EgoAssassin’s Interview with Intro5pect

It’s hard to find a band that offers substance in their music. It’s even harder to find artists who value not only meaning in their content, but deliver raw and avant-garde sounds. I’m often excited to be alive when I observe humans who create solid music, as it shows our passion for unique expression, diversity, and having a voice. I recently came across a group named “Intro5pect”, who in my opinion holds a revolutionary sound and message that is extremely rare and refreshing. Although I don’t want pop-culture to get their dirty hands on these youngsters, I do wish them the best and appreciate their time in answering the following interview questions. You can catch Intro5pect live on tour in the USA and Europe with another solid band called Citizen Fish starting in June, 2008. Cheers! -The EA

*Ego Assassin’s Interview with Intro5pect*

May 30, 2008

Members:
D - Dave (vox, guitar, programming)
S - Sara (synth, electronics, vox)

EgoAssassin: Can you give a quick synopsis of how Intro5pect came together? (When, where, why, and who?)

Dave: I (Dave) had been in a couple of different punk bands and was also writing electronic music as a separate project. I eventually just got tired of trying to separate the two and took the aspects that I liked from both and combined them. The hard part was finding a band to play live. There have since been many different variations of the band, but it wasn’t until we got the lineup that we have now that it really started to feel like a real band.

EgoAssassin: What are three major influences on the overall sound, energy, and style of Intro5pect? (doesn’t have to be music)

Dave: Our socio-political views are a huge influence on the band. We’ve always been a “political” band and this has probably had a huge influence in the path that we have taken. The way that we write and record also affects the overall sound of the band.
Sara: some bands that we like are kraftwerk, crass, the clash, the faint, the smiths, metallica, lady sovereign and so on. we have pretty varied tastes.

EgoAssassin: Do one or two people write most of the songs or do they come together as a group effort?

Dave: Traditionally its been mostly one person (Dave), but we’ve been trying to write more stuff together recently. You can kind of see this progression in the fact that there are a lot more vocals done by people who are not Dave on Realpolitik as opposed to our first album.

EgoAssassin: What social, political, or global issues bother you guys the most?

Dave: Overpopulation is a big issue that doesn’t really get much if any airtime. It’s one of the easiest (theoretically of course) issues to solve, we have the technology and ability to give every couple the choice of children- or more importantly not having children. It’s really just a cultural issue at this point. But it’s really important in the fact that overpopulation and the strain that it puts on resources is really the root cause of a lot of the other issues that our world has to deal with.
Sara: equality is a big issue for me. i think Americans in particular are overly concerned with gender and race than in other areas in the world. it’s still a shame that people have refused to let me into shows because they didn’t think i was a member in the band because i’m a girl. things like this need to change.

EgoAssassin: Would Intro5pect consider signing with a major record label if they approached you?

Dave: No, It’s hard to see anything that a major label could bring to the table that a good indie label couldn’t, and with the way that the music business has evolved over the past 10 years or so, It’s getting harder and harder to even justify why bands need any label- indie or otherwise.
Sara: yeah i agree. there’d be no benefit at all for us. we do almost EVERYTHING ourselves (everything from recording to sending our merch) so it’d be pointless to put in the same amount of work but have a large chunk go to faceless suits at a large company.

EgoAssassin: What do you think is the most important song that you guys have written so far?

Intro5pect: I think the answer to this question depends on how you define important!? I think that one of the most important topics that we write about is (as stated before) overpopulation, and we tried to cover that on “Sustainable Yield”. But as far as overall importance to the band I’d have to say “The war at home” for a couple of reasons. It’s a topic that we all feel very strongly about, and the topic of immigrant rights is something that people can relate to wherever we play. It’s also the first song that we did with Sturgeon (from Leftover Crack) and it was the first time we’ve worked with someone outside the band. It’s also an important song in that it probably introduced Intro5pect to a lot of people who would have never noticed or heard of us otherwise.

EgoAssassin: If you had a chance to send one message to the people in the world who need help and change the most, what would you tell them?

Dave: I’m not sure that I’m the most qualified person to send that message- but assuming that I did, it would go something like this- Never forget that change is the only constant, and no matter how bad things are they will change, and with that comes the hope and opportunity to make things better.
Sara: change doesn’t come without hard work and dedication. if it means that much to you, you will fight for it but the rewards will be well worth the effort.

