The Double Stop: Recent Episodes
Brian Sword
Weekly Podcast with in-depth profile interviews with a variety of Musicians and Producers of guitar based music.
John Cuniberti returns to discuss the last 10 years of his career since our last conversation. We cover his amazing OneMic series, plus his work with Joe Satriani and Paul Gilbert.
Greg Renoff joins us to discuss writing the books Van Halen Rising and Ted Templeman: A Platinum Producer's Life in Music. Plus he gives us a hint on where he's at with his next book.
Greg Chaisson (Badlands) returns (as well as guitarist Ryan McKay) to update us on the last decade since our last conversation. From joining Jake E Lee's Red Dragon Cartel and his cancer battle/recovery, to his next projects Kings of Dust, Atomic Kings and Rob Lamothe's Cross Country Driver.
Marc Ferrari joins us to talk about his life and career. From his start with Keel, to Cold Sweat and working in film and TV. He discusses the new Cold Sweat release, Unburied Alive, and shares that there will soon be a new Keel single.
Vinny Appice joins us to talk about his life and career. From playing drums for John Lennon on his final gig, to recording/touring with Black Sabbath, Dio and Last in Line. Plus some unexpected turns like shopping at Home Depot with Ronnie James Dio, and his experience as a computer geek. This episode covers it all.
Jeff Pilson returns to The Double Stop Podcast to update us on the last decade of his career. He discusses his recent projects, including Last in Line, Lynch Mob, The End Machine, Black Swan, Revolution Saints and Foreigner. He explains the differences in writing records with George Lynch and Reb beach, why The End Machine made a singer switch, Work progressing on a new Black Swan record and updates us on Foreigner, including the Rock and Roll Hall Of Fame, and a new Live album in the works.
Adam Hamilton joins us to discuss his life and career. From being discovered (and partying with) CC DeVille, to opening for the Counting Crows, his work producing and playing with LA Guns, producing William Shatner and a prolific career writing music for film and TV, Adam fills us in on his career to date.
Maor Appelbaum joins us to patiently answer every question I've ever had about the process of mastering music. We also discuss specific projects such as Rob Halford, Faith No More and Black Swan.
Chris Collier returns to talk about working on the Whitesnake Flesh & Blood album, as well as the remixes of Slide It In and other Whitesnake classics, the new Mick Mars album The Other Side of Mars, as well as albums by Lynch Mob, KXM, Last In Line, Korn and Joel Hoekstra.
We continue our interview with Ian Little, and learn about the writing and recording process for "Seven and the Ragged Tiger", his life and career post Duran as well as his new Music Outreach Project (MOP).
Learn more about the music outreach project at: www.facebook.com/groups/950332548477378/
Producer Ian Little joins us to discuss his life and career. In part one of a two part interview, Ian discusses his early days, how he got started in music and takes us up to (and including) the recording of the Duran Duran single "Is There Something I Should Know?"
Kelly Hansen joins us to discuss his career. From his early days, to forming Hurricane (and their four albums), working with Stuart Smith in Heaven & Earth, Unruly Child, Into The Light (with past guest Tim Donahue) and joining Foreigner (and his 13 years in the band).
Producer Chris Tsangarides joins us to discuss his life and career. From how he got started in the industry, to working on legendary albums by Judas Priest, Gary Moore, Thin Lizzy and The Tragically Hip.
Sadly, Gord Downie passed away just a few days after we recorded this interview.
This episode we learn about the life and career of Patrick Francis from Tora Tora. He discusses his early days, formation of Tora Tora, success with "Surprise Attack", recording of "Wild America" onset of grunge, recording and shelving of "Revolution Day", the band breakup, reunion and eventual release of the "lost album". We finish on the news of new recordings.
This episode was recorded live at the Nashville Rock N Pod Expo. Big thanks to Chris Czynszak from The Decibel Geek Podcast for putting together the event!
Steve Thompson joins us for episode 100! Steve discusses his early days, how he got into production, working with Guns n' Roses, Metallica, Dokken, Cinderella and many more. He also plays us some clips of his newer music.
Short bonus episode featuring Frank Hannon from Tesla discussing his early days and the current Tesla tour.
Special thanks to Music Recall Magazine for setting up the interview - www.musicrecallmagazine.com
Tesla website www.teslatheband.com
Eric Martin returns to discuss the new Mr Big album "Defying Gravity", as well as his past solo records, Triumph's cover of "Just One Night" and dealing with online trolls.
This week Tony Platt discusses his life and career. From his early days in the studio to engineering such albums as AC/DC's Back in Black and Flick of the Switch. He shares the story of being with Mutt Lange when they heard that Bon Scott died, to working on Foreigner 4, and his experiences working with Cheap Trick and Buddy Guy.
I also talk about the Rock n Pod Expo fundraiser. Learn more at https://www.gofundme.com/rocknpodexpo
Jay Messina (and guest co-host BJ Kramp from the Rock and/or Roll Podcast) join us to discuss his life and career. From how he got started, to working with such acts as KISS, Aerosmith, Slash and George Benson.
