Scots Whay Hae!

For the latest Scots Whay Hae! podcast Ali spoke to musician and composer Martin Green about all things brass banding including the audio drama 'Keli', the album 'Split the Air', the Radio 4 documentary 'Banding: Love, Spit and Valve Oil', the forthcoming Celtic Connections gig, and so much more. Martin also explains how his love for brass band music came about and grew, why the music and the communities where it is from remain close despite the decline and loss of industry, the importance of listening to the voices of those involved, the making of 'Keli', the legacy of brass band music and why it should be better known, and making something new from the traditional.

He also talks about the importance of Celtic Connections to himself, and to Scottish music more generally, and being a member of legendary folk group Lau. It was such a pleasure to talk to Martin and learn all about his latest body of work which are clearly passion projects, and that passion is infectious. If you thought brass band music isn't for you, Martin Green may just change your mind.

For the latest Scots Whay Hae! podcast Ali spoke to Kevin Mclean, the creative director of I AM LOUD Productions (previously LOUD POETS) which, as well as continuing to host their legendary poetry nights, is now also a multi-disciplinary production and entertainment company.

Kevin talks about the evolvement of I AM LOUD as it approaches the tenth anniversary, the challenges faced and overcome, finding new ways of promoting and supporting performers, embracing the opportunities offered by digital technology, and their plans for the future.

The two also discuss Spoken Word in Scotland touching upon the history, the healthy state of the current scene, the importance of collaboration, supporting new and diverse voices, and making sure that I AM LOUD's reach is countrywide, and beyond.

It's an absorbing and thought-provoking conversation about an area of Scottish culture all too rarely discussed, although I AM LOUD are changing that situation, and it was such a pleasure to talk to someone as enthusiastic and knowledgable as Kevin, whose passion is palpable.

For the latest Scots Whay Hae! podcast Ali spoke to returning guest, the writer Denzil Meyrick.

Denzil has a new novel 'Murder at Holly House' out, published on the Bantam Press imprint of Transworld Publishers.

It's been described by some as 'cosy crime' (although, as the two discuss, that term is an inadequate description) and is a departure from Denzil's more hard-nosed thrillers, and it was fascinating to talk to him about this change of styles, and

The two also talk about the future of DCI Daley (including the move to TV), the various influences on 'Murder at Holly House', creating the central character of Frank Grasby, setting the action in Yorkshire - and in the 1950s - his Kinloch novellas (now collected in paperback with Polygon Books), and the exciting news about what's coming next.

It's always a pleasure to catch up with Denzil Meyrick, one of the finest writers around, and we hope you enjoy listening as much as we did talking.

And keep listening to the very end as there's a bonus clip from the audiobook of 'Murder at Holly House', which is narrated by Tom Turner - with thanks to publishers Transworld for providing it.

The latest Scots Whay Hae! podcast is an interview with two choreographers and theatre makers, Elisabeth Schilling & Louise Ahl, about their respective new shows 'Hear Eyes Move: Dances with Ligeti' and 'Skunk without k is Sun'.

First of all Elisabeth talks about why she chose to celebrate the music of György Ligeti in 'Hear Eyes Move', what she sees as his legacy, performing the show across Europe, theatrical inspirations, why returning to perform in Scotland is so important, and more.

Then Louise explains 'Skunk without k is Sun' - a new experimental solo opera work which will be performed as part of the Take Me Somewhere Festival 2023. She also talks about how she came to opera, wanting to make it more accessible (and subvert people's ideas about it), the technical and physical demands of the piece, and how previous work will feed into this new performance.

Individually you'll learn about two exciting new shows coming soon, but taken together these interviews give just a glimpse of what's going on in terms of experimental dance/theatre in Scotland today.

For the latest Scots Whay Hae! podcast Ali caught up with previous guest, novelist and poet Ron Butlin, to talk about his latest book 'So Many Lives and All of Them Are Yours' the surprise sequel (& prequel) to 1987's 'The Sound of My Voice' - a surprise not least to Ron himself.

The latter is one of Ali's favourite novels so it was genuinely exciting to be able to discuss the new book and learn more about the central character of Morris Magellan.

