Scots Whay Hae!

For the latest SWH! podcast Ali spoke to writer C. F. Peterson about his new novel 'The Purified', available now - published by Scotland Street Press. It's the second in the Duncul series following on from 2017's 'Errant Blood'. The two talk about the challenges of writing a sequel, setting the books in the Scottish Highlands, Calum's approach to writing, the writers who influence him, and working with Scotland Street Press. They also go into detail about some of the themes Calum covers in 'The Purified', including rewilding Scotland, climate change, anarchism, land ownership, nationalism, and a whole lot more.

For the latest SWH! podcast Ali spoke to writer George Paterson about his debut novel 'The Girl, The Crow, The Writer And The Fighter', available on 21st October 2021 - published by Into Books. The two discuss what inspired George to write this novel, the influence of all things American, specific influences, American literature, the importance of film with regard to the way the book was written, and much more. The conversation also touches upon research, working with the Into Creative team, and the way that books can change lives. 'The Girl, The Crow, The Writer And The Fighter' is a great debut, one which we consider "Possibly the finest American novel not to come out of America", and it was a pleasure to discuss the themes and ideas behind it. If you're looking for your next read, this not only could, but should, be it.

For the latest SWH! podcast Ali caught up with writer Iain Maloney (live from Japan!), and Angela and Paul Docherty from his publishers Liminal Ink. The main reason is to talk about Iain's new novella 'Life is Elsewhere/Burn Your Flags', a terrific, timeless, treatise on what happens when love dies, set against the specific backdrop of COVID. However, the conversation also covers the relationship between writer and publisher, the steep learning curve for new publishers, why the three wanted to work together, and so much more. We consider it a must-listen for readers, writers, and others interested in the world of books and publishing.

For the latest SWH! podcast Ali spoke to writer, and returning guest, Graeme Macrae Burnet about his latest novel 'Case Study' (published by Saraband). As with all of Graeme's books there's a lot to discuss, and the conversation turns to the life and work of R.D. Laing, the importance of research, the structure of the novel, how Graeme approaches writing, the excitement of writing a controversial character, the common threads which run though his fiction, the appeal of the cultural movements of the 1960s, and a whole lot more. They also discuss the cult of the author and the affect that has on the way books are marketed and received, and perhaps on the reader as well. It's always great to have Graeme on the podcast, and it was such a pleasure to be able to catch up with him in real life. The result is an insightful and entertaining interview which will give you a taste of what is undoubtedly one of the best books of the year.

For the latest SWH! podcast Ali spoke to writer Charles E McGarry about his new novel 'The Mystery of the Strange Piper', the latest in the 'Leo Moran Mysteries'. We consider Leo Moran to be one of the most memorable literary characters of recent times, and the two discuss how Leo came to be, the inspirations behind him and the series, the supernatural aspect, Leo Moran's moral and aesthetic sensibilities, and a whole lot more. You can also find out about Charlie's podcast series 'Debut' and where to find it. It's one of the most interesting and insightful interviews with a writer we have put out, and we think you'll agree.

For the latest SWH! podcast Ali spoke to music historian and writer Stewart Smith about Jazz at the Third Eye, the multi-media project exploring Glasgow’s visionary arts centre which launches on October 22nd, 2021. Stewart talks about how the project came about and his involvement, the central role of the Centre's director Tom McGrath, some of the musicians and other artists who appeared there, as well as sharing just a few of the stories he uncovered during his research. He also talks about the live music aspect to the project, where some of Scotland’s most innovative musicians will perform new work inspired by the history of the Third Eye. Jazz at the Third Eye is a Creative Scotland funded residency at the Centre for Contemporary Arts Glasgow, dedicated to establishing a digital archive of jazz and improvised music at its previous incarnation, the Third Eye Centre, from 1975 to 1991, and you can find out more at - https://www.cca-glasgow.com/

For the latest podcast Ali speaks to sculptor Oliver Cook and painter Calum McClure about their exhibitions at The Scottish Gallery in Edinburgh (2nd-25th September). 'Exploring the relationship between light and movement and the translucent properties of alabaster through sculptural forms and everyday objects, Oliver Cook’s work challenges the viewer to reconsider their preconceptions of sculpture’s fixed nature.' 'Calum McClure has had five successful exhibitions with The Scottish Gallery and was an invited artist at the Annual Exhibition of the Royal Academy in London in 2012. McClure is a painter who immerses himself in the landscape, evoking different atmospheres, through the representation of light, shadow and reflections.' Two for the price of one, when taken together the podcast offers real insight into the work and inspirations of two artists who ask us to look at the world with fresh perspectives, and reconsider our relationships with it.

