Synthetic Dreams Podcast

Hosted by Lewis Zverblis, Synthetic Dreams is a podcast series featuring relaxed, in-depth interviews with artists from different genres and backgrounds to discuss their music, career and what keeps them inspired.

The show started back in 2021 and guests so far have included, Vince Clarke, Paul Hartnol (Orbital) Neil Barnes (Leftfield) Alex Paterson (The Orb) Graham Massey (808 State) Boris Blank (Yello) Sonic Boom (Spaceman 3) Daniel Miller (Mute Records) Mark Mothersbaugh (Devo) Andy McCluskey (OMD) John Grant, Clem Burke (Blondie) and legendary producer Youth.

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20 episodes
Updated Wednesday

Episodes20

Newest first

Wednesday · 29 min
EP 149: Matt Black (Coldcut)
This week I'm joined by electronic music pioneer Matt Black, one half of the legendary duo Coldcut and co-founder of the influential Ninja Tune record label. Recorded while Matt was relaxing on a beach in Goa, India, this wide-ranging conversation explores Coldcut's remarkable journey from their groundbreaking early years to the latest innovations in interactive music technology. We discuss, Coldcut's early career and the making of their debut album. Working with Yazz and producing the chart-topping hit The Only Way Is Up. The origins of Ninja Tune and how the label redefined independent electronic music. Plus, sampling, creativity, technology and the future of electronic music. Whether you're a long-time Coldcut fan or discovering Matt Black for the first time, this is a fascinating conversation covering more than four decades of electronic music history and innovation.
June 30 · 42 min
EP 148: Hannah Peel and Beibei Wang
In this episode of Synthetic Dreams, I'm joined by two remarkable artists, Beibei Wang and the returning Hannah Peel, to discuss their stunning collaborative album, The Endless Dance. Blending ancient musical traditions with contemporary electronics, The Endless Dance is a richly textured and deeply immersive record, combining expressive percussion, evocative synthesisers and cinematic soundscapes to create something both timeless and forward-thinking. During our conversation, we explore how Beibei and Hannah first came together as collaborators, the creative process behind the album, and the personal and musical influences that helped shape its unique sound. We also talk about recording at Peter Gabriel's Real World Studios, what makes the studio such an inspiring environment, and the challenge and excitement of translating these intricate compositions into a live performance. It's a fascinating discussion about artistic collaboration, cultural exchange, musical curiosity and the enduring power of music to connect people across traditions and generations. I hope you enjoy my conversation with Beibei Wang and Hannah Peel.
June 17 · 54 min
EP 147: Dean Garcia (Curve / SPC ECO)
Welcome back to the Synthetic Dreams Podcast. After taking a short break from recording, I'm pleased to return with a previously unreleased interview that was originally recorded during the lockdown period. In this episode, I’m joined by Dean Garcia, best known as the bassist and co-founder of the hugely influential alternative rock and electronic duo Curve. Dean talks about his continuing musical journey with SPC ECO, the band he formed alongside his daughter Rose Berlin and collaborator Joey Levenson, and shares his thoughts on creativity, songwriting and performing live. We also discuss his time working with Eurythmics and the chain of events that led to meeting Toni Halliday at London's Hammersmith Odeon, a partnership that would eventually become Curve. As someone who has admired the band for many years, it was fascinating to hear first-hand stories about the formation and evolution of one of the most distinctive acts of the 1990s. Recorded during lockdown, our conversation also touches on life during that unique period and how musicians adapted to a rapidly changing world. Dean was a fantastic guest and this episode offers an insightful look at a career that continues to evolve through a genuine passion for music and creativity.
April 22 · 45 min
EP 146: Man Parrish
Welcome back to Synthetic Dreams. This special episode features a conversation with pioneering electronic musician Man Parrish, diving into the electric atmosphere of early 1980s New York—a moment when nightlife, technology, and creativity collided to reshape modern music. Man Parrish was at the heart of it all. From the clubs to the studio, he witnessed—and helped drive—the emergence of dance and hip-hop culture in real time. We explore those formative years, from the energy of underground parties to the feeling that something entirely new was taking shape. Along the way, he shares stories of chance encounters with cultural icons, offering a vivid glimpse into a scene that was as glamorous as it was unpredictable. We also discuss his groundbreaking 1982 track Hip Hop, Be Bop (Don’t Stop)—a record that made a major impact on the US dance charts and continues to influence artists today. Here’s part one of my conversation with Man Parrish.