EgoAssassin: Would you consider touring overseas for non-profit causes?

Dave: Yes, definitely
Sara: we would love to!

EgoAssassin: Have you recorded any songs featuring vocals in other languages? Or plan to in the future?

Dave: There’s a small part in “The War at Home” where I butcher some spanish, but other than that, not yet. I think that it would be cool to do in the future. We are a fairly ethnically diverse band- but most of us are at least second generation so I think Sara is the only one in the band that even can speak another language fluently.
Sara: i’d love to, i think it would be great, though i’m not sure as many people would get the message.

EgoAssassin: Last question: Be honest, what’s the flat-out worst record your band has ever listened to while driving on tour?

Dave: Short answer, I don’t know that it’s even a bad record, but Andrew WK’s first album seems to be one of the few things we can all agree on listening to- so it gets played alot more than it probably should.
Sara: Let’s just say that some people’s ipod’s aren’t nearly as popular as others… but we tend to agree on hammerfall, metallica, ace of base, and europe.

The End.

Thanks to Intro5pect. Support them by checking out their music here

Interview with Angelo Moore from Fishbone

Fishbone – A legendary band that has been around for several years and has influenced generations of great music. These guys are still doing what they do best and have given so much to real musicians and artists all over the world. Unfortunately, they are one of the many underrated bands who truly have not gotten as much credit as they deserve for being a driving force in energizing the independent and eclectic music scene globally. Since the first time I heard these guys, I knew that there was something unique and special about their talents, live energy, and songwriting. Despite their heavy touring schedule, Angelo Moore (lead singer/sax player) from Fishbone was good enough to take time to answer our questions. Much thanks to Angelo and Fishbone and we wish you many more years of success. Thanks for the tunes from Fishbone soldiers all over the map.

*Ego Assassin’s Interview with Angelo from Fishbone*

Interview Date: May 26, 2008

EgoAssassin: How and when did Fishbone start?

Angelo: 1979 at hale jr. high school in the San Fernando Valley, Los Angeles California.

EgoAssassin: Can you remember the first time you wrote a song?

Angelo: 1984; Ma&Pa

EgoAssassin: Where did the name “Dr. Maddvibe” come from?

Angelo: Dr. Maddvibe is my side project that’s where I am able ot do my poetry, comic books and other projects that I am unable to do with Fishbone.

EgoAssassin: Are you excited when you go on tour and record in the studio, or has it become routine?

Angelo: Yes I’m excited to go into the studio be cause i know something is getting ready to be accomplished. In an over all picture it has become routine because it has been the only thing that i have been doing for the past 25 or so years, but I am thankful that it all still exists and the opportunity is still there to make music.

EgoAssassin: Do you get recognized often in public?

Angelo: Yeah its’ been becoming more and more frequent.

EgoAssassin: How did you come across the theremin as an instrument for your projects?

Angelo: I discoverd it in a basement of a studio in Atl GA. while fishbone was in the studio recording Chimm Chimms bad ass revenge.

EgoAssassin: Who has inspired you the most in life? (Living or dead)

Angelo: Screaming Jay Hawkins.

EgoAssassin: Are you a religious man?

Angelo: Not Really.

EgoAssassin: Is there any new bands you feel to be avante-garde or innovative?

Angelo: Not really, thats like trying to find a needle in a haystack.

EgoAssassin: What do you see as the biggest problem with the music industry today?

Angelo: There is a large lack of substance.

EgoAssassin: What do you see as the biggest problem with the United States today?

Angelo: Too much back stabbing in the white house affecting the price of food that’s going in the babies mouth. gas ect job and lack of money…….mon it no Funny

EgoAssassin: Can you share with us the most discouraging event that has ever happened in your life and music carreer?

Angelo: My Divoce and custody battle. My fathers death. Fishbone not getting what we deserve.

EgoAssassin: Whats your favorite Fishbone song of all time?

Angelo: Skankin to the beat.

EgoAssassin: Was Fishbone often faced with making music they want vs. making music that appeals to a mainstream pop-music audience? Or do you feel you had the artistic freedom to do as you please?

Angelo: Yes we where faced with having to compromise and changing our music, and we had to a couple of times but over all we have the artistic freedom that we want.

EgoAssassin: Is there one important lesson, realization, or a philosophy in life that you try to share with all of your fans?

Angelo: Yeah ! Stay positive and don’t loose your cool.

