Black Barn Studio Engineer and Producer, Charles Rees AKA The Wizard shares stories behind the making of Paul Weller's 17th Solo Studio album - 66.

Black Barn Studio Engineer and Producer, Charles Rees AKA The Wizard shares stories behind the making of Paul Weller's 17th Solo Studio album - 66.

Discover the Magic Behind Paul Weller’s New Album “66”

Welcome to an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the making of Paul Weller’s 17th solo studio album, "66." In our latest podcast episode, we sit down with Charles Rees, the wizard behind the album's engineering and production, to explore the intricate layers and creative process that brought this masterpiece to life.

From the outset, "66" is a celebration of collaboration. Charles takes us on a journey through Black Barn Studio, where the album was meticulously crafted. He shares stories of the many talented musicians who contributed to the album, including Steve Cradock, Josh McClorey, Richard Hawley, and many more. Each track is a testament to Weller’s ability to bring together a diverse array of sounds and styles, creating something truly unique and magical.

One of the standout moments in the podcast is the discussion of the recordings at the legendary Abbey Road Studios with Britten Sinfonia and Hannah Peel. Charles recounts the excitement and awe of working in such an iconic space, where the history of music seeps through the walls. The orchestral arrangements add a rich, dynamic layer to the album, elevating tracks like "Rise Up Singing" and "I Woke Up" to new heights.

Listeners are treated to an in-depth analysis of several key tracks, including "Ship of Fools," "Flying Fish," and "Jumble Queen." Charles reveals the meticulous process of layering instruments, vocals, and soundscapes to achieve the perfect balance. He also highlights the importance of stripping back elements to ensure each component shines through, a philosophy that has resulted in a more refined and impactful sound on "66."

The podcast also delves into the personal connections and stories behind the music including contributions of Max Beesley, Jacko Peake, and Christophe Vaillant, and how each collaborator brings their unique touch to the album. The result is a collection of songs that are both intimate and expansive, reflecting Weller’s ever-evolving artistry.

As we reach the final episode of our journey, Charles reflects on the joy and challenges of bringing "66" to life. He shares his excitement for the album’s release and the anticipation of seeing how fans will react to the new music. For those who have followed Paul Weller’s career, "66" is a testament to his enduring creativity and ability to surprise and delight listeners with each new project.

Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to Weller’s music, this podcast episode offers a fascinating glimpse into the making of "66".

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As fans enjoy Paul Weller's latest album, "66," our podcast offers a unique behind-the-scenes look into the making of his 17th solo studio album.

In this episode, I had the pleasure of chatting with the multi-talented Hannah Peel, who played a pivotal role in the album's creation.

We hear about the creation of the orchestration and the recording process at the iconic Abbey Road Studio Two, with Hannah's insights providing a rich tapestry of the creative process behind "66."

Hannah Peel is a multi-award-winning composer, singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist.

During our conversation, Hannah shared her experiences working with Paul Weller and the Britten Sinfonia, revealing the intricate details of the album's orchestration and the collaborative spirit that permeated the project.

One of the standout moments of our discussion was Hannah's recounting of the 66 sessions at Abbey Road Studios. Known for its rich history and unparalleled acoustics, Abbey Road provided the perfect studio for the recording of the orchestra. Hannah described the thrill of working with the Britten SInfonia, an orchestra renowned for its adventurous playing and support of young talent. The collaboration resulted in beautifully arranged layers that add a unique richness to Paul Weller's music on 66.

Hannah also touched on the various tracks she worked on, including "My Best Friend's Coat," "Rise Up Singing," "I Woke Up," and "Burnout." Each song allowing Hannah to showcase her exceptional skills in orchestration and arrangement. For instance, "I Woke Up" brought Hannah to tears with its beauty, while "Burnout" required a delicate balance of low-end strings and brass to achieve its hauntingly powerful sound.

Beyond the album, Hannah's career continues to soar. She recently won an Ivor Novello Award for her work on the TV series "The Midwich Cuckoos" and has created beautiful music for Netflix film Scoop and the soundtrack for the new series "Insomnia". Her ability to seamlessly transition between different musical genres and mediums is a testament to her versatility and talent.

This podcast episode with Hannah Peel is a treasure trove of insights for any music lover or aspiring musician.

Her passion for collaboration, her meticulous approach to orchestration, and her genuine love for the craft shine through in every word.

As we wrapped up our conversation, Hannah hinted at future projects and collaborations, leaving us eagerly anticipating what's next in her remarkable career.

Don't miss this fascinating episode that delves deep into the making of Paul Weller's "66."

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Sir Peter Blake talks about the cover of 66 with music journalist and author, Pete Paphides and Paul Weller.

Peter, known for his iconic pop art, discusses his involvement in designing the album cover. He shares how Paul Weller approached him with a clear vision, making the creative process both specific and collaborative.

His artwork for '66' is a blend of minimalism and his signature motifs, including a red and blue border and a heavy varnish finish. These elements not only make the cover visually striking but also resonate with Paul Weller's artistic vision. The conversation reveals the thought process behind making the artwork shiny and the significance of the motifs used.

Paul Weller's admiration for pop art and its influence on his music is evident. He recalls his early fascination with artists like David Hockney and how contemporary art resonated with him more than traditional forms. This connection between visual art and music is a recurring theme, highlighting how album covers can enhance the listening experience.

The episode also touches on Peter's work with other musicians, including Brian Wilson and The Beach Boys. His passion for rock and roll and his collaborations with iconic artists add another layer of depth to the discussion. Blake's anecdotes about working on album covers, like the one for Brian Wilson's 'Getting In Over My Head', provide fascinating insights into the intersection of music and art.

One of the most touching segments is the discussion about the tribute concert for Blake's 90th birthday at the Royal Festival Hall. Organised by Paul Weller, the concert featured performances by artists who had worked with Blake, including Noel Gallagher and Madness. This tribute underscores the deep respect and admiration the music community has for Blake's contributions.

The episode wraps up with reflections on the importance of album art in the digital age. Despite the shift towards streaming, both Paul Weller and Sir Peter Blake emphasise the enduring appeal of vinyl and the tangible connection it offers to the music. The artwork for '66' is designed to be emblematic, ensuring it retains its impact even in a miniaturised form on digital platforms.

In summary, this episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the creative processes behind music and art. It offers a unique glimpse into the collaborative efforts that brought '66' to life and celebrates the enduring legacy of both Paul Weller and Sir Peter Blake. Don't miss out on this enriching conversation—tune in now and experience the story of '66'!

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