Scots Whay Hae!

For the latest Scots Whay Hae! podcast Ali spoke to writer and poet Michael Pedersen, in the splendid surroundings of Glasgow's Mitchell Library, to talk about his debut novel Muckle Flugga, which is published with Faber & Faber.Michael describes the place and people of Muckle Flugga before talking about why this is the story he has told for his debut, explaining that the time was just right.He then breaks down the three central characters of The Father, his son Ouse, and the enigmatic interloper Firth, and what they each represent, which leads to a discussion of the themes which drive the novel.The conversation also touches on the influence of the Gothic tradition, Robert Louis Stevenson, and Scottish literature more widely. All of that plus language and lighthouse chat, and a brilliant reading from Michael.It was such a treat to be able to talk in depth to Michael Pedersen about this fantastic and life-affirming novel which is among the best debuts of recent times. The result is another memorable SWH! podcast, even if we do say so ourselves!Full details, including all the ways to listen, are over at scotswhayhae.com

For the latest Scots Whay Hae! podcast Ali spoke to filmmaker Ciaran Lyons to hear all about his debut feature Tummy Monster, which is playing across UK cinemas in May.Ciaran talks about the audience reaction to the recent screening at the Glasgow Film Theatre, before describing the film, detailing why this story became his debut, the practicalities faced, expanding on the themes and ideas which drove it, and the collaboration necessary to realise his vision.He also explains the casting process, and how he came to his two leads in particular, before setting out just some of the influences on his work, and this film especially. It's an enthralling and informative conversation which will be of interest to anyone who loves film, and is interested in the realities and mechanics of what it takes to make it from page to screen. Full details, including all the ways to listen, are over at scotswhayhae.com

For the latest Scots Whay Hae! podcast Ali caught up with writer Callum McSorley to talk about his new novel Paperboy, which is the sequel to his McIlvanney Prize winning debut Squeaky Clean, both published with Pushkin Vertigo.Callum explains the premise of Squeaky Clean to give listeners an idea of his original vision, before explaining the ways Paperboy builds on that celebrated novel and his approach to writing a sequel.He then talks about how much he loves writing these books, including the people, places, and their patter - a love of language to the fore.The two also discuss the cast of characters, mapping events around the city of Glasgow, the importance of accurate references, and taking joy in dark comedy, before Callum details his experiences of life as a writer.As you will hear from their conversation, Ali is a huge fan of these novels and it was such a treat to be able to talk to Callum about them. A warm and engaging conversation, this is one for anyone with an interest in writing or reading.Full details, including all the ways to listen, are over at scotswhayhae.com

For the latest Scots Whay Hae! podcast Ali spoke to double bassist and returning guest Roberto Cassani to hear all about the album Pictish Spaghetti which he has made with guitarist Graeme Stephen, and which is out now on Brooklyn label 577 Records.Roberto talks about collaborating with Graeme and how that came about, the dynamic of the double bass and guitar, their recording process, the joys of improvisation, the landscape of Perthshire being an influence, the healthy state of jazz in Scotland today, and explains that intriguing album title.He also tells the fascinating story of how he ended up living and making music in Scotland, before the two discuss his work as an educator, specifically his project Music for the Purpose of Joy which provides group music sessions to children, young people and adults based on Roberto's improvisational approach.The last time Roberto was on the podcast was during COVID and over Zoom, and it was such a pleasure to be able to talk to him face to face, especially in the beautiful setting of the town of Scone. The resulting interview is a warm, passionate and inspirational conversation which will lift spirits and gladden hearts, and we all need a bit of that.Full details, including all the ways to listen, are over at scotswhayhae.com

For the latest podcast Ali spoke to writer and musician Carrie Marshall to talk about her latest book Small Town Joy, which is published by 404 Ink.A widely-published writer, including the critically-acclaimed memoir Carrie Kills A Man, Carrie is also a musician with indie rock band Unquiet Mind, and Small Town Joy is an inquiry into the ways LGBTQ+ artists have shaped Scotland’s musical soundtrack.Carrie explains the reasons for writing the book, the research involved, gives a global context, outlines the importance of dance music to the story and other genres, details just a few of her favourite characters who feature, (including those interviewed), the importance of place as well as people, and so much more.The two also discuss the enduring significance of a song they both love; Bronski Beat's 'Smalltown Boy', Edwin Morgan, favourite bands and musicians, and what's happening across musical genres in Scotland today.It's a fascinating and informative conversation about a joyous book which celebrates music and those who make it, while honestly addressing the challenges faced by many. Quite simply, it's a must read for all music lovers.Full details, including all the ways to listen, are over at scotswhayhae.com