After a long hiatus, we return with an extended interview with Micajah Ryan. We discuss how he got into the business, and he shares his experiences working on Guns 'N Roses "Appetite For Destruction" and "Lies". As well as Megadeth's "Rust In Peace" and "Countdown To Extinction", Bob Dylan's "Good As I Been To You" and "World Gone Wrong" and even Was Not Was's "Walk The Dinosaur".
Tom Size passed away on October 30, 2016. This interview took place on January 16th, 2016, and is re-aired in tribute to Tom.
Paul Gilbert discusses his career, from his early days, to his time at GIT, Racer X, Mr. Big, and his solo albums - including his new release, "I Can Destroy".
'Wild' Mick Brown joins us to discuss his life and career. From his early days with The Boyz and Exciter, to success with Dokken and Lynch Mob, Mick shares his story (and all the mistakes made!). He also discusses the possible reunion with Dokken, his status with the Ted Nugent Band, and goes into detail on his new project - Wild Mick's Bourbon Ballet.
Guitarist Tim Donahue calls in from Japan to discuss his life and career. From building his first fretless guitar as a teenager to his first big break from Mike Varney, to his solo releases Fifth Season, Still Dreaming, Voices In The Wind (Featuring producer Eddie Kramer and vocalist Paul Rogers), Into The Light (featuring Foreigner vocalist Kelly Hansen), Madmen + Sinners (featuring Dream Theater vocalist James LaBrie), and Earlyworks. We also cover his new project - The Cage.
Mike Slamer discusses his life and career. From his early days to the 5 albums he recorded with Producer Mutt Lange (with the band City Boy), why he was thanked in Def Leppard's 'Pyromania', his secret session playing on the first two Warrant releases, and most of his other band / recording projects (Streets, Steelhouse Lane, Seventh Key, Slamer, Ozone).
In part 2 of the conversation with Michael Thompson, we cover specific sessions such as Animal Logic, Michael Jackson, Madonna, and Shania Twain (including over a month working closely with Mutt Lange).
Michael Thompson discusses his life and career, and explains how he became one of the most sought-after session guitarists of the last twenty-five years. A small sample of his sessions includes Michael Jackson, Whitney Houston, Celine Dion, 'N Sync, Toni Braxton, Phil Collins, Rod Stewart, Christina Aguilera, Michael Bolton, Mariah Carey, Bette Midler, Madonna, Animal Logic with Stewart Copeland and Stanley Clarke and Shania Twain. And producers such as Mutt Lange, Quincey Jones, Babyface, and David Foster. This week in part one we go through his personal history, and in next week's part two we'll talk about specific sessions.
Recording Engineer/Mixer Tom Size joins us this week to talk about his life and career. He discusses his path into production and covers some of his key projects such as Aerosmith's Done With Mirrors, Sammy Hagar's VOA, David Lee Roth's Eat 'Em and Smile, and the numerous cd's he's worked on for Mr. Big - including solo albums by Eric Martin and Paul Gilbert. He also discusses the new live DVD's by Eric Martin (newly released in Japan) and Mr. Big (release date TBA).
As a part of the later wave of Shrapnel shredders, Darren Housholder missed out on the exposure of some of his counterparts that came out in the 80's, but his 3 records for Shrapnel in the 90's set the bar high for shred. We cover his entire career including his album with Love/Hate, his brief time working with Jeff Pilson's War & Peace, W.A.S.P, Enuff Z'nuff and a near-miss with David Lee Roth. We also cover how he ended up with George Lynch's famous bomber jacket - and its return to Lynch.
Marc Ford discusses his life and career. From his early days, to his first band (Burning Tree), how he got the gig in The Black Crowes, and why he eventually left the band, his struggles with substance abuse, the Black Crowes reunion, his time playing with Ben Harper, his solo albums and the new cd he is prepping to record.
Billy Sheehan ( The Winery Dogs, Mr. Big, David Lee Roth Band, Talas ) discusses his life and career. From his early days in Buffalo and Talas to the near reunion with David Lee Roth Band, the recent fundraiser for Tony MacAlpine, and the new Winery Dogs cd - Hot Streak.
Jon Levin (Dokken, Doro (Warlock)) discusses his life and career. From his early days and bands, to his first big break with Doro (Warlock) with the Force Majeure album and tour. We also discuss why he turned his back on music in the 90's and became a lawyer, and how (over a couple of years) he landed the lead guitarist gig in Dokken. We discuss his 3 Dokken studio albums in depth (Hell To Pay (2004), Lightning Strikes Again (2008) and Broken Bones (2012), plus what the future lies for Dokken and possible recording plans.
In Part 2 of a 2 part interview, Stevie Rachelle (TUFF, Metal Sludge) discusses TUFF and the effects of Grunge in the 90's, the rise of Metal Sludge, and his current projects.
In Part 1 of a 2 part interview, Stevie Rachelle (TUFF, Metal Sludge) discusses his life and career. From a punk-rock loving skater kid, to the frontman of a glam-rock 80's band, Stevie Rachelle walks us through his experiences in the 80's rock scene.
