“THIS Album…” with William Hann

William Hann

"This Album..." with William Hann.

The podcast where each episode a guest and I deep dive an album of their choice.

It could be an album from any artist, any genre, any year.

We're going to discuss the songs, the shows, the artwork. But what I really want is to know is the emotional attachment my guest has to the album.

Who knows, we might even have a bloody laugh while doing it!

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20 episodes
Updated Wednesday

Episodes20

Newest first

Wednesday · 26 min
Truck Festival 2026 Review. Featuring The Maccabees, The Vaccines, Friendly Fires, The Cribs and Black Honey
Truck Festival For purveyors of all things indie, Truck has a lot to offer... Luckily, the good people of Dork asked me to write a review of all the bands I watched on Hill Farm last weekend. You can read it on their website or you can have the audiobook version of it on this weeks episode of the podcast. You can get my thoughts on the incredible sets I caught from The Cribs, Will Gamble, Getdown Services, We Are Scientists, Primal Scream, The Maccabees, 22 Grand Pod, Oxford Symphony Orchestra, Ivo Graham, Friendly Fires, Adult DVD, The Vaccines, Black Honey, Two Door Cinema Club, Vanessa Carlton, Picture Parlour, Westside Cowboy and...... The Libertines! My god, that's a lot of indie! It's out now to read on Dork and it's available to watch / listen to wherever you find your podcasts. #TruckFestival #TheVaccines #Indie #MusicPodcast #BlackHoney
July 27 · 11 min
We Are Scientists Interview at Truck Festival
For this mini episode I'm joined backstage at Truck Festival by nonsense merchants and New York icons We Are Scientists! We discuss their love of Def Leppard, hedonism Vs professionalism and memories of Chaos at Koko. Enjoy irresponsibly.
July 23 · 1 hr 15 min
Episode 87 - Daniel McKeon on Stevie Wonder, The Secret Life of Plants
Comedian Daniel McKeon joins William to dive into one of Stevie Wonder's most overlooked and ambitious records, Journey Through the Secret Life of Plants. Often overshadowed by classics like Songs in the Key of Life and Innervisions, this 1979 soundtrack album took Stevie Wonder in a completely different direction. Together, William and Daniel explore why the record divided critics, how its groundbreaking use of synthesizers helped shape the future of electronic music, and why it deserves another listen. Along the way, they discuss discovering new music during lockdown, cooking to albums, Edinburgh Fringe, playlists built around vampire stories, Stevie Wonder's creative genius, and the emotional connections that make certain records stay with us forever. Expect plenty of laughs, surprising musical rabbit holes, and a fresh perspective on one of the most unusual albums in Stevie Wonder's catalogue. If you love album deep dives, music history, comedy podcasts, or discovering forgotten classics, this episode is for you. Topics covered: Stevie Wonder – Journey Through the Secret Life of Plants The story behind the 1979 soundtrack album Stevie Wonder's experimental era Early synthesizers and electronic music Album reviews and legacy Daniel McKeon on music, comedy and creativity Edinburgh Fringe Festival Cooking playlists and discovering albums Favourite Stevie Wonder songs and influences
July 19 · 11 min
Episode 86 - The Rolling People
The Rolling People on "THIS Album..." Podcast . Recorded ahead of their show at Signature Brew Blackshore Road we talk about the record's that had an impact on them, the very best Manchester bands of all time and why Stockport is the new Berlin. We discuss... The Rolling Stones Embrace The Beatles The Cribs Brian Jonestown Massacre The Buzzcocks New Order Wu LYF Take That Happy Mondays The Smiths The 1975 The Courteeners Elbow Oasis Blossoms Joy Division The Rolling People
July 13 · 15 min
Mini Episode - Project Glastonbury 2027
If you talk it, it will come? Does that work? Who knows, who cares. One thing I do care about though, is making sure that I'm on the line up at Glastonbury 2027, either DJing somewhere or doing a live version of the podcast there. So I've released a cheeky little bonus episode talking it into existance. I also give my thoughts on some of the acts that I want to see on Worthy Farm in 2027.
