In this episode of the XS Noize Podcast, Mark Millar is joined by Mani — legendary bassist of The Stone Roses and Primal Scream, and one of the most influential figures in British rock history.
From the euphoric rise of The Stone Roses — the band that defined a generation and changed the sound of British music — to the wild creative freedom of Primal Scream, Mani’s journey has been nothing short of iconic.
In this conversation, Mani looks back on the moments that shaped him — from the late-’80s Manchester underground, when The Roses’ mix of psychedelic swagger and dancefloor groove ignited the Madchester movement, to recording their classic debut album and riding the wave of euphoria that followed. He opens up about the frustration of losing momentum during the long and bitter legal battles with Silvertone Records and FM Revolver, a period that tested the band’s spirit but ultimately forged their defiant edge.
He recalls the band’s rebirth with Second Coming, his explosive years with Primal Scream, and the emotional highs of reuniting The Roses for the monumental Heaton Park shows — one of the greatest comebacks in modern music. Mani reflects on the brotherhood, the chaos, and the transcendence that came with it all — and what it means to live through those storms with joy still intact.
Editor’s note: This conversation captures Mani at his most reflective — equal parts chaos, humour, and heart. From the power of four to the pain of loss, he speaks with honesty, wit, and soul about the moments that shaped his life in music. It’s one of the most revealing and emotionally charged interviews he’s ever given.
“The four of us. Boom. There it is. The power of four. And it was beautiful.” – Mani (on the magic of The Stone Roses’ reunion)
Mani also shares personal memories of the Beautiful Thing sessions, the deep connection between groove and spirituality, and how he’s carried The Roses’ sense of defiance and soul into everything since. With trademark humour and honesty, he talks about surviving the highs and lows of fame, the secret to keeping the spirit of rock ’n’ roll alive, and why music, at its best, still feels like a resurrection.
Listen to the full episode and join Mani as he reflects on a lifetime in music — from Manchester to the world — The groove, the chaos, the resurrection.
Listen on: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon Podcasts | YouTube
“That record’s going to sound as pristine and beautiful as it does forever. We tapped into something only music could unlock.” – Mani (on the timeless sound of The Stone Roses debut album)
Photo © Pennie Smith, used courtesy of the artist.
About The XS Noize Podcast
With over 250 episodes to its name, the XS Noize Podcast has become a trusted home for music’s legends and trailblazers — a space where real conversations meet real stories. Hosted by Mark Millar, the show has welcomed an extraordinary lineup including Moya Brennan, Glen Matlock, Miles Kane, Matt Berninger, Saint Etienne, D:Ream, Gavin Rossdale, The Farm, Snow Patrol, John Lydon, Will Sergeant, Ocean Colour Scene, Gary Kemp, Doves, Gavin Friday, David Gray, Anton Newcombe, Peter Hook, Razorlight, Sananda Maitreya, James, Crowded House, Elbow, Cast, Kula Shaker, Shed Seven, Future Islands, Peter Frampton, Bernard Butler, Steven Wilson, Travis, New Order, The Killers, Tito Jackson, Simple Minds, The Divine Comedy, Shaun Ryder, Gary Numan, Sleaford Mods, and Michael Head — among many more.
Explore the complete XS Noize Podcast archive here
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