Paul Weller Fan Podcast

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.

Join us for an insightful chat with Claire Moon as we explore the whirlwind year of 2024 for Paul Weller and his team. From the excitement of a podcast nomination to the intricacies of album releases and tours, Claire shares her behind-the-scenes experiences at Weller HQ. Discover how the team navigates the ever-evolving music industry, balancing physical and digital releases while staying true to their roots.

Claire delves into the unique promotional strategies around the album '66', including the memorable Jo Whiley session featuring an unexpected Billie Eilish cover. She also reflects on the innovative event with Rough Trade, showcasing the album's creative collaborators on stage.

We also touch on Paul's venture into acting with a supporting role in Steve McQueen's film 'Blitz', highlighting his willingness to step out of his comfort zone and embrace new challenges. Claire provides a glimpse into the planning and spontaneity that characterise Paul's approach to music and creativity, hinting at exciting possibilities for 2025.

Black Barn Studio Engineer and Producer, Charles Rees AKA The Wizard shares stories behind the making of Paul Weller's 17th Solo Studio album - 66.

Black Barn Studio Engineer and Producer, Charles Rees AKA The Wizard shares stories behind the making of Paul Weller's 17th Solo Studio album - 66.

Discover the Magic Behind Paul Weller’s New Album “66”

Welcome to an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the making of Paul Weller’s 17th solo studio album, "66." In our latest podcast episode, we sit down with Charles Rees, the wizard behind the album's engineering and production, to explore the intricate layers and creative process that brought this masterpiece to life.

From the outset, "66" is a celebration of collaboration. Charles takes us on a journey through Black Barn Studio, where the album was meticulously crafted. He shares stories of the many talented musicians who contributed to the album, including Steve Cradock, Josh McClorey, Richard Hawley, and many more. Each track is a testament to Weller’s ability to bring together a diverse array of sounds and styles, creating something truly unique and magical.

One of the standout moments in the podcast is the discussion of the recordings at the legendary Abbey Road Studios with Britten Sinfonia and Hannah Peel. Charles recounts the excitement and awe of working in such an iconic space, where the history of music seeps through the walls. The orchestral arrangements add a rich, dynamic layer to the album, elevating tracks like "Rise Up Singing" and "I Woke Up" to new heights.

Listeners are treated to an in-depth analysis of several key tracks, including "Ship of Fools," "Flying Fish," and "Jumble Queen." Charles reveals the meticulous process of layering instruments, vocals, and soundscapes to achieve the perfect balance. He also highlights the importance of stripping back elements to ensure each component shines through, a philosophy that has resulted in a more refined and impactful sound on "66."

The podcast also delves into the personal connections and stories behind the music including contributions of Max Beesley, Jacko Peake, and Christophe Vaillant, and how each collaborator brings their unique touch to the album. The result is a collection of songs that are both intimate and expansive, reflecting Weller’s ever-evolving artistry.

As we reach the final episode of our journey, Charles reflects on the joy and challenges of bringing "66" to life. He shares his excitement for the album’s release and the anticipation of seeing how fans will react to the new music. For those who have followed Paul Weller’s career, "66" is a testament to his enduring creativity and ability to surprise and delight listeners with each new project.

Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to Weller’s music, this podcast episode offers a fascinating glimpse into the making of "66".