Scots Whay Hae!

For the latest podcast Ali spoke to writer David Keenan about his latest novel 'For The Good Times'. After the success of his previous book 'This Is Memorial Device', (Scots Whay Hae!'s Book of 2017), it was always going to be fascinating to see how he would follow it, but he has done so in fine style. The two discuss why it is set in Belfast in the '70s, the personal connections Keenan has to that time and place, the themes which he addresses, as well as magic, masculinity, Irish Modernism, and a whole lot more. It was a pleasure to once again spend time in Keenan's company as there are few writers who talk with the insight, honesty, and passion about their work as he does. This is a podcast not to be missed.

For the latest podcast Ali caught up with Peter Kelly, better known as singer/songwriter Beerjacket, to talk about 'Silver Cords' which is not only the name of his latest collection of songs, but also of the accompanying book of short stories, (a review of which you can read over at Scots Whay Hae!). The two talk about the project from its early days through to completion, how the stories work with the songs, the reason Peter chooses to work under a pseudonym, and why Beerjacket is now back after some time away. It's a conversation which will appeal to anyone interested in the artistic process, whether making music or writing, and just how important collaboration is.

For our final Best Of 2018 podcast Ali, Chris Ward, Wesley Shearer, and our very own Young Father, Ian, discuss their favourite records of the year, and the best gigs of 2018. What do they choose? Well you'll just have to listen to find out, but we can say that there are a hell of a lot of winners, and nary a loser in sight as they decide that the year in music was a rather fine one.

For our review of the year in film Ali & Ian were joined once more by Chris Ward and Wesley Shearer to discuss their favourite film of 2018, the year in Scottish film, any themes and trends which could be uncovered, and if Mel Gibson films are better or worse for the involvement of Mel Gibson. It's an enjoyable hour where all three have some shared choices, and some which are new to everyone else, and possibly to you.

For our Best Books of 2018 podcast Ali was once again joined by Book Vikki herself, Publishing Scotland’s Vikki Reilly to discuss their favourite books of the year and the state of Scottish publishing, try to identify the themes and trends of the last 12 months, forget the names of things (mostly Ali, to be fair), look into what's coming in the new year, and explain why 2018 belonged to Muriel. It was quite the year in Scottish writing and hopefully we go some way to summing it up and rounding it off for you.

For the latest podcast Ali visited LP Records in Glasgow's West End to talk to LP himself, Lorenzo Pacitti. The two talk about the history of his LP Record store, the move into becoming a label, (releasing music from Wesley A. Chung, American Clay, and Codist), and his plans to start LP Radio, a station which will be based in the store. There are also tales of Nicki Minaj, the vital role of darts in the LP story, time spent in Texas and Seattle, the pros and cons of the vinyl resurrection, and his vision of the perfect radio station. For anyone interested in the record business - the records and/or the business - it's a must listen.

For the latest podcast Ali met up with poet and writer Donald S. Murray to talk about this novel 'As The Women Lay Dreaming' which examines the Iolaire disaster of 1919 and why the story of one of the worst peacetime maritime disasters remains largely unknown outside of the Highlands & Islands. The two discuss the impact this terrible event has had on a community through the generations, and also the main themes of the novel which include language, religion, class, art, guilt, and family. It's an utterly fascinating conversation about one of Scotland's defining moments in history. With the centenary of the sinking of the Iolaire imminent this is a podcast you won't want to miss.

"For the latest podcast Ali went through to Cabaret Voltaire in Edinburgh to talk to musician David Luximon-Herbert, better known as Vive La Rose, about his latest album 'For She Who Hangs The Moon', which is destined to be one of the best records of 2018. The two talk about the making of the record, influences, themes, tone, the expectations David has, and the critical reaction so far. As well as the usual chat you also get two bonus tracks in the shape of 'Night Terrors' and the current single 'Schiehallion' which give you just a taste of what is an impeccable collection of songs.

"For the latest podcast Ali spoke to the writer Chris McQueer about his latest collection of short stories, 'HWFG'. If you haven't heard of or read Chris' work, where have you been? His previous book, 'Hings' took the world of Scottish writing by storm announcing a fresh and exciting new voice. 'HWFG', ('Here We Fucking Go', if you haven't worked it out yet), sees him build on the success of 'Hings' introducing readers to new characters as well as bringing back fan favourites. It was fascinating to hear what inspired Chris to write, his influences, the difficulty in following a hit, the highs and lows of being reviewed, and his plans to branch out from writing fiction. He also kindly reads one of his stories which gives the uninitiated a great introduction to Chris McQueer and his work.

For our 100th podcast we thought long and hard about who to ask and we kept coming back to one name, Mr Vic Galloway. With the recent publication of his superb book Rip It Up: The Story Of Scottish Pop, written to coincide with the National Museum of Scotland’s exhibition and the TV show of the same name, it seems fitting to talk to a man who helps shape the nation's musical tastes.

For the latest SWH! podcast Ali caught up with musician Carla J. Easton to talk about her new album 'Impossible Stuff', which is released on the 5th October on Olive Grove Records. As well as explaining the Canadian roots of the record Carla talks about the importance of home, her many collaborations, her musical history, Teen Canteen, and the documentary she is working on with Blair Young about women pioneers of Scottish pop. Carla is one of the most innovative and interesting musicians working today and it was great talking to her. If you love music you just have to take a listen, but it's also a fascinating insight as to what is involved in the artistic process.

