Pete Paphides: Find El Dorado Sleeve Notes and Uncut Cover Story

In this episode, I’m joined by acclaimed music journalist and broadcaster Pete Paphides to dive into Paul Weller’s new album, Find El Dorado. Pete wrote the liner notes for the album and the cover story for Uncut magazine, so he brings a unique perspective on how the project came together, the inspiration behind the track-list, and why these particular songs were chosen. We talk about Weller’s drive to celebrate lesser-known gems, his collaboration with Steve Cradock (who produces), and the contributions from special guests like Declan O’Rourke, Amelia Coburn, Noel Gallagher, and Robert Plant.

We also explore the wider context of Weller’s career – how his voice has evolved, the influence of folk, soul, and psychedelia on this record, and what makes this album stand apart from his recent releases. There are plenty of stories from behind the scenes, reflections on creative partnerships, and even a look ahead to The Jam’s 50th anniversary and my own upcoming book, Paul Weller: Dancing Through the Fire…

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Uncut Magazine – Cover Story

If you’re anywhere near a newsagent this week, make sure you grab the new Uncut magazine. Pete’s interviews always dig deeper than the usual promo chat, and this one is no different – exploring Paul’s reflections on life, loss, music addiction, and his beautiful new covers album Find El Dorado.

It’s also a very special issue for me personally, as it includes an exclusive extract from my upcoming authorised oral history Dancing Through the Fire. You’ll find memories of The Jam going punk for the first time – stories direct from Paul, Rick, Bruce, and friends about that explosive moment when everything changed. I couldn’t be prouder to see it featured in Uncut alongside such a moving piece about Paul.

Go and grab a copy to support great music journalism – magazines like Uncut put so much care into proper, in-depth features that you just don’t get online. Buying it helps keep these thoughtful stories, interviews, and archives alive for all of us who love music beyond the headlines.

Find El Dorado

You’ll also find Pete’s words within the sleeve of the new Paul Weller album, Find El Dorado. A deeply personal new album of reinterpretations, the album sees Weller revisit songs that have long lived in the back of his mind – now reimagined with fresh meaning and a sense of reverence. Less a covers album and more a map of his emotional and musical DNA. 

Produced by Steve Cradock, the album includes further guest appearances from Declan O’Rourke, Noel Gallagher, Amelia Coburn, Seckou Keita, Robert Plant and more. Order your copy here.