March 18 · 36 min
EP 145: Timecop1983
This week on Synthetic Dreams, we’re diving deep into the neon-lit, 80's inspired world of Synthwave music with none other than Dutch electronic musician, Jordy Leenaerts (aka Timecop1983) One of the leading voices in the scene, he’s helped shape the sound of a genre built on nostalgia, emotion, and cinematic energy. So, if you’re into retro vibes, cinematic soundscapes, or the future of electronic music, this episode is a must. It’s insight, inspiration, and pure synth-driven atmosphere all in one.
March 11 · 29 min
EP 144: Clare Grogan - Altered Images, Happy Birthday Tour, Father Ted & Life in Music
In today’s insightful and extremely fun episode of Synthetic Dreams, I’m joined by singer, actor , author and pop icon Clare Grogan. We had a really lovely chat that covered a lot of ground — from classic 80s synth pop to touring stories, acting memories, and brand new music. Clare talks about the upcoming Altered Images Happy Birthday 50th Anniversary Tour, which celebrates the legendary debut album Happy Birthday. On the tour, Altered Images will perform the album in full — a record that still sounds as fresh and joyful today as it did when it was first released in 1981. We also go back to the early days of the band, including what it was like touring with their heroes Siouxsie and the Banshees, and working with Banshees bassist Steve Severin on the Happy Birthday album. Away from music, we share a laugh about Clare’s brilliant — and very funny — appearance in the classic comedy Father Ted. We also dive into the making of the band’s latest album Mascara Streakz — a record that acts as both a love letter to Clare’s daughter and a reflection on life, family, and growing older. The Altered Images 50th Anniversary Happy Birthday Tour kicks off at the Norwich Waterfront on 3 September and finishes at Liquid Rooms on 25 September. For the full list of dates and ticket information visit: alteredimages.band Altered Images - Happy Birthday (Official Video) Altered Images - Don't Talk To Me About Love (Official Video) Clare Grogan on Father Ted Gregory's Girl film trailer Synthetic Dreams is presented and produced by Scott Zverblis Follow Synthetic Dreams on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Follow Synthetic Dreams on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Threads⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
February 5 · 40 min
EP 143: Colin Newman and Malka Spigel (Immersion)
For this episode, I’m joined by Colin Newman from legendary post-punk band, Wire and Malka Spigel to talk about the new Immersion album, WTF??. We dive into how the record came together, including their work with Matt Schulz (Holy Fuck), and how collaboration, experimentation, and curiosity continue to push Immersion’s sound into exciting new territory. We also explore their long-running radio show Swimming in Sound, the origins of their label Swim (founded in the early 90s), and what it’s meant to keep an independent label alive through decades of constant industry change. Along the way, we discuss the making of the video for “Use It Don’t Lose It”, directed by their son Ben Newman, plus their move to sunny Brighton—and how life in this vibrant seaside town continues to fuel creativity, community, and fresh ideas.