EgoAssassin:When is Fishbone touring in the US again?

Angelo: Don’t know, but keep an eye on the web site: Fishbone.net

The End.

Interview With Lame Excuse

EgoAssassin is back from Japan with a vengeance and excited to post this exclusive interview with punk group Lame Excuse from Connecticut. These guys are a solid band who aren’t only veterans to recording and performing, but also offer substance filled lyrics and messages to their fans. I’m proud to consider these fellas friends and they were nice enough to do an interview for me, so much thanks to Mark and Dennis for their time, music, and passion for positive change. Click here to check out Lame Excuse’s website & buy their latest tunes here

*Ego Assassin’s Interview with Lame Excuse*

Interview Date: May 16, 2008:

EgoAssassin: How did the band start?

Mark: We started about ten years ago when I was fifteen. Dennis and I would basically just play guitar at his house, usually covers of punk rock songs that we liked. We started writing songs together, and got a drummer 6 or so months later. That was the beginning of the dream (which sometimes seems more like a nightmare hahaha). (I actually played with a couple guys, Jon and Dave, for awhile, but after that, Dennis and I got things rolling again).

EgoAssassin: What’s the current band line up? (and where are you guys all from)

Mark: Currently it’s me on Guitar/Vocals & Dennis on Bass/Vocals. Drummers quit our band a lot (usually to become failed front-men), but we’ll have to get another one soon so we can tour it up.
We’re all from Central Connecticut.

EgoAssassin: How did you come up with the name “Lame Excuse”?

Mark: It came at a time in our early teen years where a lot of our friends were dipping out on each other to party heavier and associate with people that we weren’t down with. Basically people loose touch, and the reasoning’s are rarely legit (especially at that age). So, Lame Excuse was indicative of excuses that were given from friends to justify how we were basically all growing up and apart.
Plus it had an air of youthful satire that we thought was pleasantly ironic.

EgoAssassin: How many records have you guys come out with?

Lame Excuse: We have done 3 full lengths, and one E.P.
No one Here to Hear It “99”
Seen Better Days “02”
Rain in Spain E.P. “03”
Stay for the Moment “07”
We’re also considering doing a live record sometime this year, which would be pretty sweet, I think.

EgoAssassin: Any styles of music that you have never attempted to play, but want to?

Mark: I cant stop listening to that new Aggrolites record. I have always wanted to do some reggae tinged punk. Like NOFX “eat the meek” stuff. I’m a huge Operation Ivy kid, and obviously Rancid and what not, but for some reason we’ve never gone for it.
Dennis: I would definitely like to do a little more thrashed out punk rock, probably borderline Grind stuff, but we’ll see…don’t want to alienate the teenyboppers haha.

EgoAssassin: If you could play with any band/artist in the world, who would it be?

Dennis: Lagwagon, Pulley, MxPx, Alkaline Trio, No Use for a Name
Mark: Dennis said a few, but I think the question asks for one, which is really tough, but I’m gonna say…Jawbreaker.

EgoAssassin: What are your major influences that drive your music or ideas?

Mark: I would definitely say my friends (past and present) influence my writing the most. I think some of the closest people to me would be surprised how many songs are reflections of my interpretation of various aspects of their lives. I think that’s important…friends should inspire you! Also faith/doubt are always in there, sometimes more overtly than others. Oh, and I have a consistent knack for waging lyrical warfare against things I hate about the scene.

EgoAssassin: What’s the music scene like in Connecticut?

Mark: Pretty beat actually…Jersey is where it’s at!
Dennis: We have a pretty good hardcore scene here. Originally bands like Hatebreed were big. Then bands like With Honor and Life In You Way really helped put us on the map. The kids here are amazing though. Every time we do shows, there is no shortage of love given.

EgoAssassin: What is the song “Darwin’s Black Box” about?

Mark: There is a scientist by the name of Michael Behe who wrote a book titled “Darwin’s Black Box.” Basically he asserts that evolution cannot account for the whole of complexity on Earth because humans are irreducibly complex. Meaning we don’t function at every level of evolution (which is necessary for the theory). Essentially, living things can indeed evolve and adapt, but life cannot evolve from non-life.
That song is my summation of such notions. I have become relatively obsessed with the works of Charles Darwin lately, and I find him to be exceptionally brilliant. I believe science and faith can exist symbiotically, and they should. If I may quote the song, “where science and faith collide; there ends life’s mystery.”