For the latest SWH! podcast Ali caught up with writer John Gerard Fagan to talk about his memoir 'Fish Town' (published by Guts Publishing) which is all about his time living and working in Japan. The two discuss why John decided to write it, the reasons for the format of free-verse poetry, and some of the influences he drew on. They also talk about why John decided to head east in the first place, how his expectations were overturned early on, his life in the 'Fish Town' of the title, his experiences of teaching English in a variety of institutions, Japanese football etiquette, uncovering an obsession with 'We Are The World', and so much more.

The latest SWH! podcast is a rather special one. It's a collaboration with the Edinburgh International Book Festival and Publishing Scotland as part of the Scottish Publisher Showcase at this year's book festival. There are interviews with eight representatives from a variety of publishers who tell us all about who they are, what they do, the challenges they face, and the books they are excited about. As well as those core conversations we talk to Nick Barley, the Director of the Edinburgh Book Festival, and Vikki Reilly from Publishing Scotland. Put together it makes for a fascinating insight into, and overview of, publishing in Scotland today, and we hope you'll be encouraged to investigate further, which you can do by visiting edbookfest.co.uk & publishingscotland.org.

For the latest podcast Ali caught up with musician Xan Tyler to talk about her collaboration with reggae legend Mad Professor on the album 'Clarion Call' (out now!), the first time they have worked together in 20 years. Xan also discusses her recent work with another music legend, Kramer, on the album 'Songs We Sang In Our Dreams', her life in music from her beginnings as a teenage backing singer for cult band Death Bang Party, being signed to Creation Records, her solo material, the exciting plans for the future, and so much more. It's an absorbing and insightful conversation with someone steeped in music.

For the latest podcast Ali catches up with musician and producer Joe Kane who invited SWH! to his home studio. It was great to do another podcast face to face, and the two discuss Joe's latest project The Poppermost and the accompanying album 'Hits To Spare'. They also discuss Joe's life in music and all his previous bands and projects, the highs and lows of working through Lockdown, dealing with the musical expectations of fans, the yet-to-be-finished albums, playing live again with his new band, what the future may hold, and a whole lot more. As long time fans of Joe and his music it was a pleasure to be able to get him on the podcast and talk about both.

For the latest SWH! podcast Ali caught up with an old friend of the podcast, writer and musician Doug Johnstone - the fourth time he's been a guest, but the first time since 2015. A lot has happened in the meantime and Doug talks about his new solo album 'Crow Hill' and the third in the Skelf series, 'The Great Silence'. The two also discuss the stroke Doug had at the beginning of Lockdown, his recovery from it and how it affected both new releases, his move to Orenda Books, his musical past and present - including the story of the Fun Lovin' Crime Writers - the joys of the Skelf novels, and a whole lot more. It's a cracking conversation, as it always is with Doug, and it was great to have him back.

The latest podcast is all about this year's Dumfries & Galloway Arts Festival, and Ali caught up with the festival's strategic and creative director Melanie Purdie, and Neil Gore from Townsend Theatre Productions, to discuss it. After having to postpone last year the festival is back with a fantastic and varied programme, and Melanie takes us through what to expect, where to find it, and how everyone can take part no matter where they are. She also explains this year's theme of 'Hame'll Dae Me' and how that has driven the programme. Townsend Theatre's 'Talking Horse' venue is at the heart of what is going on, and Neil gives some background to the company and their work, explains how 'Talking Horse' works, and what audiences can expect. The three also discuss how exciting the return to live events is, the challenges faced, the necessary changes made, and what they are looking forward to. It's a lively and uplifting conversation which is a reminder of why such arts festivals are so important and that they

For the latest podcast Ali spoke to musician Man of the Minch (AKA Pedro Cameron) and poet Peter Mackay about Sradagan Na Sràide / Street Sparks, the EP they have collaborated on marrying the latter's lyrics with the former's magical music. The result is a collection of songs which celebrate and reflect on the lives of contemporary Gaels in the urban environment. They discuss why they came to work together, and how the process worked, the importance of incorporating their respective cultural traditions to create something new, working with Ceòl is Craic and The Bothy Society, and a whole lot more. And stay to the very end to hear a fantastic example of the music they have made.