Dec 24, 2025 · 56 min
EP 142: Pete Bellotte
This very special episode of Synthetic Dreams, features a conversation with legendary songwriter and producer Pete Bellotte. Pete’s extraordinary journey began in the basement of Munich’s Arabella Sheraton Hotel, home to Giorgio Moroder’s groundbreaking Musicland Studios. There, as Moroder’s right-hand man and a visionary in his own right, Pete helped shape a sound that would change music forever. Over the course of his career, he has co-written and produced more than 500 songs, earning two Grammy nominations for Donna Summer’s Bad Girls album and single. From his early days touring with R&B band Linda Laine & The Sinners to his first major hit, Son of My Father, Pete quickly emerged as a hitmaker. Yet it was his pioneering work with Donna Summer that solidified his legacy—blending electronic innovation with bold, conceptual storytelling inspired by his lifelong love of literature. It’s safe to say that I Feel Love stands as one of the greatest dance tracks ever—a legendary song whose influence on pop and dance music still resonates today. 'I Feel Love' Donna Summer Synthetic Dreams is presented and produced by Scott Zverblis Follow Synthetic Dreams on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Also, check out my monthly show Synthetic Sundays on Louder Than War Radio : ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.mixcloud.com/louderthanwar/synthetic-sundays-july-2025/⁠⁠
Dec 9, 2025 · 54 min
EP 141: Clock DVA
This week I'm joined by a true trailblazer in the underground electronic and avant-garde scene—Adi Newton, founder of Clock DVA and TAGC. In this episode, we’re diving deep into the newly remastered re-issue of White Souls in Black Suits, Clock DVA’s groundbreaking debut album that helped define the darker, experimental side of post-punk electronics. Adi takes us behind the scenes, sharing unforgettable stories from the chaos and excitement of past tours and live shows. Plus, we journey back to 1970s Sheffield, where the city’s industrial decay sparked a surge of radical creativity. We explore the early days of the electronic scene that shaped Clock DVA—an era of DIY experimentation, boundary-pushing collaborations, and performances with other visionary artists like Cabaret Voltaire.
Nov 19, 2025 · 34 min
EP 140: Ian Boddy
Today's fascinating and insightful episode of Synthetic Dreams features electronic musician, Ian Boddy. We discuss the making of Caged, his collaborative album with Chris Carter (Throbbing Gristle) — now celebrating its 25th anniversary with a special Mute Records reissue, which is out onNovember 28th. Ian also reflects on the origins of his iconic label DIN, founded in 1999 and now home to 100+ releases across physical and digital formats. We chat about his love for modular synthesis and some of his earliest, most formative musical memories. https://ianboddy.bandcamp.com https://dinrecords.bandcamp.com Synthetic Dreams is presented and produced by Scott Zverblis Follow Synthetic Dreams on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Follow Synthetic Dreams on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Threads⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Also, check out my monthly show Synthetic Sundays on Louder Than War Radio : ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.mixcloud.com/louderthanwar/synthetic-sundays-july-2025/⁠⁠
Nov 12, 2025 · 34 min
EP 139: Christopher Chaplin
This week on Synthetic Dreams, I’m thrilled to share a conversation with Christopher Chaplin — composer, pianist, and electronic musician. Christopher’s music blends classical roots with experimental electronic textures — it’s atmospheric, layered, and deeply personal. We talk about how he first fell in love with music, learning piano as a kid, and how that early connection still shapes the way he writes and performs today. He also shares stories from his collaboration with Hans-Joachim Roedelius of Cluster and Harmonia — a creative partnership that’s produced some truly remarkable work and earned Christopher a unique spot in the world of ambient and electronic music. Creativity definitely runs in the family — Christopher is the son of the legendary comic actor Charlie Chaplin and actress Oona O’Neill. It’s a thoughtful, inspiring chat about creativity, curiosity, and finding your own sound. https://christopherjchaplin.com Synthetic Dreams is presented and produced by Scott Zverblis Follow Synthetic Dreams on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Follow Synthetic Dreams on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Threads⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Follow Synthetic Dreams on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter / X⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Also, check out my monthly show Synthetic Sundays on Louder Than War Radio : ⁠⁠⁠https://www.mixcloud.com/louderthanwar/synthetic-sundays-july-2025/⁠⁠
Oct 28, 2025 · 45 min
EP 138: Weval