EgoAssassin: I dig the song “Forever”, can you tell me when you guys wrote this one?

Mark: Thanks man! That song is a reflection of a relationship I was involved in. Things had kind of gone awry, and I was determined to restore things. It’s basically me assuring her (as well as myself) that everything will work out, amidst my own doubts and reservation.

EgoAssassin: What is the biggest problem in our world today?

Mark: Wow, that’s a tough one! I am just gonna toss my biggest concerns out there; I’ll spare you the logistics. MTV, Global Climate Change, Globalization, and Trade Exploitation are some of the biggest. Also, Racism, Ethnocentrism, any and all forms of ignorance. There are far too many people out there that think they have it all figured out. Thus becoming deaf to other opinions or interpretations, and I think that is a really dangerous place to live…Stay open-minded!
Dennis: I think people show an overall lack of care for one another. Everybody looks to the government to fix everything, but that’s not gonna happen. People need to look out for each other, and deal with their own problems…stop looking to blame everyone else.

EgoAssassin: Any books or publications that you recommend that the youth get their hands on?

Mark: I am reading a book right now titled, “The Fate of Africa” by: Martin Meredith…Amazing! Also “1776” by: David McCullough, “Take This Job and Ship It” by: Senator Byron L. Dorgan, and “The Language of God” by: Francis S. Collins.
Dennis: Nope

EgoAssassin: Anything important that you want to share with your fans or just people in general?

Mark: Stop listening to bands whose members have ridiculously eccentric bangs, and or tight jeans. Also, bands that follow the: “Verse, Chorus (sing one line, scream one line), Cheesy unoriginal breakdown, Outro” formula should disappear. There are still people who believe music transcends trend.
It’s funny, I’ve known kids who grew up listening to punk rock with me, and they actually think this fashion-core explosion is a derivative of Punk, but it’s not! Punk hasn’t evolved into anything else, it’s alive and well, just look at bands like Lifetime, A Wilhelm Scream, Dead to Me, The Gaslight Anthem, Crime in Stereo, No Trigger, Smoke or Fire, The Draft, Bouncing Souls. H2O is back, Bad Religion’s new record was amazing, Face to Face is back…and on and on, seriously!
Dennis: Again, I’d just like to see people take care of one another. Support each other, show some love, and play bass.

EgoAssassin: Last question, what’s the worst show you have ever played?

Dennis: Ashford acoustic show
Mark: Probably that show in Mass with that “Autumn something” band…That pretty much sucked!

***The End***

EgoAssassin’s Interview with GWAR

Most humans believe that GWAR is a band from Virginia that’s been around since 1985 and dresses up in outlandish sci-fi/horror outfits to entertain people with thrashing metal music, fire, gore, and chaos. The truth is that (according to GWAR), they are an “elite group of chaos warriors who ravaged the galaxy with a boundless hatred of all things alive”.

I was excited to get the chance to interview these guys because they make even odd people like me seem sane. If you haven’t heard of GWAR, you’ll be glad that I introduced you to them regardless of your taste in music because they have a fascinating legacy to say the least. They’ve been all over the world, created their own costumes and production facility (named the slave pit) and put on possibly one of the strangest, but entertaining live shows I’ve seen in my entire life. GWAR has also been guests on TV shows like Jerry Springer and Joan, but what’s so funny about these guys is that they never break character. Ever! The lead singer, Oderus Urungus, who calls himself an ‘Extra-Terrestrial Warlord’ and ‘Lord of Earth’, was kind enough to take time out of his busy day to answer some questions I had for him. Check out the interview below and visit GWAR’s official website at: www.gwar.net

*Ego Assassin’s Interview w/ Oderus Urungus from GWAR*

Interview Date: April 8, 2008:

Ego Assassin: How old is GWAR?

GWAR (Oderus): OLDER THAN GOD’S BALLS

Ego Assassin: Oderus, can you tell us about the slave pit?

GWAR: IT IS A HIDEOUS PLACE WHERE THE SLAVES SUFFER IN ETERNAL TORMENT, LABORING CEASELESSLY IN ORDER TO CREATE OUR HULKING WAR MACHINES. HOWEVER DUE TO THE ECONOMIC CRISIS WE HAVE MOVED SEVERAL OF OUR SLAVE PITS TO MEXICO IN ORDER TO SAVE SOME MONEY (SO WE CAN SPEND IT ON DOPE). THIS HAS RESULTED IN MEXICAN GWAR SLAVES, WITH HUGE SOMBRERO’S AND HOT, SLUTTY MOM’S.