Ron talks about how the book came to be, his wife's (the writer Regi Claire) important role, reacquainting himself with Morris, the joy in creating new characters in familiar places, the themes he wanted to explore, writing about the unreal - or even surreal - time of Lockdown, the unintended parallels between the two books, using different narrative voices, and so much more.

The two also discuss the way Ron approaches writing, the differences, and similarities, between his poetry and prose, the importance of music in his life, and his desire to write more comedy - especially in these dark times.

Ron is such wonderful company, and it's always a pleasure to have him on the SWH! podcast. We think you'll enjoy listening as much as we did recording it.

Thanks must go to Birlinn for allowing us to record the podcast at their headquarters.

For the latest Scots Whay Hae! podcast Ali spoke to writer Paul Dalgarno - live from his home in Melbourne - to hear all about his novel 'A Country of Eternal Light' (published with Polygon Books). Paul sets out how he describes the book to others, the unusual nature of the storytelling, the importance of place and the way distance can lend perspective on home, how his journalism feeds into his fiction, the interlinked themes and memory and grief, and a whole lot more.

The two also discuss the role of central character Margaret Bryce and how the layers of her narration keep the reader guessing as she reassesses her family life. Paul also offers advice to those looking to get published, which will be of interest to writers and readers alike.

'A Country of Eternal Light' is one of the most interesting and inventive novels of the year in terms of style and content, and it was fascinating to be able to get such an insight from Paul about it.

For the latest podcast Ali spoke to Nancy Baughen about this year's CrimeCon UK which is on Saturday 16th in Glasgow. Nancy talks about the beginnings of this international true crime event, what people can expect - and what it definitely isn't. She also tells us about the wide variety of speakers, her initial involvement, and her experiences of CrimeCons past.

The two also discuss the increasing popularity of and interest in true crime across a number of mediums, and why CrimeCon has an importance which reaches beyond the event itself.

For our third and final Bloody Scotland podcast Ali spoke to the shorlisted writers for this year's McIlvanney Prize which is for the Scottish Crime Book of the Year.

First of all he caught up with Calum McSorley (Squeaky Clean), Craig Russell (The Devil's Playground), and Robbie Morrison (Cast A Cold Eye) to hear about their nominated novels and what it means to be on the shortlist. They also discuss the pervading influence of William McIlvanney's writing, the welcoming and supportive nature of the crime writing community, why Glasgow is such a natural setting for crime fiction, their experiences of Bloody Scotlands of the past, and what they are looking forward to this year.

Later Ali spoke to the fourth shortlisted writer, previous podcast guest Denise Mina, to talk about her nominated novel 'The Second Murderer' and its inclusion on the McIlvanney Prize Shortlist, but they discuss so much more - including Denise's thoughts on literary prizes, her experiences of Bloody Scotland, and the challenges of setting a novel in an LA which no longer exists.

When brought together the conversations makes for essential listening for anyone with an interest in books - crime related or otherwise - as it was such a treat to talk in depth with four fascinating and very different writers.

For the first of our Bloody Scotland podcasts - Scotland's International Crime Writing Festival - Ali spoke to four of the five shortlisted authors for this year's Scottish Crime Debut of the Year. They include Heather Critchlow (Unsolved), Kate Foster (The Maiden), Callum McSorley (Squeaky Clean) and Fulton Ross (The Unforgiven Dead) with the fifth, Heather Darwent (The Things We Do To Our Friends) unfortunately unable to join us.

They each give a brief summary of their shortlisted novels before the chat turns to the diversity in the list, approaching a debut, why they chose the genre of crime, (or, in some cases, why crime chose them), the crime fiction community, and the importance of festivals such as Bloody Scotland.

There is also a fascinating conversation about getting published, learning from rejections, the increasing importance of agents, conversations about covers, and many more tips on, and tales about, becoming a published author.

It's a podcast which will be of interest to readers, writers, and book lovers of all kinds, but especially if crime is your thing.

For the latest Scots Whay Hae! podcast Ali spoke to previous guest Anne Pia, this time to talk about her new book 'Magnaccioni: My Food... My Italy' which is part cookbook, part memoir. Anne talks about the reasons for writing it, the importance of food and family throughout her life, embracing her Italian heritage, the importance of pasta, marrying food with wine and music, and a lot more.

