Podcasts by The Scratch Cast: The Alternative Music Podcast

The Alternative Music Playlist #42: April / May / June / July / August 2023 from 2023-08-04T11:23:12

The Alternative Music Playlist is finally back! 15 hours of the very best new alternative music, for your listening pleasure.

Episode 25: “A Lot Of Intense Frottage” - The Scratch Cast: The Alternative Music Podcast from 2023-06-17T13:56:48

Episode 25: “A Lot Of Intense Frottage” - The Scratch Cast: The Alternative Music Podcast - 17th June 2023

The...

February / March / April 2023: The Alternative Music Playlist from 2023-04-01T23:12:14

The Alternative Music Playlist IS BACK!!! This was supposed to be out ages ago but, you know, life takes over, so… we’ve got a gigantic playlist to see you through April, with tonnes of amazing t...

Episode 24: “A Ten Out Of Ten Bonanza” - The Scratch Cast: The Alternative Music Podcast from 2023-03-12T19:23:59

The Scratch Cast - The Alternative Music Podcast - Episode 24: “A Ten Out Of Ten Bonanza”

12th March 2023

January 2023: The Alternative Music Playlist from 2023-01-28T16:58:14

Give your ears a thrill… The Alternative Music Playlist for January 2023 is OUT NOW!

Episode 23: “The Biannual Music Podcast” - The Scratch Cast: The Alternative Music Podcast from 2023-01-13T15:40:47

The Scratch Cast - The Alternative Music Podcast

Episode 23 - “The Biannual Music Podcast”

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Interview: ""Well, well" Said The WACO Lads" - The Scratch Cast: The Interviews - Episode 06 from 2022-12-22T21:03:01

The Scratch Cast - The Interviews

Episode 06 - ""Well, well" Said The WACO Lads"

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September / October 2022: The Alternative Music Playlist from 2022-10-14T18:54:58

The Alternative Music Playlist is back with another massive double feature! This time round we’re spanning September and October 2022 and as always we’ve got some of the best new alternative musi...

Episode 22: “Testudinate C*nt” - The Scratch Cast: The Alternative Music Podcast from 2022-10-07T19:40:43

It's been another long wait since the last episode of The Scratch Cast, we’re practically a quarterly podcast at this point, but we're finally back to disc...

July / August 2022: The Alternative Music Playlist from 2022-08-24T19:25:14

It’s been quite a while since our last playlist but it’s finally here! This time we’ve got some of the best alternative music from July and August in one massive 8-hour compilation.

June 2022: The Alternative Music Playlist from 2022-07-07T14:01:31

Half the year is gone already but The Alternative Music Playlist is back to keep you on the straight and narrow!

Episode 21: “The Spirit Of Lady Parts” - The Scratch Cast: The Alternative Music Podcast from 2022-06-10T10:48:41

The Scratch Cast - The Alternative Music Podcast -

Episode 21 “The Spirit Of Lady Parts”

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April / May 2022: The Alternative Music Playlist from 2022-05-14T14:07:40

The Alternative Music Playlist is back! Since it’s a little late we’re covering April and May in one mega compilation.

Live Review: Unto Others @ The Mash House, Edinburgh (01/04/22) from 2022-04-15T17:00

The darkness is calling: After a couple of weeks of reflection, here's our review of Unto Others, w/ support from Zetra, live at The Mash House, Edinburgh.

March 2022: The Alternative Music Playlist from 2022-04-01T15:06:27

The Alternative Music Playlist contains some of the very best tracks released throughout February and March 2022. It’s packed full of a little bit of everything including rap, metal, dance, indie...

Episode 20: “Smell Ya Later” - The Scratch Cast: The Alternative Music Podcast from 2022-03-17T20:57:26

The Scratch Cast - The Alternative Music Podcast - Episode 20

“Smell Ya Later”

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February 2022: The Alternative Music Playlist from 2022-02-26T14:13:46

Our February alternative music playlist features some of our favourite tracks released throughout January and February 2022. As always it’s eclectic as hell filled with rap, metal, dance, indie, ...

IVW 2022: 5 Of Our Favourite Small Scottish Music Venues from 2022-01-30T19:13:11

January 2022: The Alternative Music Playlist from 2022-01-28T17:20

Another month, another massive playlist, this time featuring some of our favourite tracks released throughout December 2021 and January 2022.

Movie Review: Limbo (2021) from 2022-01-20T13:42:54

A wry British comedy that leaves a lasting impression.

The Head Scratcher's 20 Favourite Albums and EPs of 2021 from 2022-01-14T20:02:15

Grant and Snedds from The Scratch Cast podcast put down the mics and re-cap some of their favourite albums and EPs of 2021.

Our Favourite Songs of 2021: The Alternative Music Playlist from 2022-01-07T13:00

Our favourite tracks, released throughout 2021.

Episode 19: “That's All Folks” - The Scratch Cast: The Alternative Music Podcast from 2021-12-23T09:57:48

It’s been ages since we last uploaded an episode of The Scratch Cast Podcast but this one’s a little bit special. To celebrate our second birthday (which r...

Festive "Cheer": The Head Scratcher's Alternative Christmas Playlist from 2021-12-04T13:00

Not suitable for children or those with a nervous disposition.

November 2021: The Alternative Music Playlist from 2021-11-26T16:47:32

September / October 2021: The Alternative Music Playlist from 2021-10-16T13:09:52

Episode 18: "Spoiling the Sopranos" - The Scratch Cast: The Alternative Music Podcast from 2021-10-08T13:23

On this episode of The Scratch Cast Podcast, we have difficulty pronouncing the word “alchemical”, spoil the end of the Sopranos (SPOILER ALERT) and forget...

