Episodes

Original drummer of The Animals, John Steel joins The Mixtape for an unforgettable conversation about gigging across Australia at 84 years young, surviving the wild early days of rock ’n’ roll, and legendary pub crawls with Bob Dylan. We explore the enduring global legacy of timeless songs like House Of The Rising Sun, the reality of life on the road decades later, and the fire that keeps him performing. John also curates his personal Mixtape, revealing the artists that shaped his incredible mus...

It IS Big and it IS Special! On this episode of The Mixtape, we’re joined by Joe from Big Special, one of the most talked-about new voices in UK music. Joe dives into the story behind the band’s powerful debut album, Post Industrial Hometown Blues—a raw, poetic reflection of working-class life that’s turning heads across the country. We chat about the band’s formation, their first-ever tour of Australia, and the surreal experience of playing Glastonbury. And yes—we finally get the story behind...

In this electrifying episode of The Mixtape, we’re joined by Luke and Beau from Ghost Care, diving deep into their brand-new single “Arcade.” The Perth alt-pop trio’s latest track is a retro-fuelled ride, and the duo breaks down the story behind the song, its sonic throwbacks, and the creative spark that brought it to life. We also take a wild detour into Dukes of Hazzard nostalgia, swapping stories about iconic TV moments, and geek out over all things 80s gaming—from pixelated classics to the ...

In this enlightening episode of The Mixtape, we’re joined by Ryan McCombs, lead vocalist of Drowning Pool, as he opens up about rejoining the band after 13 years, the buzz around their co-headline Australian tour with Alien Ant Farm, and misheard lyrics! We dive deep into the band's songwriting process, creative chemistry, and how Ryan’s return reshaped their sound. Plus, Ryan curates his dream 6-track mixtape, revealing the musical influences that shaped his career—from rock icons to unexpected...

We've made it! Episode 100 of the Podcast is here! What an episode it is. Tommy is my big brother from another Mother, he gave me my very first Mixtape back in 1990, and we've been swapping music ever since. It made perfect sense for Tommy to be my guest for Episode 100, and it's an absolute cracker. Tommy chats about sneaking into a Sugababes concert, teaching his kids to sing rude songs, slow dancing to Boy bands, being an unprofessional front-man and lots more! Tommy's mixtape bounces arou...

In this episode of The Mixtape, we’re joined by Aussie singer-songwriter Pete Murray for an intimate chat about music, touring, and the creative fire that still drives him after all these years. Pete talks about the inspiration behind his powerful new single "I Am Fire", and gives us an inside look at his massive 55-date Australian tour—one of the biggest of his career. He reflects on the unique experience of performing solo versus with a full band, and how each setup brings something different...

Strap in for a wild ride as Luke from Psychedelic Porn Crumpets joins us on The Mixtape! We dive headfirst into the band’s upcoming USA and European tour, explore the mysterious new religion Dingur Zu, and unpack the cosmic revelation of Finding God in a Tomato. Yes—seriously. Luke also reflects on the electric energy of a hometown Perth show, and how the band’s roots continue to shape their global sound. And of course, we challenge him to build a one-of-a-kind mixtape, revealing the tracks tha...

In this powerhouse episode of The Mixtape, we’re joined by the legendary Tech N9ne—the rap icon known for his rapid-fire flow, genre-bending sound, and fiercely independent spirit. Tech opens up about collaborating with heavyweights like Eminem, Snoop Dogg, and more, and reflects on the legacy of his trailblazing indie label Strange Music, which redefined what it means to succeed outside the mainstream. We also talk about his love for touring Australia, his connection with fans worldwide, and ...

In this episode of The Mixtape, we sit down with Roy Kellaway from King Stingray, one of Australia's most exciting and culturally rich bands. Roy opens up about the band’s powerful cover of Coldplay’s "Yellow", revealing the deeper Yolŋu meaning behind the colour and how it resonates with their identity and story. We also delve into the heartfelt fatherly wisdom passed down from Stu Kellaway of Yothu Yindi, explore the themes behind King Stingray’s latest album "For The Dreams", and uncover the...

On this raw and reflective episode of The Mixtape, we catch up with James McGovern, frontman of the critically acclaimed Irish post-punk band The Murder Capital. James opens up about the band’s first-ever Australian tour, the emotional depths of their new album Blindness, and his deep love for vinyl records—both collecting and creating them. With poetic insight and a punk rock edge, James shares what drives their intense live performances and how their sound continues to evolve. As always, we ...

In this episode of The Mixtape, we sit down with Grant Nicholas, lead singer and guitarist of the legendary British rock band Feeder. Grant joins us to discuss the highly anticipated reissue of Comfort In Sound—an album that helped define a generation and solidify Feeder’s place in UK rock history. We rewind to the early days of the band, including their raw beginnings rehearsing in a cow shed, and relive some of Grant’s favourite festival memories from over two decades of touring and performin...

On this emotionally charged episode of The Mixtape, we sit down with the fiercely talented Siobhan Cotchin to talk all things heartbreak, healing, and staying true to your artistic voice. Siobhan opens up about navigating relationship break-ups, the pressure to fit into industry boxes, and the powerful story behind her raw and fearless new single, “The Truth Will Always Come Out.” We also chat about her songwriting adventures in Nashville, and as always, Siobhan crafts a deeply personal mixtape,...