Ego Assassin: I heard that president Bush was ordering GWAR to go overseas and fight in Iraq. What do you think about that?

GWAR: NOBODY IS ORDERING GWAR TO DO SH**. DESPITE THIS WE DECIDED TO GO BACK TO IRAQ AND FIGHT ANYWAY. WE BROUGHT THE MUMMIFIED YET RESSURECTED SADDAM HUSSEIN WITH US. AS PART OF HIS NECROTIC AWAKENING, HIS FECAL D**K SLIT DRIPPED RANCID GOO. THERE WAS MUCH REJOICING IN BAGDHAD THAT NIGHT, AND THEN WE FU**ED GOATS..

Ego Assassin: What are your thoughts on GWAR auditioning for American Idol?

GWAR: AS PAULA ABDUL’S JAW WAS RIPPED AWAY BY MY PROBING LOVE-KNUCKLE, AS SIMON WHATEVER HIS NAME IS WAS ATTACKED BY WILD BOARS, AS THE FAT BLACK GUY ATE A BULLET RATHER THAN FACE MY ENDLESS WRATH, I REFLECTED THAT IT WAS A GOOD THING.

Ego Assassin: Is there a such thing as a GWAR diet program?

GWAR: ENCOURAGING GLUTTONY IS PART OF OUR DOCTRINE SO I WOULD HAVE TO SAY NO. BUT THERE ARE MANY WAYS TO LOSE WEIGHT AT A GWAR SHOW. THE AVERAGE DUMP IS ABOUT 3 POUNDS SO RIGHT THERE YOU’VE SLIMMED DOWN. JUST MAKE SURE THE CRAP CLEARS YOUR PANTS. ONE WAY TO ENSURE THIS IS TO NOT WEAR PANTS. AN EVENING SPENT FIGHTING FOR YOUR LIFE IN THE GWAR PIT IS ABOUT THE BEST WAY TO GET A GOOD WORK OUT, EXCEPT FOR PERHAPS HAVING SEX WITH YOUR UN-WILLING MOM, YOU KNOW THE ONE WHO USED TO BE A ROMANIAN GYMNAST.

Ego Assassin: Does GWAR use a tour bus instead of a spaceship so that they can blend in with our human society?

GWAR: GWAR HAS ALWAYS TRAVELLED IN THE ULTIMATE STYLE—A BAT-SHAPED HELICOPTER THAT RUNS ON CRACK. HOWEVER WE DISGUISE THIS CRAFT AS A TOUR BUS, ON OCCASION, IN ORDER TO AVOID THE FANS WHO INSIST ON SPENDING THE DAY IN THE PARKING LOT RIGHT NEXT TO THE CRAFT, PUBICLY MASTERBATING AND SMEARING THE SPENT SPUNK ALL OVER THE WINDOWS. PLUS THEY EAT GARBAGE.

Ego Assassin: What is GWAR’s position on global warming?

GWAR: ALL FOURS, DI** OUT, WILDLY MASTERBATING. AS LONG AS IT FU**S WITH PENGUINS I’M INTO IT. YOU THINK PENGUINS ARE FRIENDLY BUT YOU ARE NUTS. THEY ARE DANGEROUS FU**ERS AND IF WE HAVE TO SET FIRE TO THE ENTIRE PLANET TO REMOVE THEIR CURSED SCOURGE THEN SO BE IT.

Ego Assassin: Did you think the movie ‘300′ was realistic?

GWAR: NOWHERE NEAR ENOUGH BLOOD!

Ego Assassin: If you could meet anyone in the universe (living or dead), who would it be?

GWAR: I PRETTY MUCH HAVE ALREADY, AND I USUALLY TAKE THEM ON TOUR WITH ME. I’D HAVE TO SAY ONE OF THE MOST INTERESTING PEOPLE I HAVE EVER MET IS THE NOTORIOUS NEW YORK PLAYWRIGHT ANTON REEMCOBB. HE LIVES IN A SEWER AND EXISTS AS A DISEMBODIED HEAD THAT CONTINUALLY MAKES CRACKS ABOUT HOW MUCH WE SUCK. HE HAS RECENTLY RECEIVED A GRANT FROM THE PERIWINKLE FOUNDATION TO RESARCH OFF-TRACK BETTING FOR GAY CAMELS.

