Michael Larsson of ColdSpell

by Alex Barbieri
Staff Writer

Last year, Swedish band ColdSpell’s album, Infinite Stargaze, topped many hard rock “Best of 2009” lists. The band has been quiet — at least for American fans — so Hardrock Haven thought it was time to venture north to the land of the midnight sun where guitarist and songwriter Michael Larsson reveals what ColdSpell is conjuring up next—along with the title of the new album due in February!

HRH: Michael, thank you for sending me a copy of Infinite Stargaze. Athough I’m a year late, it is on heavy rotation in my car, and it will likely be my favorite album of the year. What has ColdSpell been up to, and can we look forward to a new album soon?

MICHAEL LARSON: Hi Alex and thanks for those kind words. I’m glad to hear the combination of driving your car and listening to ColdSpell works out fine, haha! What have we been up to … well, I must admit that time flies away. It’s hard to believe that it is almost two years since the Infinite Stargaze was released.

I have been promoting the album and have done lots of emailing and interviews, and we have done some shows here and there. We have some changes in the line-up for this new album and it finally feels like we are one solid unit that’s ready to rock.

HRH: The last album sounded sonically amazing. Are you recording in the same studio with the new lineup? Please let your vocalist, Niclas Swedentorp, know that I think he is one of the best in the business.

ML: Ha ha, yes I will let him know that! He is a “one of a kind” singer and great to work with, too. It’s important to have the chemistry going and we do have that for sure!

This new album is recorded in the same studio and is mixed by the same outstanding Tommy Hansen from Denmark. As I said, we have a new lineup, a new drummer and bass player due to the fact that they did not have the time to do this. But we are still best friends. The new guys are both good old friends of mine from the time I used to live in the south of Sweden. The drummer is Perra Johansson (Crawley, Lost Souls) and the bass player is Anders “Kebbe” Lindmark ( RAW, Dalton). They are the nicest guys and both have a huge backpack of experience.

HRH: As a founding member and main songwriter of ColdSpell, are the new songs similar or different to those on Stargaze? Can you tell us what the new album is called, and share any song titles yet?

ML: Yes, the new album will be in the same vein as Infinite Stargaze. It’s the same songwriter but with two new members that will take us up to the next level! It’s maybe a little heavier sounding, but still ColdSpell.

Alex, you will be the first to know the new album title, so feel honored ha ha – Out From the Cold is the title for the new ColdSpell album.

HRH: Thank you Michael for that Hardrock Haven exclusive! You read it here first, rockers: Out from the Cold will be the title of the new ColdSpell album.

HRH: There are some obvious American ‘80s hard rock influences on Infinite Stargaze, such as Dokken, Queensryche and Dream Theater. Was American metal big in Sweden back in the day? Were albums easy or difficult to find and buy?

ML: I’m glad to hear that and, of course, bands like those you mentioned had a big influence on me, but also bands like Deep Purple, Whitesnake, Sabbath, Rainbow, Badlands … those American metal bands were huge in Scandinavia / Europe at that time and I think that Dream Theater still is! It was no problem getting those albums at that time.

HRH: Looking back at the last year supporting Infinite Stargaze, what are some of your favorite shows and memories? Any crazy stories you can share?

ML: The crazy stories I will let you know when we meet and have a couple of beers. We have done some amazing shows but I think that we have the best ones ahead of us, all those amazing reviews and top album lists are memories worth keeping.

HRH: Does the band have any plans to tour following the release of the new album? Will U.S. fans get a chance to see ColdSpell live?

ML: I sure do hope so and I feel in my gut that the U.S. is not that far away. We have been talking about doing Europe and we will see about U.S. dates after the release of the new album.

HRH: What adult beverages would be found in ColdSpell’s studio?

ML: Just pure spring water. And course maybe one or two beers. And red wine from Robertson Winery. And maybe some well deserved single malt whiskey, haha!

HRH: What type of guitar and effects do you play? Do you have any endorsements you’d like to talk about?

ML: Still trying everything that comes my way, I had some offers but I guess it’s important that it feels right.

I play an ESP Eclipse, Gibson Les Paul and Peavey Wolfgang. I don’t use that many effects, but I can’t live without my Jimi Hendrix wha wha. Otherwise it’s delay, tube screamer and maybe a chorus from time to time. Plain and simple.

HRH: Take us through a day in the life of Micke Larsson. Tell us something we don’t know about you.

ML: A day inside the head of Mr. Larsson, haha! I guess it’s not that exciting. I will just disappoint you. I spend some quality time with my family and my dog, get some new song ideas that makes me look even more confused. And as it is now, I spend more time with the computer than playing guitar and that is not so good.

What you don’t know is that this weekend I’m going to our cabin out in the woods and relax, have a sauna, drive my snowmobile and get inspired! Haha.

HRH: Give us your first thought that comes to mind on the following names and words:

HRH: Guitar.

ML: My love of life.

HRH: Metal.

ML: Judas Priest.

HRH: Idols.

ML: Ronnie James Dio.

HRH: Fans.

ML: Dedication.

HRH: The Music Business.

ML: Biiiig and strange.

HRH: Beer.

ML: Mythos.

HRH: What bands and albums are you currently listening to, and who are your favorites of all time?

ML: At this moment, I’m listening to this new amazing Firewind album and checkin’ out a new live DVD from Kings X.

That’s a tricky question—there´s so many favorites, but if I mention a few: King´s X Dogman, Lynch Mob Wicked Sensation, Dream Theater Images and Words, Rainbow Rising, Whitesnake 1987, the first Badlands, Montrose Rock the Nation. All are a piece of hard rock history.

HRH: What are your musical goals for ColdSpell over the next few years, and how do you define success in music and life?

ML: Success is to get to do what you are meant to do … to enjoy it and share it with others, family, friends and everyone else! When it comes to ColdSpell, we like to do high quality hard rock albums that hopefully will get us over to the U.S. in 2011.

And of course make sure to enjoy every minute and second of it! We will release this new album in February and have a new video ready for the release, so we will take one thing at a time!

HRH: Do you have any thoughts on the passing of Ronnie James Dio? Any memories you would like to share?

ML: Yes I do. He meant a lot to me for sure. He was the one that was supposed to be around as long as hard rock exists and unite us all. He will be remembered and not forgotten that’s for sure! He has a special place in my heart! We have a song on the new album “The King” that is dedicated to him, but can be referred to other special people in our lives—someone near that we lost. That lyric and song felt so right at the time he passed away so I decided to have it on this new album.

HRH: Is there anything else you would like to say to your fans and the Hardrock Haven audience?

ML: Like that old Scorpion song, “Can’t live without you.” That’s what it’s all about! Lookin’ forward to this coming 2011 and finally, hopefully get to meet you all over there on the other side of the Atlantic!

HRH: Michael, thank you for your time and openness. You are one of the nicest and most talented people I know in hard rock and metal. All the best to you and ColdSpell, and please keep us informed about the new album any U.S. shows!

ML: Oh my god, that is the nicest thing I’ve heard in a long time. Many thanks! Thanks for doing this interview with me and all the best to you Alex and everyone else at Hardrock Haven. Cheers from Sweden!

Watch the video for ”Night Falls” on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1lo6CryCgfY

Friend Coldspell on Facebook at www.facebook.com/pages/ColdSpell/164708699316 and on MySpace at www.myspace.com/coldspellsweden

Kyoji Yamamoto

by Alex Barbieri
Staff Writer

Kyoji Yamamoto is one of the most popular and influential guitarists you probably never heard of. As the founding member of seminal Japanese bands BowWow and Vow Wow, Kyoji was one of the first guitarists to use the “touch” tapping technique. He is also the musician that Lars Ulrich of Metallica sought out after playing to 26,000 fans in Tokyo.

In between gigs, from his home in Japan, Kyoji graciously answered some questions about his brilliant new instrumental CD, The Life Album, having a few too many with Metallica, touring with KISS in Japan in their heyday and why, despite his many accomplishments, he remains so down to earth and approachable.

HRH: Kyoji, congratulations on The Life Album, an amazing collection of instrumental guitar songs. Tell us about making it: What inspired the songs? Where was it recorded? What are some of your proudest moments on it? Will it be released in the U.S.?

KYOJI YAMOMOTO: Thank you. As you can see from the title, I wanted to express one’s life through music. I recorded it in my private studio. It took years to complete it, since I composed the songs, played all the instruments and mixed and mastered it myself. It is an instrumental album. I love dramatic and touching music. I’m sure you will understand it with your heart.

It is inspired by my family, friends and my own life. It is my life and could be your life, too. You can feel as if you are watching a movie of your life when you listen to it through. My proudest moments are tracks 7 through 10. (“Talking To Myself,” “Deep Inside,” “Sunset Horizon” and “Heavenly.”) It is like a suite. I have received many emails from people saying that they couldn’t stop shedding tears. The last song “Heavenly” is about one’s death. Death’s image is not good generally, but I thought there must be something like hope and I tried to express that.

I don’t have a record deal for this album in the U.S. yet, but you can order it through the Internet at CD Japan.

