Now Spinning Music Magazine - Artist Interviews and Music Reviews

Jon Lord was far more than the Hammond organ player in Deep Purple.

In this episode of the Now Spinning Magazine Podcast, Phil Aston talks to author Ovais Naqvi about his new book Before We Forget — a deeply researched and highly original study of Jon Lord’s life through his sound, instruments, influences and compositions.

From Deep Purple and Whitesnake to Pictured Within and Durham Concerto, this conversation explores the full scope of Jon Lord’s musical legacy — including the Hammond organs, synths, classical influences and emotional depth that made him one of the most distinctive musicians in rock history.If you love Deep Purple, classic rock, keyboard-driven music, or Jon Lord’s later orchestral work, this is an episode not to miss.Please subscribe to the channel, follow the podcast, and visit nowspinning.co.uk for more features, reviews and interviews.

Phil Aston | Now Spinning Magazine

Metal Monthly Ep2- The Monthly Heavy Metal Show from Now Spinning Magazine, with Phil Aston and co-host Wayne McAloon.In this episode we dive into the huge Darkthrone vinyl box set, talk black metal old and new, discuss the new Melvins / Napalm Death collaboration, revisit the recent Rainbow box set, and look ahead to releases from Heaven & Hell, Exodus, Hellripper, Myrath and Winterfylleth.We also reflect on the loss of Phil Campbell and remember the legacy of Randy Rhoads.If you love metal, hard rock, box sets, physical media and discovering new music, this is for you.Thank you for all your supportPhil

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Robin Trower talks about two live albums released from very different periods of his career.We talk about the newly expanded and remixed Robin Trower Live! from 1976, and the superb new One Moment In Time: Live In The USA, recorded on his 2025 tour.Robin also discusses:how he chooses the best live performanceswhy the power trio format still works so wellhow he keeps classic songs like Daydream and Too Rolling Stoned freshhis guitar setup, amps, effects and string choiceshow he practices and stays mentally and physically fit for touringwhat music he still listens to for inspirationand a hint at what may be coming next in the reissue campaignA really insightful and inspiring chat with one of the most distinctive guitarists in rock.If you enjoy this interview, please like, subscribe and share — and visit nowspinning.co.uk for more reviews, features and interviews.

In this episode, me and Sue Aston sit down with Katherine Priddy to explore her third album These Frightening Machines (out March 6 via Cooking Vinyl). Katherine discusses the lyrical themes running through the record — time, memory, womanhood, identity, relationships, and the feeling of being a “work in progress.”We talk in depth about the stories behind key tracks including “Matches” (reclaiming the voices of women erased by history), “Frightening Machines” (mortality, illness, and feeling trapped inside a malfunctioning body), “Hurricane” (groove, desire, and disconnection), “Madeleine” (solidarity between women in music), and standout songs like “A Matter of Time” and “Table Four.”Katherine also shares what it was like recording in rural Devon with producer Rob Ellis, how the album was shaped in the studio, and why she chose to end the record on a question mark with “Could This Be Enough?”These Frightening Machines is available on vinyl, CD and cassette, and Katherine tours the UK in April & May 2026 (with dates on her website).Become a Patron for exclusive videos and join the Now Spinning Arms virtual pub twice a month.Become a Patron (free trial -cancel anytime)https://www.patreon.com/nowspinningNow Spinning Magazine Storehttps://burningshed.com/store/now-spinning-magazineVisit the Now Spinning Magazine Merch Shophttps://nowspinningmagazine.co.uk/

Blues Rock Guitarist Danny Bryant returns to the Now Spinning Magazine Podcast for a powerful, honest conversation about his new album Nothing Left Behind — and the life-changing journey behind it.Since our last interview, Danny has come through alcohol addiction, rebuilt his health, and found a new clarity as a songwriter, vocalist and guitarist. We talk sobriety, anxiety, recovery, and how that transformation shaped the most uplifting and emotionally direct music of his career. Plus: deep track chat, guitar tone talk (Strats vs Les Pauls), the “20 minutes before the airport” solo story, and what it’s like playing live fully present.Become a Patron for exclusive videos and join the Now Spinning Arms virtual pub twice a month.Become a Patron (free trial -cancel anytime)https://www.patreon.com/nowspinningNow Spinning Magazine Storehttps://burningshed.com/store/now-spinning-magazineVisit the Now Spinning Magazine Merch Shophttps://nowspinningmagazine.co.uk/