For the latest Scots Whay Hae! podcast Ali spoke to Fraser Scott who is the director of The Gray Plays, a concert reading of four short plays by Alasdair Gray, which will be at Oran Mor on the 4th May.Fraser talks about the project, the book that inspired it, who is involved (including some well-kent names), and breaks down each of the four plays and why they were chosen.He also explains how he came to know the work of Alasdair Gray, describes the influences on his own work, how he came to be involved in theatre, forming the company Outwith It, and so much more.It's always a pleasure to discuss the life and work of Alasdair Gray, and The Gray Plays offers a rare (possibly unique) chance to see these plays performed. Tickets are available now, but, as Fraser suggests, they are going fast - so don't miss out... Full details, including all the ways to listen, are over at scotswhayhae.com

For the latest Scots Whay Hae! podcast Ali spoke to writer Craig A. Smith to hear all about his new novel The River, which is out now with Into Books.Craig explains the full title of The River: A Path Of Least Resistance, why this was a story he wanted to tell, having a picture of the story in his head and the way it developed, the central character of Lachlan McCormack and what he represents, writing a love story, depictions of childhood, the structure of the novel which weaves together individuals, the nation, and the river itself, and much more.The two also discussed Craig's 2013 debut novel The Mile, which was one of the few to address the Independence Referendum, and the possible connection between the two books, before revealing just a little about what he wants to write about next.With The River, Craig A. Smith has a written a state-of-the-nation novel with a tender heart, and it was such a pleasure to be able to dig deep with writer himself. Full details, including all the ways to listen, are over at scotswhayhae.com

For the latest Scots Whay Hae! Podcast Ali spoke to Ann Campbell who is the Festival Director of the Dunoon Film Festival which moves to Spring this year, and runs between 24th - 27th April. Ann talks about the history of the festival and the importance of the local community. She also explains her own role before breaking down this year's programme and what people can expect, emphasising that it is about so much more than just the films.The two talk then talk about some of the highlights, including the attendance of Neil Brand (a silent film accompanist and presenter will present and perform live at three events), two special preview screenings of films that will have their UK release in May, Oscar winner I’m Still Here, big screen classics such as Oh, Brother Where Art Thou? and David Lynch's The Straight Story, a 70th anniversary singalong of Oklahoma!, and so much more.Ann also explains the relationships with schools, local talent, and other partners who play a vital role in bringing the festival together. It's a warm and informative conversation which we hope will inspire you to take a trip doon the watter to attend what is one of the most varied and welcoming festivals around.For full details, including all the ways to listen, head over to scotswhayhae.com

For the latest Scots Whay Hae! podcast Ali spoke once again to Jess Orr, the Associate Programmer for the Paisley Book Festival, to learn all about this year's programme - and what a programme it is.Jess explains this year's theme 'The Lives We Live' as well as breaking down the various strands of the festival which include 'Life's Fundamentals', 'The Writer’s Playlist', and 'Poet's Corner' before the two go into details about just some of the individual events across the four days. They also touch on the Schools Programme, the Workshops, and Family Day.It's a thorough and enthusiastic conversation which really whets the appetite for what's to come. In its six-year lifespan Paisley Book Festival has quickly become a highlight of Scotland's cultural calendar, with events being held in the beautiful venues of Paisley Town Hall and Paisley Central Library. We hope to see you there...Full details, including all the ways to listen, are over at scotswhayhae.com

For the latest Scots Whay Hae! podcast Ali spoke to musician and writer Katy Lironi to talk all about her memoir Matilda In The Middle, which is available now, published with Into Books.Katy gives an overview of the book, talks about the title, breaks down the subtitle of 'family, music and mayhem' and how those three aspects work together to tell the full story. She also makes it clear that while this is a memoir about family, this is the story as she sees it.She then talks about SandFest, Choir 21, her work with Down's Syndrome Scotland, and the forthcoming event on the 21st March at The Book Nook in Stewarton which is part of World Down's Syndrome Day (details on the SWH! website).She also sets out the vital role music has played throughout her life, including the early years in East Kilbride, studying at Napier University and becoming part of the Edinburgh indie music scene as lead singer in The Fizzbombs, just what that time and place was like, the musical differences between East and West, returning home, and what happened next.The two then discuss the importance music continues to play for Katy, her husband Douglas, and their family (with Matilda In The Middle) be that making, performing, promoting, and releasing other people's, and what the future holds.Matilda In The Middle is a book which can be read in a number of ways, revealing something new each time, and it was fascinating to be able to talk to Katy all about it.Full details, including all the ways to listen, are over at scotswhayhae.com