

Lost And Sound
Paul Hanford
Lost and Sound is a podcast exploring the most exciting and innovative voices in underground, electronic, and leftfield music worldwide. Hosted by Berlin-based writer Paul Hanford, each episode features in-depth, free-flowing conversations with artists, producers, and pioneers who push music forward in their own unique way.From legendary innovators to emerging mavericks, Paul dives into the intersection of music, creativity, and life, uncovering deep insights into the artistic process. His relaxed, open-ended approach allows guests to express themselves fully, offering an intimate perspective on the minds shaping contemporary sound.Originally launched with support from Arts Council England, Lost and Sound has featured groundbreaking artists including Suzanne Ciani, Peaches, Laurent Garnier, Chilly Gonzales, Sleaford Mods, Nightmares On Wax, Graham Coxon, Saint Etienne, Ellen Allien, A Guy Called Gerald, Jean Michel Jarre, Liars, Blixa Bargeld, Hania Rani, Roman Flügel, Róisín Murphy, Jim O’Rourke, Yann Tiersen, Thurston Moore, Lias Saoudi (Fat White Family), Caterina Barbieri, Rudy Tambala (A.R. Kane), more eaze, Tesfa Williams, Slikback, NikNak, and Alva Noto.Paul Hanford is a writer, broadcaster, and storyteller whose work bridges music, culture, and human connection. His debut book, Coming to Berlin, is available in all good bookshops. Lost and Sound is for listeners passionate about electronic music, experimental sound, and the people redefining what music can be.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Oct 8, 2024 • 58min
Bogdan Raczynski
Bogdan Raczynski has created a body of work as enigmatic as it is enthralling. Rumoured to have been discovered sleeping on a bench in Tokyo by Aphex Twin, he’s collaborated with Björk, remixed Autechre and at one point took a break from electronica to release an album inspired by Polish folk music.Bogdan reflects on nearly three decades of defying norms within the music industry. We discuss his latest work, "You're Only Young Once, but You Can Be Stupid Forever," which captures his signature blend of playfulness and depth. Through the lens of his childhood experiences as a political refugee and his unique perspective on the world, we explore how these elements shape his creative process and continue to influence his groundbreaking sound. As we talk with Bogdan, we explore creativity beyond the constraints of commercial success—we ponder the societal limitations that stifle potential artists. Emphasizing the importance of ambiguity in art, Bogdan shares personal anecdotes from his past, challenging the conventional need for predefined interpretations and advocating for spontaneous, personal engagements with creative works. Our conversation also delves into the complex interplay between music, identity, and defiance. Bogdan shares how moments of feeling different have shaped his artistic identity, from the childhood discovery of a humorous hip-hop cassette to finding his place within the IDM scene of the '90s. We also tackle the struggle of balancing music with other career paths and the journey towards achieving a flow state in creativity. You’re Only Young Once But You Can Be Stupid Forever is available on Vinyl / CD / download / stream from 18th October on Disciples. Check it out here.Follow Paul Hanford on InstagramLost and Sound is sponsored by Audio-TechnicaPaul’s BBC World Service radio documentary “The man who smuggled punk rock across the Berlin Wall” is available now on BBC Sounds. Click here to listen.Paul’s debut book, Coming To Berlin: Global Journeys Into An Electronic Music And Club Culturet Capital is out now on Velocity Press. Click here to find out more. Subscribe to the Lost and Sound Substack for fresh updates and writing.Lost and Sound title music by Thomas Giddins