Kenney Jones — legendary drummer with the Small Faces, Faces and The Who — joins me on the Now Spinning Magazine Podcast alongside Nigel Adams from Nice Records.We discuss the brand new deluxe reissue of Ogdens’ Nut Gone Flake, the story behind the iconic album, and how the label is restoring classic recordings with care and attention to detail.During the conversation they also reveal exciting future projects including Small Faces singles box sets, a major Humble Pie archive release and rare material discovered in Kenney’s personal tape collection.If you love classic rock, vinyl, and beautifully produced physical releases, this is a fascinating conversation with one of rock’s great musicians.Become a Patron for exclusive videos and join the Now Spinning Arms virtual pub twice a month.Become a Patron (free trial -cancel anytime)https://www.patreon.com/nowspinningNow Spinning Magazine Storehttps://burningshed.com/store/now-spinning-magazineVisit the Now Spinning Magazine Merch Shophttps://nowspinningmagazine.co.uk/

In this episode, me and Sue Aston sit down with Katherine Priddy to explore her third album These Frightening Machines (out March 6 via Cooking Vinyl). Katherine discusses the lyrical themes running through the record — time, memory, womanhood, identity, relationships, and the feeling of being a “work in progress.”We talk in depth about the stories behind key tracks including “Matches” (reclaiming the voices of women erased by history), “Frightening Machines” (mortality, illness, and feeling trapped inside a malfunctioning body), “Hurricane” (groove, desire, and disconnection), “Madeleine” (solidarity between women in music), and standout songs like “A Matter of Time” and “Table Four.”Katherine also shares what it was like recording in rural Devon with producer Rob Ellis, how the album was shaped in the studio, and why she chose to end the record on a question mark with “Could This Be Enough?”These Frightening Machines is available on vinyl, CD and cassette, and Katherine tours the UK in April & May 2026 (with dates on her website).Become a Patron for exclusive videos and join the Now Spinning Arms virtual pub twice a month.Become a Patron (free trial -cancel anytime)https://www.patreon.com/nowspinningNow Spinning Magazine Storehttps://burningshed.com/store/now-spinning-magazineVisit the Now Spinning Magazine Merch Shophttps://nowspinningmagazine.co.uk/

Jon Davison from YES joins me on the Now Spinning Magazine Podcast to discuss performing the legendary album Fragile live, stepping into the role once held by Jon Anderson, and why YES continue to push progressive rock forward.Jon reflects on discovering YES as a teenager through “Owner of a Lonely Heart”, exploring the band’s earlier music, and the surreal experience of singing songs like “Roundabout” on stage with the band he grew up admiring.We also talk about the future of YES, their upcoming studio album, and why progressive rock should always challenge both musicians and listeners.Topics include:Performing the album Fragile liveThe legacy of YES and Jon AndersonWriting and performing new YES materialSteve Howe’s leadership in the bandWhy progressive rock should always evolve🎵 Remember — music is the healer and the doctor.

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Geoff Downes joins me on the Now Spinning Magazine Podcast to talk Asia, YES, Icon, and the emotional weight of legacy.Fresh back from Japan with Asia, Geoff reflects on revisiting the legendary Asia in Asia era — performing the original 1983 set — and how it feels playing those songs now, without John Wetton.

We also dive into the upcoming YES UK tour, where the band will perform 1971’s Fragile in its entirety, and Geoff shares how he approaches the album’s iconic solos and epics — including the surprising reality of opening with “Roundabout.”

Plus: Geoff discusses the Icon “Lexicon” retrospective, what he misses most about writing with John Wetton, and he confirms that the new Yes album is recorded, finished, and delivered.If you’re heading to see Yes on the UK tour, drop your memories (and your favourite Downes moments) in the comments.Become a Patron for exclusive videos and join the Now Spinning Arms virtual pub twice a month.Become a Patron (free trial -cancel anytime)https://www.patreon.com/nowspinningNow Spinning Magazine Storehttps://burningshed.com/store/now-spinning-magazineVisit the Now Spinning Magazine Merch Shophttps://nowspinningmagazine.co.uk/

Rock legend Suzi Quatro joins me on the Now Spinning Magazine Podcast to discuss her powerful new album Freedom, released March 27.