This week's fun and insighful episode of Synthetic Dreams features Dutch electronic duo Weval. Fresh off the release of their fourth studio album, CHOROPHOBIA, on Ninja Tune, Harm and Merijn join us to talk about crafting their most club-focused, danceable record yet — full of driving beats, hypnotic acid lines, and that unmistakable Weval warmth. Despite its title meaning “fear of dancing,” CHOROPHOBIA is an album that practically dares you not to move. In this candid and inspiring conversation, we explore how the project came to life, the irony behind its name, and how Weval’s sound has evolved since their early days. Synthetic Dreams is presented and produced by Scott Zverblis Follow Synthetic Dreams on ⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠ Follow Synthetic Dreams on ⁠⁠⁠⁠Threads⁠⁠⁠⁠ Follow Synthetic Dreams on ⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter / X⁠⁠⁠⁠ Also, check out my monthly show Synthetic Sundays on Louder Than War Radio : ⁠⁠https://www.mixcloud.com/louderthanwar/synthetic-sundays-july-2025/⁠⁠
Oct 21, 2025 · 30 min
EP 137: Michelle Moog-Koussa
This week on Synthetic Dreams, I’m celebrating the incredible legacy of synth legend Bob Moog with a very special guest: Michelle Moog-Koussa, his daughter and Co-Founder of the Bob Moog Foundation. We dive into Bob’s revolutionary contributions to music technology, his enduring impact on artists worldwide, and the amazing work the Foundation is doing to preserve his amazing legacy. For more information about the foundation, visit: https://moogfoundation.org/ Synthetic Dreams is presented and produced by Scott Zverblis Follow Synthetic Dreams on ⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠ Follow Synthetic Dreams on ⁠⁠⁠Threads⁠⁠⁠ Follow Synthetic Dreams on ⁠⁠⁠Twitter / X⁠⁠⁠ Also, check out my monthly show Synthetic Sundays on Louder Than War Radio : ⁠https://www.mixcloud.com/louderthanwar/synthetic-sundays-july-2025/⁠ If you can, please support the Synthetic Dreams Podcast by buying a coffee ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://buymeacoffee.com/syntheticdreams⁠⁠
Oct 16, 2025 · 29 min
EP 136: The Art Of This
I'm thrilled to be joined today by legendary music journalist and Art of Noise co-founder Paul Morley, to talk about The Art Of This — a new offshoot, descendant, and subset of the pioneering electronic group. Art of Noise helped reshape the sound of modern music, becoming one of the most sampled acts in history Paul has reunited with fellow founders Gary Langan and J. J. Jeczalik for The Art Of This, debuting live at London’s ICA on Saturday 18 October. The performance will feature words, music, and immersive visuals, brought to life through a 360° spatial sound system. It’s a rare return to the stage for this influential collective — and a chance to hear the past, present, and future of electronic music collide. For more information and to buy tickets visit: https://www.ica.art/live/the-art-of-this https://actualartofthis.bandcamp.com Art Of Noise - Close (To The Edit) Art Of Noise - Moments In Love J.J Jeczalik on the Synthetic Dreams Podcast
Sep 9, 2025 · 39 min
EP 135: Jean-Michel Jarre
My guest this week is Jean-Michel Jarre, a true icon and pioneer of electronic music With a career spanning over 52 years in music, he is one of the most successful electronic artists ever, selling over 85 million albums and singles. Known for his large scale, elaborate live shows, Jarre has performed concerts at the Eiffel Tower, the Pyramids in Egypt and even the Sahara Desert. He’s also a UNESCO ambassador for education, science and culture and in 2017 was awarded the Stephen Hawking Medal for Science Communication We discuss the making of his new album and concert film ‘Live in Bratislava - an audio-visual record of his historic open-air concert-event 'Bridge From The Future', performed on May 12, 2024 in Slovakia. A truly spectacular live event that features all that you’d expect from a Jean-Michel Jarre concert - elaborate sets, stunning visuals, fireworks and for the first time, a drone display For more information or to pre-order the album, visit: https://www.jeanmicheljarre.com/live-in-bratislava Synthetic Dreams is presented and produced by Scott Zverblis Follow Synthetic Dreams on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Follow Synthetic Dreams on ⁠⁠⁠Threads⁠⁠⁠ Follow Synthetic Dreams on ⁠⁠⁠Twitter / X⁠⁠⁠ Synthetic Dreams title music by Chris Ibbott
Sep 1, 2025 · 36 min
EP 134: Franz Treichler (The Young Gods)
I’m delighted to be joined by Swiss singer, songwriter, composer and record producer, Franz Treichler, best known as the vocalist and founder member of the hugely influential industrial rock band The Young Gods. Franz formed The Young Gods in 1985 and the original lineup of the band featured The original lineup of the band featured singer Franz Treichler, Cesare Pizzi and drummer Frank Bagnoud. Known for their innovative use of samplers in rock music, the band have influenced a number of artists, including Mike Patton from Faith No More, American industrial band, Ministry and even David Bowie, who cited the Young Gods as a direct influence on his 1996 album ‘Outside’. Impressive stuff! We discuss, amongst other things, the making of The Young Gods ninth studio album, ‘Appear Disappear’ released in back in June.