August 2021: The Alternative Music Playlist from 2021-09-03T12:30:39

Ok, so we’re pretty late with this one… considering it’s now September… but our alternative music playlist, looking back on August 2021, is finally here. We think it’s worth the wait.

July 2021: The Alternative Music Playlist from 2021-07-30T13:51:48

July is almost over but The Alternative Music Playlist is here at last. We’ve dug out some of the best music released throughout July 2021 and thrown it into an absolute belter of a playlist, per...

Episode 17: “The 183rd Best Music Commentary Podcast in Denmark" - The Scratch Cast: The Alternative Music Podcast from 2021-07-28T17:00

On this episode of The Scratch Cast Podcast, Grant is denied a toilet break, your hosts awkwardly speak doric for two seconds and, as always, we review som...

June 2021: The Alternative Music Playlist from 2021-06-30T15:12:08

A bit last minute this month but The Alternative Music Playlist is here at last. We pay tribute to the month that was June 2021 with over 3 hours of eclectic alternative sounds. Don’t waste any ...

Pride Month 2021: 6 Essential LGBTQ+ Films (Directed By Women) from 2021-06-28T14:31:26

June is Pride Month, a time to celebrate all things LGBTQ+, so we’ve spent our time digging out some films we think everyone should see.

Interview: "Fiona Liddell” - The Scratch Cast: The Interviews - Episode 05 from 2021-06-12T13:05

The Scratch Cast - The Interviews

Episode 05 - Fiona Liddell

12t...

Episode 16: “A Mixed Bag of Squits” - The Scratch Cast: The Alternative Music Podcast from 2021-06-02T16:06:44

The Scratch Cast - The Alternative Music Podcast - Episode 16

“A Mixed Bag of Squits”

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May 2021: The Alternative Music Playlist from 2021-05-30T14:48:19

The Alternative Music Playlist for May 2021, it’s an eccentric collection spanning 6.5 hours, bursting with brilliant new music that will captivate your cochlea.

8 TV Shows We've Been Watching In 2021 So Far from 2021-05-14T12:24:47

In a year where there’s not been all that much to do other than stream TV shows, here’s some of what we’ve been watching in 2021 so far…

Star Wars Day 2021: Some of Snedds' Star Wars Collection from 2021-05-04T16:46

In this video, Snedds takes you on a thrilling adventure through some of his Star Wars collection.

April 2021: The Alternative Music Playlist from 2021-04-30T14:03:49

It’s a little late but it is still April for a few more hours at least! So, here it is, The Alternative Music Playlist for April 2021. This month we’ve got a solid 7.5 hours of brilliant new musi...

5 Essential Science and Nature Documentaries to Watch on Earth Day 2021 from 2021-04-22T10:00

Celebrate our wonderful planet and rue the appalling way we treat it with these 5 must-watch documentaries…

Interview: "IKITAN” - The Scratch Cast: The Interviews - Episode 04 from 2021-04-09T19:45:55

On the fourth Scratch Cast interview, Grant and Snedds discuss all things IKITAN with band members Luca, Enrico & Frik Et.

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Episode 15: "Arses For Faces" - The Scratch Cast: The Alternative Music Podcast from 2021-04-01T18:36:37

A new episode of The Scratch Cast is here at last and we’ve got another jam-packed show for your listening pleasure.

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March 2021: The Alternative Music Playlist from 2021-03-26T17:15:53

We’ve handpicked some of the best music from the worlds of rock, metal, hip-hop, punk, hardcore, indie and more to produce a freshly squeezed playlist that’s absolutely perfect for when you’ve go...

Interview: “WACO” - The Scratch Cast: The Interviews - Episode 03 from 2021-03-05T12:05

For the third Scratch Cast interview, Grant and Snedds have the pleasure of catching up with Jak and Welshy from the genre-bending punk band WACO.

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February 2021: The Alternative Music Playlist from 2021-02-27T15:49:05

The Alternative Music Playlist is back with close to 8 hours of brilliant new music. That’s enough to get you through an entire day of work! As always we’ve got some of the best music from the wo...

Interview: “Van Tastik” - The Scratch Cast: The Interviews - Episode 02 from 2021-02-13T15:58:21

For the second Scratch Cast interview, Grant and Snedds are joined by the inimitable Van Tastik (aka Chris Fallon) ahead of the release of his excellent ne...

Episode 14: “The Black Morpheus” - The Scratch Cast: The Alternative Music Podcast from 2021-02-10T20:43:16

Hurrah! Our first podcast of 2021 is finally here! Despite recording it back in January, issues with the audio and car troubles prevented us from getting i...

January 2021: The Alternative Music Playlist from 2021-01-23T19:11:25

Our first playlist of the year has over 5 hours of some of the best music from the worlds of rock, metal, hip-hop, punk, hardcore, indie (and more) so take some time out, ignore the shit news, fo...

The Head Scratcher's 10 Favourite EPs of 2020 from 2021-01-10T14:23:35

We pick 10 of our favourite EPs and mini-albums released in 2020.

The Head Scratcher's 25 Favourite Albums of 2020 from 2021-01-08T09:27:56

Grant and Snedds from The Scratch Cast podcast put pen to paper and list some of their favourite albums of 2020.