In this in-depth conversation Suzi talks about working with her son and guitarist L.R. Tuckey, returning to her Detroit rock roots, recording a duet with Alice Cooper, and why the new album is one of the most honest records she has ever made.

She also reveals how she keeps herself physically and mentally fit while continuing to tour the world at 75 — and why determination has always been the secret to her longevity.If you love classic rock, blues rock and real rock ’n’ roll attitude, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss. Phil

Steven Wilson joins me for an exclusive conversation following The Overview winning Now Spinning Magazine’s Album of the Year vote — and Phil’s Editor’s Choice.

Steven discusses how he writes with both stereo and immersive formats in mind, why spatial audio matters, and what fans can expect from his two special Royal Albert Hall shows featuring orchestra and choir. They also explore Steven’s philosophy around “imperfection” in recordings, why limitations can create magic, and how classic production techniques still shape his approach today.

A major focus of the conversation is Headphone Dust — Steven’s new high-resolution platform designed to preserve immersive audio beyond the limitations of physical formats, and to bridge the gap between low-res streaming and limited deluxe editions.

The discussion also touches on “prog vs progressive,” generational listening habits, and whether we’re living in a golden age of sound quality — but a fragile age of musical value.

Thank you - Phil

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Neal Morse returns to the Now Spinning Magazine Podcast to discuss the brand new Neal Morse Band album L.I.F.T. — a powerful progressive rock journey about belonging, disconnection, faith and restoration.In this in-depth conversation, Neal reveals:How the album was written in just seven daysThe meaning behind “Hurt People Hurt People”The deeply personal inspiration for “Shame About My Shame”Why L.I.F.T. must be heard as one continuous pieceAnd how faith can be cyclical rather than linearIf you love progressive rock, concept albums and music that truly moves the soul, this is one not to miss.

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Welcome to the first episode of Metal Monthly on Now Spinning Magazine!In this new series joined by musician and sound engineer Wayne McAloon to explore the modern heavy metal landscape — from new British traditional metal to atmospheric black metal, thrash legends, underground discoveries and upcoming releases.Is heavy metal really in decline… or is it stronger than ever?We discuss:Tail GunnerKreatorWormSODOMURNEMegadeth’s latest releaseThe evolution of thrash and black metalWhy metal fans still buy physical mediaWhat’s coming next in 2026Metal Monthly will return every four weeks.Thank you for all your supportPhil

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In this episode of the Now Spinning Magazine Podcast, I’m joined once again by Danny Vaughn from Tyketto to talk about the band’s brand-new album Closer to the Sun.

We explore the album track by track, the optimism and hope running through the songs, Danny’s approach to songwriting and vocal health, the importance of band chemistry, and why recording together still matters.

We also discuss touring plans, recording at Rockfield Studios, and how music continues to connect people across cultures and generations. Closer to the Sun is out March 20 — and it’s one of the most uplifting rock albums you’ll hear this year. Phil

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“We’ve been saying for years — stop telling everyone that the CD is dead, because it’s not.”— Karen Emanuel OBE, Key ProductionIn this exclusive Music Biz Chat, Phil Aston from Now Spinning Magazine goes inside the physical music industry with Karen Emanuel OBE, CEO of Key Production — one of the UK’s leading manufacturers of CDs, vinyl and premium physical formats.Forget the headlines. Karen shares what labels, artists and independents are actually ordering, why CDs are far from dead, how vinyl is evolving, and what collectors should expect next.If you care about physical music, this is a conversation that truly matters.👉 Are you still buying CDs, vinyl or deluxe box sets?Drop your thoughts in the comments and join the discussion.Become a Patron (free trial -cancel anytime)https://www.patreon.com/nowspinningNow Spinning Magazine Storehttps://burningshed.com/store/now-spinning-magazineVisit the Now Spinning Magazine Merch Shophttps://nowspinningmagazine.co.uk/

On this episode of the Now Spinning Magazine Podcast, I’m joined by Joe Nally — bassist and vocalist from London heavy metal force URNE.