For the latest podcast - it's all about HANG, Scotland's first ever Hip Hop & Grime Music Conference, presented by the Scottish Alternative Music Awards (SAMA) in partnership with Creative Scotland. Ali talks to producer of the SAMAs Richy Muirhead who talks about the HANG programme and how you can join in and get involved. He then catches up with one of the guest speakers, Jill Brown, who talks about her own music, her involvement with record label Conviction Records, the importance of telling stories, and a whole lot more. It's a podcast to whet the appetite for the inaugural HANG which promises to the first of many.

For our first video podcast (or vodcast, as no one is calling it) in some time, SWH! made a welcome trip Doon the Watter to Dunoon Burgh Hall to talk to previous podcast guest Kirsty Law about 'Exposure' - an exhibition which is a result of a collaboration between Gilles Perring and Andy Metcalf. Focusing on the two artists' relationship with the Isle of Jura, 'Exposure' is a multi-media production it features music, painting, poetry, photography, sound sculpture, installation, and film. Produced by Kirsty's multi-disciplinary production company and artist support service, Helm Arts, it's a thought-provoking and emotionally exciting exhibition which stimulates the senses as you lose yourself in Perring and Metcalf's Jura. Ali talks to Kirsty about how the project began, the differing, almost opposing, perspectives on the subject, each aspect of the final show, the plans for taking 'Exposure' around the country, her own role in proceedings, and a whole lot more. As the arts begin to open up again it's a fasc

For the latest podcast Ali spoke to musician Roberto Cassani about his sensational album 'Ansema We Stand', his incredible life in music, and how he came to settle in rural Perthshire. The two also discuss how the young Roberto discovered the double bass was 'his instrument', how he became the darling of Italy's musical royalty, the importance of his Lombardy childhood to this album, the importance of travel, writing and recording the album against the constraints of COVID, his love of Scottish music and musicians, and and a whole lot more. 'Ansema We Stand' is undoubtedly one of the best records of 2021 and it was fascinating to hear Roberto's journey to making it, and the stories behind it.

For the latest SWH! podcast Ali talks to Guy Peploe, director at The Scottish Gallery in Edinburgh, about their forthcoming exhibition 'Joan Eardley | Centenary'. Since her untimely death in 1963 Joan Eardley has gone on to become one of Scotland's artistic national treasure's and Guy talks about her life and work, as well as her special relationship with The Scottish Gallery. The two also discuss Eardley's iconic 'Glasgow' paintings and the stories behind them, her 'Catterline' work which explores the wild coastal landscapes of North East Scotland, and so much more. It's a fascinating insight into an artist who helped define how we have come to think of 20th century Scotland and beyond.

For what we now realise is the 200th SWH! Podcast, Ali spoke to musician, filmmaker, photographer, and broadcaster Adam Stafford about his forthcoming album 'Trophic Asynchrony', the current single 'Threnody for February Swallows', and the themes and inspirations behind both. The two also discuss the importance of film and photography in the project, his previous album 'Diamonds Of A Horse Famine' and returning to Adam's musical past, making music - and adapting - during COVID, the dangers of not learning lessons from history, and so much more. Adam has long been one of our favourite musicians and it is apt that he guests on this landmark pod. 201 is coming soon...

For the latest podcast Ali spoke to rapper, poet, and songwriter Conscious Route. The two talk about his life in music, and the music of his life, including his recent collaboration with producer Tzusan on 'Father & Son'. They also discuss the differences between being part of a band and going solo, the hip-hop and dance scene in Scotland, constantly learning and changing through music, and a whole lot more. There are some sound issues on this one, but we hope they won't affect your enjoyment of what we think is a fascinating conversation.