Episode 13: “Grant Gets Tongued” - The Scratch Cast: The Alternative Music Podcast from 2020-12-29T13:35:05

The Scratch Cast - Episode 13

“Grant Gets Tongued”

29th December ...

"Rock is Dead": The Ultimate Alternative Music Playlist by The Head Scratcher from 2020-12-13T12:00

“Rock is Dead”: The Ultimate Alternative Music Playlist by The Head
Scratcher. A continuously updated alternative music playlist bringing you
the very best in alternative music.

"Rock is Dead": The Ultimate Alternative Music Playlist by The Head Scratcher from 2020-12-13T12:00

“Rock is Dead”: The Ultimate Alternative Music Playlist by The Head Scratcher. A continuously updated alternative music playlist bringing you the very best in alternative music.

The Golden Age Of Alternative Comedy from 2020-12-11T15:44:16

Snedds discusses the UK comedy shows that, for him, made the mid-1990s to the late 2000s the Golden Age of Alternative Comedy.

#whereismymind: The Movember Positivity Playlist 2020 from 2020-12-01T17:34:16

A playlist full of positive tunes that we released a track a day thougout November in support of Movember and mental health charities. We think it's a bit special. Remember to be kind to yourself...

November 2020: An Alternative Music Playlist from 2020-11-24T16:14:24

This time we’ve got nearly 5 hours of some of the best music from the worlds of rock, metal, hip-hop, punk, hardcore, indie (and more) so plug in, press play and chill out (or rock the fuck out d...

Interview: “Chad Peck (Kestrels)” - The Scratch Cast: The Interviews - Episode 01 from 2020-11-13T17:00

In an auspicious moment for The Scratch Cast, our first-ever interview, Grant and Snedds are joined by Chad Peck from Nova Scotia, Canada's Kestrels.

Episode 12: “Indefatigable Defenders of Good Taste” - The Scratch Cast: The Alternative Music Podcast from 2020-11-11T17:26:17

It feels like ages since we posted an episode but Episode 12 of The Scratch Cast is finally here for your aural delight!

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The Scratch Cast Podcast - Episode 12: “Indefatigable Defenders of Good Taste” from 2020-11-11T17:26:17

It feels like ages since we posted an episode but Episode 12 of The Scratch Cast is finally here for your aural delight!

On our singles swap this month we’re discussing the singles “Endar...

Horror Films&TV Shows In My DVD Collection from 2020-10-31T00:01

Snedds returns to his incredibly disorganised DVD shelf and picks out a few horror films and television shows worth watching this Halloween.

October 2020: An Alternative Music Playlist from 2020-10-30T16:46:45

This month we’ve got 6 hours of some of the best music from the worlds of rock, metal, hip-hop, punk, hardcore, indie (and more) so why not take a break from the horrors of everyday life, put you...

September 2020: An Alternative Music Playlist from 2020-10-01T16:09:38

Ok so we’re a little late with this one but trust us, it’s worth the wait. We’ve got over 5 hours of incredible new music from the worlds of rock, metal, hip-hop, punk, hardcore, indie (and more)...

The Scratch Cast Podcast - Episode 11: "Atomic Kitten Vibes" from 2020-09-26T14:00

Episode 11 of The Scratch Cast is finally here!

On this month’s episode, we discuss last month’s “singles swap” - “Feeling Fine” by DREGG and “Grey and Blue” by Kestrels. Our picks for th...

Episode 11: "Atomic Kitten Vibes" - The Scratch Cast: The Alternative Music Podcast from 2020-09-26T14:00

Episode 11 of The Scratch Cast is finally here!

On this month’s episode, we discuss last month’s “singles swap” - “Feeling Fine” by DREGG and “Grey and Bl...

6 Films We Saw Online At Sheffield Doc/Fest 2020 from 2020-09-18T14:09:18

A look back at some of the films we saw at the UK’s biggest documentary film fest.

Must-See Live Music, Perfect For Lockdown (Part Two) from 2020-09-11T11:10:18

Lockdown restrictions have been greatly relaxed but we’re still missing live gigs! Check out some more of our favourite live shows and streams from a selection of incredible bands. All available ...

August 2020: An Alternative Music Playlist from 2020-08-25T18:47:18

We’ve regained our senses slightly this month with a shorter, but no less beefy, 5 1/2 hour playlist. Packed full of wonderful new alternative music from the worlds of rock, metal, hip-hop, punk,...

The Scratch Cast Podcast - Episode 10: “A Lovely Bit of Wank” from 2020-08-10T18:26:44

Episode 10 of The Scratch Cast is finally here and to celebrate reaching this auspicious milestone we’ve added a new feature “submission corner” where you can submit your music direct to us for rev...

Episode 10: “A Lovely Bit of Wank” - The Scratch Cast: The Alternative Music Podcast from 2020-08-10T18:26:44

Episode 10 of The Scratch Cast is finally here and to celebrate reaching this auspicious milestone we’ve added a new feature “submission corner” where you can submit your music direct t...

July 2020: An Alternative Music Playlist from 2020-07-28T19:16:54

We’re cutting it a little close this month but we’re finally here with a frankly ridiculous 8-hour playlist. That’s an entire working day of incredible new alternative music. Huge thanks to @nua...

Game Review: The Last Of Us Part II from 2020-07-17T12:00

Ross plays through the highly anticipated sequel to The Last Of Us, but it can it live up to his lofty expectations?

Game Review: Mafia II - Definitive Edition from 2020-07-10T01:00

Ross reviews the definitive edition of Mafia II. Is it worth picking up?