July 9 · 52 min
Episode 84 - Jamie Webster - Arctic Monkeys, Whatever People Say I Am That's What I'm Not
Anticipation has a habit to set you up for disapointment...but this episode of the podcast couldn't fail. Episode 84 is a monumental album with an equally momentous guest, it's Jamie Webster! It was a joy to host Jamie and hear all about his emotional atachment to one of the greatest albums ever made. I know I've covered this album before, but I couldn't care less. I'd be happy to make this a Whatever People Say I Am, That's What I'm Not podcast. Jamie's new album Running Around The Sun is out in September and is easily his best work to date. You can catch him on tour later this year and at a festival near you this summer. #JamieWebster #ArcticMonkeys #AlexTurner #Indie #MusicPodcast
July 2 · 22 min
Episode 83 - Andrew Cushin - Damien Rice, O
For episode 83 I'm joined by singer-songwriter Andrew Cushin to explore one of the most influential albums of the early 00's, Damien Rice's iconic debut album O. I joined Andrew post soundcheck at Signature Brew's iconic venue on Black Horse Road on a barmy summer evening to discuss his lifelong connection to Damien's music, the emotional impact of songs like Cannonball, The Blower's Daughter and Amie. We also dives into Andrew's career, working with Noel Gallagher, touring the UK, growing up in Newcastle, and using music to process grief, loss, love, and family. We also discuss: Damien Rice's O from 2002 Cannonball and The Blower's Daughter Andrew's songwriting process Working with Noel Gallagher Oasis, Paul Weller and Jake Bugg
June 25 · 1 hr 2 min
Episode 82 - The Howlers on The La's Self Titled Debut
For episode 81 I’m joined by Adam Young from The Howlers! It was lucky I caught Adam when I did, The Howlers are set to be VERY busy for the next 24 months. Their second album, Heavy is scheduled for release in October and the two singles to so far are easily their best work to date. But before that, they have their first stadium support slots and a truly mind melting number of their own shows in the diary which will keep them busy for a loooong time to come. I had so much fun talking to Adam about his love of The La's debut album, Oasis and Mod Culture. We also discuss the positives of smoking cigarettes, the madness of Fat White Family and the benefits to buddying up to your local vintage clothes store owner. It's available now on Islington Radio or wherever you find your podcasts.
June 18 · 1 hr 3 min
Episode 81 - Preston from The Ordinary Boys - Blur, Parklife
The phrase "Mid 00's Icon" get's thrown around a lot on this podcast, but for episode 81, it may just be accurate, because I'm joined by a man behind some of the most joyous and fomative years of my skinny jeaned life. From the actual, literal Ordinary Boys - It's Preston! It was a total joy getting to spend time with Preston to discuss his career to date, being back on the road supporting Madness, his love of Blur's Parklife and a MASSIVE exclusive on The Ordinary Boys upcoming new album. Though I wang on about the MANY time I've cried my eyes out watching Blur, I think I just about kept my indie fan boy levels in check, but in 2006, my fandom was unrivalled! I must have seen The Ordinary Boys 10 to 15 times in the 00's, I was even an extra in the 9 to 5 video. It's a really fun episode and it's out now on Islington Radio or wherever you find your podcasts.