HRH: You have been called the most famous guitarist in Japan, yet you are very approachable and down to earth. Why is that? What keeps you grounded in life?

KY: Whenever I see the rock stars who try to make themselves look bigger over others, I always think they should take it easy and relax. It’s true that rock music has got an image of “Do what you want—who cares?!” But you should not get the meaning wrong. You must not hurt people for your freedom. You can do anything you like musically, but you are ordinary people before being musicians.

I think “The sense of balance” is one of the most important things in my life. I like to be a very natural and ordinary person off stage. I have experienced high tides and low tides many times, and I know how wonderful relationships with people can be. I think you should have a sense that we are all equal—beyond borders, religions and generations.

HRH: Your tone and playing is so emotional. Do you feel that you speak through your guitar and that music is the universal language?

KY: I think emotion—in other words, feeling—is the most important thing when you play music. I always try to make every single note “live.” I don’t think I have particular words to say by guitar, but I talk with my soul and squeeze my emotion out by playing. Those notes are literally LIVING! And there is no language barrier. It is absolutely universal.

HRH: Take us back to 1977. You’re in BowWow, and opening for KISS in Japan in their heyday. What did you think of them? What were they like? Any crazy stories you share?

KY: We were the opening act for KISS in Kiss ‘77 and ’78, as well. They were just fantastic. To be honest, before playing with them, I didn’t think they were that good. But, I was totally knocked out by their performance on the very first night!! They were always more than great, always perfect!! Except one night when BowWow’s drummer stumbled over a cable by accident and a big magnesium (flash pot) did not exploded (laughs).

They were always kind to us and permit us to use their P.A. system as loud as we like. I heard some interesting stories from their fans, but I shouldn’t tell you (laughs). They had more than enough pleasure of everything, but they never lost the power once they got on stage. It was amazing!

HRH: In an interview, you stated that BowWow at the Reading Festival in 1982 was the most exciting day of your life. Why was that? What other bands played on that bill?

KY: BowWow were just an opening act and it was our first time playing in the U.K. When we started to play, the audience was lying on the grass drinking beer. But, as the songs proceeded, the applause got louder and louder and they stood up. And at the end, it became like our own concert with 50,000 people.

We couldn’t believe it, since we didn’t think anyone knew who BowWow was, and we played just around noon. They kept calling us back on stage even as the next band set up their gear. Then I went back on stage, by order of the promoter, and did a “call and response” thing with the audience until they settled down. It was a most exciting day!

HRH: You have said that you love to jam with other musicians. Who have you met and played with over the years? What is your favorite style of music to jam to?

KY: One night at a jam in Roppongi, Tokyo, Japan, it was Zakk Wylde on vocals, Stevie Salas (George Clinton’s band) and me on guitars, and the drummer and bassist from Zakk’s band. We played great together!

I’ve also jammed with Carmine Appice, T.M Stevens (heavy metal funk bassist of Shocka Zooloo) and John Wetton (Asia). A jam with (Whitesnake bassist) Neil Murray just before he joined Vow Wow was awesome!

I also played with Uli Jon Roth for his Japanese tour. We played his songs, Hendrix songs, Scorpions songs and Japanese traditional songs together. Unforgettable memory!!!

In Japan, I’ve recently jammed with fusion musicians such as Kazumi Watanabe and Issei Noro (Casiopea). I like jamming any style of music as long as you can hear myself, you know what I mean? (Laughs).

HRH: In 2003, Lars Ulrich and Robert Trujillo of Metallica, after performing for thousands in Tokyo, jumped in a cab to a small club, and jammed with you until the early morning hours. Describe that night: What was the club like? What did you talk about? What songs did you play? What were you all drinking?

KY: I met Metallica back in the ‘80s. I was sitting in the dressing room of the Marquee Club in London. Suddenly, all the members of Metallica came in singing an old BowWow song! I was really surprised. They said they used to copy and play our songs and they knew about us very well.

The next time I met them was in 2004 when they toured in Japan. Lars asked his staff to find my phone number, and he called me to go out for a drink. We drank three bottles of wine at the bar on the top of the beautiful hotel in Shinjuku. Then went to the hotel where they were staying. I met the other members there and talked for a while and I suggested we go to the bar where we can jam.

Lars and Rob came with me. There were about 10 people drinking quietly. Then suddenly we started a jam session along the bass line that Rob started. We were so drunk. Metallica had a big concert the next day. It seemed like they were all right, but I was not (laughs).

HRH: Do you know Akira Takasaki of Loudness? What do you think of his playing? Have you ever played together? What is he up to these days?

KY: Yes, I know him very well. Actually I knew him when he was in the band called Lazy before Loudness. He’s got a great technique and his own sound. We have played together in some rock festivals. He still plays in Loudness and toured in Europe this summer.

HRH: Give us your first thought that comes to mind on the following names and words:
Guitar: A vital organ for me. When I was a kid, I was so stressed and sometimes became violent. But when I started playing guitar, all the bad feelings were gone. I think various emotions came out through my guitar. I’m thankful to my guitars.

Metal: Gives me a thrill and power. I like to stay calm, but sometimes I’m dying to need metal!

Japan: Beautiful country and beautiful people, but useless politicians.
United States: Power!

The Music Business: I don’t want be involved so much. But, I need to be involved I guess.

Your Fans: Thanks for supporting me for so many years!! I love you all, really!

HRH: Do you have any thoughts on the passing of Ronnie James Dio?

KY: He was one of the best rock singers in the world. I heard his voice for the first time on Rainbow’s first album. I was very impressed by his powerful, beautiful and dignified voice. I met him in an Indian restaurant in the U.K by coincidence. He was with his wife and he was very calm and tender. We lost an irreplaceable treasure.

HRH: Tell us something we don’t know about Kyoji Yamamoto.

KY: I am known as a hard rock guitarist. Of course I love hard rock, but I love all good music and I’ve been making many different kinds of music you don’t know about. I have introduced some and will introduce more of my works on my Facebook page. So, please check it out at http://www.facebook.com/kyoji.yamamoto.

HRH: Your son, Maoki, is also a musician. What instrument does he play? Is he following in your footsteps? Does he have a CD we can check out?

KY: He plays drums and keyboards. He is more interested in jazz fusion and modern classical stuff. He’s still a high school boy and there is no CD released, however he played in my solo concert when he was 15. You can see it on YouTube.

HRH: Is there anything else you would like to say to your fans and the Hardrock Haven audience?

KY: Hi everybody! Probably most of you don’t know me at all, but if you give me even three minutes to listen to my music, it would be more than a pleasure for me!! I’m sure you wouldn’t regret it. Please just click the YouTube links below to hear “Alone” or “Mother Ocean.”

HRH: Kyōji, arigatōgozaimasu. Thank you for taking the time to answer these questions. It has been an honor and a pleasure. All the best and please stay in touch!

KY: Do Itashimashite (You’re welcome.) Thanks for having me on this wonderful website.

Friend Kyoji Yamomoto on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/kyoji.yamamoto
Watch the video for “Alone” on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TkkTnYAK9X8

Watch the live video for “Mother Ocean” on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lrU116D9AT0.

Order The Life Album on CD Japan.

Order The Essential Kyoji Yamamoto (compilation album) on Amazon.

Jaime St. James of Black N Blue

by Alex Barbieri
Staff Writer

Black ‘N Blue is back! Lead singer Jaime St. James — aka “The Saint” — took time out from final mixing of their long-awaited new album to discuss the future of Black ‘N Blue, as well as some choice memories from his 30-plus years singing in a long-haired rock ‘n roll band. Direct from Los Angeles, say hi to Jaime St. James …

HRH: Jaime, I’ve been a long-time Black ‘N Blue fan and there are a lot of us anticipating the new BNB album. Is Hell Yeah! finally finished? Why did it take so long and when will it be released?

JSJ: I did four years with Warrant; Jeff “Woop” Warner lost his studio; we changed record labels mid-stream and needed to record three new tunes for the new label … it goes on and on.

HRH: Is the new album in the classic Black ‘N Blue style? What previous BNB album would you most compare it to? Can you give us some song titles to whet our appetites?

JSJ: It is classic Black ‘N Blue. That’s all we do! It’s all the old records rolled into one, as I hear it. Songs like “Target,” “Fools Bleed,” “Monkey,” “Angry Drunk Son Of A Bitch” and “Falling Down” to name a few are part of a great piece of work that we are very proud of.

HRH: I (almost) played at Rocklahoma back in 2008. The storm hit right before we were to start. But seeing BNB live earlier that day was one of the highlights of that weekend for me. Are you guys playing live in support of Hell Yeah!? Any shows confirmed yet?

JSJ: Yes, we will be supporting the Hell Yeah! release. We have just confirmed shows in Denver at Casselman’s and Club Red in Phoenix in March. We have some festival shows lined up too, but can’t announce ‘em yet.

HRH: Looking back at the ‘80s, what are some standout memories of the following periods:

HRH: Living with the band and playing clubs in Los Angeles in 1982 and 1983.