Jul 22, 2025 · 45 min
EP133: Altern 8
Retro Synthetic! Another chance to listen to this previously unavailable interview with DJ and musician, Mark Archer, Altern 8. The duo, known for their signature fluorescent yellow dust masks and green boiler suits, released a series of hugely influential techno records before achieving massive chart success with Altern 8. It was great to speak to the man behind the mask about the early rave scene, playing Top Of The Pops and how he came up with their distinctive look. Actually, this interview was recorded back in 2021, a time where everyone was wearing masks! Top one, nice one, get sorted! Synthetic Dreams is presented and produced by Scott Zverblis Follow Synthetic Dreams on ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠ Follow Synthetic Dreams on ⁠⁠Threads⁠⁠ Follow Synthetic Dreams on ⁠⁠Twitter / X⁠⁠ Also, check out my monthly show Synthetic Sundays on Louder Than War Radio : https://www.mixcloud.com/louderthanwar/synthetic-sundays-july-2025/ If you can, please support the Synthetic Dreams Podcast by buying a coffee ⁠⁠⁠https://buymeacoffee.com/syntheticdreams⁠⁠ ⁠ ⁠
Jul 15, 2025 · 53 min
EP132: Gwenno and Rhys Edwards
Today’s extremely fun and insightful episode features multi-talented musician, Gwenno, plus her musical partner and husband, Rhys Edwards. We discuss the making of Gwenno’s brilliant new album,‘Utopia’, which is out now on Heavenly Recordings. The record, which is one of my favourite releases of 2025, has received some truly amazing reviews and is well worth checking out. Gwenno is doing some very intimate gigs to promote the release, including an album launch show at The Lower Third in London tomorrow evening (Wednesday 16 July) and an in-store gig at Resident Music, Brighton on Thursday. She will be performing at Greenman Festival next month, before heading out on a UK tour in October. For more information and tickets, visit: https://www.gwenno.info https://gwenno.bandcamp.com/music Gwenno - Utopia (Official Video) Synthetic Dreams is presented and produced by Scott Zverblis Follow Synthetic Dreams on ⁠Instagram⁠ Follow Synthetic Dreams on ⁠Threads⁠ Follow Synthetic Dreams on ⁠Twitter / X⁠ Also, check out my monthly show on Louder Than War Radio : https://louderthanwar.com/louder-than-war-radio/scott-z-synthetic-sundays/ If you can, please support the Synthetic Dreams Podcast by buying a coffee ⁠⁠https://buymeacoffee.com/syntheticdreams⁠
Jul 10, 2025 · 53 min
EP131: All The Young Droids
Today’s fascinating and insightful episode features a conversation with Phil King, curator of ‘All The Young Droids: Junkshop Synth Pop 1978-1985’, a wonderful double Vinyl / Double CD compilation that charts the underdogs of the 80s electronica and synth-pop scene. There’s a very special album launch happening this Monday at Spiritland in London. The evening will include a conversation chaired by Philip, featuring a few artists from the record, including Andy Beaumont (Vision) and Joe Murphy (Dream Unit) Plus, music by Dj Martin Green. For more info and to but tickets, visit: https://ra.co/events/2197026
Jun 10, 2025 · 43 min
EP130: Cosey Fanni Tutti
Delighted and truly honoured to be joined by Cosey Fanni Tutti on the podcast this week. Cosey talks about the making of her brilliant new solo album, '2t2" which comes out this Friday, 13th June. We also discuss the early days of Throbbing Gristle, music technology and her excellent books 'Art Sex Music’ published in 2017 and ‘Re-Sisters’, which came out in 2022.