June 11 · 1 hr 25 min
Episode 80 - Ivo Graham on Arctic Monkeys, Favourite Worst Nightmare
Calm, collected, commanding. But enough about me… Episode 80 is possibly the best episode of the podcast yet, I’m joined by comedian, podcaster, broadcaster, tall man and lover of all things orange - Ivo Graham! It was a DREAM to spend time talking with Ivo deep diving Arctic Monkeys’ iconic second album Favourite Worst Nightmare. Ivo and I have numerous bizarre indie connections. Like the time he conned me at a Confidence Man show. The time he went mute on me at Glastonbury and the time his face was plastered over the wall of a house I was viewing. Sound strange? Well it’s all true and it’s all covered in the podcast. Along the way, Ivo reflects on seeing Arctic Monkeys in 2007, the changing sound of the band across albums like AM, Tranquility Base Hotel & Casino, and The Car, plus memories of Bloc Party, Klaxons, Franz Ferdinand, The Maccabees, and more. It’s an indie dream and is basically everything I hoped this podcast would be. If you’ve ever stared longingly at a Reading and Leeds line up poster while dealing with the inevitable built on obsolescence of an iPod mini, have I got a podcast for you….
June 4 · 1 hr 4 min
Episode 79 - Christopher Macarthur Boyd on Arctic Monkeys - Tranquility Base Hotel and Casino
I don't say this lightly, but episode 79 might be one of the best episodes of "THIS Album..." yet. I'm joined by podcaster, comedian and album enjoyer Christopher Macarthur-Boyd to discuss Arctic Monkeys’ Tranquility Base Hotel & Casino! How lucky am I? I got to spend 70 minutes talking to one of my absolute favourite comedians in the country about one of my absolute favourite albums of all time. What a life! Tacos on rooftops, warp speed chic, zero gravity cigarettes, we discuss it all as we explore the songwriting, themes, lyrics, and legacy of one of modern music’s most misunderstood albums. Expect divise opinions, the joy of Alex Turner cosplay, music nostalgia and passionate discussion about Alex Turner, indie obsession and two men's love of one of the most fascinating artistic left-turns in music history. And just you wait and see who's on next weeks episode....
May 28 · 57 min
Episode 78 - Wesley Gonzalez on Judee Sill's, Judee Sill
Today I am joined by singer-songwriter Wesley Gonzalez (formally of Let's Wrestle)to explore one of the most underrated cult classics in folk music history. Dive deep into the hauntingly beautiful world of Judee Sill and her 1971 self-titled debut album in this episode of This Album with William Hann. From gospel influences and intricate string arrangements to themes of love, addiction, and spirituality, this episode unpacks why Judee Sill remains a timeless masterpiece. We also discuss Wesley’s solo career, songwriting process, and how artists navigate vulnerability, protest music, and creative identity in 2026, working with Steve Albini, the evolution of indie music, and loads of nonsense about Phil Collins, Joni Mitchell, Brian Wilson, Prince and a one eyed horse. Topics covered: The genius of Judy Sill’s songwriting Folk, gospel & classical fusion in 1970s music Indie music evolution from 2000s to now Wesley Gonzalez on creativity & new music Emotional connections to albums Subscribe for more deep dives into iconic albums across all genres. #JudySill #WesleyGonzalez #MusicPodcast #IndieMusic #FolkMusic #AlbumReview #MusicHistory #LetsWrestle
May 21 · 48 min
Episode 77 - Norah Hendriks - Beyonce's Lemonade.