JSJ: Great time in my life. The Sunset Strip was on fire and we were part of the fuel. All of BNB and our crew lived in a house at 1538 Martel, just off Sunset Blvd. and we ruled! We trashed that place in honor of our greatness.

HRH: Recording your first album with Dieter Dierks in Germany.

JSJ: One minute, you’re hanging at the Troubadour and the next you pack a bag for three months in Germany—it was our dream come true! Dieter was cool and helped us very much.

HRH: Writing and recording Without Love with Bruce Fairbairn in Vancouver.

JSJ: Don’t forget Bob Rock! I still love that record and it should have made us huge. We recorded across the hall from Loverboy and that is why I sang most of the background vocals on” Lovin’ Every Minute Of It,” a Mutt Lang tune.

HRH: Writing and recording In Heat and Nasty Nasty with Gene Simmons.

JSJ: Love Gene. Most of the songs on those records were f’ing great … a few blew.

HRH: What was your favorite live gig of your musical career? Your favorite recorded song and vocal?

JSJ: Opening for KISS at Madison Square Garden. Favorite BNB song: “Strange Things.” Favorite vocal: “Miss Mystery.”

HRH: How did the nickname, “The Saint” come about?

JSJ: The guys just used to call me that—it came about naturally.

HRH: How do you feel about Tommy being a member of KISS? Is it weird seeing someone you grew up with in that position?

JSJ: I’m goddamn proud of him and he is excellent in KISS.

HRH: Is there any chance that BNB will tour with KISS in the future? Would Tommy do double duty in both bands?

JSJ: Book it! But chickens will blow watermelons out of there ass before that will happen!!

HRH: Black ‘N Blue toured with Dio in the past. Can you share some memories of Ronnie and do you have any thoughts on his passing?

JSJ: Ronnie was a very nice man and an amazing singer. He is horribly missed.

HRH: Tell us something we don’t know about Jaime St. James. What do you do besides sing in Black ‘N Blue? If you could say something to the world, what would it be?

JSJ: I was born to play rock ‘n roll and I do it. I have never taken a music lesson in my life, yet I have written some pretty cool tunes. I play drums and guitar well enough to write and I have been given a gift so I roll with it. I don’t have any kids so when I die, this is what I leave behind—my songs.

HRH: Jaime, thank you for the interview and for all the happiness and great memories your music has created over the years. All the best and please stay in touch!

For more information on Jaime St. James and Black ‘N Blue, go to http://www.jaimestjames.com/

Jesse James Dupree of Jackyl

Deb Rao
Staff Writer

It is has been a blockbuster year for Jackyl. I was able to catch the band in action this year in May on Memorial Day weekend in St. Louis and after all these years, Jackyl still put on a dynamic live show. Riding high on the current release, When Moonshine And Dynamite Collide, Jackyl has just released their second single from the album entitled, “Just Like A Negro.”

“Just Like A Negro” features a special collaboration with Hall of Fame artist DMC from Run DMC. If that wasn’t enough, DMC will be joining Jackyl onstage on their current Winter tour. Singer Jesse James Dupree is also the producer of Full Throttle Saloon, which airs on truTV, which kicked off on November 17th and airs every Wednesday. For more info on Jackyl visit www.jackyl.com.

In this exclusive interview for Hardrock Haven, Jesse James Dupree discusses the making of their current hit album When Moonshine And Dynamite Collide, working with DMC, and current winter tour which kicked off in Kansas City on Nov. 24 with a sold out performance.

HRH: Jesse, Thank you for checking in with Hardrock Haven. Jackyl is kicking off their winter tour in Kansas on Nov. 24. I hear that DMC will be joining you onstage for the tour. How honored are you to have DMC perform with you?

JESSE: Yes, what an honor it is. He is in the Rock And Roll Hall of Fame and he has created so much of an opportunity for people in the hip-hop world. It is awesome to be playing with him.

HRH: Are you going to be performing a bunch of new songs off of your new album, When Moonshine And Dynamite Collide?

JESSE: Absolutely, we are going to be doing songs off of the new album, songs that everybody expects to hear and some surprises in there.

HRH: Awesome. How did this all transpire working with Darryl?

JESSE: He actually heard the track and called me and said,”Hey I want part of this.” So we put it together and he has been out with us since August.

HRH: That is great. I saw the band in St. Louis in May. There seemed to be a whole new generation of fans at the concert.

Jesse; Yes, it is not only cool to see the fans that have come out to see us for the past 15 years but the people that bring their kids and younger people. I think there is resurgence in straight up rock and roll. I have found in the past couple of years. We have been loving every bit of it.

HRH: The new single is out, “Just Like A Negro.” Would you say it refers back to the era of the blues? A lot of people don’t realize that without the blues there would not be rock and roll.

JESSE: Yes, If you have seen the video between the private and public link there is over 32,000 plays in a couple of weeks time. It is great to have the response to the video, if you watch the video it explains the concept of the song. Check out the video here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5TMO9A7uccw

HRH: It seems kind of deja’ vu with you working with Darryl. In 1986, DMC worked with another rock artist Aerosmith in “Walk This Way.” It was great the way the way hip-hop and metal combined. What are your thoughts on DMC and the collaboration with Aerosmith on “Walk This Way”?

JESSE: Darryl talks about how cool it was to work with Aerosmith. I think he is getting another whole new experience out of working with us because he loves the message in this song.

HRH: It has been eight years since your last release. Tell us about the writing process for “When Moonshine And Dynamite Collide.” Was it done collectively or did you write the lyrics by yourself?

JESSE: A lot of the stuff I have been writing for a while. It just all come together organically. We played these songs live. We had a chance to road trip them. I think that really helped in the process of deciding in what goes on the record.

HRH: Do you have any favorite tracks on the album?

JESSE: I love one through twelve. I really love the title track when “Moonshine And Dynamite Collide.” I think it is a great song.

HRH: How would you describe the sound on this album? It seems like you stick to your successful formula of southern blues-rock. Would you say it has your signature stamp on it?

JESSE: I think it sounds just like Jackyl. I don’t know how much more like Jackyl it could sound.

HRH: You are in the second season of producing your own TV show Full Throttle Saloon on truTV?

JESSE: I have been very fortunate and diverse to do a lot of different things not only television but on the record business side of things. It is rewarding to be able to step outside of your box.

HRH: I heard that at one of your performance at Sturgis you jumped out of a cannon?

JESSE: I didn’t jump out of the cannon; I was shot out of it!

HRH: That must have been an experience?

JESSE: It was one hell of an experience. It was the biggest adrenaline rush I ever had.

HRH: Over the past 20 years. How do you feel that Jackyl has evolved as a band?

JESSE: We have become comfortable in our own skin in what we are. We are a rock and roll band that is based on the fundamentals in which rock was created on.

HRH: Do you have any favorite bands of today that you listen to?

JESSE: I like a lot of the new stuff that is out now. The Shinedown record is a great record. Black Stone Cherry are good guys. My son Nigel Dupree is out there tearing it up.

HRH: Jackyl is currently out on the road. What are your touring plans for next year? Any European plans in the works?

JESSE: Right now we don’t have any plans for Europe. I would love to have us booked over there.

HRH: What would you say the highlight of 2010 has been for you?

JESSE: Working with DMC was great. The debut of the TV show last Wednesday night. It comes on every Wednesday night on truTV. Having the new album out is the Top 3 things.

HRH: You have worked with a lot of great people over the years. What was it like working with Brian Johnson of AC/DC?

JESSE: As you can imagine it was a huge deal for us. AC/DC was such an influence on us. Not only being a fan but to be able to work with him was really cool.

HRH: Actually, you showcase your bluesy roots on the song Janis Joplin song Mercedes Benz.

JESSE: That was something that just kind of happened, I left it on the CD.

HRH: Any plans for a solo album in 2011?

JESSE: I don’t know? Right now I am just focusing on here and now.

HRH: Jesse, Thank you for taking time out of your schedule for this interview. Anything else that you would like to say about the tour?

JESSE: It is something you got to see! C’mon out. I hope you all grab the album, enjoy learn the words and come out and get out and see the show.

JACKYL FALL TOUR DATES CONFIRMED:
11/24 in Kansas City, MO @ Midland Theatre.
11/25 in Louisville, KY @ Phoenix Hill.
11/26 in Traverse City, MI @ Ground Zero.
11/27 in Flint, MI @ Machine Shop.
12/2 in Council Bluffs, IA @ Whiskey.
12/3 in Green Bay,WI @ The Club at Tom, Dick, & Harry’s.
12/4 in Libertyville, IL @ Austins.
12/10 in Cincinnati, OH @ Bogarts 96 Rock X-Mas Show.
12/5 in Tailgaters – Bolingbrook, IL

Karl Demata: Studio Report

Alissa Ordabai
Staff Writer

Something intriguing and unusual is brewing down in Oxford, UK, the town where, according to the classic, “clever men know all that there is to be knowed”. Guitarist Karl Demata – best known for adding a raunchy hard-rock edge to sprawling soundscapes of UK prog-rockers Crippled Black Phoenix – is currently putting finishing touches to his first solo album. And this record is guaranteed to do more than get praise from classic rock and hard rock fans. It will also show that the new generation of European musicians can not only draw lessons from the early days of blues-rock and hard rock, but can also use this knowledge inventively to convey modern realities.

