
Lost And Sound
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.
Latest episodes

Apr 15, 2024 • 53min
Luke Slater
Luke Slater has remained an authentic titan in underground clubland for over 35 years. Among the very first European DJs and producers to be influenced by the techno and house coming out of Detroit and Chicago, he speaks with Paul ahead of the release of his new LB Dub Corp album.Luke and Paul dissect the seismic cultural shifts that propelled a once clandestine scene into a global phenomenon, pondering the balance between the rebellious soul of the genre and its mainstream allure. The dialogue ventures into the impact of technology on music creation, revealing how artists like Slater are not just navigating but shaping this science-fiction reality we live in today.The episode crescendos as we explore Slater's alchemic process of fusing diverse musical influences, from dub to collaborating with legends like Robert Owens and a spontaneous musical partnership with Miss Kitten. As we recount the journey of Planetary Assault Systems and the birth of tracks shaped by the unique acoustics of venues like Berghain, we draw back the curtain on the philosophy that drives this techno virtuoso's life and art.The new LB Dub Corp album ‚Saturn To Home‘ is out on Dekmantel on May 24th 2024. Pre-order it here.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

Apr 7, 2024 • 48min
Empress Of
Imagine stepping into a studio where the walls echo with a fusion of alt-pop and club ready electronic innovation, colored with the vibrant heritage of Honduran American culture. That's the journey we embark upon with multi-hyphenate Lorely Rodriguez, better known as Empress Of. Lorely doesn't just talk about her music, she takes us through the raw and transformative process of her creative process.The conversation takes us deeper, where the art of music production unfolds in its most genuine form. Stripping back the layers, Lorely muses on how the simplest of melodies can sometimes reveal the true strength of a composition. The chat turns to tales of stepping into the unknown, embracing the newness of a studio gadget, or the raw vulnerability of an acoustic performance.For Your Consideration by Empress Of is available now here.Presented and produced by Paul Hanford 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

Apr 3, 2024 • 57min
Sebastian Mullaert
Sebastian Mullaert, prodigious electronic musician and former classical violist, voted by Resident Advisor as one of the world’s top live acts and twice Swedish Grammy nominated, reveals the enigmatic blend of spontaneity and meticulous craftsmanship that defines his practice, from his transition into electronic music, his acclaimed Circle Of Live project and his latest collaborative project HIND with Henrik Frendin.The essence of creativity and connection takes centre stage in this episode, where the interplay between intellect and emotion in music is dissected. Sebastian explores the transformative power of presence in the artistic process. Music lovers and creators alike will find resonance in our discussion on the challenges of pop production, and the importance of infusing recordings with the authenticity of the human touch.Finally, we challenge conventional notions of creativity, venturing beyond the quantifiable into the realm of natural energy and life force. In a society that often equates creativity with productivity, Sebastian advocates for an approach that honours the ebb and flow of the artistic cycle, emphasising the importance of nurturing an environment where artists can truly thrive. Sebastian Mullaert's insights serve as both inspiration and invitation to rediscover the joys of unfettered artistic expression.The album HIND – Sebastian‘s collaboration with Henrik Frendin is released 24th May via Lamour Records, pre-order it here.Presented and produced by Paul Hanford 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

Mar 25, 2024 • 38min
Eddington Again
Alt R&B sonic sculptor Eddington Again and I shared stories of our creative voyages—one leading to the bustling streets of Berlin, and the other to the quiet solitude of a writing nook. In our latest episode, the songwriter, singer and composer delves into their artistic metamorphosis, charting a course from their West Coast beginnings to the introspective melodies of their debut album "Naomi 9." Our conversation taps into how physical spaces, from sun-kissed coasts to the brooding German capital, leave an indelible mark on artistic expression. There's an unspoken language in the meticulous composition of music, much like the careful curation of a living space. This episode peels back the layers of Eddington Again‘s songwriting craft, where each note is placed with intention, telling its own story. We wax poetic about the pressures of industry demands and the constant pursuit of output, celebrating the purest form of expression that emerges despite, or perhaps because of, these challenges. It's a dialogue that honors the intricate dance of creating art that resonates with the soul of listeners. Finally, we bridge the gap between solitude and the rich tapestry of collaboration. Reflecting on the transition from pen to keyboard, and how our individual journeys through isolation can unexpectedly fuel the creative flames. Eddington Again opens up about the dynamics of working solo versus in harmony with others, and the search for those rare collaborators who share the same fervor for music. Eddington Again‘s album Naomi9 is out now on !K7 Records herePresented and produced by Paul Hanford 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 GiddinsINSTA

