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.

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

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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.