For this episode, I look back at Gary Numan's Dance album opener - the haunting 9+ minute track, Slowcar to China.

From its real-life inspirations and other theories to the album's sound as a whole, it's time to head back to 1981 and for one Gary's best ever LPs.

"Take that smile off your face, wipe that tear from your eye, don't say you're sorry for me".

For this episode, we look back at Paul Gardiner's solo single 'Stormtrooper in Drag', co-written with Gary Numan and with Gary on lead vocals.

The underrated track about drug use and loneliness showcased the lost potential of the late Paul Gardiner, and gave Numan fans a look at what was to come on the Dance album, as well as some fresh music after his farewell concerts in 1981.

I look back at Paul's other tracks, Gary's reaction to his death aged just 25, the song's cover versions and lyrics meaning.

Please get in touch on YouTube, X, Facebook, TikTok and Instagram, or email at numanpodcast@gmail.com.

In this latest interview special of Electric Friends, I speak to a legend in Gary Numan's music history: Rrussell Bell.

In case you didn’t know - Rrussell is a prolific musician, composer and comedy writer. After graduating in Physics at London University, he joined Tubeway Army in 1979 - first appearing on record on 1980’s We Are Glass. He would then spend the next 10 years recording with Gary and touring the world in his band. He would then go on to form the band Dramatis alongside Chris Payne, Ced Sharpley and Denis Haines.

Also a seasoned session player, he is also an award winning jingle writer, worked as a musical director for BSB, and has worked on many film and TV projects. This includes acting, stand-up comedy and script-writing for people such as Craig Charles and Keith Allen. He released his first EP Like a Human in 2019.

Rrussell very kindly agreed to be on the show, and I hope you enjoy this special interview!

Please get in touch on YouTube, X, Facebook, TikTok and Instagram, or email at numanpodcast@gmail.com.

Tom invites Rrussell Bell, a prolific musician and former member of Gary Numan's band, to share his experiences and insights from his extensive career. Rrussell reflects on his early days in the entertainment world, growing up in a family of performers, and how that shaped his artistic journey. He discusses his transition from an aspiring guitarist to joining Tubeway Army, highlighting the challenges and excitement of auditioning for Gary Numan. The conversation delves into memorable moments from their tours, including the immense popularity of Numan in the late '70s and the exhilarating atmosphere of live performances. Rrussell also touches on his diverse career beyond music, including writing jingles and comedy, and hints at upcoming projects with Dramatis, emphasizing his enduring passion for creating music.

Takeaways:

• Rrussell Bell discusses his early life growing up in a family of entertainers, including trapeze artists and comedians.
• He shares how he first became a fan of Gary Numan after seeing him perform on television during the 1970s.
• Bell highlights the unique experience of touring with Gary Numan, recalling the excitement and challenges of live performances.
• The recording process for albums with Numan involved a collaborative effort, allowing band members to contribute creatively.
• Bell reflects on the bittersweet feelings surrounding the end of Numan's career during the Wembley gigs, leading to the formation of Jamatis.
• His diverse career spans music, comedy writing, and jingles, showcasing his multifaceted talent in the entertainment industry.