“I suppose the root of my music is what made me start playing guitar in the first place: the late Sixties – early Seventies stuff like Cream, Rory Gallagher, early Zep, early Purple, Mountain, the Allman Brothers,” says Demata. “That’s the stuff I grew up with even before teenage angst took over with its long musical detours. I suppose I am trying to recreate that sound and that attitude but with a more contemporary approach.”

He goes on to explain how playing blues in pubs and clubs during his down-time from touring with Crippled Black Phoenix has over time turned into a recording project: “Me and Chris [Heilmann, bassist] have been jamming and playing together for years,” Demata says. “Rather than hang out somewhere and get drunk, we’d go play in small venues and pubs, and jam on both acoustic and electric guitars to the tunes of Howlin Wolf or Elmore James all the way to more contemporary stuff. Then more recently I found some time to work more on songwriting, we tried a couple of original songs during local gigs and got some amazing feedback. Merijn [Royaards, drums] joined in and I also started working with playwright / novelist Chris Hood. We wrote most of the lyrics together.”

The unvarnished demo quality of the material – due to be released in spring 2011 – betrays its early blues influences with gritty assurance, right from the opener “Barefoot Walking Blues”. On the one hand it rushes to expose Demata’s Delta influences, but on the other hits you with a ballsy hard rock punch akin to that of early Cream and Taste.

But far from limiting himself with preconceived notions, Demata is making personal use of what has been received. While his songwriting can imitate his Sixties heroes perfectly, it can also take the tradition into an unchartered zone, as on another standout “Failing Design”. Here the song structure is pure late Sixties Americana, but Demata’s vision takes these multilayered transfigurations of the blues into the terrain of early hard rock. Hypnotic, shadowy glow of his slide work is part blues, part – dashed dreams of the West Coast psychedelia, part – insights from the same source Led Zeppelin were mining back in 1969.

“I believe you should listen to the songs you are creating, as they will tell you what they are all about, rather than forcing them in one direction or another,” Demata explains when asked about his approach. “I never had a preconceived idea of what a song should be about.” This willingness to experiment has certainly produced the biggest highlight of the record – an eerie, haunted track called “Cross the Mountain”, where Demata’s etheral slide guitar floats over a hypnotic groove, showing how inspired reading of age-old patterns can create an independent reality beyond which there are no models or references. British blues personage Hugh Flint of John Mayall & the Bluesbreakers fame guests here on percussion – a symbolic endorsement for the newer generation to continue exploring the genre which Flint himself has given his entire career to developing.

The recording activity for this album has been sporadic – stop and start work at the snug, compact Warehouse Studio in Oxford which in the end, despite all the interruptions, resulted in a coherent, unified album about to undergo the final mixing stage. The studio’s pressure-free atmosphere contributed to letting the music develop organically and allowed Demata to experiment with expanding his stylistic ground. Venturing into the territory of folk-rock balladry, he covers a little-known 1983 Dylan outtake “Blind Willie McTell”, and then explores the genre further on original tracks “Never Come Around” and “The Day You Put Me Down”. Those are moody, stripped-down story-songs – deceptively low-key – but chilly detachment of Demata’s voice and his perfectly phrased, detailed guitar work manage to convey the special kind of heartache at the centre of this style.

Unusual for the current British rock scene, but at the same time traditional – this is how this still unfinished record comes through, and Karl Demata knows all about being both. On the one hand this is a deeply personal, intelligent album where the form meets the substance, and on the other – it’s full of genuine American grit and love for traditional American forms. “People tell me the album sounds very American,” he says. “We’ll see what that means exactly, if anything.”

Whatever indeed this could mean in 2010, the “sounding American” remark has always been taken by European blues musicians as a compliment – an acknowledgement of musical knowledge, authenticity, and instrumental skill. But curiously, while displaying all three of these qualities, Demata’s album also puts traditional American forms back into the context of contemporary life. It could be the muscular hard-rock bite that he adds to his material, or the ability to cut through formulas and clichés to put his own vision through his writing. Whatever it is, here is one convincing lesson in how to uphold the tradition, and at the same time stay true to your own realities.

Marc Chandler of Fools Faith

by Franco Cerchiari
Staff Writer

In the world of music, there is one universal fact – keep your fans wanting to hear more. While certainly touring and public appearances can keep rabid fans at bay until the next release, in the world of rock and metal, – keep the music coming. In response to this, Connecticut’s own rockers Fools Faith will soon release the follow up to the sensational Undone, with Sinister F.

Hardrockhaven.net staff writer Franco Cerchiari recently had the opportunity to speak with his friend, Fools Faith drummer Marc Chandler and what it took to make Sinister F a reality, as well as what the band has been doing since Undone and his take on the music world around us.

Always outspoken, never hesitant to speak his mind but genuinely a decent guy, Marc has always been known to speak candidly with Hardrockhaven, and the resulting interview is no exception.

HRH: Thank you Marc for taking time in speaking with us here at Hardrockhaven.net. Let’s begin by asking, what has been going on in the Fools Faith camp since the release of Undone? And what can we expect to see coming from the band?

Marc: Well after releasing Undone not much of anything was going on until shortly after the last time we spoke. In April of 2009 everything changed as we won a global contest sponsored by digital music provider Airplay Direct that kept us quite busy throughout the remainder of ’09 well into 2010. We literally played non-stop beginning in May straight into late winter where we subsequently began the recording process for the next album. As things stand at the moment we’re somewhat on a hiatus until the next album is complete. We’ll occasionally do a random show but we’re not actively seeking anything until it’s done and wrapped.

HRH: With the new CD, any variations from what we heard on Undone? Undone was an incredible mix of metal with some cool, almost progressive keyboards, so will there be any change in the sound, vibe or feel with the new CD?

Marc: Absolutely there will be a number of changes especially our overall sound. What most people are not aware of is the fact that on Undone close to 95% of the lead guitar work was from our former guitarist Bill DiNapoli while John really just dropped bits and pieces in to spice up the overall tracks. (Bill left the band shortly after the final tracks were recorded but just short of mixing and mastering) Once John came aboard full time we listened back and decided it was too time consuming to re-record all the leads so we just dropped some of Johns flavor in here and there which in reality brought so much more out of each song. Going into this new album there was a change not only in our sound but in our vibe, feel and emotion.

HRH: Tell us about the songs on the new CD. Any tracks come to mind that you think will immediately connect with your fans? As you know, music is the most sincere form of expression on the planet. From a band’s music we, as the listener should be able to feel the same anger, hate and passion that the songwriter felt as he was writing the song. Any tracks on your new release do just that?

Marc: Trying to gauge what will connect with people is a difficult as picking the winning lotto numbers. We just write from the heart and hope that each song strikes a chord where the listener can relate in some way to an experience of their own or have an understanding of what the song is trying to convey. There are certainly times where we’ll go “this is the part where people will just go nuts” but in all honesty our songs are not written for the listeners reaction or for that matter their benefit. We write what we feel and hope for the best.

HRH: There have been a few what I consider to be true “masterpiece” releases thus far in the world of music. To name just a few, Stevie Wonder’s 1976 Songs in the Key of Life, Pink Floyd’s 1973’s Dark Side of the Moon and Led Zeppelin’s 1970 Led Zeppelin III. What do you think goes into the recording of a masterpiece, such as one released by The Beatles, Cream, or Queen? Or do you think it makes a difference that bands like those mentioned have a “leg up,” because music was their full time job?

Marc: Well the best example I could give of a masterpiece album would be Guns and Roses Appetite for Destruction. In my opinion that album is the definition of a “masterpiece” simply because every single song stands on its own and there’s not a bad apple in the bunch. AFD was the right album, at the right time handled perfectly by their label. Situations like that are few and far between evidenced by the fact that it’s been 23 years since we’ve seen anything like it in music. Think about it, “Welcome to the Jungle“, “It’s So Easy,” “Nightrain,” “Out ta Get Me,” “Mr. Brownstone,” “Paradise City,” “My Michelle,” “Think About You,” “Sweet Child o’ Mine,” “You’re Crazy,” “Anything Goes” and “Rocket Queen” all on the same album!! That’s like a greatest hits release yet all these great songs are on a debut album no less.

Other examples would be:

• Pink Floyd The Wall
• Kiss Alive
• Queensryche’s Operation: Mindcrime
• Bon Jovi Slippery When Wet
• Metallica Master of Puppets
• Megadeth Peace Sells…
• Nirvana Nevermind and even Dave Matthew Under the Table and Dreaming are all great examples as well.

I don’t believe any of these bands had a set formula to record a masterpiece, they just went into the studio and began cranking out what they believed would be another album yet the stars aligned and presto, magic was created. I certainly do not believe any band because they play music for a living has an advantage over a band that doesn’t. A pro band can record a hundred albums and still never create that “masterpiece” yet any band in any garage or basement right now could be in process of doing just that.