Oct 1, 2024 • 46min
Steve Hillage
Ever wondered how a music legend evolves over five decades? Join us as we unravel the extraordinary journey of Steve Hillage, a counter-cultural icon whose influence stretches from the psychedelic 60s to today's electronic scene. Through his candid reflections, Steve takes us back to the Canterbury scene's pioneering days, his transformative years with Gong, and his innovative solo projects bridging prog rock and proto-ambient music. Learn how he seamlessly transitioned into production in the early 80s, leaving his mark on post-punk and electro-pop, creating a Baleiric classic in the process and onto his role in acid house and techno through System 7 and Mirror System. Discover the intuitive artistry behind Steve's creative process, the importance of persistence, and how he balances various strengths in collaborations. Dive into his ground-breaking ambient work, "Rainbow Dome Music," and understand the dual performance strategy that distinguishes System 7 and Mirror System at festivals. Get a sneak peek into his latest ventures, including new albums and potential live recordings, all illustrating Steve's perpetual evolution and adaptability in the music industry. Route 77 – the new Mirron System album is out October 25thFollow Paul Hanford on InstagramLost and Sound is sponsored by Audio-TechnicaPaul’s BBC World Service radio documentary “The man who smuggled punk rock across the Berlin Wall” is available now on BBC Sounds. Click here to listen.Paul’s debut book, Coming To Berlin: Global Journeys Into An Electronic Music And Club Culturet Capital is out now on Velocity Press. Click here to find out more. Subscribe to the Lost and Sound Substack for fresh updates and writing.Lost and Sound title music by Thomas Giddins

Sep 24, 2024 • 57min
Trentemøller
Paul sits down with Danish producer and musician Anders Trentemøller, unpacking his journey from early electronic EPs to the lush, melancholic soundscapes of his latest album, "Dreamweaver." Anders opens up about his creative process, the emotional depth of his music, and even the quirks of writing lyrics in a language that's not his own.We also touch on the delicate balance between creativity and constraints. Anders shares how setting artistic boundaries can actually ignite innovation, and contrast the introspective solitude of studio work with the energy of live performance. We dive into the struggles of writer's block and the importance of receiving constructive feedback, all while emphasizing the joy that comes from evolving a piece of music with trusted collaborators. Anders has gone from bedroom producer to international success and we dive into one of his key moments with the seminal album, "The Last Resort."Finally, we explore how childhood influences and early musical experiences shape our paths. We also get a peek into his collaborative spirit, whether working with musicians like Rachel Goswell of Slowdive or navigating the complexities of evolving musical styles.Dreamweaver, Trentemøller’s 7th studio album is out now, find out more here.Follow Paul Hanford on InstagramLost and Sound is sponsored by Audio-TechnicaPaul’s BBC World Service radio documentary “The man who smuggled punk rock across the Berlin Wall” is available now on BBC Sounds. Click here to listen.Paul’s debut book, Coming To Berlin: Global Journeys Into An Electronic Music And Club Culturet Capital is out now on Velocity Press. Click here to find out more. Subscribe to the Lost and Sound Substack for fresh updates and writing.Lost and Sound title music by Thomas Giddins

Sep 19, 2024 • 58min
Will Gregory
Ever wondered how an award-winning musician navigates an entire orchestra of analog synthesizers? Join us on this week's Lost in Sound as Paul sits down with Will Gregory, one half of Goldfrapp and head honcho of the Will Gregory Moog Ensemble. You'll hear about his journey from playing saxophone with Tears for Fears in the '80s to collaborating with industry giants like Peter Gabriel, The Cure, and Portishead in the '90s. Discover the inspiration behind the Moog Ensemble's latest album, ignited by Wendy Carlos's "Switched-On Bach." Gregory sheds light on the unique challenges and nostalgic appeal of using vintage synthesizers, the logistics of live performances, and the thematic choice of making an album about Archimedes, connecting mathematics with music in unexpected ways. The pandemic reshaped his creative process, resulting in compositions that blend literal and abstract interpretations, akin to a film score for an imaginary biopic about the ancient mathematician. Explore the ever-evolving landscape of music consumption with us, as we discuss the shift from detailed jazz albums to the instant gratification of digital platforms like TikTok. Gregory reflects on the impact of these changes on listening habits and the importance of live performances in sustaining the music industry. We also delve into the cultural and artistic shifts of the early '70s, highlighting the necessity of artistic growth and the continuous battle with creative uncertainty. This episode offers an intimate look at the artistic journey and evolution of an innovative musician who has consistently pushed musical boundaries. Will Gregory Moog Ensemble - a Digital Deluxe edition of their debut album, Heat Ray: The Archimedes Project, set for release on Mute on 27 September 2024. Follow Paul Hanford on InstagramLost and Sound is sponsored by Audio-TechnicaPaul’s BBC World Service radio documentary “The man who smuggled punk rock across the Berlin Wall” is available now on BBC Sounds. Click here to listen.Paul’s debut book, Coming To Berlin: Global Journeys Into An Electronic Music And Club Culturet Capital is out now on Velocity Press. Click here to find out more. Subscribe to the Lost and Sound Substack for fresh updates and writing.Lost and Sound title music by Thomas Giddins