We dive deep into URNE’s new album Setting Fire To The Sky: how the songs were written (including a brilliant “Tesco riff” moment), the band’s surprisingly broad influences (from Metallica and Priest to soul music, Toto and Peter Gabriel), and how Joe approaches vocals in the studio vs surviving the demands of touring.

Joe also shares the meaning behind the album title (with a nod to Ronnie James Dio and Ritchie Blackmore), the story behind the epic closing tracks, working with Troy Sanders, and why heavy metal can be a genuinely spiritual, uplifting force.If you love modern metal with real heart, huge production, and riffs for days — this one’s for you.

Thank you for all your supportPhil

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Tales From Topographic Oceans by YES has always been an album that divides opinion — even among prog fans.In this video, I take a deep dive into the Super Deluxe “Definitive” Edition, exploring the packaging, the vinyl, the extensive CD content, the newly unearthed live recordings, and — most importantly — the 2026 Dolby Atmos and surround mixes.This isn’t just an unboxing. It’s a personal journey through an album I’ve grown into over decades, and a reflection on why this music matters more now than ever.If you love progressive rock, physical media, and albums that reward active listening, this one’s for you.☕ Make a pot of tea.🎧 Turn off your phone.🎶 And let the music take you somewhere else.Remember — music is the healer and the doctor.If you’d like to support the channel, get ad-free videos, and join our private community and virtual pub The Now Spinning Arms, check out the links below.Become a Patron (free trial -cancel anytime)https://www.patreon.com/nowspinningNow Spinning Magazine Storehttps://burningshed.com/store/now-spinning-magazineVisit the Now Spinning Magazine Merch Shophttps://nowspinningmagazine.co.uk/

In this episode of the Now Spinning Magazine Podcast, I am joined by Gregory Spawton of Big Big Train for an in-depth interview about the band’s new album Woodcut.We explore how an accidental visit to a woodcut exhibition sparked the band’s first full-length concept album, the creative shift that came with Alberto Bravin producing, the expanding role of Clare Lindley, and why Big Big Train insist on recording together in the same room.From philosophy and storytelling to guitar solos, restraint, and the power of active listening, this is a deep dive into one of the most thoughtful and rewarding progressive rock albums of recent years.Become a Patron (free trial -cancel anytime)https://www.patreon.com/nowspinningNow Spinning Magazine Storehttps://burningshed.com/store/now-spinning-magazineVisit the Now Spinning Magazine Merch Shophttps://nowspinningmagazine.co.uk/

Big Big Train return with Woodcut, their 16th studio album and second with vocalist Alberto Bravin — and it’s an absolute triumph.In this album review, I explore the album’s concept, musicianship, standout tracks and why Woodcut feels like an album full of hope, light and human emotion. Whether you’re a long-time Big Big Train fan or completely new to the band, this is a perfect entry point into one of the finest progressive rock catalogues of the modern era.

Phil Aston | Now Spinning Magazine

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I’m More Famous Now Than When I Was Famous” — Peter Goalby’s Incredible ReturnI’m delighted to welcome back Peter Goalby — the voice many of you will remember from Uriah Heep, plus Trapeze and more.In this interview we dive into Peter’s astonishing “lost DAT tape” album Don’t Think This Is Over — recorded after he left Heep, then believed gone forever until a poorly-labelled tape resurfaced 34 years later. Even better, Mick Box and John Sinclair added new overdubs in 2025, and Peter personally oversaw the whole release from transfer to mastering to artwork.We talk songwriting, why Peter writes from the chorus/title backwards, what makes a Peter Goalby chorus work, the story behind “The Sound of a Nation”, how “I Don’t Want to Fight” was reinvented, and why Peter says he’s more famous now than when he was famous.If you love heartfelt, feel-good melodic rock with huge choruses — and you’ve got a soft spot for the Peter Goalby era of Uriah Heep — this one’s for you.Become a Patron (free trial -cancel anytime)https://www.patreon.com/nowspinningNow Spinning Magazine Storehttps://burningshed.com/store/now-spinning-magazineVisit the Now Spinning Magazine Merch Shophttps://nowspinningmagazine.co.uk/

Do you have a music collection… or do you have a music library?In this special Now Spinning Magazine feature, I explore why the words we use to describe our records, CDs, and box sets really matter. This isn’t just about physical media—it’s about memory, identity, community, and how music becomes the soundtrack to our lives.

