Josh McClorey - The Story of 66

Irish singer/songwriter/multi-instrumentalist Josh McClorey was phe principal songwriter and lead guitarist of The Strypes where he enjoyed success with a #1 album in Ireland, #5 in the UK and extensive global tours.

The band played with and support Paul Weller on numerous occasions, and Josh has played on albums from Saturns Pattern to the latest 66.

You can hear him playing bass on Flying Fish and electric guitars on Soul Wandering.

In addition to contributing to multiple #1 albums for other artists, from YUNGBLUD to Paul Weller, Josh is the mind behind one of the hottest new bands in the UK right now, Soft Launch.

Unveiling the Magic Behind Paul Weller's "66" with Josh McClorey

With the release of his 17th solo studio album, "66", Paul Weller continues to captivate audiences with his innovative sound and collaborative spirit.

In our latest podcast episode, we had the pleasure of diving deep into the making of "66" with none other than Josh McClorey a talented musician who has been closely associated with Weller over the past decade.

Josh's journey into the world of music began at an impressively young age. Touring the world as a teenager with his band The Strypes, Josh's early exposure to the music scene laid a solid foundation for his future collaborations. Reflecting on his first encounter with Paul Weller, Josh recounts the surreal experience of supporting Weller at Abbey Road Studios. "Playing with Paul and playing in Abbey Road was crazy," he shares. This initial connection would pave the way for numerous collaborations, both in the studio and on stage.

One of the standout aspects of "66" is its rich tapestry of collaborations. From playing electric guitar on "Soul Wandering" to contributing bass on "Flying Fish," Josh's involvement showcases the dynamic interplay of talents that define the album. He describes the studio atmosphere as one of constant creativity and positivity, with Weller at the helm, ensuring that the energy remains high and the ideas keep flowing.

The episode also delves into Josh's personal musical journey, from his early days with The Strypes to his current project, Soft Launch. Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, Josh's passion for music remains undiminished. His new band, Soft Launch, is set to make waves with their upcoming releases and live performances. "It's the most excited I've been about anything, probably since I was a kid," Josh enthuses, highlighting the camaraderie and creative synergy within the band.

Paul Weller's mentorship has played a significant role in Josh's career. Whether offering advice on navigating the music industry or encouraging Josh to follow his gut, Weller's guidance has been invaluable. "The only thing you can do is the thing that makes you happy," Weller advised Josh during a pivotal moment in his career. This philosophy has clearly influenced Josh's approach to music, as he continues to explore new avenues and push creative boundaries.

As we wrap up our conversation, Josh reflects on the enduring impact of live music. Despite the industry's shift towards digital platforms, he emphasises the irreplaceable connection forged through live performances. "Going out and playing a show still means a lot more to kids," he asserts, underscoring the timeless appeal of the live music experience.

This is another episode that gives a fascinating glimpse into the making of "66" and the vibrant world of music collaboration.

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