Sep 12, 2024 • 53min
Lara Jones
Ever wondered how an artist balances authenticity while pushing the electronic music boundaries? Lara Jones, the London-based experimental producer, saxophonist, keyboardist, and lyricist, opens up about her creative journey and how her music has evolved from the ambient sounds of her 2020 EP "Enzo" to the more club-oriented beats of her latest release, "Divided EP." She candidly shares her thoughts on the importance of allowing her music to grow with her interests, the challenges of maintaining authenticity, and how her identity shapes her creative process.Lara reflects on the emotional toll of the pandemic and the joy she found in touring her EPs. We explore the changing landscape of the music scene post-COVID, the rise of online collaborations, and the shifting attitudes towards live events. Lara's journey in creating her new EP is a testament to her desire to connect with her audience through a more community-driven approach, all while embracing a raw and varied vocal style inspired by artists like Lorraine James.Lara delves into the realities of making do with limited resources and unconventional spaces, emphasizing the importance of a flexible and fluid creative process. We discuss the unique dynamics of recording versus live performance and the ephemeral nature of live shows. Lara also shares the significance of her latest ambient project, designed for a geodesic dome installation, showcasing how her previous works continue to evolve.The Divided EP by Lara Jones is available from Sept 13th, find out more hereFollow Paul Hanford on InstagramLost and Sound is sponsored by Audio-TechnicaPaul’s BBC World Service radio documentary “The man who smuggled punk rock across the Berlin Wall” is available now on BBC Sounds. Click here to listen.Paul’s debut book, Coming To Berlin: Global Journeys Into An Electronic Music And Club Culturet Capital is out now on Velocity Press. Click here to find out more. Subscribe to the Lost and Sound Substack for fresh updates and writing.Lost and Sound title music by Thomas Giddins

Sep 5, 2024 • 51min
Kelly Lee Owens
Ever wondered how an artist collects dreams and ideas to craft an album? Electronic producer, musician and DJ Kelly Lee Owens walks us through her unique creative process behind her upcoming release, "Dreamstate," highlighting the importance of staying present and open to inspiration. She also shares her experiences touring with legends like Depeche Mode and the Chemical Brothers, shedding light on the euphoric energy that fuels her latest work.From the solitary nature of creation to the electrifying energy of live performances, Kelly opens up about the concept of positive escapism through music. She shares the joy and freedom found in connecting with massive crowds and recounts memorable encounters that have shaped her career. The conversation also touches on her collaborations with iconic artists such as Tom Rowlands and Bicep, emphasizing how mutual respect and artistic synergy can elevate the creative output.Lastly, we delve into themes of self-improvement and gratitude, exploring how Kelly balances the demands of an artistic career with personal growth. She reflects on her journey from working in a record store to becoming a full-time musician, highlighting the lessons learned and the importance of self-acceptance. This episode promises a heartfelt and candid look into Kelly Lee Owens' world, offering listeners invaluable insights into the life of a passionate and dedicated artist.‘Dreamstate’, Kelly’s fourth studio album is released Friday 18th October via dh2 and available to pre-order here.Follow Paul Hanford on InstagramLost and Sound is sponsored by Audio-TechnicaPaul’s BBC World Service radio documentary “The man who smuggled punk rock across the Berlin Wall” is available now on BBC Sounds. Click here to listen.Paul’s debut book, Coming To Berlin: Global Journeys Into An Electronic Music And Club Culturet Capital is out now on Velocity Press. Click here to find out more. Subscribe to the Lost and Sound Substack for fresh updates and writing.Lost and Sound title music by Thomas Giddins