Ego Assassin: What is your favorite weapon?

GWAR: MY ABILITY TO SPEW VAPID BULLS**T THE LENGTH OF EIGHT FOOTBALL FIELDS. EITHER THAT OR MY GIANT TWO-HANDED BLADE, LICK.

Ego Assassin: Who is the biggest sissy in the band?

GWAR: ME, ME, WITHOUT A DOUBT ME! HERE, LET ME PROVE IT…THERE…I BAKED MUFFINS. THEY REALLY TASTE LIKE S**T THOUGH. MAYBE I SHOULDN’T HAVE MADE THEM OUT OF SH**.

Ego Assassin: Does GWAR believe in world peace? Or do you guys just want a piece of war?

GWAR: HMMMM….YOU REALLY THOUGHT ABOUT THAT ONE! I’D HAVE TO SAY NO…AND YES! WAR IS THE NATURAL STATE OF EXISTENCE FOR ALL THINGS. ALL FORCES ARE SET TO FIGHT AGAINST EACHOTHER. WHO AM I TO GO AGAINST THE VERY TIDE OF FATE. PLUS I AM ONE VIOLENT MOTHERFU**ER.

Ego Assassin: When is your next record coming out?

GWAR: WHY SHOULD IT EVER COME OUT? OUR LAST ONE WAS SO GOOD, WHY SHOULD WE EVEN BOTHER? IT’S NOT LIKE WE PRACTICE OR HAVE THESE SONGS JUST LYING AROUND. IT TAKES ACTUAL EFFORT TO RECORD THEM! BUT I SUPPOSE OUR INCREDIBLE TALENT WILL ULTIMATLEY COME TO THE FORE, FORCING US TO BE EVEN GREATER THAN WE USED TO BE. SO I WOULD HAVE TO SAY WE ARE WORKING ON IT RIGHT NOW AND HOPE TO HAVE IT OUT BY GWAR’S GIGANTIC 25^TH ANNIVERSARY NEXT YEAR!

The End. Thanks Gwar, thanks Urungus, and special thanks to your management for getting me the interview (Issachar Entertainment/ NYC). Cheers to the scumdogs of the universe.

Check out the GWAR video below to see a glimpse of a live experience with these jackballs:

Interview with Mike Park from Asian Man Records

Mike Park is a well accomplished and independent musician, activist, poet, and entrepreneur that has helped spawn several bands, record labels, and revolutionary ideas for over two decades. Some of the productions he has been involved with are Asian Man Records, Dill Records, The Chinkees, The Bruce Lee Band, Skankin’ Pickle, The Plea for Peace Tour, and Ska Against Racism tours (just to name a few).

I first was introduced to Mike’s music and record label back in the early 1990’s when I moved back home to California after living overseas for several years. My personal interest in reggae influenced bands such as the Specials and the Selecter, mixed with my love for playing the sax, got my ears open to the independent, horn heavy, and upbeat focused music scene that was continuing to grow throughout the U.S. after the late 80’s (I make it sound ancient). But anyways, Mike Park was one of the innovators behind much of the ska-punk movement throughout California and eventually the world, and the amazing thing about this era was the sense of community and brotherhood that was felt by fans and bands alike. It had nothing to do with being rich, famous, respected, or acclaimed, but about relating to the normal people just like you that enjoyed raw and original music (not just overproduced pop). Needless to say, Mike Park and his ideas paved the way for many bands and independent minds to be heard and he continues to greatly contribute to the D.I.Y. spirit.

But enough of my own perception of Mike’s history, I will let him speak for himself, so here is my interview with Mike and I would like to thank him very much for taking the time to answer my questions.

*Ego Assassin’s Interview w/Mike Park*

Interview Date: March 29, 2008:

Ego Assassin: Mike, when did you realize that you had a passion for making music? (how did this happen?)

Mike Park: When I was about 13 my dad bought an acoustic guitar and I started fiddling with it. I learned a power chord and I started writing songs right off the bat.