On this heartfelt episode of The Mixtape, Irish singer-songwriter Sorcha Richardson joins us to chat about all things music, memory, and meaningful moments. We dive into the vinyl re-issue of her acclaimed debut First Prize Bravery, and why this record continues to resonate with fans worldwide. Sorcha also shares stories from her first Australian tour, and how traveling Down Under has shaped her perspective as a performer and songwriter. Of course, no episode is complete without a mixtape—Sorc...

In this energetic and thought-provoking episode of The Mixtape, we’re joined by UK folk-punk troubadour Beans On Toast for a deep dive into music with meaning, humour, and heart. From meeting his hero Billy Bragg to touring with Frank Turner, Beans shares candid stories from the road and the stages that shaped him. We talk about his passion for activism and why he flew halfway around the world to sing songs about the environment, connecting with audiences across continents through powerful lyri...

On this episode of The Mixtape, we're joined by Dryden Mitchell, frontman of the platinum-selling alt-rock band Alien Ant Farm. Best known for their explosive cover of Michael Jackson’s “Smooth Criminal”, Dryden reflects on the song’s unexpected success and how it became a defining moment in the band’s career. We catch up with Dryden fresh off Alien Ant Farm’s tour of Australia, where the energy is still electric—but these days, he’s more likely to be found swinging a golf club than throwing ba...

On this vibrant episode of The Mixtape, we sit down with rising Perth indie outfit The Isolators to talk about their bold and brilliant new EP, You Took Your Time. The band dives into the stories behind the tracks, their unexpected love for ABBA cover versions, and how classic pop meets gritty indie in their unique sound. We explore their songwriting influences and inspirations, from retro icons to modern trailblazers, and how their creative process has evolved. As always, we wrap up with an e...

In this soulful episode of The Mixtape, Australian bluesman Ash Grunwald joins us for a deep and wide-ranging chat about music, life, and the rhythms that keep him grounded. Ash opens up about his collaboration with Josh Teskey, sharing behind-the-scenes stories from the studio and how their musical chemistry brought raw, heartfelt blues to life. He also gets real about balancing the chaos of touring with the joys of family life, and why staying connected to community radio has always been a gr...

In this vibrant episode of The Mixtape, we’re joined by Zoe and Mark from rising Blues, Soul, Funk band The Last Avocado. The pair chat about their latest single "Miss Fortune", bringing feel-good grooves and thoughtful lyrics to life on stage at Gidgestock Festival, and what it’s like crafting music with heart and humour. We dive into their musical journey, creative chemistry, and the artists who helped shape their eclectic sound. Plus, Zoe and Mark team up to create a special mixtape playlist...

Soulful powerhouse Andrew Roachford joins The Mixtape to talk musical evolution, legendary inspirations, and what it’s like juggling his own career while fronting Mike + The Mechanics. We dive into his brand-new album Then and Now, where he breathes new life into his classic hits with fresh recordings and a modern edge. Andrew opens up about discovering Jimi Hendrix as a young artist, his journey from breakout solo star to chart-topping collaborator, and how he’s stayed creatively inspired acro...

In this intimate and insightful episode of The Mixtape, acclaimed folk musician John Smith joins us to talk about his latest album and the heartfelt title track “The Living Kind.” We dive into the making of the Hunter S. Thompson-inspired music video, and his creative bond with “big sister” Lisa Hannigan, a long-time friend and collaborator. John also shares details about his upcoming Australian tour, the evolution of his songwriting, and how personal stories continue to shape his sound. As al...

In this thought-provoking episode of The Mixtape, we’re joined by Lucas Woodland, front man of Welsh post-hardcore powerhouse Holding Absence. Lucas takes us behind the scenes of their emotionally charged album "The Noble Art of Self Destruction", and what it meant to support the legendary You Me At Six on tour. We also dive into Lucas's passions beyond music — from comic books and veganism to the surreal brilliance of Salvador Dali. It’s a conversation that blends art, identity, and intensity ...

In one of the most moving episodes of The Mixtape yet, singer-songwriter Rose Parker opens up about the heartbreaking story behind her powerful new single "Because of You"—a song written in the wake of personal tragedy to raise awareness for organ donation and support the Thank You Campaign. With raw honesty and emotional depth, Rose reflects on how music became a lifeline during grief and a vehicle for creating meaningful change. We discuss the healing power of songwriting, the importance of s...

In this heartfelt and wide-ranging episode of The Mixtape, we’re joined by legendary songwriter and founding member of INXS, Andrew Farriss. Andrew reflects on his incredible journey in music, including dealing with the loss of his bandmate and friend Michael Hutchence, and how that shaped his path forward both personally and creatively. We dive into his latest solo release, the Americana-influenced album Southern, and talk about playing in Nashville, songwriting on horseback, and the freedom o...

This week on The Mixtape, we slide into the soulful world of Pat Tierney, whose unique blend of folk, blues, and roots is elevated by his deep connection to the lap steel guitar. Pat shares how discovering the instrument changed the way he writes and performs music, and gives us an inside look at the making of his atmospheric new album Lost in the Haze. We also chat about the magic of playing for Sofar Sounds, where stripped-back sets and intimate spaces let the songs truly breathe. Pat opens u...