Aug 7, 2024 • 1h 6min
Richard Sen
Ever wondered what it’s like to transition from being one of the UK's first graffiti writers to a distinguished DJ and producer? In our latest episode, we sit down with Richard Sen, who not only faced prison for his graffiti but also first started DJIng through the Acid House movement of the late '80s. We journey through his eclectic career, exploring his collaborations with icons like Brian Ferry and LCD Soundsystem, and discussing the impact of his new album "India Man," which delves deep into his multicultural heritage.Richard's story is a captivating blend of musical evolution and cultural exploration. From early influences shaped by a legendary Rolling Stones concert to discovering his own music taste through the Two-Tone movement and 80s pop, Richard takes us through the sounds that formed his artistic persona. We also explore the profound influence of hip-hop on his life, particularly how seminal works like "Subway Art" and "Style Wars" inspired his graffiti art during the turbulent times of Thatcher's Britain.But Richard's journey doesn't stop at music and art. He’s also a criminology scholar and volunteer, dedicated to helping prisoners reintegrate into society. We discuss how his academic pursuits and volunteer work with Saint Giles Trust have provided him with a unique perspective on the justice system. Join us for an episode rich with personal anecdotes, cultural insights, and the transformative power of art and community.To let us know the artists you’d like to hear, send us an email or even a letter. We’d love to hear! Listen and buy Richard Sen’s “India man” here.Listen to Richard’s show on Do!! You!!! Radio every Fri 12-2pm here.Follow Paul Hanford on InstagramLost and Sound is sponsored by Audio-TechnicaPaul’s BBC World Service radio documentary “The man who smuggled punk rock across the Berlin Wall” is available now on BBC Sounds. Click here to listen.Paul’s debut book, Coming To Berlin: Global Journeys Into An Electronic Music And Club Culturet Capital is out now on Velocity Press. Click here to find out more. Subscribe to the Lost and Sound Substack for fresh updates and writing.Lost and Sound title music by Thomas Giddins

Jul 31, 2024 • 1h 8min
Blixa Bargeld
Prepare to be inspired as we bring you an electrifying conversation with Blixa Bargeld, the visionary behind Einstürzende Neubauten and a former pivotal figure in Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds. Discover Blixa's groundbreaking approach to music, from the inventive use of found objects to his rigorously disciplined writing techniques. He shares fascinating, lesser-known anecdotes involving music legends like Jimmy Page and John Lydon, all while combining his signature intensity with moments of humor and profound insight.Journey with us as we unravel the vibrant musical connections between Berlin and New York, delving into how the unique conditions in both cities fueled a wave of artistic experimentation. Learn about the impact of urban decay and affordability on Berlin's underground culture, drawing parallels to New York's creative flux during the same era. We also explore Neubauten’s latest album "Rampen," delving into its live improvisational essence and the playful genre term "Alien Pop Music," emphasizing how creative constraints can spark unparalleled innovation.Lastly, we dive deep into Blixa's cryptic and non-linear writing style, understanding how he values the resonance of his work, even if it touches just one person. Blixa reveals his approach to improvisation and how the band's music serves as a medium for intellectual and artistic exploration. Through personal stories about Berlin's music scene in the 70s and 80s and his evolving writing process over the decades, this episode offers an intimate and compelling look into the mind of an avant-garde musical legend.To let us know the artists you’d like to hear, send us an email or even a letter. We’d love to hear! Listen and buy Einstürzende Neubauten’s “Rampen” here.Follow Paul Hanford on InstagramLost and Sound is sponsored by Audio-TechnicaPaul’s BBC World Service radio documentary “The man who smuggled punk rock across the Berlin Wall” is available now on BBC Sounds. Click here to listen.Paul’s debut book, Coming To Berlin: Global Journeys Into An Electronic Music And Club Culturet Capital is out now on Velocity Press. Click here to find out more. Subscribe to the Lost and Sound Substack for fresh updates and writing.Lost and Sound title music by Thomas Giddins