From light-hearted collector confessions to deeper reflections on curation, ownership, and connection, this episode looks at why a music library is far more than “stuff on shelves”.Thank you for all your support - PhilJoin the Now Spinning Magazine CommunityJoin a global community of music fans who share your passion for collecting and enjoying physical music.From £3 / $3 per month (Cancel at any time)Benefits1.Get access to the Now Spinning Magazine Private Facebook Group Community2.Get Access to the Private What's App Group Community - Deals & Offers, New Release News and friendly Music chat with like minded collectors3, Invites to our twice Monthly Virtual Meet Ups at our own virtual pub called 'The Now Spinning Arms'.4. Get to see all our videos AD Free amd before they are released to the public.5. Access to exclusive video and photo content6. Special Discounts on Now Spinning Magazine Merch - T-Shirts, Mugs and more7. Access to our Video PanelsHow To JoinYou can join via Patreon or as a YouTube Member - the benefits are the same!Join Via Patronhttps://www.patreon.com/c/nowspinningJoin Via YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UCnZSsMr4k8ZVlrJ8MUYR4GA/joinNow Spinning Magazine https://www.nowspinning.co.uk

In this special Now Spinning Magazine conversation, I talk to Amy Shackleton and Lizzie Hoskin from Music for Dementia about practical, hopeful ways to reconnect people living with dementia — and their carers — to the music they love.We discuss:How music reduces anxiety, calms agitation, and rekindles memoryWhy streaming and modern devices can accidentally shut older listeners outm4dRADIO — a free, ad-free station by decade (1940s–1980s) designed as a safe listening spaceThe Yoto Player trial — simple, screen-free listening that helps families “just press play”Easy steps anyone can take: 10-song starter playlists, routines, and community👉 Learn more: musicfordementia.org.uk🎧 Listen free: m4dRADIO.com

Phil Aston | Now Spinning Magazine

Steve Morse Interview : on Loss, Hope and Instrumental Storytelling

Taken by an Angel: Steve Morse on Loss, Hope and Instrumental StorytellingIn this episode of the Now Spinning Magazine podcast, I sit down with legendary guitarist Steve Morse to dive deep into his new instrumental album Triangulation.Steve talks about the freedom of making a record with no industry expectations, the almost telepathic musical connection he shares with Dave LaRue, and how tracks like “Too Many Parts” grew into ambitious, multi-section odysseys.He also opens up about the deeply personal closing piece “Taken by an Angel”, recorded with his son Kevin in memory of Steve’s late wife – a story of grief, love and hope told entirely through melody.We discuss adapting his technique as his hands change with age, why melody now matters more than ever in his writing, and how guest appearances from John Petrucci and Eric Johnson came together.If you’re a fan of Steve Morse, Deep Purple, Dixie Dregs, or you’re a guitarist who loves thoughtful, emotional instrumental music, this conversation is a must-listen.Triangulation is out now on Mascot – please support the music by picking up the CD or vinyl and, of course, by sharing this episode with fellow fans.

Phil Aston | Now Spinning Magazine

Seven Decades of Deep PurpleJoin me, Phil Aston, for a heartfelt conversation with music writer Martin Popoff, as we explore his monumental new book Seven Decades of Deep Purple — a 640-page celebration of every era of the band that changed rock forever.We discuss:How Martin rebuilt and expanded his earlier Purple booksThe emotional connection he has with the bandWhy the Purpendicular–present era may be Purple’s strongestThe “walk in Portugal” that changed everythingHow the band’s sound and spirit survived endless lineup changesSlaves & Masters, Made in Japan, improvisation, album art, Simon McBride and moreWhat =1 represents — and whether it would be a fitting final chapterThis is one of the most insightful and passionate Deep Purple discussions you’ll ever hear — from two lifelong fans who could happily talk Purple for days.If you love Deep Purple, this episode is unmissable.