The Scratch Cast Podcast - Episode 09: “All Bases Covered” from 2020-07-05T15:58:58

Episode 08 was a bit of a disaster but for Episode 09 of The Scratch Cast we had all bases covered and we’ve managed to capture audio and video seamlessly, well as seamlessly as Skype will allow… Listen

Episode 09: “All Bases Covered” - The Scratch Cast: The Alternative Music Podcast from 2020-07-05T15:58:58

Episode 08 was a bit of a disaster but for Episode 09 of The Scratch Cast we had all bases covered and we’ve managed to capture audio and video seamlessly, well as seamlessly as Skype w...

June 2020: An Alternative Music Playlist from 2020-06-21T17:13:13

Our June playlist is finally here! Inject your ears with a rejuvenating cocktail of over 4 hours of rock, metal, punk, hardcore, hip-hop and more! Thanks to @the.rebel.bear for the cover art (fou...

Must-See Live Music, Perfect For Lockdown (Part One) from 2020-06-12T01:00

Missing gigs during lockdown? Check out some of our favourite live shows from a selection of incredible bands. All available for free on the internets.

May 2020: An Alternative Music Playlist from 2020-05-23T14:30:35

A monstrous playlist filled with delicious, hand-picked, ripe & juicy, alternative music from April and May 2020. Go on, pleasure your ears, slap it on shuffle and let us know your favourites.

Star Wars: A Sequel Trilogy Retrospective from 2020-05-22T16:55:11

Ross gives us his retrospective on the completed Star Wars Sequel Trilogy. It’s a refreshing take and his opinions are perhaps somewhat controversial. Beware: this article contains major spoilers...

The Scratch Cast Podcast - Episode 08: “Scotland’s Greatest Podcast” from 2020-05-17T11:33:03

This episode is a bit of a Frankenstein’s monster. Due to the lockdown, we had to record it via skype (which we did way back in April) and unfortunately, the majority of Snedds’ audio turned out to...

Episode 08: “Scotland’s Greatest Podcast” - The Scratch Cast: The Alternative Music Podcast from 2020-05-17T11:33:03

This episode is a bit of a Frankenstein’s monster. Due to the lockdown, we had to record it via skype (which we did way back in April) and unfortunately, the majority of Snedds’ audio t...

April 2020: An Alternative Music Playlist from 2020-04-26T14:02:35

Another month is nearly over and we’ve got yet another massive playlist for your aural delight.

Game Review: Resident Evil 3 (2020) - Could Lightning Stike Twice For This Classic Remake Series? from 2020-04-13T09:35:17

With the game finally available to play, could lightning strike twice for yet another classic in this series? Well yes and no. 

Apocalyptic / Pandemic Films&TV Shows In My DVD Collection from 2020-03-27T10:36:21

Snedds runs you through some of the films in his DVD collection.

March 2020: An Alternative Music Playlist from 2020-03-21T16:01:22

Another month, another monster playlist with nearly 5 hours of the best alternative music from February and March 2020.

The Scratch Cast Podcast - Episode 07: "Quintent" from 2020-03-13T16:41:26

After last month’s distraction of Our Top 20 Albums of All Time, we’re back to our usual schedule of reviewing (relatively) new music.

This time around we discuss the singles “Underneath” ...

Episode 07: "Quintent" - The Scratch Cast: The Alternative Music Podcast from 2020-03-13T16:41:26

After last month’s distraction of Our Top 20 Albums of All Time, we’re back to our usual schedule of reviewing (relatively) new music.

This time around ...

10 Essential Films Directed by Women from 2020-03-08T10:57:32

Today, Sun 8th Mar 2020, is International Women’s Day and to celebrate we’ve made a list of some essential films, all directed by women. #internationalwomensday

Glasgow Film Festival 2020: The Head Scratcher Recommends from 2020-02-28T13:40:47

10 of our picks for this year’s Glasgow Film Festival. #GFF20

Movie Review: The Lighthouse (2020) - A Confusing Mess or an Exhilarating Masterpiece? from 2020-02-22T01:00

Willem Defoe and Robert Pattinson lose their shit in a lighthouse… A confusing mess or an exhilarating masterpiece?

February 2020: An Alternative Music Playlist by The Head Scratcher from 2020-02-21T16:26:43

We’ve gone mental this month! Our playlist for February 2020 is nearly 5 hours long and stuffed with the very best in alternative music. Whack it on shuffle and hit us with your faves!

10 Alternative Films to Watch This Valentine's Day from 2020-02-14T10:32:09

Need some help choosing what to watch this Valentine’s Day? Sure you do. Sick of the same old rom-coms? Sure you are! Need a little inspiration? We got you.

The Scratch Cast Podcast - Episode 06: Our Top 20 Albums of All Time (Part Two: 10-1) from 2020-02-14T01:00

Part two of our special episode where Grant and Snedds count down their Top 20 albums of all time. In this episode, we count down numbers 10 through 1. Make sure you check some of them out and let ...

Episode 06: Our Top 20 Albums of All Time (Part Two: 10-1) - The Scratch Cast: The Alternative Music Podcast from 2020-02-14T01:00

Part two of our special episode where Grant and Snedds count down their Top 20 albums of all time. In this episode, we count down numbers 10 through 1. Make sure you check some of them ...

The Scratch Cast Podcast - Episode 05: Our Top 20 Albums of All Time (Part One: 20-11) from 2020-02-06T19:37:50

A special episode where Grant and Snedds count down each of their top 20 favourite albums of all time. We had to split this into two parts as it was a bit of an epic undertaking, recorded in a mamm...