Anthony Esposito discusses his career, from his early start in music, to his time in Lynch Mob and Ace Frehley's band. He also discusses his new gig in Red Dragon Cartel, and gives us an update on the recording of the new album (a return to Jake E Lee's Badlands style).
Howard Benson discusses how he turned a Materials Engineering degree into a career as a record producer. Starting in the tail end of the hair metal era where he worked with bands such as Bang Tango, Tuff, SouthGang, and Pretty Boy Floyd, he moved on to heavier bands such as Motörhead and Sepultura in the 90's, and then hit big in the 2000's with P.O.D., Daughtry, and Kelly Clarkson.
Dave Wittman discusses his career as a Recording Engineer. From meeting Jimi Hendrix as a teenager, and his first job with Eddie Kramer, to working in the studio with KISS (and the Van Halen demos with Gene Simmons), Peter Frampton, Foreigner, Billy Idol and much, much more. He also discusses the change in the music industry with Grunge, and his work with Trans-Siberian Orchestra both in studio and on the road. This episode features guest co-host Greg Renoff - author of the new book Van Halen Rising.
Chris Moore (George Lynch, Graig Goldy, Cry Wolf, 208 Talks of Angels) discusses his life and career. From His early days and bands, to quitting the music business in his 20's, only to have the spark return in his 40's and return to music full time. We learn about his involvement with Cry Wolf and 208 Talks of Angels, his new drumming book/DVD and the formation of his two new bands - one with George Lynch (formerly named The Infidels), and one with Craig Goldy (formerly named Endangered Species).
Phil Varone discusses his life and career, from his early days and the history or Saigon Kick, the side effects of their hit "Love Is On The Way", his issues with Saigon Kick's management, and their breakup. Plus he discusses his 90's band with Rachel Bolan, Prunella Scales, and his time in Skid Row. We also cover his other endeavors such as stand-up comedy, writing and the adult film business (and why he left). He talks about his regrets over the documentary "Wake Up Dead", the new book he's writing on an undisclosed comedian, and his newly announced return to music.
Al Pitrelli (Trans-Siberian Orchestra, Megadeth, Savatage, Alice Cooper, Randy Coven) discusses his life and career. He touches upon his early days with guitar and early bands, as well as early opportunities with Michael Bolton, what he learned as musical director for Alice Cooper, as well as discusses bands such as Savatage Megadeth and TSO. He also talks about some of his more obscure works with Randy Coven and TM Stevens.
Barry Sparks discusses his life and career. From early bands to such major acts such as Michael Schenker Group (MSG), Yngwie Malmsteen Ted Nugent and B'z. He also discusses his solo albums Glimmer of Hope, Can't Look Back and his new project Riot On Mars. He also covers his prolific session career and touches upon his brush with Ritchie Blackmore.
Frank Gambale discusses his life and career. From learning the guitar and early bands to his amazing solo career and time in bands such as Chick Corea Elektric Band and Vital Information. He also discusses his new guitar school - Frank Gambale Online Guitar School.
Joel Hoekstra (Whitesnake, Night Ranger) discusses his new project - Joel Hoekstra's 13. He discusses how the new album (Dying to Live) came to be, and the process of recording it. He also provides an update from the last time he was on the show (Episode 34), and discusses the recording the Whitesnake Purple album as well as the Purple tour.
In the second half of the interview with Chris McLernon, he discusses his time in Saigon Kick, including the recent reunion and why he walked away. He also covers his history with Eddie Van Halen, and their bonding over bowling, and finishes with what he's up to now.
Chris McLernon (Saigon Kick, Cold Sweat, Cold Gin) discusses his life and career. From his early days/bands to the formation of Cold Sweat (originally called Ferrari) with Marc Ferrari and Oni Logan - and having Oni leave the band to join Lynch Mob, finding a replacement singer in Roy Cathey, the unexpected success of his KISS tribute band Cold Gin (with future Kiss guitarist Tommy Thayer), and how he got the gig in Saigon Kick following the recording of The Lizard.
The interview will continue with part 2 next week.
www.thedoublestop.com
Gabe Rosales walks us through his career, from his early days, to joining the infamous "Smoke This" era of Lynch Mob (the recording process and the backlash), working for pop stars such as Jennifer Lopez (and playing Saturday Night Live) his troubles and recovery with addiction, his solo record (Vital Nonsense), activism and working with George Lynch again on the ShadowTrain movie and soundtrack.
Bernard Fowler discusses his life and career. From singing on the street corner at 16 to his 27 years working with Mick Jagger and the Rolling Stones (as well as solo albums by Ronnie Wood and Charlie Watts). He discusses his early projects with The Peech Boys and Herbie Hancock, to Nickelbag (who changed their name to The IMFs because of Nickelback) with Stevie Salas, and his new solo record The Bura. Bernard has lots of great stories from his amazing career.