HRH: Having asked that, allow me to ask this – when one hears of Fools Faith’s influences, (many of whom have recorded amazing releases) and those influences which can be heard on Undone, does it make you, as a fan of those influences, want to work harder on making the next release even better than the one before? And does that love for your influences drive you to bring the level of playing to new heights?

Marc: It really isn’t a conscious decision. We just create music no differently than they did and hope it’s accepted in the same regard. I think every musician shows their influences in different ways yet the toughest thing to do is to balance that with originality to a point where the influence doesn’t outshine the originality.

HRH: As a drummer myself, I know of the rhythm the drums can generate to drive a track forward. Or, conversely, drag a track down. As the band’s drummer, what motivates you to drive that track forward? Is it a style? A feeling that the track gives off? Or is it some particular tracks “grab” you and make you want to push that track further and further ahead?

Marc: What and how I play is in direct relation to the mood and feel of the song. Don’t get me wrong, there are certain songs I get caught up in and push the tempo perhaps a wee bit more for what the song would dictate but eventually I’m brought back down to earth and hopefully lock back into a more respectable feel and groove.

HRH: To be sure, Undone was proof solid that Fools Faith is a true metal band – when was it that the members of the band came together and said collectively as a group, “we want to be a metal band.” At any time, was there a chance that the band would go toward another genre?

Marc: Well the one thing I’ve never heard us being defined as is a “metal band” but I can understand how at times we can be confused with one. We never sat down and tried to define what type of band we would be because we simply got together to do what we love to do. As far as switching genres is concerned to this day I personally couldn’t define exactly what genre we fit into to begin with so I can’t imagine that’s a conversation we’d ever need to have. We are who we are however if you put a gun to my head and asked me what genre of music we fit into the only answer I could give would be we’re a Rock band with the ability to sound like whatever we choose.

HRH: Tell us about the songwriting for the new CD, Marc. Who was involved in it? Did each band member have the opportunity to give their ideas for certain tracks? Or like in some bands, there is one principal songwriter, and each member using/playing the music already presented to him/her.

Marc: The creative process for this CD was no different than any other we’ve done. We all had a hand in the writing process once the initial melody was established. To be fair Joe, Andy or John would create the basis for the song and it would flow from there. I do not think in the years we’ve been together I have contributed an ounce of the initial melody or riff to any song we’ve written but I’ll certainly put my stamp on it once the ball starts rolling. Where the lyrics are concerned that responsibility usually starts and ends with Joe however there have been times where we’ve offered different lyrical ideas that worked better.

HRH: John Bonham, Bobby Rondinelli, Randy Castillo, Cozy Powell, Carmine Appice, Carl Palmer, Eric Singer and Ginger Baker to name just a few, but what happened to the thundering drum solos of yesteryear? Who today inspires you? Any one drummer that stands out?

Marc: As a drummer I can appreciate a solo however anything longer than say 3 minutes becomes nothing more than musical masturbation. There are certain drummers that can pull off longer solos simply because they are drumming monsters but for the most part it becomes boring rather quickly. If you’ve ever noticed, the “solo’ sections during any concert is when people head to the bar for a refill or the bathroom to drain for the pending refill! I’m usually much more impressed with drumming within the context of a song rather than soloing and sometimes the best drumming is the most simplistic. Personally I’m just not into the whole look at me type of playing and truth be told in my entire professional drumming career I’ve played 1 solo and that was over 23 years ago!
My inspirations start and end with John Bonham & Buddy Rich for a number of different reasons however I’m never above plagiarizing others to suit my needs. (LOL…..)

HRH: Illegal downloading – without question the most supreme form of stealing from an artist. What can be done? Or is something that has come with the times? What changes do you see happening to make music more accessible to the fans? Or is there a time coming that you as a musician say, “Well at least our music is being heard.”

Marc: *Sigh* – THIS subject has always been a sore spot with me yet the reality is that as long as the internet exists the ability to fully protect ones music has expired. Technology being what it is dictates that artists have to become more creative in distributing their music and maximizing that opportunity to collect on their creations. Conversely with the creation of the internet the ability for others to access your music in an instant is endless. The internet has made it possible for artists to have their music heard worldwide where just a few short years ago it would have taken years or been downright impossible for a band to get its music heard outside of their local area. The internet & (legal) downloading in general is without question the best way for an artist to be heard and in some if not most cases found now. Years ago it was fanzines and countless dollars in mailings of demos to create your own exposure whereas now one uploads their creations and bam, everyone has the opportunity for discovery.

HRH: Let’s get back to your new CD. “Change of Direction,” was a haunting almost brooding track with some incredible acoustic guitars. Tell us the story of that track.

Marc: It’s a relationship song pure and simple. I normally hate to describe what a song is about or what it stands for as I like to leave it all out there for interpretation. I think the minute you put the true meaning of a song out there all ability to make it your own is gone. No 2 people read into something the same yet the story and meaning within this song is fairly easy to decipher.

HRH: How do you mix your love for music for the fact that “life happens.” And despite knowing the mortgage has to be paid, kids attended to and professions made a priority, is there ever a time when you look around and say, “Why can’t we be the next Led Zeppelin,” or have the one break out release that will make music my full time job.

Marc: I don’t believe there’s an artist out there that doesn’t ask themselves that exact question yet it also takes a supreme amount of dedication to make the balance between life and ones dreams work. One of the greatest assets an artist can have is the support of our loved ones. They are the reason we’re able to continue to chase our dreams.

HRH: If it does to the inevitable conclusion that your band will only become your one passionate “hobby, “does that ever get you down?

Marc: Honestly, no it doesn’t. I simply love to play and more so to play for an audience. The reality I face all the time is that at my age my drumming has to become secondary or a “hobby” if you will because I have those responsibilities as we all do. Until I make a living playing music it is technically a hobby although my passion for it hasn’t changed nor will it.

HRH: How will you decide what tracks from this new release and previous releases will make it on to your concert play list.

Marc: We change our set list every time we play so that’s a difficult question to answer. What I can say is that there will be more stuff from the new album in there and maybe a fewer older more obscure songs. The fact is that we’ve beaten some of the songs from Undone into the ground live and the likely hood of them remaining as “regulars” is slim at best. I’d love to go back into our older catalog of songs and maybe pull a few from there as well as perhaps making changes to others to use as we need.

HRH: Who in Fools Faith gathered everyone together and said, “Ok guys, it’s time to make a new CD.” Who started that conversation, and how did that originally go over?

Mar: We never have had that conversation as we’ve been cycling as a band since day 1. It’s been write, record, gig right from the start. As far back as 1995 when Joe, Andy and I started playing together it’s been that way. Since then we’ve released more than just “Undone” together so at this point it’s more of a natural progression than a planned action.

HRH: Two things people realize when seeing a band in concert – first, the band wants to play, and be at the venue and second, the band wants the fans to have a good time and be part of the musical experience. So let me ask this – is giving the fans the concert of their lives the same as a store clerk giving the best they can in customer service?

Marc: First and foremost the band has to be enjoying what they’re doing because the fans can instantly sense if the band even wants to be there. If the band is enjoying what they’re doing the fans will follow. There are always going to be people who simply will never be satisfied no matter what you do but if that’s what you concentrate on it detracts from the ones who love every minute of what you’re doing.

HRH: 30 years from now you are telling your grandkids about Fools Faith – what are you going to tell them?

Marc: Providing I live so long I would tell them that their Grandfather was blessed with a talent that provided him the opportunity to touch other people’s lives and affect their emotions. How that talent afforded me the opportunity to meet great people from all walks of life that I may not have met otherwise and most importantly it gave me the opportunity to make people smile and enjoy themselves.

HRH: What to you about music is important? And do you think we are losing sight on what music is today?

Mar: What is important to me about music is everything that is wrong with music and the business in general today. (Drags out the soapbox…)
The “sight” of what music is today is a tragedy. What passes as “popular” music today is frightening because it’s not “music” anymore. It’s repetitive melody wrapped around programmed beats with heavily altered or “fixed” vocals that is making stars out of less than deserving performers and more often than not these “stars” are having material handed to them rather than creating it themselves. Pre-fab entertainment is what seems to excite the general populace and that is a frightening realization for those of us who have paid our dues. There are so many talented bands and performers out there that we’ll never know of or hear from. Every major market has that radio station that plays the same 12 songs in rotation for weeks on end yet there are millions of songs written every day. Songs we’ll never hear because that band or performer isn’t “marketable” enough to generate what the record companies only seem to concentrate on anymore, profit margins. Whatever will sell is all that matters yet look at bands from years past that had they been judged on their first album they never would have had an opportunity for a 2nd. Had they been judged solely on their appearance would they have even been given a shot at making it? The music business is no longer about the music and hasn’t been for a long time, then again they don’t call it the music business or the business of music for nothing.