Sharing a love of food and cooking, the two also discuss their food philosophies, the importance of seasonal produce, the adaptability of national cuisines, and why simplicity is often the key to good cooking. 'Magnaccioni: My Food... My Italy' is a cookbook which demands to be used, and often, and it was such a pleasure to talk to Anne about it and the culinary delights. A conversation to whet the appetite, perhaps best not listen on an empty stomach.

For the second of our two Edinburgh Fringe Festival Specials, Ali spoke to another selection of artists who will be performing this year. They include actor / comedian Charlie Vero Martin, performer / devisers David Banks & Sadiq Ali, Fringe legend Mervyn Stutter, & members of the Voloz Collective Sam Rayner & Olivia Zerphy, each of whom tell us about their Edinburgh shows for 2023.

They are further fascinating conversations about four more of the finest shows in town this August. While it's only a snapshot of what's going on, it confirms the breadth and variety of what's on offer at the Fringe, with something for everyone. The size of the festival can be overwhelming, so if you are looking for some guidance as to what to see this is the perfect place to start.

For the first of two Edinburgh Fringe Festival Specials, Ali spoke to a variety of artists who will be performing this year. They include actor and playwright Raymond Wilson, dance artist & choreographer Katie Armstrong, musicians Andrea Baker & Howard Moody, & contemporary dance performer & choreographer Solène Weinachter, each of whom tell us about their Edinburgh shows.

They are fascinating conversations about four of the finest shows in town this August, all part of the prestigious Made In Scotland showcase of events. While it's only a snapshot of what's going on, it hints at the breadth and variety of what's on offer at the Fringe, with something for everyone. The size of the festival can be overwhelming, so if you are looking for some guidance as to what to see this is the perfect place to start.

For the latest Scots Whay Hae! podcast Ali catches up with writer Denise Mina to talk about her new historical novel 'Three Fires', which is published by Polygon Books.

Following on from the equally compelling 'Rizzio', 'Three Fires' takes a historical figure and uses significant events from the past to comment and question the present day. Denise talks about the central, complex, character of Girolamo Savonarola and how his ideas, and the resulting actions and following he inspired, are still felt today. She also talks about her approach to writing historical fiction, the satisfaction in writing complicated individuals, the joy of research, bringing the past and the present together, and so much more.

The two also talk about Denise's new Philip Marlowe novel 'The Second Murderer', (which is published by Harvill Secker), and the challenges in writing someone else's character.

It's a warm and informative conversation with one of Scotland's finest and favourite writers, and it was such a pleasure to talk to Denise about her latest work.

For the latest Scots Whay Hae! podcast Ali spoke to Etienne Kubwabo, the Writer/Director/Producer of the new film from Mile Away Films, 'The Difference Between Us', as well as some of the cast - Craig Andrew Mooney, Alex Jackson, Paul Stirrat, and Wam Siluka Jr - to learn all about this debut feature.

Etienne sets out the inspiration behind the film, the personal nature of the production, the collaborative process involved in filmmaking, and the importance of trust. We then get a fascinating insight into the casting process from both sides, learn why everyone was so keen to be involved in the project, the process of building characters, and relationships, on screen and off, and a whole lot more

It's rare to get such an appreciation of the creative process, from so many of those involved, on one podcast, and we really appreciate everyone giving up their time to talk to SWH!. It's a conversation which really whets the appetite for 'The Difference Between Us'.

For the latest Scots Whay Hae! podcast Ali spoke to writer Rebecca Smith about her new book 'Rural: The Lives of the Working Class Countryside' (published by William Collins) which is part memoir, part examination of the sociopolitical construct of the countryside, something which is all too rarely written about.

Rebecca explains her reasons for writing the book, the difficulty in contextualising her childhood, cutting through the romance and mythology of rural living, the often contradictory nature of tied housing (and other economic factors of working and living in the country), the complexities of class, and more.