Alright, let's get in formation... For episode 74 of the Podcast I sit down with rising London-based artist Norah Hendriks to unpack Beyoncé’s groundbreaking masterpiece Lemonade. For this episode Norah shares her journey from classical violinist in Amsterdam to creating bold, high-energy queer anthems in the UK’s thriving underground scene. A full breakdown of Lemonade — themes of betrayal, healing, empowerment & identityWhy Beyoncé is still one of the most influential artists of all time.Norah's first experience discovering Lemonade and how it changed her.Inside London’s underground art & club culture. The emotional power of music — from rage to healing How collaboration, ambition, and community shape modern artists. From cycling through Amsterdam with Beyoncé in your headphones to finding your creative tribe in London, this conversation explores how music connects deeply to identity, culture, and personal growth. For fans of...Beyoncé, Destiny’s Child, and modern pop icons. Music podcasts & album reviewsLondon music scene & underground cultureLGBTQ+ artists & queer anthems. Deep conversations about art, identity & creativity Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more weekly album deep dives. #Beyonce #Lemonade #MusicPodcast #LondonMusicScene #AlbumReview #QueerArtists #PopCulture #UndergroundMusic #NorahHendriks #WilliamHann #lgbtq
May 14 · 53 min
Episode 76 - Swim Deep on Paul McCartney, McCartney 2
In this episode of This Album on Islington Radio, host William Han sits down with Austin “Ozzie” Williams of Swim Deep for a deep dive into one of the most experimental records of all time — McCartney II by Paul McCartney. From Birmingham beginnings to shaping dreamy indie music over 13+ years, Ozzie opens up about his journey with Swim Deep, the creative process behind their new album Hum, and the realities of making music today. Together, they explore the legacy of McCartney II — a genre-defying album that helped pioneer bedroom pop, electronic music, and DIY production long before it became mainstream. Expect stories about first hearing McCartney on a surreal trip to LA, reflections on songwriting, creativity, and collaboration, plus honest insights into life as a working musician balancing art, family, and ambition. 🎧 In this episode: The influence of McCartney II on modern indie and electronic music Swim Deep’s evolution and new album Hum Songwriting, creativity, and musical inspiration Life in bands, touring, and staying driven after 10+ years Personal stories, laughs, and unexpected tangents If you love artists like The Beatles, LCD Soundsystem, or Hot Chip, this episode is for you. Subscribe for more deep dives into classic albums, artist interviews, and music culture conversations. #PaulMcCartney #McCartneyII #SwimDeep #IndieMusic #MusicPodcast #AlbumReview #BedroomPop #MusicInterview #NewMusic #UKMusic
May 7 · 43 min
Vampire Weekend's Debut Changed What an Indie Band Could Be - Ned Newman on Vampire Weekend
This week on THIS Album… with William Hann, we’re joined by Ned Newman from Islington Radio to explore Vampire Weekend. We dive into how Vampire Weekend changed the landscape of indie music in 2008 — blending sharp songwriting, global influences, and a completely new aesthetic that challenged what guitar music could be. From MySpace discovery to festival nostalgia, we unpack the album’s legacy, standout tracks like “A-Punk” and “Oxford Comma,” and why it continues to resonate with new generations of listeners. A conversation about music, memory, indie culture, and the power of a debut album that still feels timeless.
April 30 · 48 min
Primavera Sound 2018 Vs 2026
Pass the Paela, Pour me an Estrella and for gods sake let me get a siesta, Skepta's not on until 4am... It's a Primavera special! With return guest / ocassional co host Robert Ball, we dive into everything Primavera Sound a full breakdown of the Primavera Sound 2026 lineup and a look back at the classic line up from 2018. If you love music festivals, live music, and waffling nostalgic nonsense this episode is packed full of it. Why Primavera Sound is one of the best festivals in the world Crazy festival stories, solo missions & no-sleep experiences. Artists Discussed:The Cure, The XX, Gorillaz, Skrillex, Peggy Gou, Fontaines D.C. Chappell Roan, Arctic Monkeys, A$AP Rocky, Skepta, IDLES, Björk, Father John Misty, Haim…and many more.