Mar 17, 2024 • 55min
Allie X
Have you ever wondered what it takes to assert artistic independence in the ever-changing maelstrom of the music industry? Alt popstar Allie X joins us this week to unravel the tapestry of her career, from the depths of Canada's underground to her rise to stardom, and the creative force behind her latest LP "The Girl With No Face." Together, we traverse the terrain of her musical influences, the unmistakable imprint of '80s new wave and synthpop on her work, and the challenges she had been secretly braving in the industry.Through tales of attending legendary rock concerts to embracing the nuances of goth culture, we celebrate the journey of music-making and the intimate relationship between influence and personal expression. Allie X pulls back the curtain on the meticulous craft of album production, from the steep learning curves to mastering Ableton Live—all through the lens of an artist who maintains control over every beat of her journey.As the spotlight intensifies, we get real about the seldom-discussed intersection of chronic illness and the music industry. The conversation shifts to the raw and vulnerable aspects of Allie X's life, challenging the norms of what it means to be a public figure with private battles. Hear how the power of fan support emboldens authenticity and risk-taking in an artist's evolution. We wrap up with the emotional highs and lows that accompany an artist's trajectory, emphasizing the significance of resilience and the profound impact of a community that listens and lifts each other up through the rhythm of life.The Girl With No Face is available now, order it here.Presented and produced by Paul Hanford 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

Mar 9, 2024 • 49min
Alex Paterson
Step into the ambient world of trailblazer Dr. Alex Paterson of The Orb, sharing his captivating story on Lost in Sound. Our journey with Alex takes us from the inception of ambient house to his acoustic adventures with the Sedibus project, all while uncovering the artistic vigor that has fueled his five-decade-long voyage through the music industry. We relish the nostalgia of chart-topping victories, a totally surreal chess-themed performance on Top of the Pops, and delve into the enduring resonance of "Little Fluffy Clouds."With laughter and earnest reflection, Alex recalls the exuberance of the acid house scene, his time as a roadie for Killing Joke, and the antics of The KLF, painting a vibrant picture of the friendships and chaos that shaped an era. This episode isn't just a look back at the past; it's a testament to music's timeless journey and the undying passion that drives an artist like Alex, who eschews retirement and zeitgeist for the relentless pursuit of creation.Finally, through candid anecdotes and personal memories, Alex provides insight into the lasting influence of late artists, muses humorously about secret islands for escaping fame, and shares how non-traditional musicians like himself have brought new sounds to the forefront. From wild rave stories to the enduring friendships forged in the heat of the acid house scene's heyday, this episode is an affectionate homage to the rhythms that keep legends like Dr. Alex Patterson crafting the soundtrack of our lives.The second Sedibus album ‘SETI’ out now on Orbscure Recordings, check it out here. Presented and produced by Paul Hanford 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

Jan 30, 2024 • 40min
Slauson Malone 1
Embark on a journey through the innovative soundscape of Jasper Marsalis, known artistically as Slauson Malone 1, in a conversation that transcends the conventional boundaries of music genres. As we sit down with Jasper, we uncover the multifaceted layers of his album "Excelsior," a fusion of the avant-garde, alt R&B, and lo-fi rock that defies easy categorization. He talks about his rich heritage, his father being Pulitzer Prize winning jazz legend Winton Marsalis, yet this ain’t no nepo baby: Jasper is an acclaimed exhibiting visual artist and his music feels like the communication of a true outlier.In a broader exploration of artistic expression, we tackle the subjective nature of art evaluation and the complex dynamics of inspiration. Through discussions on alter egos in music to the legacy of 60s experimental composers, we navigate the interwoven themes of music, societal commentary, and the creative legacy that define our cultural landscape. Jasper's reflections on balancing the weight of a musical family name with his individual path provide a candid glimpse into the world where personal history and artistic aspiration converge. Join us for this compelling episode, where we dissect the essence of what makes music a timeless form of human connection and self-expression.Excelsior is out now on Warp RecordsPresented and produced by Paul Hanford 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

