Let Christy Take It

On this week’s episode, we’re joined by Marky Ramone, drummer, songwriter, and former member of one of the most influential bands in music history, the Ramones. Emerging from the gritty punk scene of 1970s New York, the Ramones helped redefine rock music with their fast, loud, and unapologetically direct sound. As a key member of the band during both their classic and later years, Marky was behind the kit on some of their most celebrated recordings and relentless world tours, helping to cement the Ramones reputation as one of the greatest live bands of all time. Their legacy was later recognised with induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, acknowledging their lasting impact on generations of artists and fans. Beyond the Ramones, Marky’s musical journey has included time with bands such as Dust and Richard Hell and the Voidoids, as well as a lifelong dedication to drumming, touring, and keeping punk rock’s spirit alive. He’s also the author of the memoir Punk Rock Blitzkrieg, where he tells the story of his life in music. Join us as we talk to Marky about the raw early days at CBGB’s, meeting Jimi Hendrix as a teenager, life on the road with the Ramones, the challenges and triumphs of staying sober in the middle of chaos, and the deep friendships that shaped the band, as well as his ongoing mission to keep the Ramones music alive for future generations, including his upcoming Dublin show where fans can expect a full throttle, 35-song Ramones set, played exactly as it was meant to be heard. Let Christy Take It are proud to bring you Marky Ramone If you enjoy our show please like and subscribe wherever you listen to your podcasts. Thanks to our sponsor Irish Woodcraft, please check them out at https://irishwoodcraft.ie

On this week’s episode, we’re joined by Craig Finn, American singer, songwriter, guitarist, and frontman of the acclaimed indie rock band The Hold Steady. Raised in Minnesota and now based in New York City, Craig first made his mark leading the ’90s Minneapolis indie outfit Lifter Puller, before forming The Hold Steady in 2003. With his band’s rich blend of rock driven guitar work and vivid, character centric storytelling, they quickly earned critical acclaim and a loyal global fanbase across nine studio albums. Craig’s lyrical style, dense, evocative, and deeply human has made him one of rock’s most compelling voices of his generation. Beyond his work with The Hold Steady, Craig has built a strong solo career, releasing a run of acclaimed albums, most recently Always Been, where his narrative songwriting is brought to the forefront through carefully crafted songs. This January, Craig performs at Whelan’s in Dublin on the 27th, offering audiences a chance to experience his storytelling and songs up close in a venue that has long been at the heart of Dublin city’s live music scene. Join us as we talk to Craig about his journey from Minneapolis to New York, the evolution of his songwriting, his life in music with The Hold Steady and as a solo artist, and what keeps him inspired on the road and in the studio.Let Christy Take It are proud to bring you, Craig Finn.If you enjoy our show please Like and subscribe wherever you listen to your podcasts.Thanks to our sponsor Irish Woodcraft, please check them out at https://irishwoodcraft.ie

On this week’s episode, we’re joined by Mark Shaw, vocalist, songwriter, and frontman of the acclaimed British band Then Jerico. Formed in London in the mid 80s, Then Jerico became known for their emotive rock sound, soaring melodies, and electrifying live performances. With Mark’s distinctive voice and heartfelt songwriting at the centre of it all, the band delivered iconic tracks such as “Big Area,” “The Motive,” and “Sugar Box,” earning both chart success and a devoted fanbase across the UK and beyond. Following the band’s original run, Mark has continued to write and perform, both with Then Jerico in various incarnations and as a solo artist. His ongoing work reflects a deep commitment to honest, passionate music making, connecting with fans old and new while carrying forward the spirit that made the band a defining voice of their era. Join us as we talk to Mark about the early days of Then Jerico, the making of those unforgettable songs, his evolution as an artist, and the creative journey that continues to drive him today. Let Christy Take It are proud to bring you Mark Shaw.If you enjoy our show please Like and subscribe wherever you listen to your podcasts.   Thanks to our sponsor Irish Woodcraft, please check them out at https://irishwoodcraft.ie

On this week’s episode, we’re joined by Mark Kermode. Film critic, broadcaster, author, and lifelong musician. Widely regarded as one of the most respected and passionate voices in contemporary cinema, Mark has spent decades shaping how audiences engage with film through his broadcasting, writing, and criticism. Known for his honesty, insight, wit, and infectious enthusiasm, he has championed cinema in all its forms. Alongside his work in film, Mark has never not been in a band, maintaining a constant connection to music throughout his life, from "The Dodge Brothers" to the "The Gang of Three", bringing the same energy, curiosity, and commitment to the stage that defines his work in broadcasting and writing. Join us as we talk to Mark about his journey as a film critic, a lifetime spent in bands, the relationship between music and cinema, and his enduring love for performance in all its forms.Let Christy Take It are proud to bring you Mark Kermode.If you enjoy our show please Like and subscribe wherever you listen to your podcasts.Thanks to our sponsor Irish Woodcraft, please check them out at https://irishwoodcraft.ie

On this week’s episode, we’re joined by Paul Cleary, vocalist, songwriter, and frontman of the legendary Dublin City band The Blades. Formed in the late 1970s, The Blades became one of the most beloved bands to emerge from Ireland’s post-punk and new wave era. Known for their sharp songwriting, Dublin storytelling, and undeniable energy, the band earned a devoted following with classic tracks such as “Ghost of a Chance,” “Hot for You,” and “Downmarket.” With Paul’s instantly recognisable voice and street-level poetry at the centre of it all, The Blades created songs that captured a time, a place, and a generation. Following the band’s original run, Paul has continued to write and perform, releasing solo material and revisiting The Blades’ catalogue through occasional reunions and live performances that remain as powerful and relevant as ever. His work stands as a vital chapter in the story of Irish music, influencing countless artists who followed. Join us as we talk to Paul about the early Dublin scene, the rise and legacy of The Blades, the stories behind those iconic songs, and his enduring love for music and songwriting. Let Christy Take It are proud to bring you Paul ClearyIf you enjoy our show please like and subscribe wherever you listen to your podcasts. Thanks to our sponsor Irish Woodcraft, please check them out at https://irishwoodcraft.ie