Dave Jerden discusses his life and career. From his early days to working with Frank Zappa, Herbie Hancock, Mick Jagger and the Rolling Stones. He also discusses the creation of the Alice In Chains sound, his work with Anthrax, and the lost album by Violets Demise with Rowan Robertson and Oni Logan. He shares why he stopped making records for many years, and what brought him back.
www.thedoublestop.com
Jennifer Batten discusses her early days and learning guitar, her audition for Michael Jackson, her work on the Bad, Dangerous and HIStory tours, her account of Greg Howe filling in for her for a few weeks with Michael Jackson (his account is in episode 36), her work with Jeff Beck, her three solo records and her new multimedia tour - Jennifer Batten's Self-Empowerment for the Modern Musician Experience.
Jennifer Batten 2015 Tour Dates:
7-24 LAS VEGAS
7-26 FLAGSTAFF
7-29 LUBBOCK TX
8-1 DALLAS
8-2 AUSTIN
8-4 SAN ANTONIO
8-16 MARGATE
8-20 NASHVILLE
8-22 CHARLOTTE
8-23 RALEIGH
8-27 KING OF PRUSSIA
8-29 CARLE PLACE4
8-30 NEW HAVEN
9-5 INDIANAPOLIS
9-6 LOMBARD
9-8 O'FALLON MO
For more on Jennifer Batten: http://www.batten.com/
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Website: www.TheDoubleStop.com
P.J. Farley discusses his early days, and the formation of Trixter. He covers their early success (when he was still a teenager), their decline with grunge, his other bands with Steve Brown, his work with Lita Ford, the Trixter reunion and their new album Human Era.
Joey Tafolla discusses his life and career. From his early days learning guitar (and his highly musical family), to the record label he co-founded at 19, on again/off again (and now currently on again!) history with Jag Panzer, his solo shredder career with Shrapnel Records (and work with Tony MacAlpine), giving guitar lessons to Buckethead, his tour with the Michael Sweet solo band, and his upcoming projects.
Wyn Davis walks us through his career, from his early days in production, to working with Dokken, Dio and Foreigner. We learn how he became Ronnie James Dio's favorite recording engineer, and shares his experiences working with Heaven & Hell.
Jonathan Mover (GTR, Joe Satriani, Fuel, Saigon Kick) discusses his life and career. From his training a first bands to his work with GTR, Joe Satriani, Aretha Franklin, Fuel and Matt Kramer. He also covers how he started playing with Saigon Kick and also discusses his magazine - Drumhead Magazine.
Mike Fraser discusses his career, from how he got his start with Bob Rock and Bruce Fairbairn, to his first big break with Aerosmith, working with Jimmy Page on the Coverdale - Page cd, AC/DC on The Razors Edge (and iconic guitar parts on Thunderstruck), Blue Murder, The Power Station, Joe Satriani, Chickenfoot, and the new AC/DC cd Rock or Bust.
In Part 2 with Eric Martin (Mr Big) he discusses the first Mr. Big tour with Rush, the success of Lean Into It, the refomation in the 90's with Richie Kotzen, the reunion with all original members, the Mr. Vocalist series of cds in Japan, and he announces his new project with Warren DeMartini (Ratt).
In Part 1 of my 2 part interview with Eric Martin (Mr. Big), he shares how he got his start in music, and discusses his early solo albums "Sucker For A Pretty Face", "Eric Martin" and "I'm Only Fooling Myself". Eric also covers his contribution to the Teachers soundtrack (a song he wrote with Neal Schon from Journey), as well as his near miss in Toto. We discuss the formation of Mr. Big (and the role Mike Varney had), and the recording of the first Mr. Big album.
Sean McNabb walks us through his entire career - from his early days to his first big break in Quiet Riot, he explains it all. He covers his time in House of Lords, Great White, Dokken, Burning Rain and now Lynch Mob. He also discusses his solo single "Fresh Air" where he is in singer/songwriter mode, and reveals Burning Rain's plan to hit the studio and record a new cd for Frontiers Records.
Andrew McNeice discusses the history of MelodicRock.com - one of the first hard rock/melodic rock news sites on the net. He discusses how and why he started the site, its growth, his music festivals, his record label and the current state of the music business.
Ken Mary (House of Lords, Alice Cooper, Impellitteri, Kip Winger) walks us through his career, starting with his early days, his first band (Fifth Angel), his time with Alice Cooper in the 80's, recording early demos with Kip Winger and Paul Taylor, the formation of House of Lords (and why he left after the Sahara tour), his first solo project - Soul Shock Remedy and the House of Lords reunion album The Power and the Myth. He also reveals the terrible back pain that prevented him from playing drums for most of the last 15 years, and how he was able to recover and commence drumming again.
Tom Werman walks us through his legendary producing career, from Cheap Trick to Motley Crue, and Twisted Sister to Dokken. He talks about his early days in music, and his rise to famed music Producer multiple hit records under his belt. He also addresses criticism by Cheap Trick, Twisted Sister and Motley Crue over his production style, and discusses his challenges working with George Lynch on the "Tooth and Nail" cd. He also covers the film Rock Star, and how helpful Jeff Pilson was in the studio. And finally, we discuss his retirement from the music business, and his latest venture - a luxury Bed & Breakfast in Massachusetts called Stoneover Farm.