Ego Assassin: What are the major influences on your sound and style? (doesn’t have to be music)

Mike Park: I’m influenced by the DISCHORD RECORDS philophy of punk ethics. Seeing a label try not to become a big label is something I find admirable. You often wonder why it is that people need to constantly strive for #1 when it comes to capitalism, but it’s rare to find entities that are able to survive modestly.
This is what I try to accomplish. As far as music goes, I’m influenced by a lot of stuff. But I grew up listening to the punk rock sounds of 7 SECONDS to BLACK FLAG, then to the 2-tone sounds of the Specials, Bad Manners and now I listen to everything from Suzanne Vega to Bruce Springsteen.

Ego Assassin: Can you share the most discouraging event that has happened in your career/or life? (even what you learned from it?)

Mike Park: Hmmmm… Well, I guess I’m pretty blessed. I can’t really think of anything that’s really been discouraging to the point of wanting to just give this all up. Sometimes the work load can be overbearing or dealing with parents ordering for their kids. They don’t know the ethics of the record label I run and are raging mad if we screw up their order. But overall things have been pretty amazing.

Ego Assassin: How many record labels have you started and are you currently running any labels or projects right now?

Mike Park: I started DILL as a collective amongst the members of SKANKIN’ PICKLE, but ASIAN MAN is the only label I’ve done on my own 100%.

Ego Assassin: In your view, what’s the biggest problem within the music industry today?

Mike Park: I guess it’s the age old situation of people making money off each other. It’s a cut throat business whether it’s the record companies, booking agents, managers, tour managers, etc.. Everyone is an asshole cause they feel that’s what you have to do to get your way, but it sucks. I don’t want to be
part of the music business. What I do is completely seperate from that bullshit. Everything is done 100% DIY. I book my own shows, put out my own records, order my merchandise, book my travel, etc..

Ego Assassin: Are there any current bands making music that you think promotes truth, substance, or meaningful messages to the listeners?

Mike Park: Yes, go to asianmanrecords.com and every band on that roster kicks ass.

Ego Assassin: Can you give a quick history of the ‘Plea for Peace’ tour?

Mike Park: The tour was provided to give music a kick start in terms of blending sounds with a message. We have been inactive for over 4 years now from touring, but we are on the threshold of opening our first music based youth center.

Ego Assassin: Did you get any negative reactions from the name of your label entitled ‘Asian Man Records’?

Mike Park: None. The only negative reactions I got were from my band the CHINKEES. All from Asian Americans. I understand their dismay, but the band was created strictly to confront racism in our society.
Ego Assassin: Do you still play the sax? (How long have you been playing anyways?)

Mike Park: I haven’t played in about 3 years now, but will dust it off for a memorial concert honoring my friend Lynette Knackstedt who played with me for 7 years in Skankin’ Pickle.

Ego Assassin: If you could meet anyone in the world, who would it be?

Mike Park: Living? Well, I’d love to spend time with Mr. Obama. Especially now.

Ego Assassin: Any tour plans coming soon?

Mike Park: I just returned from EUROPE on a month tour. Now I’m only going to play spot shows around the US.

Ego Assassin: What’s the most important message you have in your heart to tell the world today?

Mike Park: Just the simple message of peace. It seems like a novel idea right? But man, we’ve got some tough guys in the world who thrive on violence and anger and road rage and arggghhh…

Ego Assassin: What brings you joy in life?

Mike Park: My family.

Ego Assassin: Last question; Remember Degrassi Jr. High?

Mike Park: Of course. I still watch it religiously.

Ego Assassin: The End. Thanks Mike, your time is much appreciated. Good luck with making positive change!

Make sure you check out and support Mike’s latest projects at: asianmanrecords.com
www.mikeparkmusic.com and www.pleaforpeace.com

Interview with The Voodoo Glow Skulls

The Voodoo Glow Skulls, a band that is just plain solid…period. This band has been around since the late 80’s and they hail from Riverside, California. They possess some of the most original, diverse, energetic, and unique styles you’ll ever experience. I’ve been listening to these guys since I was introduced to their 1993 LP entitled “Who Is This Is“, which for anyone who remembers, came out under the Dr. Strange Records label. The third wave ska-punk genre hit California with a vengeance back then, but the Voodoo Glow Skulls have been tested and proven to be a serious group of musicians who are in it for the long term (not fame) and have a genuine passion for the music they create. This passion has inspired the Voodoo Glow Skulls to deliver over seven full-length records and countless, energy-pact concerts to their fans for over 2 decades.