The two also talk about the extensive research behind the book, and a number case-studies named are explained. It was such a pleasure to talk to Rebecca about an area of British life that passes many of us by, even if we are regular visitors to the great outdoors. It's a podcast which works as a companion piece to the book, and we hope it will convince you that Rural: The Lives of the Working Class Countryside is an essential read.

For the latest Scots Whay Hae! podcast Ali spoke to poet, playwright, and now podcaster Hannah Lavery about Quines Cast - the podcast she hosts alongside Stellar Quines' Artistic Director & CEO Caitlin Skinner - Series 2 of which is currently being recorded across a number of live events before being available to catch up with in podcast form later in the year.

Hannah talks about how Quines Cast began, and why, her own career as a writer, what listeners can expect from the new series, the make-up of the live shows, the themes which drive each episode, Series 1, and much more.

For the latest SWH! podcast Ali was joined once again by writer and journalist Peter Ross to talk about his latest book 'Steeple Chasing: Around Britain By Church'. Peter talked about why he wanted to write it, the relationship to his previous publication 'A Tomb With A View', the structure of the book, how churches engage with the senses, the future of these buildings, church art, why it is in the interaction between people and place where the stories emerge, and much more.

The two also discuss their own relationships with churches, particularly early experiences, as well as the welcome renaissance of print in both books and magazines. Peter is one of the finest writers around, and 'Steeple 'Chasing' is possibly his best book yet, and it was a pleasure to talk to him about it.

For the latest Scots Whay Hae! podcast Ali spoke to artists Angie Lewin & Rebecca Collins about their part in the Welcoming Spring exhibition at The Scottish Gallery in Edinburgh. Angie and Rebecca talk about the exhibition, their work and processes, celebrating Scottish nature, the importance of their surroundings in their paintings, and what it's like when you show your work publicly.

The three also discuss the work of Joe Hogan and Katie Watson - the other artists showing at the exhibition - the tradition of Scottish artists whose work is similarly inspired by nature, and a whole lot more. It's a warm and insightful conversation which will be of interest to anyone interested in art of any kind.

For the latest podcast Ali spoke to Indigo Korres, who is the programme co-ordinator of the Scottish Queer International Film Festival's Trans Generational Tour which kicks off in Inverness on the 22nd April. Indigo talks about the history of SQIFF, the aims and ideas behind the Tour, gives a breakdown of the itinerary and what attendees can expect from the programme, details how people can take part and get tickets, and a whole lot more.

The two also talk about the importance of growing communities, the power of cinema to bring people together, the importance of learning from history, encouraging intergenerational conversation and interaction, and focusing on positive stories in even the most challenging times.

For the latest SWH! podcast Ali spoke to Olaf Furniss, journalist and founder of Born To Be Wide, an organisation which hosts music business seminars and Scotland's music industry convention/showcase Wide Days, which this year is on between 13-15th April in Edinburgh.

The two talk about the history of Born To Be Wide, this year's Wide Days, what people can expect, how they can attend and get involved, the different strands of the convention, the importance of bringing industry professionals and artists together, and a whole lot more.

Olaf also explains how the bands and musicians are selected to play, the growing international facet to Wide Days, and gives just a short preview as to what he's most looking forward to.

As you'll hear, Olaf and Born To Be Wide have been involved in Scottish music for many years and it was a real treat to be able to talk to him about Wide Days and so much more.

For the latest SWH! podcast Ali spoke once again to writer David F. Ross to talk about his most recent novel 'Dashboard Elvis Is Dead', which is out now published by Orenda Books. The two caught up in Ali's kitchen and the conversation covers David's reasons for wanting to write this book, the inspirations behind it, the strong bonds created between author and their characters, why it was important to have a Scottish strand in the plot, the challenges in writing about real events, and a whole lot more.

They also discuss the importance of American culture in both their lives, and the complex nature of that relationship. It's always a pleasure to talk to David as there are few writers who talk about what they do with such clarity and self-reflection.

The latest SWH! podcast is all about this year's Glasgow Short Film Festival, with Ali joined by Programme Director Sanne Jehoul and filmmaker Duncan Cowles. Sanne gives us a bit of background to the festival, takes us through some of the highlights, talks about the competitions which are so important to every festival, the art of programming, the complex question as to what constitutes a 'short film', and so much more. Duncan tells us about the films he has screening this year, his history with the GSFF, the importance to filmmakers of festivals such as this one, and talks about what he is looking forward to this year.