Phil Aston | Now Spinning Magazine

“Lunatic Soul was never the ‘bassist’s side project’. It’s the composer’s project—the place I can be completely free.” Mariusz DudaThere aren’t many artists who can glide between rock, ambient, electronic and filmic sound design with the grace of Mariusz Duda. As the voice, bassist and principal composer behind Riverside, Duda is already a towering presence in modern progressive music. But it’s under his Lunatic Soul banner that he explores the liminal spaces: trance, repetition, eastern folk colours, synth arpeggios, and those instantly recognisable melodic bass motifs that seem to burrow under the skin.

Phil Aston | Now Spinning Magazine

From Island Studios to Super-Deluxe Box Sets: The Engineer Richard Digby SmithOn this episode, I'm delighted to welcome one of the true unsung heroes of classic rock (or rock music in general any era, really), and that is engineer and producer Richard Digby Smith. His career spans decades from the golden age of the early 70s on Island Studios with bands like Free, Traffic, Led Zeppelin, Sparks, Detective right through to his incredible recent work with Black Sabbath and even more recently Deep Purple’s 50th anniversary of Made in Japan.We’re going to look back at some of those classic sessions — the young bands, big ambitions, fast-paced studio life — and also dig into the modern world of archiving, remixing and preserving those recordings for new generations. Richard will share stories of the tech, the people, the accidents (yes, including the one where a guitar sleeve switch caused a famous moment), and the philosophy behind bringing timeless rock to life.So pour yourself a drink, fire up your headphones, and join us behind the console with a man who’s been doing this for four decades.

Phil Aston | Now Spinning Magazine

Peter Hammill on Voice, Vision & Vulnerability: Inside The Charisma & Virgin Recordings 1971–1986Peter Hammill joins me to explore his new 18CD + 2 Blu-ray anthology The Charisma & Virgin Recordings 1971–1986 — including new remasters, 5.1 & stereo mixes of The Future Now and pH7 by Stephen W. Tayler, rare BBC sessions, unreleased European TV performances, and a 76-page hardback book with Peter’s own notes.We discuss: Hammill’s unique vocal style (from chorister roots to dramatic restraint), early home recording as creative survival, the late-’70s pivot to left-field textures, writing about mortality (and the impact of his 2004 heart attack), the balance with Van der Graaf Generator, physical media vs streaming, and whether a future companion box could cover the later years. Peter also suggests a perfect starting album for newcomers: Nadir’s Big Chance.Thank you for all your support - Phil

“Where Are the Accounts?” – John McCoy on the Collapse of GillanIn this explosive interview, John McCoy – the powerhouse bassist of the Gillan band – tells the inside story of one of rock’s most volatile and exciting groups.From the chaotic birth of the band after the Ian Gillan Band faltered, to the raw energy of Mr. Universe and Glory Road, the wild stage antics, the brilliance of Bernie Tormé, and the shocking collapse when Gillan disappeared into Black Sabbath – McCoy holds nothing back.We cover his work with Zzebra, Samson, Mammoth, Angel Air Records, and his enduring legacy in British rock. Essential viewing for fans of Deep Purple, Gillan, and the entire Purple family tree.“When I first worked with Bernie, he blew my mind. He wasn’t like anyone else – punk attitude, Hendrix fire, and just wild. I knew immediately he was the one. He gave the band that danger and rawness it needed.” John McCoy

Phil Aston | Now Spinning Magazine

I don’t usually go click-baity, but here we are. Lately I’ve had a wave of messages from viewers saying their new LPs arrive scratched, noisy, warped or covered in paper dust.Do Modern Vinyl Pressings Suck? My Honest Take (and Yours!)Is modern vinyl quality slipping—or am I just unlucky? In this video I share real examples from my recent purchases: factory scratches, split seams, noisy sides, over-tight inners… and some truly excellent, silent pressings too. I explain what I mean by a “great pressing,” why 180g and half-speed stickers don’t guarantee results, and how packaging/shipping choices make a huge difference.Most importantly, I want your experiences. I’ll compile your comments and send a summary to labels and pressing plants so your voices are heard. Are you returning more records? Which labels get it right? Has price vs reliability changed your buying?

