This is first episode we recorded, so it's more of chat between old mates, really setting the tone for the whole d.i.y unprofessional project. Although he was originally meant to be our first 'guest', it's somehow fitting that Gareth "Gaz" Smith closes the season. Musician, writer, coffee drinker, devotee of fika, picker of wild blueberries, and lifelong participant in heavy music, Gaz reflects on a life shaped by class, love of heavy music, becoming a dad, and punk rock.
From growing up in the working-class steel town of Corby to playing in bands including Raging Speedhorn, Victims, Diagnosis? Bastard! and Alarm!, we talk about discovering heavy music through bands like Iron Monkey, finding politics through punk, touring, writing, moving to Sweden, and the experiences that took him from major labels and tour buses back to the DIY underground. Having experienced both worlds, Gaz explains why he ultimately chose community over industry, and why the DIY ethos continues to shape the way he lives, creates and relates to others.
Thoughtful, self-deprecating and full of stories, Gaz reminds us that punk isn't something you grow out of: it's something that grows with you.
Watch out for next season starting sometime in september!!
ALARM!:
https://alarmhardcore.bandcamp.com/
Victims:
https://victims.bandcamp.com/
Diagnosis? Bastard!:
https://diagnosisbastard.bandcamp.com/
Nubenegra:
https://wearenubenegra.bandcamp.com/
A\\VOID:
https://avoid2.bandcamp.com/
Raging Speedhorn:
https://ragingspeedhorn.bandcamp.com/music/
Battle of Santiago:
https://battleofsantiago1.bandcamp.com/album/a-lamp-of-hope/