Episode 05: Our Top 20 Albums of All Time (Part One: 20-11) - The Scratch Cast: The Alternative Music Podcast from 2020-02-06T19:37:50

A special episode where Grant and Snedds count down each of their top 20 favourite albums of all time. We had to split this into two parts as it was a bit of an epic undertaking, record...

Live Review Roundup: The Bands We Saw in 2019 from 2020-01-30T20:52:08

We’ve been a bit slack on the live reviews lately. To make up for it, here’s a round-up review of every gig we went to in 2019. It’s pretty much just a list of great bands to keep an eye on.

January 2020: An Alternative Music Playlist by The Head Scratcher from 2020-01-18T12:36:52

Over 3 hours of wonderfully eclectic alternative music. It’s gentle, introspective, wistful, swaggering, outgoing and blow-your-ears-out brutal; it’s one of our best playlists yet.

The War of the Worlds: The Guide to (Almost) Every Adaptation. Part Two. from 2020-01-14T20:24

DUN DUN DUN. Part Two of our guide to the best and worst adaptations of The War of the Worlds.

The War of the Worlds: The Guide to (Almost) Every Adaptation. Part One. from 2020-01-14T20:16:20

DUN DUN DUN. Part One of our guide to the best and worst adaptations of The War of the Worlds.

The Best Songs of 2019: An Alternative Playlist by The Head Scratcher from 2020-01-01T18:00

A massive playlist of some of our favourite tracks of 2019.

The Scratch Cast Podcast - Episode 04: Wishing People Merriness from 2019-12-23T20:10:36

We’re a little late with Episode 04 of The Scratch Cast but it’s finally here for your listening pleasure.

On this episode, we do a quick re-cap of Yammerer’s EP since Grant didn’t listen ...

Episode 04: "Wishing People Merriness" - The Scratch Cast: The Alternative Music Podcast from 2019-12-23T20:10:36

We’re a little late with Episode 04 of The Scratch Cast but it’s finally here for your listening pleasure.

On this episode, we do a quick re-cap of Yammerer’s EP since Gr...

December 2019: Festive Cheer - An Alternative Christmas Playlist by The Head Scratcher from 2019-12-03T15:24:49

The Head Scratcher is here to bring you some real festive “cheer” with our alternative Christmas playlist full of sad clowns, evil Santas, chainsaw riffs, guitar hero solos and a heavy dose of Ch...

November 2019: An Alternative Music Playlist by The Head Scratcher from 2019-12-02T16:26:04

We’re edging ever closer to 2020, a new year, a new decade… but we’re not done with this one… just yet. We take a look back at our favourite alternative tracks from November 2019 with this massi...

Black Friday Record Store Day 2019: The Head Scratcher's Picks from 2019-11-26T15:21:46

Our picks for this year’s Black Friday Record Store Day.

The Scratch Cast Podcast - Episode 03: I Don't Know What To Say from 2019-11-15T19:50:57

Welcome one and all to Episode 03 of The Scratch Cast where the dynamic duo discuss EPs from Girl in Red and Yammerer, albums from Fontaines DC, Viagra Boys, Amyl and The Sniffers and Microwave, an...

Episode 03: “I Don't Know What To Say" - The Scratch Cast: The Alternative Music Podcast from 2019-11-15T19:50:57

The Scratch Cast: The Alternative Pop Culture Podcast - Episode 03: I Don’t Know What To Say

Welcome one and all to Episode 03 of The Scratch Cast where the dynamic duo d...

October 2019: An Alternative Music Playlist by The Head Scratcher from 2019-11-01T17:23:36

Two hours and thirty five mins of hand-picked eclectic perfection.

The Scratch Cast Podcast - Episode 02: The Black Edition from 2019-10-13T12:36:48

Episode 02 of The Scratch Cast is finally here. Snedds and Grant return with a bumper episode covering the latest albums from Pixies, Black Futures, Black Mountain, Weezer & Black Dresses.

Episode 02: “The Black Edition" - The Scratch Cast: The Alternative Music Podcast from 2019-10-13T12:36:48

Episode 02 of The Scratch Cast is finally here. Snedds and Grant return with a bumper episode covering the latest albums from Pixies, Black Futures, Black Mountain, Weezer & Black D...

Movie Review: The Art Of Self Defense (2019) from 2019-10-04T10:00

A future cult classic that shouldn’t be missed.

September 2019: An Alternative Music Playlist by The Head Scratcher from 2019-09-28T16:27:57

September’s alternative playlist is finally here! Get your lugs around this!

Game Review: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles - Out Of The Shadows (2013) from 2019-09-27T10:47:06

An in-depth review of TMNT: Out of the Shadows (2013) by Red Fly Studios. Cowabunga?

The Scratch Cast Podcast - Episode 01: "A Solid 5/10" from 2019-09-15T18:48:55

The very first episode of The Scratch Cast covering nothing but music. In this episode, Snedds and Grant discuss albums from Dinosaur Pile-Up, Jamie Lenman, Gender Roles and Press Club. It's a soli...

Episode 01: "A Solid 5/10" - The Scratch Cast: The Alternative Music Podcast from 2019-09-15T18:48:55

The very first episode of The Scratch Cast covering nothing but music. In this episode, Snedds and Grant discuss albums from Dinosaur Pile-Up, Jamie Lenman, Gender Roles and Press Club....