HRH: If you had no financial limitations, the finest in audio engineering available and absolutely no time constraints, what musically would you create within the confines of Fools Faith that would set the bar by which all other metal bands would be judged? What about what you are doing now would be any different than what you have done in the past? Undone was a fantastic release, but any changes you would have made to it? Or how about with future releases?

Marc: To a certain extent we are already in a place with no time constraints because having our own studio affords us whatever time we need to create what we do. To set the bar, so to speak, is subjective at best. The minute you believe you’ve set some sort of bar you find that someone else set it better before you. I can’t think of anything we would or could have done differently because where we were prior is why we are where we are today. Timing is everything and considering one cannot control time things have a way of playing themselves out regardless. Either you’re destined for greatness or you’re not. As long as you enjoy or enjoyed the ride the decisions you’ve made were the right ones.

HRH: Music in schools – it seems more and more school’s choirs and bands are being cut from a child’s curriculum. Do you think that we are creating a world where a child is not being taught the joy of sound and music and gaining a love for gathering within a group and feeling what it is that music can bring? Tell us Marc, how will that (if at all) change a child’s perspective on the world around him or her?

Marc: The Arts have traditionally been the sacrificial lamb when cuts need to be made in the education system and speaking from first-hand experience it’s something that will continue regardless. From the day I entered school until I graduated I was a part of the music program in each school I attended and the one common thread throughout were the constant cuts made which cost each program greatly. Music programs will always have to a large degree be self-sufficient because the schools would rather invest their money into a losing football program than a winning music program. My junior year of high school our football team was horrible yet they were afforded whatever they needed meanwhile our marching band covered every one of our own expenses and went on to win the state championship in our class while the football team won a total of 1 game the entire season. Education politics as usual!

HRH: Having been your friend for as long as I have, I can say that from hearing your music, reading your blog and listening to your words, one thing is certain -“Fools Faith is indeed about the music.” Anything you would add to that?

Marc: Nope, that about sums it up in a nutshell.

HR: True or false – to be a good musician you need to listen to yourself as if you were hearing it through the ears of your fans?

Marc: FALSE! To be a good “musician’ you need to practice your ass off and be willing to sacrifice almost everything for your craft. The worst trap any musician can fall into is writing music to please their fans because of the fact that no matter what you write someone inevitably will not like it. Taste is one of the most subjective arguments and no 2 person’s tastes are the same so to not write for yourself first is the biggest mistake a musician can make.

HRH: From every sentiment, whether it is from first kiss to divorce, rock and metal have always found a way to express life’s best and worst. How do you as a songwriter convey what you may be feeling?

Marc: We simply write from the heart and go from there.

HRH: Given a choice which would you rather play the most colossal of stadiums or the smallest of venues? In which one do you think you would feel the most comfortable?

Marc – Given a choice, a smaller yet not the smallest of venues is the way to go however the stadium shows are clear indications you’ve made it. The stadium and large venue gigs lack that feeling of intimacy where the crowd is up against the stage right in your face. As a performer, at least it’s this way for me, you can feed off the direct energy of that closeness yet feeding from 15,000 to 100,000 people isn’t bad either!! (Or so I’ve heard)

HRH: How will you work with promoters to get Fools Faith music out to the public? And as time wears on do you think that there will be a difference in how promoters work with the artists? How about how the labels work with the artist?

Marc: I’m willing to work with in every way any promoter who is willing to work with our best interests in mind. We’re not doing what we do for anyone’s benefit or happiness but our own to start so as a promoter if you’re more concerned with making a venue owner or manager happier than we are no thanks. In theory a good promoter should need no prompting or direction, they know from the beginning what needs to be done and gets on it. I shouldn’t have to tell a promoter what to do; they should be telling me what needs to be done to help them reach our mutual ultimate goal.

HRH: Do I think there will be a change in how promoters work with artists? No, nothing will or should change in promoting as the definition of promotion hasn’t changed in years. What has changed is the quality of the promoter.

Marc: As to how labels will work with artists is an oxymoron because the larger labels usually dictate as opposed to “working with” their artists. When a band reaches a status where a “major” label is involved they’re no longer in control of their own destiny or in some cases final decisions. The “indie” labels usually are willing to work with their artists because when the artist benefits so does the label as opposed to the majors who always benefit before the artist and rightfully so. They are the ones who finance the recordings, tours, promotion, etc but it also places the band into a “slave” type atmosphere where they’re beholden to the label and their whims because of that debt alone.

HRH: Which would you rather – produce a CD by yourself, or have the name of a huge label behind you?

Marc: Well because we already produce our own albums a huge label behind us could only be a benefit provided we capitalize on what that label can do for us. The financial benefits of a large label certainly change a lot of things however if the product is lacking the label benefits are useless and in the long run can cost a band dearly.

HRH: 2010 was a horrible year for metal with the deaths of Avenged Sevenfold drummer Jimmy Sullivan, Slipknot bassist Paul Grey, Gotthard vocalist Steve Lee, Type O Negative front man Pete Steele and of course the passing of the true voice of metal, the master, Ronnie James Dio. Any words of memoriam you would like to share?

Marc: Yea, 2010 has been a shitty years for musicians and yet what cannot be forgotten is the fact that 2 of those deaths were to a certain extent preventable.

Of those mentioned I only had the opportunity to meet one and that was Pete Steele back in early 1994. I was playing with these cats out of Brooklyn and we recorded a few demos at a studio owned by a friend of Pete’s. He happened to come in one weekend and stayed and chatted for a few hours like a regular guy. No star attitude, nothing. Just another guy, who just happened to play in one of the biggest bands at the time. He was an imposing figure who was as nice as could be. He kept joking that if his drummer ever bolted he would give me a call but obviously that never happened.
To lose Ronnie James Dio was like a loss of a part of my childhood. Ronnie was always there throughout my life and to know I’ll never have the opportunity to see or hear him live again is without question saddening. He was without argument the greatest voice the Rock world will ever know. There are great rock vocalists like Paul Stanley & Steven Tyler still left but the void left by RJD’s passing is one that will never be filled. R.I.P!

HRH: If you were a promoter, what would you do different when dealing with artists than how perhaps your band has been treated in the past?

Marc: As a promoter I would do everything in my power to put as many asses into the seats as possible so the band has the optimum opportunity to showcase their music.

HRH: Tour plans? Any upcoming shows that you can let the fans of the band know about?

Marc: There is nothing immediate in the works for touring or for shows. Our only focus right now is getting the next album done. Once it’s done we’ll begin the next stage of planning.We never seem to be at a lack for gigs but to continue to play and plan future shows only distracts from our goal of finally finishing this album and getting it out there.

HRH: Thank you again Marc for speaking with us here at Hardrockhaven.net. Fools Faith rocks, and we wish you all the best. Any final things you would like to add?

Marc: Once again many thanks to everyone at HRH and yourself for your constant support and interest in Fools Faith!!

Patrick Kennison of Heaven Below

by Alex Barbieri
Staff Writer

Born from the ashes of The Union Underground, Heaven Below is singer and songwriter Patrick Kennison’s comeback statement and artistic vision of what a rock ‘n f****in’ roll band should be: badass look, well-crafted songs, pro musicianship and a high energy live show. And he swears by B.C. Rich guitars. Kick back and crack a cold one as Kennison checks in with Hardrock Haven on what’s up with Heaven Below,

HRH: Patrick, first off thank you again for signing the poster and CD for my 15-year-old niece, Emily. How is the EP doing and how have the shows been in support of it?

PATRICK KENNISON: Anytime, we love making fans early on. The EP has been consistently selling even after we wrapped up our “Horns ‘N Halos” tour last month. The shows were killer. The radio support we’ve been getting really affected the tour in a positive way. To commemorate and thank everyone, we released a free Digital Time Capsule on www.heavenbelow.com.

HRH: The band’s management advised HB to release an EP to help stand out from the throng of modern rock bands vying for the public’s attention. Do you think the strategy has paid off?

PK: I really think it did. It kept songs from getting overlooked. But I must admit, had I known the reaction and response would be this good, I would have been tempted to release it as a proper full length. Hindsight 20/20. No regrets.

HRH: “When Daylight Dies” really is akin to Evanescence with male vocals. How did Ben Moody become interested in producing the song, and what was it like to work with him in the studio?

PK: I met Ben through Marty ‘O Brien, bassist extraordinaire. I played on Ben’s solo album and one day I played him my demo for “When Daylight Dies.” He pulled the car over after the song played and insisted that he produce it. I thought he was joking. Several days later he’d put a 32-piece orchestra in it and booked us in a killer studio. The guy is a mad genius in the studio.

HRH: How did the dissolution of The Union Underground fuel your drive to form and succeed with Heaven Below?

PK: I realize most people view The Union Underground as a successful band, and we were. But, the band was cut short by cliché pitfalls which led to me ending it. It was frustrating but it had to be done. I realized it was time for me to step up my position as an artist and please myself first. Business-wise, it was a priceless lesson.

HRH: What are your musical goals for Heaven Below over the next few years, and how do you define success in music and life?

