Sodajerker On Songwriting
Episode 286 - Brandi Carlile
The remarkable Brandi Carlile joins Simon and Brian for an in-depth conversation about writing with Elton John on their new album, Who Believes In Angels? The Grammy and Emmy-winning singer-songwriter discusses the profound connection she feels with both Elton and Bernie Taupin, and the challenges and triumphs of bringing her childhood dream to life.
11 apr 2025 - 50 min 50 s
Episode 285 - Djo
The excellent Djo , aka musician and actor Joe Keery, sits down in London with Simon and Brian to discuss his terrific new record The Crux . During the conversation, the Stranger Things star explains his songwriting process, how he enriches his songs with personal stories and references to the music he loves, and the value of collaborating with his friend Adam Thein.
4 apr 2025 - 50 min 32 s
Episode 284 - Perfume Genius
Mike Hadreas, aka Perfume Genius , takes us inside the creative process behind his new record, Glory , produced by Blake Mills. During the conversation, Mike describes how he balances spontaneity with structure, the art of becoming a song detective, and why he writes his best work in 'goblin mode'.
29 mar 2025 - 39 min 20 s
Episode 283 - Tom Walker
Tom Walker shares his songwriting story so far and the challenges of making his recent second album I AM . The popular singer-songwriter also reflects on the importance of striving to realise a creative vision, his time spent studying songwriting at university, and the influence of his music-loving father.
22 mar 2025 - 47 min 48 s
Episode 282 - Inhaler
Inhaler's Elijah Hewson and Josh Jenkinson discuss the writing of their new record Open Wide and how the band collaborates creatively. Among other insights into their process, the Dublin-born musicians share their thoughts on the importance of finishing songs, working with producer Kid Harpoon, and why they're always thinking ‘hook, hook, hook’.
13 mar 2025 - 42 min 07 s
Episode 281 - Franz Ferdinand
Franz Ferdinand's Alex Kapranos and Julian Corrie talk about the writing of the band's sixth studio album The Human Fear and their creative process. During the conversation, the pair explore themes of fear and spontaneity in their work, not being too precious about ideas, and why songs are like friends.
4 mar 2025 - 55 min 17 s
Episode 280 - Dan Smith
Bastille 's Dan Smith talks with Sodajerker about his new concept album, Ampersand . The conversation delves into the fascinating stories of historical figures and fictional characters that influenced his writing, as well as the personal connections that shape his music.
1 feb 2025 - 51 min 07 s
Episode 279 - The Edge
U2 's The Edge joins Simon and Brian to discuss the 20th anniversary reissue of the band's acclaimed record How to Dismantle an Atomic Bomb , and its new ‘shadow album’ How to Re-Assemble an Atomic Bomb . The celebrated guitarist and sonic architect offers deep insights into the band's dynamic and their dedication to collaboration.
1 ian 2025 - 58 min 12 s
Episode 278 - The WAEVE
Graham Coxon and Rose Elinor Dougall of The WAEVE delve into the creation of their sophomore album City Lights , a listening experience filled with sharp musical edges and a deep sense of urgency. The conversation explores their collaboration with producer James Ford, and the thematic undercurrents of their work, from the city's dark underbelly to the intimacy of family life.
24 dec 2024 - 41 min 41 s
Episode 277 - Boy George
Boy George , the charismatic frontman of Culture Club, meets Simon and Brian in London to discuss his prolific songwriting and creative life. In this vibrant conversation, George talks about his recent collaborations with Peter Murphy and Dark Globe, his diverse influences, and the creative freedom he's found in reimagining his classic hits.
13 dec 2024 - 49 min 36 s