Spencer Proffer discusses his early days, and how he went from law school to record producer. From his early works with Billy Thorpe and Tina Turner to his number one smash "Metal Health" with Quiet Riot, Spencer covers it all. We also discuss working with WASP on their "The Last Command" album as well as his transition into film, and his current projects with Meteor 17.
Mark Slaughter (Slaughter, Vinnie Vincent Invasion) discusses his career - from starting in Xcursion, to joining Vinnie Vincent Invasion - to striking out (and finding huge success) with Slaughter. He goes into detail on the first two Slaughter records and discusses his new solo record - Reflections In A Rear View Mirror.
Carmine Appice walks us through his entire career - from early days learning drums (and helping his brother Vinnie) to early success with Vanilla Fudge and Cactus. He also covers working with Jeff Beck, Rod Stewart and Ozzy Osbourne. We also take a look at his 80/90's bands King Cobra, Blue Murder (and clears up the details of his involvement with the 2nd album Nothin' But Trouble) and supergroup Mothers Army. Busier than ever, Carmine also gives details on Drum Wars, Rated X and the new Vanilla Fudge cd. He also reveals that he wants Dave Grohl to produce a new Drum Wars cd and that he's currently about to mix a new Cactus album.
Rowan Robertson (Dio, DC4, Bang Tango) walks us through his career – from joining Dio at only 17 years old, to having his album with Oni Logan (Violets Demise) shelved – all the way up to current projects such as DC4 and Bang Tango. From the writing sessions for “Lock Up The Wolves” to preparing for his years Monsters of Rock cruise, it’s all covered.
Buy Rowan Robertson music on iTunes
Jeff LaBar (Cinderella) tells us about his early days and early bands. He explains how he got the gig in Cinderella, and the recording of Night Songs, Long Cold Winter, Heartbreak Station – and how the changing musical climate affected Still Climbing. He also discusses Tom Keifer’s vocal problems and their failed recording contract with Sony in the late 90’s. He also talks about his new solo EP One For The Road, and the recording process for it. He also shares that he’s heading back into the studio to record the follow-up for Rat Pak Records.
Buy One For The Road on iTunes
Joey Allen (Warrant) gives us a full overview of his career. He discusses the early days of Warrant, and their heyday in the late 80’s. He also shares why he left the band after Dog Eat Dog, what he did in the years before his return, reflects on Jani Lane, and looks forward to the next cd, and when that will be recorded.
Jeff Watson (Night Ranger, Mother's Army, Solo) comes out of hiding (he's a self-proclaimed hermit!) and discusses his life and career in this special 50th episode of The Double Stop. He explains his early days, and learning guitar. He covers the formation of Night Ranger and walks us through their early albums and eventual break-up. He discusses his first solo album, Lone Ranger, as well as Mother's Army - his band with Joe Lynn Turner, Carmine Appice and Bob Daisley. He reveals for the first time the recent discovery of 5 lost Mother's Army songs that he is preparing for release. He talks about the formation of Night Ranger, and why he decided to leave in 2008. He also discusses what led to him meeting his Night Ranger replacement - Joel Hoekstra - and their surprise jam at the Randy Rhoads Remembered show. He also discusses his plans to join the upcoming RRR tour. The bigger surprise is that Joel Hoekstra will be guesting on Jeff's next single - following his new song "Squirrels & Kerosene". And finally, Jeff announces his plans to re-release his solo track "Around the Sun" in tribute to his late father.
Buy"Squirrels & Kerosene" on iTunes
Richie Kotzen returns for another episode of The Double Stop. He discusses his new cd "Cannibals", along with everything that went into making it. He also discusses his creative process, the recent Grammy awards - and his frustration with the current state of music.
Ron "Bumblefoot" Thal joins us to discuss his history, and how he went from dropout to professor. He discusses his early records on Shrapnel (at the height of grunge), learning to play fretless guitar, and how he started his DYI approach. He talks about his 911 charity album, his experiment releasing a single a month over the course of a year, a little bit of Guns N' Roses, plus Art of Anarchy and his new solo cd "Little Brother Is Watching".
Buy "Little Brother Is Watching" in Itunes
Dave Rude (Tesla, Dave Rude Band) discusses how he got started as a guitarist and singer, and we learn how he got his big break with Tesla (it's really rather remarkable luck!). He discusses the making of Tesla's Real to Reel, Forever More and Simplicity. As well as the Dave Rude Band self-titled release, plus "Carry Me Home" and "The Key". He also gives his thoughts on Spotify, discusses a possible guitar instrumental album, an upcoming Tesla box set and his work as a writer for other artists, as well as TV and film.
Buy The Key on iTunes
In this final episode from NAMM 2015, Jordan Rudess (Dream Theatre) demos his Jordantron iPad app through an Xkey mini keyboard, Michael Tobias explains what's new at Michael Tobias Design for 2015, Gerald Marleaux tells us about Marleaux Bass Guitars, Brian tells us about Sterling by Music Man and Zach discusses Italia Guitars.