For the latest podcast Ali spoke to writer & director May Miles Thomas about her incredible film 'Voyageuse' and the issues and themes it addresses such as family, ageing, grief, and much more. However, the two also discuss different approaches to making film, May's previous projects, using setbacks as inspiration, the problem in getting heard in a crowded market, and the primary importance of story in her work. It's a fantastic listen which will be of interest to anyone who is interested, not only in the process and reality of filmmaking, but in all aspects of creating art in Scotland. There is also mention of Hitler, satanism in Glasgow, and the CIA. What more could you want from a podcast?

For the latest podcast Ali met up with the American novelist Andy Davidson before his event at The Edinburgh International Book Festival. In an ironically dreich Charlotte Square the two discuss Andy's terrific debut novel 'In The Valley Of The Sun' which is out now on the Contraband imprint of Saraband books, and which is one of the best of the year so far. It's a fascinating chat about influences and ideas, genre fiction vs literary fiction, horror writers and films, the importance of character, and why, in terms of writing, there really is no place like home. They also talk about the differences in publishing in the US as opposed to the UK. For anyone with an interest in writing, or reading, it's a must listen.

After our Dundee podcast Ali moves up the coast to Aberdeen to talk to Charley Buchan from Fitlike Records, writer Shane Strachan, and Mood Of Collapse blogger Jon Reid. The three talk about the changes in Aberdeen's arts and cultural community, the influence of the city's educational and civic insitutions, the importance of spaces and places, graduate and talent drain, what inspires them to do what they do, and their hope for what happens next. It's an impassioned and inspiring chat about past, present and future for the arts in Aberdeen.

For the latest podcast Ali visited Dundee to talk about all things artistic and cultural in relation to that great city. To do so he was joined by the co-founding director of Creative Dundee Gillian Easson, the writer and playwrite (and long term supporter of SWH!) Anna Stewart, and the TV and theatre actor, (currently on the brilliant 'The Terror' on AMC) Gordon Morris. All three are proud Dundonians and have a long and vibrant connection with the city's culture. They talk about the past, present, and their future hopes for the city and its artistic community, examining how it has become an internationally renowned centre for the arts while remaining determinedly committed to engaging with its citizens. It's a fascinating discussion which gives a great overview of a place, its people, and its culture.

In the latest podcast we look at the life and work of Muriel Spark with our guest Dr Colin McIlroy who is the Muriel Spark Project Curator at the National Library of Scotland, and who was instrumental in their recent The International Style of Muriel Spark Exhibition. This year is the centenary of the birth of Spark, and the exhibition was just part of the #MurielSpark100 celebrations which are ongoing throughout 2018. Colin tells us all about the exhibition, before he and Ali talk about the novels, Spark's life, her other writing, and so much more. If you are a newcomer to Muriel Spark, or think that she begins and ends with The Prime Of Miss Jean Brodie, this is the perfect podcast to persuade you to investigate further. If you are already a fan, then you're bound to find something new to you.

For the latest podcast Ali met up with writer Helen McClory at Edinburgh's Fruitmarket Gallery to talk about her life as a writer to date - and a very interesting story it proves to be. From studying creative writing in Sydney and Glasgow, to winning awards for her debut short story collection 'On The Edges Of Vision', walking Lou Reed and Laurie Anderson's dog, the difficult publication of her novel 'Flesh Of The Peach', writing about Jeff Goldblum, to her latest collection of short fiction 'Mayhem & Death', it is fascinating tale, and one which will be of interest to anyone who loves writing and reading.

For the lastest podcast, Ali spoke to Aye Write! Book Festival programmer, Bob McDevitt in Glasgow's CCA (which explains the background 'atmosphere'). They discuss the history of the festival, what to expect this year, Bob's personal highlights, the challenges of festival programming, his similar role for Bloody Scotland and the Pitlochry Winter Words Festival, and much, much more. There is also mention of 'Men In Kilts'. As a precursor to Aye Write! 2018 it's the perfect listen, especially when married to the SWH! preview which is over at the website right now. SWH! is delighted to be involved in some of this year's events, so hopefully see you there.

For the first podcast of 2018 Ali went to Edinburgh to talk to Heather McDaid and Laura Jones who are behind the innovative and acclaimed publishers 404 Ink. They talk about their inspirations and the reasons for starting working together, the phenomenon of their first book 'Nasty Women', the desire to publish new voices, the importance of social media and different methods of funding, the role of music, mixing content and contributors, and why the live experience is increasingly important for writers and publishers. For anyone interested in books, writers, writing and culture in general, which surely must be all of you reading this, it is a must listen. All this, and Jeff Goldblum too.

For latest podcast Ali met writer, broadcaster and food expert Rachel McCormack at Glasgow's Iberica restaurant to talk about her recent book on whisky and Scotland, the excellent 'Chasing The Dram: Finding The Spirit Of Whisky'. Over a glass of wine, the two discuss Rachel's book, their first memories of whisky, the perception of the drink at home and abroad, the mythology which has grown around it, and how it relates to Scotland, and a whole lot more. Put simply, she separates the truth from the fiction, and there is plenty of both when it comes to our original national drink.