August 2019: An Alternative Playlist by The Head Scratcher from 2019-08-30T14:05:50

3 hours of some of the very best Alternative Music from August 2019 and earlier. We think it slaps.

The Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2019: The Head Scratcher Recommends from 2019-08-08T20:14:45

Here are a few of our recommendations for what to see at The Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2019.

Album Review: The St. Pierre Snake Invasion - Caprice Enchante from 2019-07-25T20:03:04

“The line of “Goodnight Sweetheart” is delivered so violently that Nicholas Lyndhurst would fully shit himself.”

Edinburgh International Film Festival 2019: The Head Scratcher Recommends from 2019-06-19T18:10:20

This list is just a small selection of some of the fantastic films The Edinburgh Film Festival has to offer in 2019.

Ten Times Video Games Became Food And Drink from 2019-06-08T14:25:55

Playing Video Games is one of the most popular pastimes in modern society. Eating is a necessity, much to the chagrin of some gamers (less time to game!), but if we don’t eat, we die.

It's Always Sunny In Philadelphia's 'The Gang Escapes' Is The Perfect Brexit Analogy You Didn't Know You Needed from 2019-05-31T17:39

Brexit is a dark and absurd time in UK politics. It’s Always Sunny In Philadelphia is a dark and absurd comedy show. In Episode 2 of Season 13 these two unrelated entities cross over thematically...

Live Review: Brutus @ Broadcast, Glasgow (06/05/19) from 2019-05-24T18:09:57

Brutus are absolutely one of the best bands I’ve ever had the pleasure of seeing live…

Eurovision 2019: The Rock and Metal Edition from 2019-05-15T19:37:36

What if the Eurovision Song Contest were taken over by the world of rock and metal? It might be a little bit like this.

Album Review: Lost in the Riots - Bonds (2019) from 2019-04-26T09:26:52

Bonds, the new album from London based band Lost in the Riots is the first album I’ve ever received in advance of its release which for me is a big deal.

5 things to buy on "Alien Day" to show your never-ending love for a once great franchise... from 2019-04-26T07:41:07

Today is the day of all days: it’s Alien Day. What does that mean? It means it’s the day where we can all celebrate a franchise that started out with horrifying brilliantly but in more recent tim...

Album Review: PUP - Morbid Stuff (2019) from 2019-04-12T13:53:07

Morbid Stuff is the highly anticipated new studio album from Canadian punk rock band PUP. On their third album can they fulfil the high expectations that the hype machine demands?

Album Review: Brutus - Nest (2019) from 2019-04-04T12:03:53

Brutus are a heavy band from Belgium; their latest record, Nest, is the follow up to their highly rated debut album Burst, released in 2017.  

12 Essential Picks for Record Store Day 2019 from 2019-03-28T12:27:56

Record Store Day is one of my favourite days of the year. Here are a few of my suggestions for what to pick up this Saturday 13th April 2019.

Game Review: Resident Evil 2 (2019) from 2019-03-20T15:43:38

Resident Evil 2 was released by Capcom on January 25th 2019, and has become one of the most talked about games of the year so far.

Live Review: Limmy, Surprisingly Down To Earth, and Very Funny @ Òran Mór, Glasgow (4/3/19) from 2019-03-10T11:37:14

On the 4th March, I went to see Limmy over in the Òran Mór in the West End of Glasgow. The show itself was in equal parts comedy, a Q&A session, as well as promotion and a signing for his new boo...

The Alternative Brit Awards 2019 from 2019-03-03T17:02:12

The Brit Awards happened just last month; I didn't watch them. I've never been particularly invested in The Brits because I have no interest in most of the artists involved and the winners tend t...

Movie Review: One Cut of the Dead (2017) from 2019-02-22T15:45:36

One Cut of the Dead is a low budget zombie film released in Japan in late 2017. It became a huge hit with audiences in Japanese theatres throughout 2018 and was finally released officially in the...

Album Review: Blockhead - Free Sweatpants (2019) from 2019-02-17T13:16:31

Blockhead is a producer and DJ from NYC. I discovered his latest album, Free Sweatpants, through Backwoodz Studioz, the label that released the astonishingly good Paraffin by Armand Hammer last y...

The Alternative Guide to Valentine's Day from 2019-02-14T05:20:34

Ah, the 14th of February, that special day celebrated annually where couples are pressured into making extravagant gestures of forced affection and singles are made to feel bad about their lack o...

Album Review: Ithaca - The Language of Injury (2019) from 2019-02-08T14:33:59

If you like savage, hard hitting, hardcore influenced metal with coarse vocals and a bit of melody sprinkled throughout then The Language of Injury might just be for you.

Live Review: The Pharcyde @ O2 ABC2, Glasgow (20/03/18) from 2019-02-06T13:07:59

If you get the chance to see The Pharcyde live I’d absolutely recommend that you do as they clearly haven’t lost any of their magic over the years.

Movie Review: Dave Made a Maze (2017) from 2019-02-06T08:08:17

Dave Made a Maze is an independent horror comedy film which has been garnering a lot of attention at film festivals around the world over the last couple of years.

Book Review: The Demolished Man by Alfred Bester (1953) from 2019-02-03T10:27:29

The Demolished Man is your typical police procedural, a tale of murder, deception, lust and...telepathy? Written by Alfred Bester and published in 1953, it’s one of the most lauded novels in scie...