David Ellefson ( Megadeth ), Rudy Sarzo ( Quiet Riot, Whitesnake ), Jason Hook ( Five Finger Death Punch, Mandy Moore ), Phil X ( Triumph, Bon Jovi, The Drills ), Nita Strauss ( Alice Cooper ) and Director Fran Strine talk about the in-production documentary Hired Gun, and what it means to be a hired gun musician.
Plus, Phil X gives tribute to bassist Randy Coven.
Day 1 of my NAMM report with interviews with:
- Carvin Guitars
- Vigier
- EarthQuaker Devices
- Tascam
- Yorkville Sound
- Kurzweil
- Artizan Bass Works
Plus: coverage of the Peavey 50th Anniversary celebration, and new music by Blasted To Static featuring Jeff Martin (Racer X, Badlands)
Robert Sarzo (Hurricane, Geoff Tate's Queensrÿche, Solo) talks about his life and career. He discusses his early days in Cuba, and coming to America when he was 6, his early bands with his brother Rudy, his early recordings and tours (and working with Jimmy Iovine and Bob Seger), his experience working with Ozzy Osbourne right after the death of Randy Rhoads, the formation of Hurricane and the making of their 2 cd's (and his exit from the band), the recording of his solo album "After The Storm" (and why it was shelved for almost 30 years), how he got the gig for the Geoff Tate's Queensrÿche tour, and his new project that he's about to unleash).
Buy After The Storm
Chris Collier (Engineer, Mixer, Mastering Engineer - KXM, Lynch Mob, Prong) joins us to discuss his career to date. He covers how he got into the business, how he ended up drumming on a Lita Ford cd, Working with Lynch Mob on the "Sound Mountain Sessions" and "Sun Red Sun", and working with Travers & Appice, Prong ("Ruining Lives" and the upcomming covers cd "Songs From The Black Hole", KXM, and Lynch's 2-cd Shadowtrain soundtrack. He also discusses new projects, such as Fieldy's (Korn) new Stillwell album, a new project with Ray Luzier and Billy Sheehan (for Madame Mayhem - which Sheehan is Producing), teases us regarding a new project with Jeff Pilson and gives an update on the new Lynch mob full length cd currently being recorded.
KXM on iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/kxm/id821229965?uo=4&at=10lQdd
Jeff Pilson (Dokken, War & Peace, Dio, Foreigner, Lynch/Pilson, Underground Moon, T&N) discusses his entire career, including how he got his start on bass and his early bands/studies, how he joined Dokken, the making of their big albums in the 80's, why they broke up, why he didn't join Lynch Mob when they first formed, the formation of War & Peace, his time in Dio, the Dokken reunion, why he left, rekindling his friendship with George Lynch and the recording of Lynch / Pilson, why his name was off Underground Moon, and how he joined Foreigner and their latest recording - The Best of 4 & More. Plus he talks about current producing jobs for Last In Line and Adler, and a new solo rock cd that he is considering making.
Jeff Pilson on iTunes
Paul Taylor (Winger, Alice Cooper, Tom Keifer, Steve Perry) discusses his life and career. He talks about his early life, leading to joining the Alice Cooper band. He covers his time in Winger (and why he decided to leave), working on the Steve Perry album "For the Love of Strange Medicine" and the subsequent tour, his career writing for TV and film, the Winger reunion and working with Tom Keifer.
Support the show:
Winger in iTunes
Derry Grehan from Honeymoon Suite discusses the history of the band. From the huge success of their first album, to working with Bruce Fairbairn and Bob Rock on the follow-up "Big Prize, and Ted Templeton on Racing After Midnight. He also discusses the effects of Grunge, and how they were able to rebuild in the 2000's. He also shares that Honeymoon Suite are working on new music, and when we can expect it.
Support the show:
Honeymoon Suite in iTunes
Note: I'm traveling and my road mic decided to die - so there is no intro or outro on this episode.
Kenny Aronoff (John Mellencamp, John Fogerty, pretty much everyone else...) talks about his path as a drummer, and how he learned to play. He talks about the 17 years (and 10 albums) he spent playing in the John Mellencamp band, how he became one of the most sought after session drummers and covers working with such bands as Chickenfoot, Heaven & Earth, John Fogerty, The Smashing Pumpkins and more.
Support the show:
Kenny Aronoff on iTunes
Vinnie Moore (Solo, UFO, Alice Cooper, Red Zone Rider) discusses how he picked up the guitar, his first gig (a Pepsi Commercial), working with Vicious Rumors, his early instrumental albums, working with Alice Cooper, how he responded to grunge, how he joined UFO (this one blew my mind), the formation of Red Zone Rider, and his future plans.
Support the show:
Vinnie Moore on iTunes
Greg Howe explains how he got his start, and how he learned to play the guitar. He also covers getting his record deal and his solo career, plus how he gives full detail on how he got the gig as a touring guitarist for Michael Jackson (plus Enrique Iglesias, NSYNC and Justin Timberlake). He also shares how and why he formed the band Maragold, and reveals that they are working on a new cd, with hopes of releasing it early next year.