There are also interesting conversations between the three as they discuss the impact of the pandemic on filmmakers and festivals, the return of live audiences, and the importance to individuals and the wider industry of such events. It's a conversation which goes beyond the festival itself - although all your questions should be answered - to look at just why short films are a vital and vibrant form in their own right

For the latest SWH! podcast Ali caught up with previous guest, writer Catriona Child, to talk about her latest novel 'Fade Into You', which is published by Luath Press. The two talk about the writing of the book, the inspirations behind it, the setting of the 1990s, the soundtrack, the importance to being true to the past, and whole lot more.

They also discuss the teenage years and how keenly everything is felt at that time, and the transition from those years into some kind of adulthood. It was lovely to catch up with Catriona, 10 years after she was last on the pod, and talk about what already feels like one of the best books of 2023.

For the latest podcast - the second of our Glasgow Film Festival specials - Ali catches up with musician and composer Scott Twynholm about his work on James Price's 'Dog Days' which premiered earlier in the week. Scott talks about how he came to work on 'Dog Days', collaborating with the director and editor, how every project is different and brings its own challenges, how the film was received by the audience, and where you'll be able to see if you missed it at the festival.

The two also discuss Scott's other film work, such as the soundtracks to 'Ride the Wave', 'Alasdair Gray: A Life In Progress' and Rachel Maclean's 'Make Me Up!', how working in theatre differs to film, his solo career and the inspirations which drive it, his early years as a member of Looper and Metrovavan, and much more. Scott is one of SWH!'s favourite musicians, one we have wanted to get on the podcast for a while. Talking about soundtracks at the Glasgow Film Festival seemed like perfect timing.

For the latest SWH! podcast Ali spoke to writer and journalist (former BBC Foreign Correspondent, no less) Martin Patience to talk about his debut crime novel 'The Darker The Night', which is published by Polygon Books. The two talk about Martin's reasons for writing it, what he found challenging writing fiction, how his journalism fed into the novel, Glasgow as a character, the perspective living and working abroad gives him with regard to Scotland, writing about Scottish politics, and getting the balance right between truth and fiction.

Martin also discusses his time as a foreign correspondent, the people and places he met, the highs and lows of the job, and a whole lot more. It's a podcast which offers two stories for the price of one, and it was such a pleasure to talk to Martin about his life and work. We hope you enjoy it as much as we did.

For the latest podcast, and the first of our Glasgow Film Festival podcasts for 2023, Ali spoke to Muta'Ali, the director of the documentary 'Cassius X: Becoming Ali'. The two talk about the making of the film, Muta'Ali's initial involvement, the importance of Executive Producer Mick McAvoy, working with writer Stuart Cosgrove (whose book 'Cassius X' is the inspiration for the film), the challenges posed by COVID, the relationships which shaped the young Clay/Ali, and a whole lot more.

Muta'Ali also gives context to the film by discussing America of the time, the cultural and social tensions, the spiritual journey that the young boxer was beginning, and how he was viewed inside, and outside, the sport. It's an informative and insightful discussion about a film which is as much about social history as it is about arguably the world's greatest sporting icon.

For the latest SWH! podcast we welcomed back previous guest Rodge Glass (right) to talk about Gray Day 2023 (Saturday 25th Feb) - the third annual celebration of the life and work of Alasdair Gray. 

This year the inspiration is his 1992 novel 'Poor Things', and Rodge talks about the novel, how it fits into the Gray canon, the event at Glasgow's Oran Mor on the evening of the 25th and who will be appearing, the importance of the Alasdair Gray Archive, as well as discussing the forthcoming film adaptation by Yorgos Lanthimos & starring Emma Stone, and a lot more.

It's always a pleasure to talk to Rodge Glass, biographer to, and one of the leading authorities on, Alasdair Gray, and Gray Day - Poor Things promises to be a very special night indeed.