8 Scottish Comedy Shows Absolutely Everyone Should Watch on Burns Night (or any other night of the year it's up to you...) from 2019-01-25T13:58:19

I'm from Scotland and a big fan of comedy but when the discussion on great British comedy shows comes up it's generally distinctly lacking in Scottish content. This list is designed to address that.

10 EPs Of 2018 You Must Listen To from 2019-01-13T14:43:35

Following on from the look back at my favourite albums of 2018, I thought I'd close out that retrospective by also sharing my favourite EPs of said year.

The 35 Albums of 2018 You Must Listen To from 2019-01-08T01:47

What better way to start the new year than by looking backwards instead of forwards? 2018 was a fantastic year for music and I consumed a lot of great albums and great albums deserve to be shared.

Live Review: Every Time I Die, Turnstile, Angel Du$t&Vein @ Union Transfer, Philadelphia PA (11/12/18) from 2018-12-26T15:48:04

The 20 Years of Bullshit Tour. Give yourself a moment and take in that line-up one more time. Every Time I Die. Turnstile. Angel Du$t. Vein. Hardcore legends celebratong 20 years as a band suppor...

10 Alternative Christmas Films That Aren't Die Hard and One That Should Die, Hard. from 2018-12-18T20:37:01

Fed up of watching those same old Christmas films year after year? Here's a bunch of alternatives that might just become your Christmas stalwarts in the future; none of which are Die Hard.

15 Songs by Cuban Artists, Absolutely Worth Your Time from 2018-12-09T23:15:05

I was only in Cuba for a short time (10 days) but during that time, music was everywhere, whether it was a full band in the streets of Havana, a lone Troubadour in a Trinidad restaurant or a smal...

16 Songs by Mexican Artists, Absolutely Worth Your Time from 2018-11-09T03:51

I've been in Mexico for about 2 weeks now which obviously makes me an expert on said country's music scene. Here are 16 of my recommendations for songs you need to hear by Mexican artists.

5 Horror Films You May Not Have Heard Of Which Are Absolutely Worth Your Time (and one that's not) from 2018-10-30T04:10:48

It's Halloween on Wednesday so get yourself ready by digging out these horror gems and shitting yourself stupid.

Live Review: Black Peaks @ King Tuts, Glasgow (14/10/18) from 2018-10-24T21:21:25

Black Peaks have quickly become one of my new favourite bands. They’re British and destined to go on to much bigger things so give them a listen and if you like what you hear, buy their album, go...

Album Review: Black Peaks - All That Divides (2018) from 2018-10-09T20:35:49

All That Divides is a genuinely brilliant album; it’s melodic, catchy, bone crushingly heavy and if you are into alternative music, absolutely essential.

Album Review: Gouge Away - Burnt Sugar (2018) from 2018-09-30T20:46:47

I’ve been anticipating this album since I first heard the track “Ghost” a number of weeks ago and have been dying to hear it ever since.

The Head Scratcher's 20 Favourite Alice in Chains Songs from 2018-09-18T19:31

To celebrate the release of Alice in Chains' latest album Rainier Fog I've picked my 20 favourite AIC songs.

Live Review: Jurassic Park (25th Anniversary) in Concert @ SEC Armadillo, Glasgow (14/09/18) from 2018-09-15T09:28:42

Should you go and see Jurassic Park in Concert? If you love the film, you absolutely should. If you're a fan of unique cinematic experiences, you absolutely should. If you're anyone else and have...

The Head Scratcher's 20 Favourite Alkaline Trio Songs from 2018-09-04T19:37:28

To celebrate the release of Is This Thing Cursed?, Alkaline Trio’s first new studio album in 5 years I’ve decided to select 20 of my favourite tracks.

Songs of the Summer 2018: Spotify vs The Head Scratcher from 2018-09-02T13:53:53

Spotify recently released their most played songs of the summer and for someone who likes alternative music it’s a depressing list. So I’ve decided to make my own list, an antidote to the mainstr...

6 Mash-Up Albums Absolutely Worth Your Time from 2018-08-10T18:38

The dark art of the mash up is something very difficult to get right and it's especially difficult to get right over a full album. Here are some of my favourites.

9 Dinosaur Films You Should Definitely Watch and One You Definitely Shouldn't from 2018-08-05T19:18

They died out millions of years ago but returned from the dead to entertain our fat popcorn stuffing faces. Here are nine films with dinosaurs I think are worth watching and one that definitely i...

Live Review: Fleet Foxes, Pearl Jam and Justice @ Mad Cool Festival, Madrid (12/07/18) from 2018-08-03T20:30:22

A few weeks ago I travelled with my better half to Madrid for a short holiday and to attend one day of the Mad Cool music festival. The main reason for this was to see Pearl Jam who, at the end o...

Album Review: Fantastic Negrito - Please Don't Be Dead (2018) from 2018-07-08T17:47:14

I’ve been listening to a serious dosage of metal recently but over the last week I’ve switched my medication over to something a little more easy on the ears; Please Don’t Be Dead by Fantastic Ne...

Edinburgh International Film Festival 2018: My EIFF from 2018-07-07T18:46:15

There’s almost always some kind of festival on in Edinburgh and every year in June the Edinburgh International Film Festival gives casual movie goers and film buffs alike a chance to see all mann...

Live Review: Flight of the Conchords @ SSE Hydro, Glasgow (18/06/18) from 2018-07-04T20:58:38

I’ve always wanted to see Flight of the Conchords live and at the end of 2017 I was lucky enough to bag some tickets for their 2018 tour of the UK.