Support the show:
Greg Howe in iTunes
Steve Stevens discusses his childhood and his path learning guitar (it was NOT rock), and the effects of his early influences. He covers his first recordings, how he met Billy Idol, and their rise to fame. He also shares why he ultimately left the band, but not before declining the lead guitarist gig for David Lee Roth (pre-Steve Vai). Other topics include working with Vince Neil, returning to Billy Idol, why he was unsatisfied with “Devil’s Playland”, and why he IS so happy with their new cd, Kings & Queens of the Underground.
Steve Stevens in iTunes
Billy Idol
Rebel Yell
Whiplash Smile
Steve Stevens and the Atomic Playboys
Exposed
Flamenco A Go Go
Devil's Playground
Memory Crash
Kings & Queens of the Underground
Joel Hoekstra shares his story - from early instruments and teenage bands to joining Night Ranger and now nabbing one of the most sought after gigs for a guitar player - the mighty Whitesnake. He fills in the blanks from how he got the gig in Night Ranger and managed to juggle it with Rock of Ages on Broadway, and the Trans-Siberian Orchestra - all at the same time. Plus, he goes into detail on how he got the gig in Whitesnake and his part of the recording process on the new cd.
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Brandon Gibbs from Devil City Angels discusses his early years, and how it led to him being asked to front a band that features Tracii Guns (LA Guns), Rikki Rocket (Poison) and Eric Brittingham (Cinderella). We also discuss the band's use of social media to give fans a look behind the curtain as they write and record songs and play their first shows. Brandon gives great insight on the band, modern music business, and connecting with fans.
Bruce Bouillet discusses his early days in Indiana, and his trek to LA for GIT (and meeting Paul Gilbert on his first day). We covers his time in Racer X (with Paul Gilbert) and The Scream (with John Corabi), and being forced to stop playing guitar because of Carpel Tunnel. He discusses his move into production (winning a Grammy with Motorhead), and his return to guitar thanks to a new non-surgical treatment. He also reveals that he's putting together a new vocal band, and what he's looking for is a singer as he starts holding auditions.
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This week Oni Logan (Lynch Mob, Dio Disciples, Violets Demise) discuss his career. And his girlfriend - Playboy model Ivy Ferguson. He covers his first stint with Lynch Mob with George Lynch, Violets Demise, his time in Switzerland, his much maligned solo album, and his return to the US - and Lynch Mob. We also talk about the new 6 song Lynch Mob EP coming in October - Sun Red Sun - a tribute to Ray Gillen from Badlands.
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Toby Wright (Alice In Chains, Korn, Kiss, Brighton Rock) shares his rise in the music business from working in Maintenance, to Assistant Engineer to his first big break - Producing Brighton Rock's "Love Machine". He found massive success with "Jar of Flies" by Alice In Chains - and album written and recorded in the studio in 10 days. He also produced their self titled follow-up, as well as their Unplugged album - a cd with his crowning achievement when it came time to master. He also goes into detail on his discovery in sound healing, and recounts his nightly dream that led him to it.
John Corabi (Motley Crue, Union, The Scream) explains the power of not having a backup plan, the history of Angora and The Scream, how the writing sessions were in Mötley Crüe, the formation of Union with Bruce Kulick (and the damage of Napster), and his current solo career - including his latest release (Unplugged) and plans to tour the Mötley Crüe era material.
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This week, Jeff Martin (Racer X, Badlands, Solo) talks about his life and career. He discusses his early days, the formation of Racer X, his times in Badlands (and how things were during the breakup with Ray Gillen), as well as his frustrations with the non-activity of Racer X and the difficulties caused by his solo album – The Fool. He also shares details of his friendship with Rob Halford (Judas Priest), and what went on behind the scenes when he sang backup vocals on “Turbo”.
John Regan shares how he got his start in music, how he started playing in Peter Frampton's band, the rise and fall of Frehley's Comet, his extensive session work with artists such as Mick Jagger, David Lee Roth and David Bowie, his return to Peter Framptons Band, and his new band Four By Fate.
We continue our conversation with Greg Chaisson, who discusses Badlands in-depth. He discusses the transition from Eric Singer to Jeff Martin on drums, the recording of Voodoo Highway and goes into detail on the making of Dusk, and how it saw the light of day. He also talks about his solo album (It's About Time), becoming a session player for Shrapnel Records, and the infamous show he played for Jake E Lee's Red Dragon Cartel. He also feels that RDC proves that Jake E. Lee is one of rock's all time great guitarists.
I agree.
In Part 1 of our conversation, Greg Chaisson (Badlands) discusses how he went from a jock to a bassist, why he wanted to fight future Badlands drummer Jeff Martin when he met him in highschool, why Rob Halford showed up at his house, why he hung up on Sharon Osbourne 3 times (and auditioned for Ozzy only because they agreed to take him to Loch Ness), why 80's image held him back from getting gigs, and how Badlands came to be. Plus how management wanted to FIRE Jake E Lee! Part 2 is next week.
Tony MacAlpine walks us through his entire career. From a young classically trained pianist, to one of the leaders of the first wave of shred guitarists in the 80's, Tony MacAlpine has a career spanning 30 years of amazing guitar.