PK: Musically I just want to make ourselves happy. Luckily that seems to show through our songs and live performance. I think people pick up on that, even if some of the songs may sound like they come from an angry place. It’s our therapy. I define success simply by being fortunate enough to play and release music on our terms. Now that the “invisible carrot” as I call it, has been removed (industry gatekeepers), music is now up to the people that matter most — the artist and the fans.

HRH: Take us through a day in the life of Patrick Kennison. What time do you wake up? Go to sleep? What do you do besides Heaven Below?

PK: Lately I’ve been going to bed really late because we’re working on new material all night. We have a killer rehearsal room in Hollywood as well as our own home studios. I can be found in one of those most of the time writing and recording. HB consumes nearly all of my time. I got Netflix on my Xbox but I have to force myself to watch movies and play games on it. But when I do, it’s a great release. I heard the new ‘God of War’ came out for Xbox and my PSP. I better investigate after recording.

HRH: Any interesting stories you can share during the recording of the EP? What adult beverages would be found in Heaven Below’s studio?

PK: Of course working with Ben was killer. One of the nights we were recording, Jesse got pretty drunk after his tracks, so we parked his car somewhere off the premises so that when he woke up the next morning, he’d think it was towed. Turns out a girl from another band that he’d dumped or blown off rehearsed next door and saw his car and wrote obscenities all over it with her lipstick. He was mighty confused the next morning. Wish he’d got pictures of her and the car.

Jesse and I love those overpriced fancy beers. A Blue Moon sounds so good right now!!! Of course, Jagermeister is really good to us. (Literally. Jagermeister sponsors Heaven Below. – Ed.) It’s like a beast you can’t tame!!! We even have our own drink: Jager, pineapple juice and a splash of Sprite = “The Heaven Below Sunrise.” Looks gross, tastes great. Just like us!!!!

HRH: You proudly play B.C. Rich guitars. Give us some details on your guitar and rig, and why you love B.C. Rich so much.

PK: Ever since my U/U days, B.C. Rich has supported what I do. I have a killer little collection with some rare one off models. I even own the last guitar Bernie Sr. (founder of B.C. Rich guitars) made before he passed. It’s stamped and dated in the guitar. It is the best sounding and looking guitar I own. I turned Jesse on to them and he now loves ‘em too. He’s got a Kerry King 7-string Warlock and a 7-string Stealth. I have several 7 and 6-string Mockingbirds, a 7-string Warlock, an Archtop Tele Meegs that’s really rare. I even have a Double Neck Bitch on the way like the one Lita Ford played in that old Ozzy/Lita video (“Close My Eyes Forever.”) Check out www.bcrich.com/artists to see Jesse and I in action. We’ll also be at the B.C. Rich and Dean Markley booths at the NAMM Show in January.

HRH: You have said that Iron Maiden’s “Powerslave” tour was your first big rock concert. How did that show affect your desire to become a musician and play in a band?

PK: It was unbelievable. I had no idea concerts were like that. The ones I went to after that paled in comparison. There are really no words to describe how it changed me. I begged my parents for a guitar after that show. They delivered on my 12th birthday and I never looked back.

HRH: What bands and albums are you currently listening to, and who are your favorites of all time?

PK: Lately I’m getting into old stuff I didn’t understand as a little kid. Stuff my older brothers and sister liked. Rush, Thin Lizzy, UFO, etc. There is some killer music in there that blows me away. As for recent releases, I love Muse, the new Accept — insanely killer album — and Avenged Sevenfold, to name a few. My all time faves are still Alice in Chains, Nine Inch Nails, Metallica, Priest, Maiden, even Cheap Trick.

HRH: If you could choose any musicians, dead or alive, who would be in your dream band, and what instruments would they play?

PK: I’ll go with dead, so I have something to look forward to when I die. My vocalist would be my friend Dave Williams from Drowning Pool. I cherish the memories I have with him on and offstage. On bass would be Cliff Burton, of course. Dimebag would have to be on lead guitar. Jimmy “The Rev” Sullivan would be on drums. I guarantee we would make the best music metal heads have ever heard!!!!

HRH: Do you have any thoughts on the passing of Ronnie James Dio? Any memories you would like to share?

PK: I feel like it’s life’s cruel joke to take the nicest and most talented away from us, but the legacy he left can never be topped. I never got to see him perform, but I’ve always enjoyed the Dio-era Sabbath much more than the Ozzy era. I realize how influential the Ozzy stuff is, but the Dio era is so fucking cool and dark.

HRH: Is there anything else you would like to say to your fans and the Hardrock Haven audience?

PK: Thank you for supporting new music like us and for everyone who has been requesting “When Daylight Dies” on their local radio station. We have an exclusive unreleased version of the song available as a free download on www.heavenbelow.com to show our appreciation. We’re as excited as all of you to get this band louder and further.

HRH: Patrick, thank you so much for your time and generosity. All the best to you and the band. Please keep us posted on what’s going on with Heaven Below!

PK: Absolutely. You know I will!!!

Watch the Heaven Below promo video on YouTube. http://www.youtube.com/user/HeavenBelowMusic

Order the Heaven Below EP on Amazon. http://www.amazon.com/Heaven-Below/dp/B0040T7FHS/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&qid=1287693921&sr=8-6

Visit Heaven Below online at:

http://heavenbelow.com/

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Heaven-Below/70819759934

http://www.myspace.com/heavenbelowmusic

http://www.twitter.com/heavenbelow

Interview with Jess Harnell, Chuck Duran and Alexander Track of Rock Sugar

by Alex Barbieri
Staff Writer

It’s hard to be original in hard rock, but Los Angeles-based Rock Sugar has managed to create something unique in Reimaginator, a collection of ‘70s and ‘80s rock and pop songs re imagined by the band. Listen to singer Jess Harnell, guitarist Chuck Duran and drummer Alexander Track — three of the funniest and coolest guys in metal — as they share memories of the past year, their goals for the future, and a celebrity impression or two.

 

Watch Jess and Chuck discuss the origin of Rock Sugar on YouTube.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6njlE44jwDk

Visit the official home of Rock Sugar.
 http://www.rocksugarband.com/Default.aspx

Dave Benedict of Default

by Deb Rao
Staff Writer

As the holiday season fast approaches, the winter concert season is kicking into full gear. One of the top bands to emerge onto the music scene Hinder is hitting the road with support act Vancouver’s DEFAULT.

DEFAULT first burst onto the music scene in 1999 and have a fairytale story that most bands can only dream about. Default consists of Dallas Smith (Vocals), Jeremy Hora (Guitar), Dave Benedict (Bass), and Danny Craig (Drums).

Discovered by Nickelback’s Chad Kroeger, DEFAULT is destined to end this year on a high note. With the release of Come And Goes, DEFAULT is hitting the concert trail with HINDER. The anticipated tour kicked off on Nov. 17. In this exclusive interview for Hardrock Haven, bassist Dave Benedict gives Hardrock Haven all the details surrounding the tour and new album.

HRH: Dave, Thank you for checking in with Hardrock Haven. I understand that DEFAULT will be heading out on the road with HINDER on Nov.17. The tour kicks off in Cleveland. Tell us about the upcoming trek.

DAVE: Well it is going to take us through Middle America and end in Oklahoma City where Hinder is from so it should be a great show to end on. We are all really looking forward to the tour, as it has been 5 years since we have toured the States.

HRH: DEFAULT has just released their latest CD entitled, Comes And Goes. Tell us about the song-writing process.

DAVE. We did a lot of the writing in Jeremy’s basement with our producer Bob Marlette and did all the demoing there too before heading to L.A. To record at Henson studios where we did the last recording.

HRH: Comes And Goes was produced by Bob Marlette who has work with Ozzy and Shinedown. How did he help guide the band in the studio and help you achieve the sound that you wanted on Comes And Goes?

DAVE: Like I said we did the last recording with Bob so we are now past the awkward first date stage so to say, he knows us and what we are looking for as far as an album goes. His goal this album was to really get the passion out of Dallas’s performance and as you can hear they did an amazing job at it.

HRH: How does it compare to The Fallout?

DAVE: It doesn’t. It is 10 years and three albums since. We are all different people and have been through 10 years of life since. How can we compare to something that was so long ago. If there is an answer to that it would have to be that there is the four same guys trying to make the best possible music that we can. Same thing we tried to do on the first album but with a little more experience.

HRH: DEFAULT first got together in 1999. How do you think the line-up has evolved over the years?

Dave: the line- up has not changed but maybe our topic of conversation has. It went from boobs, beer and poop humor to diaper genie’s and baby formula.

HRH: One of the fairy tales stories behind DEFAULT is that Nickelback singer Chad Kroeger helped discover the band? How did this factor all come into play in the launching of DEFAULT?

DAVE: Well the band had a demo and took it to Chad and he immediately brought the band into the studio and recorded the bulk of what is The Fallout except for “Wasting My Time,” “Live A Lie” and “Sick And Tired” that were recorded by Rick Perasher. Chad also took Deny to C-Fox our local radio station and entered it into the local seeds competition which played the song in regular rotation gaining interest in record companies such as TVT, Atlantic, Universal and Roadrunner records. Not to mention touring with them helped a lot as well.