For the latest podcast, Ali spoke to writer Allyson Shaw about her book 'Ashes & Stones: A Scottish Journey In Search of Witches and Witness' which examines the Scottish witch hunts and trials of the 16th-18th century, uncovering stories untold, and bearing witness to the people behind them.

'Ashes & Stones' is part historical investigation, part travelogue, part memoir, and Allyson talks about all aspects of the book, why she wanted to write it, the research behind it, the importance of the various memorials she uncovered - and how their meaning and purpose has changed - and why she brought her own life into the story.

The two also talk about the reasons behind the Scottish witch hunts, the extent of the persecution, the collusion between the state and the church, the importance of remembrance and acknowledgment, the lessons for today, and so much more. 'Ashes & Stones' is a great read, and it was fascinating to be able to talk to all about it with Allyson.

For the latest SWH! podcast Ali spoke to writer Leila Aboulela to talk about her latest novel, 'River Spirit', which will be published with Saqi Books on the 7th March. Leila spoke about her reasons for writing it, the research required, her interest in Sudanese history, why this period is so important to the country and its people, exploring history through fiction, managing the balance between real events (and individuals) and fiction, the Scottish strand to the story, and much more.

The two also discuss Leila's desire to bring Sudanese and Scottish culture together, the importance of memory, history repeating itself, and Aberdeen's current, and thriving, writing, arts, and culture scene. It's a wonderful and warm conversation with one of Scotland's finest and most admired writers, and we hope you enjoy this podcast as much as we did recording it.

Each week, for the Scots Whay Hae! Radio Show, Ali interviews the artists of the week. Usually the interviews are around 10-15mins, with the unedited versions available on our YouTube channel. Last Saturday's was a chat with Gill Higgins and Hannah Jarrett-Scott from the wonderful CLR Theory, and we blethered on for nearly 40mins so we thought is was too good not to make it into a podcast episode, so here it is.

The three talk about how CLR Theory came to be, the forthcoming album 'Waves', the launch night at Glasgow's Glad Cafe on the 20th January (when they will be supported by the the iconic Jill Lorean), how Lockdown helped shape the band and their music, the Workers' Stories Project that they were part of, and so much more. It's such an easy conversation that it is no wonder time flew!

For the first SWH! podcast of 2023 Ali spoke to Dawn Taylor, the Artistic Director & CEO at Puppet Animation Scotland, to learn all about this year's MANIPULATE International Festival of Visual Theatre which runs from 2nd - 12th February. Now in its 16th year, this year's festival will be the biggest yet and Dawn talks about the challenges met during lockdown and the valuable lessons learned, the history of the festival, the importance of supporting non-ext based theatre and film, just what festival goers can expect, and how and where people can get tickets and get involved.

The latest SWH! podcast is our contribution to Scottish Podcast Collaboration Week which will run from the 5th - 11th December. This podcast works as a preview as to what to expect, as Ali speaks to 4 of the podcasts involved - Dawn from 'Scottish Murders' (and the driving force behind the collaboration), Nicky & Greg from The Culture Swally, Suzanne from Adventures in Scotland, and Satsu from Chatsunami.

For the latest SWH! podcast Ali spoke to musician Douglas MacIntyre, filmmaker Grant McPhee, and journalist Neil Cooper to learn all about their new book 'Hungry Beat - The Scottish Independent Pop Underground Movement (1977-1984)'. 

It's seems a shame to have the three on the same podcast as each deserves an individual interview to themselves (and that may come to pass in the future.) Douglas runs the excellent indie record label Creeping Bent as well as putting on the FRET series of concerts at the Strathaven Hotel, and has played with a number of bands over the years.

Grant McPhee has made three great documentaries looking at Scottish indie music, Teenage Superstars, The Glasgow School, and Big Gold Dream - the latter providing the inspiration for Hungry Beat. 

Neil Cooper is a journalist, critic and cultural commentator who writes for the Herald, Bella Caledonia, and many other fine publications. Few have written more insightfully about, and on, Scottish culture as he has. 

What follows is a fascinating and in depth conversation about what many consider the glory days of Scottish independent music, when a number of bands, musicians, and mavericks made the music world sit up and listen. Whether you were there or not this is a must listen for any music lover.