Paul Weller Fan Podcast

• Geoff Pesche - Mastering Engineer - Abbey Road - Find El Dorado

  What a joy it was to spend time with Abbey Road Mastering Engineer, Geoff Pesche for this episode of the Paul Weller Fan Podcast.Geoff’s name might not immediately ring bells for every listener – but his sonic fingerprints are all over some of the most significant records in British music history. From the cutting room at Tape One to the mastering suites of Abbey Road Studios, Geoff’s career spans over four decades of audio excellence.Before we dig into his work with Paul Weller, let’s rewind a bit. Geoff began in the late ’70s as a bike messenger, before quickly stepping into the studio world proper. By the early ’80s, he was mastering tracks at Tape One, where he famously cut the original lacquers for Blue Monday – the best-selling 12” single of all time. He also helped prepare Dire Straits’ Brothers in Arms for mass production and later mastered Kylie Minogue’s Can’t Get You Out of My Head – the most played radio track ever.Since 2006, Abbey Road has been his home turf, where he’s worked on records by Blur, Gorillaz, Kate Nash, Dizzee Rascal, and Basement Jaxx, to name a few. In short, when you need your album to sparkle, Geoff’s the man to call.Working with WellerGeoff’s link to Paul Weller came via Charles Rees, the engineer and studio manager behind the upcoming new album Find El Dorado. Having already collaborated with Charles on music by The Rifles, Geoff was a natural choice when it came time to master Paul’s latest LP. After a few test tracks were exchanged and approved, Geoff took on the full album – bringing clarity, warmth and just the right amount of loudness to the final mixes.What was particularly fascinating was Geoff’s insight into the process: how files are shared remotely, how mastering has adapted to modern streaming and vinyl needs, and how his job is, as he puts it, “adding the sugar on top.”The Weller TouchThroughout our chat, Geoff spoke with genuine admiration for Weller – not just as a musician, but as someone who’s stayed relevant by being musically direct, open to collaboration, and remarkably grounded.You can hear more about Find El Dorado, Geoff’s incredible discography, and the art of mastering on the full episode – out now on the Paul Weller Fan Podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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• Julian Broad - Photographer & Filmmaker

  What a joy it was to sit down with the brilliant photographer and filmmaker Julian Broad for this episode of the podcast.Julian has played a huge part in shaping the visual identity of Paul Weller’s solo career, shooting everything from early press photos to iconic album covers including Heliocentric, Sonik Kicks, and Saturns Pattern. We talked about the creative process behind those sleeves, the magic of happy accidents, and what it’s like working with an artist as hands-on and grounded as Paul. No stylists, no entourage – just a clear vision and a real sense of trust.We also discussed the 1999 Observer shoot with Paul and Noel Gallagher, and the stunning image that now graces the cover of my upcoming book, Paul Weller: Dancing Through the Fire, out this September. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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• Dancing Through the Fire - The Big Reveal

  Join me for the announcement of Paul Weller: Dancing Through the Fire: The Authorised Oral History by Dan JenningsThe groundbreaking oral history on one of the most legendary musicians of all time - Paul Weller‘Nearly 50 years in music? How is that possible? When Dan mentioned that he’d interviewed over 250 people for this, I didn’t even know that I knew that many people… but he’s done it in a way that shows that it’s more than just about me, it’s the story of everyone who was there along the way’ Paul WellerAcross musical history, certain artists have transcended their craft to become cultural icons, leaving an indelible mark on the world of sound and style. Paul Weller, the legendary British musician, singer and songwriter, stands among the select few whose influence spans generations. His enduring popularity, traversing the explosive energy of The Jam to the sophisticated sounds of The Style Council and a prolific solo career spanning over thirty years, underscores the timeless appeal of his work. Weller also holds a unique position in music history: he shares the rare distinction with Lennon and McCartney as one of the few artists to achieve Number 1 albums in five consecutive decades.Dancing Through the Fire explores the fascinating narrative of Paul Weller’s musical career, weaving together never-before-told stories, intimate insights, and perspectives from the man himself and those who have been integral to his remarkable journey.With unique access to his inner circle - including family, friends, bandmates, producers, and long-time collaborators - award-winning broadcaster and journalist Dan Jennings weaves together over 200 hours of conversations, allowing exclusive access to the man behind the music, including his unparalleled drive, creative struggles and personal triumphs that have shaped his iconic career and legacy.Endlessly candid, insightful and definitive in its approach, Dancing Through the Fire captures the essence of Weller’s musical evolution through the voices of those who know him best.Dan Jennings is a journalist, former radio presenter, and multi-award-winning content creator. His acclaimed Paul Weller Fan Podcast, Desperately Seeking Paul, debuted in December 2020, and featured 180 in-depth interviews, culminating in a two-hour conversation with Weller himself. The series’ success led to Dan’s involvement in the official marketing of Paul’s seventeenth solo studio album, 66, and a nomination for Best Music Podcast at the 2024 Independent Podcast Awards. Dancing Through the Fire is his first book. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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• Dr. Robert and Matt Deighton - The Instant Garden

  In this episode, I'm joined by Dr. Robert and Matt Deighton as they discuss their musical collaboration and the creation of their new album together called "The Instant Garden". Every so often an album appears that surprises and delights and somehow defies categorisation. Robert and Matt have conjured up a garden full of earthly delights and mysterious depths. It’s really unlike anything else. A sonic assortment of open tuned acoustics and ferocious electrics with psychedelic melodies and bells and bass. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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• Neil Jones & Neil Sheasby - Stone Foundation - The Revival of Survival

  Join us as we delve into the creative journey behind the latest album from Stone Foundation, "The Revival of Survival" which was recorded at Paul Weller HQ, Black Barn Studio. Neil Jones and Neil Sheasby discuss the album's title and its significance in a music landscape dominated by tribute acts and heritage bands. They share insights into their writing process, the evolution of their sound, and their commitment to producing original music that resonates with their audience.With reflections on their recent 25-year milestone, the duo reveals how the pandemic reinforced their passion for live performance and creating new music.They also highlight the importance of collaboration, featuring guest artists like Omar and JP Bimeni, and the magic of recording at Black Barn. They also reflect on the thrill of introducing new songs to their fans and the joy of creating music that uplifts and inspires. Don't miss this insightful conversation about the art of songwriting, the challenges of the music industry, and the enduring spirit of Stone Foundation. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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