Album of the Week: Get Your Act Together Edition - Part 2 from 2018-06-20T22:11:38

Time for Part 2, let’s get straight into it.

Album of the Week: Get Your Act Together Edition - Part 1 from 2018-06-17T09:26:41

Its been 8 weeks since I last posted an Album of the Week review. Eight bloody weeks! So to go some way to make up for that I’ve decided to gather together the albums I’ve been listening to durin...

Post Hype Impressions: Star Wars - Episode VIII: The Last Jedi from 2018-05-15T20:11:08

This is the first edition of a new feature analysing major releases, whether it be in film, television, music or whatever, after the dust has settled.

Record Store Day 2018 - Several Good / Several Bad from 2018-04-21T07:42:55

Today is Record Store Day, both saviour and scourge of record stores around the world. So what better way to celebrate than to pick several good and several bad from the glut of releases? Lets do...

Album Review: The Voidz - Virtue (2018) from 2018-04-19T20:13:53

Virtue by the Voidz. One of the most varied and in my opinion exciting releases of the year so far. 

Album Review: Between the Buried and Me - Automata I (2018) from 2018-04-01T12:47:55

If you’re a fan of progressive metal then this album is most definitely for you but the harder, heavier and more cacophonous moments may drive many away.

Album Review: Turnstile - Time&Space from 2018-03-04T16:37:43

I can do nothing other than recommend this album to anyone who likes alternative music.

Album Review: Marmozets - Knowing What You Know Now / Live Review: Marmozets at The Liquid Rooms, Edinburgh (12/02/18) from 2018-02-24T21:49:11

If you get the chance to see Marmozets live, make sure you don’t miss out.

Live Review: Jamie Lenman @ Stereo, Glasgow (02/02/18) from 2018-02-05T22:13:35

I had a great time and if you're a fan of Mr Lenman's music you won't be disappointed. I'd also urge those who aren't necessarily fans to go along and see what all the fuss is about.

Album Review: Creeper - Eternity, in Your Arms (2017) from 2018-01-20T18:59:34

Overall Eternity, In Your Arms is an excellent album, It's by no means perfect and there are a few songs I'm not hugely into but there are enough good songs and good ideas littered throughout tha...

My first Vlog attempt. from 2018-01-14T20:48:13

I took a trip down to CeX to try and get rid of some of my DVD's and then hit up a local record store, Vinyl Villains and ran through my haul.

Why My Favourite Movies Suck: Episode II - Terminator 2: Judgement Day from 2018-01-01T12:56:14

Is Terminator 2 really one of the greatest action movies ever put to film and one of the best sequels ever made? No, it sucks! Why?

The November Vinyl Challenge 2017: All 30 Days from 2017-12-27T17:43:53

I recently took part in the November Vinyl Challenge where I posted picks from my collection, to Instagram and Facebook, to suit a specific category each day in November. What follows is each of ...

Flying Under the Radar: 12 Alternative Picks From Netflix UK. from 2017-12-03T15:30:28

There is a huge amount of content on Netflix these days, some great, some not so great and some that's so downright atrocious it should be deleted from the history of time so that future generati...

Album Review: Greta Van Fleet - From the Fires (2017) from 2017-11-20T21:14:14

Sometimes you hear something and it just clicks. Greta Van Fleet are one of those bands and the quality and consistency of the music on offer here is undeniable.

Black Friday Record Store Day 2017: My 5 Picks from 2017-11-18T13:24:18

Next Friday, the 24th November, is Black Friday and that can only mean one thing. "People smashing each other's faces in over not-quite-so-generously-discounted-as-you-think televisions?" I hear ...

Album Review: Arcane Roots - Melancholia Hymns (2017) from 2017-11-12T20:47:38

Overall this is a very well put together album and an engrossing listen from start to finish. It does open slowly and takes a while to get into but after a couple of listens I found myself drawn ...

Why My Favourite Movies Suck: Episode I - Jurassic Park. from 2017-11-08T20:27:21

Jurassic Park is one of my favourite movies of all time but is it really a masterclass in blockbuster filmmaking? No, IT SUCKS and here's why.

Album Review: Gordon James and the Power - Self Titled EP (2017) from 2017-11-04T21:03:24

The songs are full of soaring, hearfelt vocals, tight harmonies, clever hooks and intricate fills with truly excellent production throughout.

Jamie Lenman's Devolver Listening Party - My Thoughts from 2017-10-23T22:05:54

I've just had the pleasure of being involved in the Devolver listening party the latest in a genius suite of preorder bonuses from Jamie Lenman and Big Scary Monsters. Here's some of my thoughts ...

Cassette Tapes are Obsolete!? - My Cassette Tape Collection from 2017-10-15T22:44:44

Yesterday, 14th October 2017, was the 4th annual  International Cassette Store Day. Think of it as Record Store Day's plucky younger brother. To celebrate I thought I'd share some of the cassette...

5 of My Favourite Podcasts from 2017-09-28T22:12:49

So I thought I'd do a short list with 5 of the podcasts I listen to regularly.

Is Brand New's 'Science Fiction' a depressing album? from 2017-09-26T22:39:55

Brand New's music never truly reveals itself on first listen. The songs are deeply layered and over time the intricacies, nuances and oddities become more apparent and lyrics take on new meaning ...

Update from 2017-09-25T18:35:43

So the blog page is up and running but admittedly it needs some work to get it looking right. I'll be posting content here from time to time so watch this space.

Welcome to Jurassic Park from 2017-09-24T19:28:37

Surprising first post title but it got your attention, right?