Resilience and creativity go hand-in-hand in Marie's latest round of inspiring interviews
March has been a whirlwind for the Punk Rock Creatives Podcast – intense, inspiring, and full of connection. Between gigs, events, and activism, it’s been a month that reminded us of the power of punk communities coming together. One highlight was the Stand Up to Racism protest, a long-overdue gathering of people united against injustice. On the music front, I also had the pleasure of playing a Love Music Hate Racism show with Marie & the Meltdownz, bringing punk energy to an important cause.
On a personal level, March was a mix of challenges and milestones. From mourning family losses at the start of the year to navigating relationship changes, it’s been a reflective time. A personal victory also came with winning a tribunal case against my local council, securing an educational psychologist assessment for my son – a moment of relief and empowerment.
Podcast Highlights
The podcast itself is entering an exciting phase. I’ve recorded a strong run of episodes set to drop over the coming weeks, carrying us through to early June. This month’s episodes feature conversations with:
- Peter Jones of Paranoid Visions
- Punk author Damian Jay Clay
- Wasp from Rites of Hadda
- Stefano from Solo 1981
Each episode is packed with energy, laughter, and occasional hard-hitting truths.
Peter Jones – Paranoid Visions
Chatting with Peter is always a laugh. We cover the origins of Paranoid Visions, their anarcho-punk ethos, and how the political climate shaped their sound. Peter shares insights on Rotator Vinyl, his stint with Molly Vulpyne’s band, and the upcoming Paranoid Visions documentary. We also reflect upon Rebellion Festival, the anarcho stage, the legacy of Vi Subversa, and Radical Architects, who will perform a full set of Poison Girls songs to mark ten years since Vi’s passing. Peter’s perspective on staying true to punk spirit and the now-defunct Dirty Love project adds depth to the conversation.
Damian Jay Clay – Writing, Identity, Resilience
Damian shares candid reflections on their novel Generation Vex, exploring themes of identity and resilience. The discussion delves into living with dyspraxia, growing up neurodivergent, and how formative school experiences can leave lasting impressions. It’s a conversation that is as insightful as it is inspiring, highlighting how personal challenges can fuel creativity.
Wilderness Wasp Howl – Rites of Hadda
Wasp brings chaos, energy, and pure punk creativity. From politics to wigs (yes, wigs), music to health. The episode moves from laughter and raucous energy to serious discussions on homophobia and personal experiences, creating a conversation that’s fearless, funny, and unexpectedly deep. If you haven’t seen Rites of Hadda live, do yourself a favor and get to a show.
Stefano Giambastiani – Solo 1981
Calling in from Italy, Stefano talks about the transition from Acid Brains to their solo project Solo 1981, and the differences between the Italian and UK music scenes. We explore songwriting, mental health, punk as a form of expression, and Stefano’s creative work in poetry and visual art. Their insights highlight how punk continues to be a vibrant outlet for personal and artistic expression.
Reflections
What stands out the most from my conversations with Wasp and Damian is their resilience and creativity. Despite facing adversity, both have channelled their experiences into powerful, meaningful work, whether through music or writing. Their voices are truly inspiring, and it’s a privilege to share their stories on Punk Rock Creatives Podcast.
March reminded me – and hopefully our listeners – that punk is more than music. It’s community, it’s activism, and it’s the fearless telling of your own story.
Over and out—We were Punk Rock Creatives.
See you next time…
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Podcaster Marie hosts a regular Punk interview show: “I like chatting to people and listening to their creative journeys, and I like punk! It’s a huge part of who I am, and putting the two together, and talking to other creatives just seems to work.” She joined Lost Cherrees as vocalist in 2012, and after a break has recently stepped onto the stage as a solo performer. Marie is a Graphic Designer and a Special Educational Needs advocate.
Did you know that we are 100% DIY? We run our own game. No one dictates to us, and no one drives what we can or cannot put on our pages – and this is how we plan to continue!