Phil Aston | Now Spinning Magazine

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The final episode in our six-part journey with Rock Band Cats in Space. I am joined once again by Greg Hart and Steevi Bacon to talk about the band’s latest album Time Machine, their new record deal with Cherry Red, the challenges of following Kickstart the Sun, and their ambitions for the future.We discuss the making of the album, standout tracks like My Father’s Eyes and Velvet Rush, the epic drum sound at Salvation Studios, and the bonus covers on the CD edition. The band also share plans for live shows.If you’ve missed the first episodes, catch up on the full story of Cats in Space’s first ten years on the Now Spinning Magazine channel.PLEASE SUPPORT 'NOW SPINNING MAGAZINE'Become a Patron (free trial -cancel anytime) https://www.patreon.com/nowspinningor Join the YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCnZSsMr4k8ZVlrJ8MUYR4GA/joinGet a Now Spinning Magazine T-Shirt and Mug - The Merch Shop is now open! https://nowspinningmagazine.co.uk/

Deep Purple Made in Japan: Steven Wilson Remix : The Ultimate VersionSteven Wilson remix of Deep Purple’s legendary Made in Japan.This is part one of a three-part detailed look into the 2025 super deluxe edition. In this episode I unbox the CD/Blu-ray edition, exploring the packaging, and give a personal reaction to the new mix – explaining why, after decades of collecting every version, this might just be the definitive Made in Japan.

➡️ Part two will cover Richard Digby Smith’s remixes of all three nights.

➡️ Part three will look at the massive 10LP vinyl box set.If you love Deep Purple, live albums, or the art of remixing classic recordings, you won’t want to miss this.👉 Subscribe for more reviews, interviews, and music chat.👉 Become a Patron or YouTube member for exclusive content and community perks.

Phil Aston | Now Spinning Magazine

Join me for episode five of my special interview series with Cats in Space.

“Every band has an Out of the Blue or a Physical Graffiti in them – Kickstart the Sun is ours.” – Greg Hart

“We weren’t just pushing the boat out… we were pushing out the boat, the harbour, and the tide!” – Steevi Bacon

This time, Greg Hart and Steevi Bacon take us inside the making of Kickstart the Sun – the band’s stunning 2022 double album that became one of my all-time favourites. We discuss the inspiration behind its ambitious scale, the challenges of creating such an epic work, plus the stories behind the songs.Thank you for all your supportPhilPLEASE SUPPORT 'NOW SPINNING MAGAZINE'Become a Patron (free trial -cancel anytime) https://www.patreon.com/nowspinningor Join the YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCnZSsMr4k8ZVlrJ8MUYR4GA/joinGet a Now Spinning Magazine T-Shirt and Mug - The Merch Shop is now open! https://nowspinningmagazine.co.uk/Now Spinning Magazine - MAC Upgrade Fundhttps://ko-fi.com/nowspinningmagazinewithphilaston

Episode 4 of the six-part From Gods to Time Machines series with Cats in Space.Greg Hart recalls first hearing Damien Edwards audition recordings:“He could sing like a 13-year-old Donny Osmond or Freddie Mercury… and then he sends back four lead vocals in a day. Ian Capel just sat there and said, ‘Well, he’s the best singer I’ve ever recorded in my career.’”In this fourth episode of my 10 Years of Cats in Space interview series, I’m joined by Greg Hart and Steevi Bacon to explore the making of the band’s 2020 album Atlantis. This was a pivotal release — a new singer, a global pandemic, and personal challenges all shaped its creation. Hear how Damien Edwards joined the band, how Stevie recorded before major heart surgery, and how Atlantis became one of the band’s most cinematic and uplifting albums.🎧 Featuring stories behind I Fell Out of Love with Rock and Roll, Sunday Best, Spaceship Superstar and more.Thank you for all your support
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Episode 3 of the six-part From Gods to Time Machines series with Cats in Space.“We had cabin fever, no money, and a double album to finish… the only option was to go big or go home.” – Greg HartI’m joined by Greg Hart and Stevie Bacon to discuss the making of Day Trip to Narnia – their most ambitious album yet.We cover:🎵 The birth of Johnny Rocket and the 27-minute rock musical at the album’s heart🎵 The accidental disco hit “Thunder in the Night”🎵 Creating the collectible “Narnia Box” and selling out in days🎵 The pressures of recording, financing, and keeping creative vision alive🎵 The end of the Paul Manzi era – and what came nextFull of behind-the-scenes stories, humour, and heartfelt reflection – this is the definitive Narnia conversation.

