This week marks the return of the much-anticipated podcast ‘Transmissions,’ which delves into the riveting tale of Joy Division and New Order’s evolution. Season two kicks off with an exploration of the band’s transition, capturing moments like their first experiences with dance culture in Ibiza and their collaboration with Arthur Baker.
Cush Jumbo’s charm isn’t confined to her roles in ‘The Good Wife’ or ‘Hamlet.’ In her inaugural podcast series ‘Origins,’ she flips the script, diving into the backstories of stars like David Schwimmer and Anna Wintour. Wintour, notably, shares her disdain for rambling and recounts her dismissal from Harper’s Bazaar.
Akilah Hughes brings a mix of humor and determination as she returns to her Kentucky hometown in ‘Rebel Spirit.’ Her mission? To replace her high school’s outdated, racially insensitive mascot. The podcast unfolds as she balances the modern push for change with personal reflections, making for an engaging listen.
Sara Pascoe and Cariad Lloyd’s ‘Weirdos Book Club’ isn’t about the usual literary fare. Season two opens with a discussion of Katherine Heiny’s ‘Standard Deviation,’ a novel that navigates the quirks of an unconventional couple.
In ‘Then & Now,’ comedian Babatunde Aleshe and his wife Leonie debate the evolving landscape of parenting. Their hilarious banter makes for an entertaining yet insightful exploration of how childhood experiences have transformed.
‘Transmissions’ offers a treasure trove for New Order aficionados. The new season details the pivotal moments post-Joy Division, touching on their shift from somber tones to vibrant soundscapes, and featuring anecdotes from band members and admirers alike. Listen in for behind-the-scenes stories from their ventures into new musical territories.
Graeme Virtue’s top picks for sci-fi podcasts also deserve your attention. ‘Escape Pod’ serves a delightful mix of short speculative fiction, maintaining its grassroots charm despite a vast archive. ‘Ad Lucem,’ starring Olivia Wilde and Chris Pine, is a dark thriller set in the near future, exploring the eerie possibility of emotionally intelligent tech.
LeVar Burton’s ‘LeVar Burton Reads’ is a nostalgic trip for many. This podcast revives his ‘Reading Rainbow’ charm, narrating fantastical tales with a personal touch that adds depth. Meanwhile, ‘Marvel’s Wastelanders’ reimagines a dystopian world where famous superheroes are mere shadows of their former selves.
Finally, ‘Clarkesworld Magazine’ showcases an eclectic range of sci-fi and fantasy stories, highlighting international voices. Its host, Kate Baker, has been a consistent presence, guiding listeners through a diverse array of narratives.
From the evolution of iconic bands to the exploration of futuristic worlds, this week’s podcast highlights promise a captivating auditory journey. Whether you are a New Order fan or a sci-fi enthusiast, there is something for everyone.
Source: Theguardian