Jan 24, 2024 • 45min
Anenon
Paul heads into a deep dive into the transformative world of improvised music, where Anenon aka Brian Allen Simon shares his artistic evolution. From crafting beats in LA's vibrant Low End Theory scene to the raw, unedited improv of his latest work 'Moons Melt Milk Lights,' we uncover the emotional resonance that springs forth when production veils are lifted.Embark on a journey through the creative ebbs and flows that define a musician's life, as Anenon recounts his transition from a digital realm to the tangible immediacy of live performance. The quiet of the pandemic served as an unlikely muse, presenting Anenon with the time to refine his mastery of saxophone and piano – a path that culminated in an album unmarked by edits, a pure expression of presence and vulnerability.Moons Melt Milk Light is out now on Tonal UnionPresented and produced by Paul Hanford 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

Jan 17, 2024 • 40min
yunè pinku
South London's yunè pinku is an artist whose tapestries of sound, blending club beats with poignant songwriting, perfectly soundtrack the season of new beginnings. With the echo of her EPs "Babylon IX" and "Bluff" in our ears, we navigate conversations around her journey, experiences with industry luminaries such as Charlie XCX and Joy Orbison, and the curious mix of excitement and uncertainty that marks the year ahead.Our discussion pirouettes around Yunè Pinku's culturally vibrant background, where Irish folk songs meet the pulsing heart of electronic music, all under the watchful eye of her supportive mother. We talk about her artistic evolution, from initial sound experiments to a lockdown-fueled dedication that saw her shaping silence into rhythm, and the sweet irony of crafting club tracks in the quiet of solitude. Yuné Pinku opens up about her creative process, from frustrating blocks to the euphoric breakthroughs, and the freedom that comes from tossing genre constraints aside and letting inspiration lead the way.Closing our session, Yune Pinku transports us to the global stages of music festivals, from the sun-baked fields of Australia to the electric buzz of American crowds. She reflects on the whirlwind nature of touring and the cultural awakenings therein, pondering the advice she might give her younger self.Killing Bee by yunè pinku, available herePresented and produced by Paul Hanford 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

Jan 12, 2024 • 53min
Cults
As the winter chill sets in, imagine cozying up with a warm cup of tea and the wall of noise psych-pop of Cults, the band that first took over the web with "Go Outside." In this episode, Brian Oblivion and Madeleine Follin join Paul to share their journey from a viral sensation to seasoned artists. We meander through their contrasting COVID experiences, with Brian finding solace in the snow-capped quiet of upstate New York while Maddie paints a vivid picture from the bustling downstate. Their anecdotes of musical resurgence on TikTok will remind you why "Always Forever" and "Gilded Lily" have found a new lease on life among listeners.Have you ever wondered about the creative alchemy that fuels a band's sound? Brian and Maddie pull back the curtain on their songwriting and recording process, with a candid look at their winter studio sessions and the tightrope walk of their unique partnership. They offer a glimpse into their musical origins, from Maddie's punk band beginnings to Brian's unconventional path, all leading up to a serendipitous convergence that neither of them saw coming. Their reflections on navigating the music industry's ebbs and flows are as enlightening as they are inspiring.To round off our chat, we explore the delicate interplay of hope and pragmatism that drives a musician's career. Brian and Maddie share insights into the validation they've felt from new platforms and the importance of staying humble and adaptable, echoing advice from family that has kept them grounded.Presented and produced by Paul Hanford 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. Lost and Sound title music by Thomas Giddins