HRH: Were you a huge fan?

DAVE: Of Nickelback? No I would not say that I was a huge fan but I liked them and respected what they did, but since I have become a massive fan of what they have accomplished and how far they have come as a band and yes now I consider myself a huge fan!

HRH: How would you best describe the band’s sound?

DAVE: I have always described us as honest rock and roll. What you hear is what we are.

HRH: DEFAULT hail from Vancouver. How would you describe the Canadian music scene?

DAVE: It is only getting stronger with bands like Hail The Villain and My Darkest Days. Boarders mean nothing. Music means everything.

HRH: As a bass who are some of your influences?

Dave: My biggest influences have to be most of all Flea as I named my first-born child after him. Zari… Figure it out if you are as big of a Chili’s freak as me.

I would also have to say that Gene Simmons, Victor Wooten, Les Claypool and Kyle Kyle are among others.

HRH: Is there anything else that you would like to say about the upcoming tour and album?

DAVE: It has been way to long since we have toured the States and we are very excited to jump that boarder and come see all you freaks! See you soon!!!

For more information, check out Default’s official website at:

www.defaultonline.com

Hinder/Default Tour Dates:
WEDNESDAY 11-17 CLEVELAND, OH HOUSE OF BLUES
THURSDAY, 11-18 LIBERTYVILLE, IL AUSTIN’S SALOON
FRIDAY, 11-19 CINCINNATI, OH BOGARTS
SATURDAY, 11-20 PONTIAC, MI THE CROFOOT
TUESDAY, 11-23 KALAMAZOO, MI STATE THEATRE
WEDNESDAY, 11-24 DES MOINES, IA VAL AIR BALLROOM
FRIDAY, 11-26 LITTLE ROCK, AR THE VILLAGE
SATURAY, 11-27 MIAMI, OK BUFFALO RUN CASINO
MONDAY, 11-29 DALLAS, TX PALLADIUM BALLROOM
TUESDAY, 11-30 HOUSTON, TX WAREHOUSE LIVE
WEDNESDAY, 12-01 CORPUS CHRISTI, TX BREWSTER STREET
FRIDAY, 12-03 FT STEWART, GA HUNTER ARMY AIRFIELD
MONDAY, 12-06 HARTFORD, CT WEBSTER THEATER
WEDNESDAY, 12-08 BALTIMORE, MD RAMS HEAD LIVE
FRIDAY, 12-10 POUGHKEEPSIE, NY THE CHANCE
SATURDAY, 12-11 ALLENTOWN, PA CROC ROCK
SUNDAY, 12-12 SAYREVILLE, NJ STARLAND BALLROOM
SATURDAY, 12-18 OKLAHOMA CITY, OK DIAMOND BALLROOM

Joey Concepcion of Chaos Embrace

by Alex Barbieri
Staff Writer

There are some well-known hot beds of metal on the planet: Los Angeles and Sweden, to name a few. Add Connecticut to the list — the home of 19-year-old guitar wunderkind, Joey Concepcion. If you haven’t heard Joey yet, you will. He’s currently recording his debut album with his band Chaos Embrace with Obsession/ex-Loudness front-man, Michael Vescera producing. Hard rock world, say hello to Joey Concepcion.

HRH: Joey, what’s up brother? Great to talk to you. How is the recording of the Chaos Embrace album going, and when will we get a chance to hear it?

JOEY CONCEPCION: Hi, Alex! It’s going great, man. I’m really loving how it’s sounding. I think it’s gonna be very different to what’s out there now. I just posted five new tracks on our MySpace page and we are currently shopping for a label!

HRH: How would you describe the style of Chaos Embrace, and what is it like working with producer Michael Vescera?

JC: I would say it’s kinda like melodic hard rock, with some new and old school influences. I am a big fan of lots of different music, like Arch Enemy and Firewind. I wanted to go for a really heavy sound, but with melodic vocals. I love the Lynch Mob Revolution record and I think this project was very influenced by that.
Working with Michael Vescera is an amazing experience. I’m a big Yngwie and Loudness fan and I love Mike’s voice a lot with those bands, plus we’re from the same neck of the woods. Mike has an amazing ear and really knows what to do in the studio. I totally recommend others work with him.

HRH: How old were you when you started playing guitar? Who or what got you into hard rock and metal music?

JC: I started playing when I was 11. Guns N’ Roses and Metallica influenced me a lot at first, and the guitar teacher I had at the time got me into a lot of really great music. Also, my parents, definitely.
HRH: Has your dad, Joe Concepcion, been a big influence on your musical career?

JC: Yes I think so. My Dad has been such a big support to me and he loves music a lot, too, and got me interested in playing too. He’s a bass player. I love my Dad.

HRH: You were recently in the Sam Ash music store’s “Best in Shred” competition. How did you finish and what did you enjoy most about it?

JC: I won the store finals, so the next step is that I go to the Sam Ash in New York City for the next round and compete there. I played Steve Vai’s “Blue Powder” for my last performance, and that song is really, really tough to play. I love (Vai’s album) Passion and Warfare. It’s influenced so many musicians, and is definitely one of my all-time favorite guitar records. I just went in to have fun and see where the contest takes me and I hope it carries on! Haha!

HRH: Take us through a day in the life of a teenage guitar hero. What time do you wake up? What do you eat for breakfast? Are you up late? Do you practice and write a lot?

JC: I usually wake up around 10 a.m. or 11 a.m. I play guitar really late, so I don’t always get up that early, ha-ha. Sometimes, I eat breakfast. I have tea in the morning. I practice and write a lot. I wanna make sure I always have material that I can use for new songs.

HRH: What type of guitar and effects do you play? Do you have any endorsements you’d like to talk about?

JC: I have a lot of different guitars at the moment. I just started working with master guitar luthier, Buddy Blaze, on a custom guitar for me. He’s the best and has built for the best! I use a lot of Super Strat type guitars. I use a lot of weird effects sometimes. Steve Vai has been a big Influence on that. Usually when I play solos, I like to have a little delay. That’s where George Lynch’s comes in, too. I have a Morley Bad Horsie 2 Contour Wah. I play Madison Amps and D’addario Strings. I like Planet Waves Cable Straps and other products they have. I also like Dimarzio pickups, Modtone Pedals and use the Floyd Rose® Tremolo System a lot.

HRH: What bands and albums are you currently listening to, and who are your favorites of all time?

JC: I’ve been currently listening to Opeth a lot. They are very unique how they can be very mellow and melodic and still be very heavy. I also like Arch Enemy and Nevermore. My music taste has such a wide range. I love a lot of the ‘80s metal stuff like Skid Row, Whitesnake, Dokken and Lynch Mob. I’m a huge fan of Racer X and Paul Gilbert. He is incredible! Probably one of my all time favorites!

HRH: What are your musical goals, and how would you define success in music and life?

JC: My goal is to someday travel all over the world and play everywhere with my band, and get my music across everywhere. It’s my dream and passion. I wanna develop fans everywhere and hopefully tour. I think whatever your dream and your goal is, you have to chase it with all of your heart and if you believe in yourself, you can do anything. Happiness is the most important thing, and I think that is success.

HRH: Give us your first thought that comes to mind on the following names and words:

HRH: Guitar.

JC: Love forever.

HRH: Metal.

JC: Passion and how it makes you feel better and pumps you up.

HRH: Idols.

JC: Paul Gilbert, Steve Vai, George Lynch, Jason Becker, John Petrucci.

HRH: The Music Business.

JC: Very tough but still try your hardest to accomplish that goal.

HRH: Your Dad.

JC: The Best Dad, with big support and love.

HRH: Do you have any thoughts on the passing of Ronnie James Dio?

JC: I think it is very sad, and is such a tremendous loss to the metal community. I loved his voice and his music and he will be missed all over the world, and his music will without a doubt carry on.

HRH: Tell us something we don’t know about Joey Concepcion.

JC: I love running and working out.

HRH: Do you give guitar lessons, and if so, how can someone get in touch with you?

JC: Yes, I do! I work at Route 1 Guitars in Milford, CT. You can call and book for a lesson at (203) 783-9828.

HRH: Is there anything else you would like to say to your fans and the Hardrock Haven audience?

JC: I hope people like my music and keep checking us out for updates on new stuff! And keep rockin’! \m/

HRH: Joey, thanks so much, brother. It was great to catch up with you. We’re looking forward to hearing your new album. All the best and please stay in touch!

JC: Thanks, Alex! I had an awesome time! Keep rockin’ HRH! \m/

Friend Joey Concepcion on Facebook at www.facebook.com/people/Joey-Concepcion/1563367138

Watch Joey shred on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WmYraH277Fo&feature=related

Listen to new Chaos Embrace on their MySpace page. http://www.myspace.com/537690671

Listen to “Out of Time” with Michael Vescera on vocals on Joey’s Myspace page: http://www.myspace.com/joeyconcepcionguitar

Next Page »