In Episode 2 of From Gods to Time Machines, we dive into the making of Scarecrow (2017) — the bold and cinematic second album from Cats in Space.Join Phil Aston (Now Spinning Magazine) in conversation with founding members Greg Hart and Steevi Bacon as they reveal how Scarecrow took the band from a promising studio project to a full-blown live phenomenon. Hear the inside stories behind legendary studio gear, writing “259” and “Time Bomb,” and the emotional real-life drama that unfolded during rehearsals.🔧 Studio freedom🔥 Arena gigs with Deep Purple & Thunder🎨 Hidden meanings in the album art❤️ A near-death moment saved by instinct🎶 And why Scarecrow was the moment everything changed...
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Wishbone Ash Special - In this in-depth interview, I talk to Martin Turner — founding member, bassist, vocalist, and songwriter for Wishbone Ash — about the acclaimed Madfish box sets, the creation of Argus, There’s The Rub, New England, and more.Martin shares personal stories behind “The King Will Come,” “Everybody Needs a Friend,” and “Lifeline,” discusses his classical influences, and reflects on how the meaning of songs changes over time.Emotional, candid, and full of rare insights, this conversation is essential for any Wishbone Ash fan.“Everybody Needs a Friend was written to comfort my wife after she lost her mum. I never imagined how many people it would help.” Martin Turner

In this exclusive Now Spinning Magazine interview, I sit down with Ian Anderson from Jethro Tull for a wide-ranging conversation covering the Curiosity concert series, setlist creation across 24 albums, upcoming deluxe box sets, and the spiritual significance of the annual Christmas concerts.Ian opens up about the physical demands of performance, his views on health and aging, and why he's speaking out on men's health topics like prostate exams and DVT awareness. He also shares strong thoughts on AI in music and the importance of preserving artistic legacy with integrity.🎶 Plus: Will we ever hear “In Brief Visitation” live? Could it feature in a future Christmas concert?📌 Watch now for rare insights from one of rock's most enduring and articulate voices.

Phil Aston | Now Spinning Magazine

Episode 1 - From Heartache to Harmony – The Birth of Cats in SpaceIn this first episode of our exclusive six-part series celebrating the 10th anniversary of Cats in Space, I sit down with founding members Steevi Bacon and Greg Hart to revisit the making of their iconic debut album, Too Many Gods.We explore the chance encounters, musical turning points, and emotional moments that led to the band’s formation—along with the birth of their unmistakable sound and unforgettable name. Packed with personal stories, musical insights, and reflections on a remarkable journey, this is where it all began.🎧 Featuring stories behind tracks like “Mr. Heartache,” “Stop,” “Greatest Story Never Told,” and “Unfinished Symphony.”👨‍🚀 Plus the real reason they’re called Cats in Space...🪐 Subscribe for the full six-part journey!

Phil Aston | Now Spinning Magazine

Ozzy Osbourne has sadly passed away. In this heartfelt video, I reflect on the immense impact Ozzy had—not only on music, but on generations of fans around the world.This is a personal tribute, but it’s also for you—the fans. Whether you discovered Black Sabbath through your parents, or found Ozzy’s solo albums on your own journey, we all share something: a connection to an extraordinary artist who made us feel seen.I talk about my own memories growing up in Birmingham, the way Ozzy's music helped me through tough times, and why he meant so much to so many of us.Please feel free to share your thoughts and stories in the comments. I’ll be compiling selected memories on the Now Spinning Magazine website to honour Ozzy’s legacy.Rest in peace, Ozzy. You were never an ordinary man.Phil Aston | Now Spinning Magazine

"Don't Fall Off the Musical Tightrope" – Steve Hackett Interview 2025Guitar legend Steve Hackett returns to Now Spinning Magazine for an exclusive and deeply personal interview about his new live release: The Lamb Stands Up – Live at the Royal Albert Hall.We discuss the magic of the show, the emotional weight of playing for family, the evolution of his playing, the retirement of longtime collaborator Roger King, and the way music transcends genre, language, and even mortality.This is Steve Hackett as you’ve never heard him—reflective, bold, and still taking musical risks at the highest level.

Phil Aston | Now Spinning Magazine