It’s here. The start of a new year with new year’s resolutions, hopes and dreams.

And so we kick off 2014 with the Northern Soul podcast. This week Lucy chats to Vinny Peculiar, otherwise known as Alan Wilkes. A Manchester-based singer-songwriter and poet, Vinny has released nine albums of lyrical art-pop music, created SOUP ART with Bill Drummond (KLF, The 17), collaborated with Luke Haines from The Auteurs and opened for Edwyn Collins, British Sea Power and The Killers. His various bands have included ex-members of The Smiths, The Fall, Aztec Camera & OASIS. His recent project, Parlour Flames, is a collaboration with former OASIS guitarist Bonehead and their debut album Cherry Red was released in May 2013.

Also on Lucy’s playlist this week are, among others, Diane Birch, Drowners, Simon and Garfunkel, Jeremy Messersmith, New Order and Dexters.

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