means of self-discovery and allows you to express yourself in a creative, fun way! Your love for Philadelphia, your collaboration with The Ocean Blue, and your time at art school were fascinating to hear. Like Ocean Blue’s wonderful, dreamy music, your work highlights the best of humanity, even with a hint of darkness underneath. May 2026 continue to bring you creativity, art, and deep connections! Your dedication to your craft and your willingness to share your story are admirable. A raise of the art brush to you! Follow Paine: https://paineproffittart.bigcartel.com/ [https://paineproffittart.bigcartel.com/] Sailing to Philadelphia by https://www.markknopfler.com/ [https://www.markknopfler.com/] Mood Swing by https://www.theoceanblue.com/ [https://www.theoceanblue.com/] Follow Surprise Cast: Amazon, Apple, iHeart, Podbean, Spotify, or YouTube.