Jul 10, 2024 • 47min
Rosie Lowe
What happens when a multifaceted artist like Rosie Lowe decides to record an album across multiple countries with nothing but a studio in a bag? Join us as Rosie shares the compelling story behind her newest creation, "Lover Other," and the profound influence of her upbringing in a musically rich family. From the soulful streets of Florence to the vibrant energy of Berlin, discover how different environments shaped the raw and spontaneous sounds of her latest work.We also dive into the complexities of navigating the modern music industry while staying true to one's artistic vision. Rosie opens up about the eclectic musical influences she inherited from her family and the challenge of resisting the industry's urge to box her into a specific genre. The conversation takes a closer look at the tension between authenticity and the pressures of self-promotion, offering valuable insights for any aspiring musician grappling with the business side of music.Rosie Lowe also sheds light on the importance of well-being and therapy in her life. From daily rituals like meditation and gratitude practices to the therapeutic nature of songwriting, Rosie reveals how these tools help her maintain balance and foster creativity. Whether you're a music enthusiast or someone seeking personal growth, this episode promises an enriching journey through the intersections of music, mental health, and self-discovery.To let us know the artists you’d like to hear, send us an email or even a letter. We’d love to hear! Lover, Other by Rosie Lowe is available from August 16th. Pre-order it here.Follow Paul Hanford on InstagramLost and Sound is proudly sponsored by Audio-TechnicaPaul’s debut book, Coming To Berlin: Global Journeys Into An Electronic Music And Club Culture Capital is out now on Velocity Press. Click here to find out more. Subscribe to the Lost and Sound Substack for fresh updates and writing.Lost and Sound title music by Thomas Giddins

Jul 3, 2024 • 36min
DJ Fuckoff (2024)
DJ Fuckoff returns with a bang! After moving to Berlin with just a backpack and big dreams, our guest DJ Fuckoff skyrocketed to fame during the lockdowns with her electrifying streaming sets. We explore her unique blend of genres and find out how she taps into the emotional pulse of the crowd, creating unforgettable experiences on the dance floor. Get ready to hear about the empathetic side of DJing and how she balances her own mood with crowd reactions to create an inclusive and engaging atmosphere.Next, we dive deep into creative freedom and personal empowerment with DJ Fuckoff. Her breakthrough album "Fucktopia" marked a pivotal moment in her career by allowing her to explore diverse genres, from hardcore techno to ambient. We discuss the pressures of producing new music, the role of social media, and her choice to take a more relaxed approach to her craft. Discover how the conceptual framework of "Fucktopia" ties her tracks together and how her bold moniker has grown to symbolize a blend of confrontation and empowerment.Finally, DJ Fuckoff opens up about the intersection of anxiety and empowerment in the world of DJing, especially from a female perspective. She candidly shares personal experiences with sexism and inappropriate behavior in the industry, emphasizing the importance of speaking out against such misconduct. From her early exposure to music in Auckland to her father's influence in the psytrance scene, we journey through her musical upbringing and the path that led her to DJing success. Tune in for some valuable advice for aspiring DJs: play what you love and stay true to yourself.Check out DJ Fuckoff's work hereTo let us know the artists you’d like to hear, send us an email or even a letter. We’d love to hear! Follow Paul Hanford on InstagramLost and Sound is proudly sponsored by Audio-TechnicaPaul’s debut book, Coming To Berlin: Global Journeys Into An Electronic Music And Club Culture Capital is out now on Velocity Press. Click here to find out more. Subscribe to the Lost and Sound Substack for fresh updates and writing.Lost and Sound title music by Thomas Giddins