April 23 · 30 min
The Strokes, Special Episode - Is This It to Going Shopping
The Strokes are BACK and I have full blown Strokes fever. So there's only one thing for it.... solo podcast! We've had two Coachella performances full of talking points, a world tour announcement, brilliant comeback singles… and honestly, I’m in full-blown Strokes euphoria. In this special solo episode of THIS Album Podcast, I dive deep into my lifelong obsession with The Strokes — from discovering Is This It and Reptilia, to seeing them live for the first time, to watching both of their brilliant Coachella 2026 performances from the sofa, their new single, and what makes them one of the most important indie rock bands of all time. It’s a m idly self indulgent personal story about music, identity, growing up, and capturing every fleeting performance from The Strokes when they can be bothered to get on stage. The Strokes at Coachella 2026 – performance breakdown & reaction New Strokes single – first impressions Why Is This It changed indie music forever Seeing The Strokes at Hyde Park, Primavera Sound, Bennicassim, The Roundhouse Reptilia, Last Nite, Under Cover of Darkness, Barely Legal or Red Light? The evolution of Julian Casablancas and the band Why The Strokes still sell out instantly in 2026 The Strokes, Julian Casablancas, Coachella, Indie Rock Revival, NYC scene, Meet Me in the Bathroom, Interpol, LCD Soundsystem, Arctic Monkeys, The Killers, Oasis, live music culture, festivals, guitar music comeback. Normally, THIS Album is a guest-led podcast where each episode dives into a classic album. This time? No guest. Just me talking about one of my all-time favourite bands, it’s my podcast, I’ll do what I want. Indie rock / alternative music The Strokes, Arctic Monkeys, The Killers Music documentaries & deep dives Festival culture Coachella, Glastonbury, Primavera Sound Subscribe for weekly music deep dives Let me know, what’s your favourite Strokes song? Leave a 5-star rating if you enjoyed it #TheStrokes #JulianCasablancas #Coachella #IndieRock #IsThisIt #Reptilia #LastNite #MusicPodcast
April 16 · 12 min
Album Challenge - NME's 500 Greatest Albums of All Time
What happens when you try to listen to 500 of the greatest albums ever made… in just a few months? In this special episode of This Album, William Hann kicks off an ambitious music challenge inspired by the NME 500 Greatest Albums of All Time list — aiming to listen to every single album, in full, before summer. No skipping. No shortcuts. Just pure music discovery. The 500 albums challenge explained How to listen to 4–5 albums a day First impressions after starting the journey Discovering new genres outside indie & rock Early standout albums & surprises Can you really appreciate an album in one listen? Kendrick Lamar – good kid, m.A.A.d city Outkast – Stankonia Bruce Springsteen – The River Billie Holiday MC5 – Back in the USA Foo Fighters The Beatles Frank Sinatra …and many more from across decades and genres. 500 albums Full listens only Deadline: before Truck Festival Can it be done? And more importantly — what will it change about how we listen to music? With so much music out there, it’s easy to stay in your comfort zone. This challenge is about: Expanding your music taste Revisiting classic albums Understanding what makes a “great” album 00:00 Intro – Not your usual episode 02:00 The 500 albums challenge explained 08:00 First albums & early reactions 15:00 Standout artists & surprises 25:00 Can you rate albums after one listen? 35:00 Should YOU try this challenge? Have you listened to the NME Top 500 albums? Drop your favourite albums in the comments. Music podcast episodes, album deep dives, and unique music challenges every week. 500 greatest albums of all time, NME 500 albums list, music challenge, best albums ever, album review podcast, music discovery, classic albums, indie rock, hip hop albums, music podcast UK #MusicChallenge #BestAlbums #NME #MusicPodcast #AlbumReview #IndieMusic #HipHop #ClassicAlbums #MusicDiscovery
April 9 · 1 hr 9 min
Coachella Then vs Now (2012 vs 2026) | Lineup Deep Dives, Festival Nonsense & A Healthy Dose of Nostalgia.