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Marco Mendoza shares his story of addiction and recovery. Now sober 26 years, he reflects on his life journey. From getting married at 16, and a father by twenty, to being homeless and addicted to drugs - he doesn't hold back.
We also talk about his music career post recovery - and he explains the delicate dance of being in bands with David Coverdale and John Sykes at the same time, and his attempts to bring them back together (hint: he got VERY close).
Ray Luzier takes us through his career and tells us about how landed the drum gig in KoRn, goes in detail about how it was being in the David Lee Roth band for 8 years (clue - he quit 4 times), his new band KXM, and how an "average" student got asked to teach at the Musicians Institute. Plus loads of advice from Ray for aspiring musicians.
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Stevie Salas talks about his life and career. He shares how he got started on the guitar, and covers most of his solo albums, working with Rod Stewart, George Clinton, Sass Jordan, why many of his solo albums have different names for different territories, who "Punkass Bitch" was written for, and all about his upcomming memoir - "When We Were the Boys: Coming of Age on Rod Stewart's Out of Order Tour"
Michael Wagener tells us all about his early days as an original member of Accept, joining the army, early work as a producer with Dokken, Great White, Accept and Mötley Crüe, plus later work with Brighton Rock, Ozzy, White Lion, Extreme and Skid Row. He goes into detail about how he got George Lynch's guitar tone in Under Lock and Key, what happened to his original mixes of Ozzy's Ozzmosis album, and the recording of the kazoo solo for Saigon Kick.
Richie Kotzen explains how he got his start in music, the huge impact Steve Smith had on his first cd, how he ended up with titles he hated on some of his solo albums, he covers his time in poison, Mr. Big and Vertu, as well as his new band, The Winery Dogs. He also reveals that he has just completed recording a new solo album that will be released on Loud & Proud records in North America (as well as a best-of release).
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Richie Zito was signed to Atlantic Records at the age of 15, played with Elton John, Rick James, Beach Boys, and Ringo, and Produced Heart, The Cult, Poison and Richie Kotzen. And that's just scratching the surface. Hear Riche Zito talk about his entire career, and why he is still obsessed with the guitar.
Aldo Novo tells us about his early days, learning guitar and early bands in Montreal, his success with "Fantasy", working with Jon Bon Jovi, writing for Celine Dion, and what he's working on today.
John Cuniberti returns to give us his top 20 tips for all recording engineers, the history of Reamp, and why he created it, and a look at his roles on cd's by Kevin Gilbert and Sammy Hagar.
Bob Daisley takes us through his career, and gives us a taste of what's in his new autobiography "For Facts Sake". He explains how he got his start as a bassist, and goes into detail on his pivotal role in Ozzy's first 6 studio albums. Plus he talks about his working relationship with Gary Moore, and his plans for the "Holy Grail" - his rehearsal tapes of the original "Blizzard of Ozz" band with Randy Rhoads.
Jason Bieler explaines how he got started as a guitar player, and his first big break playing in Jeff Scott Soto's Talisman. He covers how Saigon Kick got their start, their early success with "Love Is On The Way" (the ballad that killed hair metal), his move to lead vocalist, his unexpected success in Indonesia, Super TransAtlantic, Bieler Bros Records, the reunion with Saigon Kick, and his new project - Owl Stretching.
John Cuniberti explains how he got his start, what it's like to produce Joe Satriani and The Dead Kennedys at the same time, the recording of "Surfing With The Alien", "Flying In A BLue Dream" and "The Extremist", the challenges of recording George Lynch's "Sacred Groove", and his shift into mastering cd's.
Grammy-winning record producer and sound engineer, Keith Olsen takes us through his career. He covers his early days at Sound City, his role in the creation of Fleetwood Mac, what it's like to be in the studio with the Grateful Dead, Whitesnake and Lynch Mob.
Guitarist Ronny Jones shares his story. Ronny was in the band Mac Meda with Robin Crosby (RATT) and Rob Lamothe (Riverdogs) and two of thier songs (I'm Insane and Scene of the Crime) appeared on RATT's smash album "Out Of The Cellar". Ronny and Rob were co-writers of the tracks, but never given credits on the album. Ronny explains the lawsuit that followed, as well his next band, Black Bambi, which had their debut album produced by Beau Hill, but never release due to politics at Atlantic Records.
Producer Max Norman walks us through his career working with Ozzy Osbourne (Blizzard of Ozz, Diary of a Madman, Speak of the Devil, Bark at the Moon, Tribute), Lynch Mob (Wicked Sensation) and Megadeth (Rust in Peace, Countdown to Extinction, Youthanasia).
Bob St. John discusses his entire career as a Grammy winning record producer. He covers the recording of all 5 Extreme albums, what it's like to work with Nuno Bettencourt, as well as Duran Duran and Collective Soul.
Brian Tichy (S.U.N, Foreigner, Pride & Glory) discusses his life and career. He talks about his early bands, joining Zakk Wylde's Pride & Glory, working with Stevie Salas, Ball (his first band as a guitarist), and his new band Something Unto Nothing (S.U.N) with Sass Jordan.