Slap on the factor 50, light up that doobie and for the love of god do not bring ANY alcohol out of that enclosure.... It's a Coachella line up deep dive! Join me in welcoming return guest Gene James Smith for a deep-dive into Coachella past and present — from unforgettable 2012 chaos and a cheeky deep dive of the 2026 lineup. This special episode steps away from the usual album format to explore: Our wild Coachella 2012 experience (Radiohead, Dr. Dre & Snoop Dogg, Swedish House Mafia, Pulp, Arctic Monkeys, Justice, Noel Gallagher) The evolution of festival culture — from Facebook albums to Instagram moments A full Coachella 2026 lineup review — headliners, hidden gems & must-see acts Brits abroad stories, festival chaos & hilarious moments Is Coachella still worth it in 2026? From indie and guitar bands to the rise of EDM and global pop, we break down how Coachella has changed — and what still makes it one of the most iconic music festivals in the world. Expect hot takes, nostalgia, and plenty of “you had to be there” stories. 00:00 Intro – Not your usual episode 02:00 Festival season & life updates 08:30 Coachella 2026 lineup reaction 20:00 Must-see artists & clashes 35:00 Coachella 2012 throwback 50:00 Craziest festival moments 1:10:00 Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg & legendary performances 1:25:00 Final thoughts – Then vs Now Topics Covered: Coachella 2026 lineup, Coachella 2012, festival culture, live music experiences, EDM rise, indie bands, nostalgia, music podcasts, festival stories, best Coachella performances Artists Covered: The Strokes, Turnstile, Interpol, Geese, David Byrne, Iggy Pop, Noel Gallagher, The XX, Disclosure, Major Lazer, Kaskade, Kasabian, SBTRKT, SebastiAn, Arctic Monkeys, Pulp, Swedish House Mafia, Dr Dre and Snoop Dogg. Subscribe for more music deep dives, festival talk & album breakdowns Comment below: Which Coachella lineup would you choose — 2012 or 2026? #Coachella #MusicPodcast #FestivalSeason #LiveMusic #EDM #IndieMusic #Coachella2026 #Coachella2012 #MusicDiscussion #FestivalLife
April 1 · 53 min
The Great Escape Festival 2026 Line Up Deep Dive
Welcome back to the podcast! This week we’re diving into one of the UK’s most exciting music festivals — The Great Escape Festival in Brighton . If you’re into discovering the next wave of indie, alternative, and breakthrough artists before they blow up, this is the festival to know. In this episode, we break down the 2026 lineup, share our favourite emerging acts, and talk through what makes The Great Escape such a unique experience. What The Great Escape Festival is and why it’s a must for new music fans Why Brighton is the perfect city for a multi-venue music festival How to find your next favourite band before they hit the mainstream The reality of the festival (industry vs fans 👀) Tips for first-timers heading to TGE We dig into some of the most exciting names on the lineup, including: Adult DVD (danceable indie sleaze vibes) Cowboy Hunters (chaotic, high-energy punk attitude) Westside Cowboy (one of the best new guitar bands right now) Chinese American Bear (NYC-inspired indie groove) Dad’s Club (Palm Violets spin-off project) Slag (Brighton’s rising alt stars) KO / Kio (buzzing indie rock newcomers) Julia Cumming (solo work from Sunflower Bean) …and loads more hidden gems you need to know. From tiny pub gigs to beach stages, this Brighton festival transforms the entire city into a live music playground. Whether you’re hopping between venues, catching secret sets, or stumbling into your new favourite act — it’s all about discovery. We talk about: How to plan your weekend Why wandering is better than over-planning Alternative Escape & free shows What to expect from venues, crowds, and vibes Who are YOU most excited to see at The Great Escape 2026? Did we miss any must-see bands? Drop your recommendations in the comments Like & subscribe for more music discovery content Check out our other episodes covering new indie, alternative & emerging artists #TheGreatEscape #BrightonFestival #NewMusic2026 #IndieMusic #EmergingArtists #UKFestivals #MusicDiscovery #Podcast #FestivalGuide What we cover in this episode: Bands & artists we talk about: Why The Great Escape hits different: Thinking of going? Join the conversation: Don’t forget:Like & subscribe for more music discovery content Check out our other episodes covering new indie, alternative & emerging artists #TheGreatEscape #BrightonFestival #NewMusic2026 #IndieMusic #EmergingArtists #UKFestivals #MusicDiscovery #Podcast #FestivalGuide