I recently contacted The Voodoo Glow Skulls for an interview, and to my surprise they were one of the easiest bands to get a response from. The reason I say “to my surprise” is because I contacted several smaller, lesser known punk, D.I.Y, or self proclaimed “independent” bands to ask a few quick questions, but none of them have bothered to reply with a simple “no thanks”…Now that’s PUNK!

But anyways, I would like to give a huge thanks to Eddie C. from Voodoo Glow Skulls and whoever else contributed to helping me get this interview (below). Much luck to you guys as you’ve inspired my own ideas and others globally. Dirty Rat, Dirty Rat, Dirty Rat, Dirty Rat!

*Ego Assassin’s Interview w/ Eddie C. from Voodoo Glow Skulls*

Interview Date: March 21, 2008:

Ego Assassin (Q): What current events or social issues have had the greatest impact on the lyrics you’ve written for the past few years (or as a band)?

Voodoo Glow Skulls (A): This governments stand against illegal immigrants and mexicans has had a big impact on us so has the war in iraq.

Ego Assassin (Q): If you could only name one band, artist, or person in life that has been the biggest influence on the VGS style, passion, or approach to music, who would it be?

Voodoo Glow Skulls (A): Angelo Moore and his band Fishbone are our biggest influences and have definitely affected our approach to music and life.

Ego Assassin (Q): What do you think is the biggest problem with the music scene today? (if there is one)

Voodoo Glow Skulls (A): We or I have a problem with bands that don’t do the road work or foot work and expect to get everything handed to them without goin on the road and doin the work. It seems like some bands think a myspace page is all you need.

Ego Assassin (Q): Is there any new bands on the scene that you guys look up to as being groundbreaking or visionary?

Voodoo Glow Skulls (A): Dub trio is pretty groundbreaking, fishbone and hank the 3rd, lamb of god are our other favorites these days…

Ego Assassin (Q): Does VGS get recognized in public often?

Voodoo Glow Skulls (A): Once and awhile we get recognized, since we’re underground and diy it doesn’t happen too often though.

Ego Assassin (Q): What’s your least favorite song that VGS has ever made?

Voodoo Glow Skulls (A): “Last Party” maybe but we still kinda like it.

Ego Assassin (Q): What was the worst show you have ever played live?

Voodoo Glow Skulls (A): We recently had a show in Germany that was bad all the way around. Bad sound and the band just wasn’t feeling it.

Ego Assassin (Q): I remember you guys had released promotional merchandise using the brown ‘UPS’ logo, but it had ‘VGS’ on it instead. I always wanted to know if you guys ever got push back from UPS or had legal problems with using the logo…

Voodoo Glow Skulls (A): We never got anything bad from that or have never been sued or anything for using it back in the day…
Thanks
Eddie C.

Ego Assassin: The End. Another thank you to Eddie C. and Voodoo Glow Skulls for their time.

Don’t get caught in Casablanca.

Photo from VGS Myspace, attributed to: Adam Deluca

Interview with the Band ‘I Monster’ from the U.K.

It’s rare to come across new music that is outright original or worth listening to more than once, so when I came across tracks from a two man band hailing from Sheffield, UK, named ‘I Monster’, I was extremely excited to have gained some of my lost faith in current music. I’ve had time to analyze their musical style and much to their benefit I can say that it really isn’t possible to categorize it into a genre whatsoever. The best description I can give in writing is that the songs hold an avant-garde hybrid of electronica, progressive rock, funk, apocalyptic dance, and brings plenty of ultra-bizarre vocal installments throughout the songs. The first dose of I Monster that came into my ears was from a record released in 2003 called “Neveroddoreven”, and needless to say it really caught my attention. I first assumed they were another group of musicians that simply appeared out of no where, but it turns out that these guys are seasoned veterans that have been doing music for years. But enough about that, I’ll stop talking and get to the purpose of this story…

One of the I Monster guys was kind enough to answer some questions I came up with for this interview that you can read below. Thanks Vard and as they say in the UK, Cheers! I owe you a lager…..

Interview Date: March 19, 2008

EgoAssassin (Q): What motivated you to start I Monster (or motivates you to create music every day)?

I Monster (A): Well me and Dean started working together before we called ourselves I Monster. This was in 1992. We both come from different musical backgrounds, but at that time we were both interested in making music with computers and also the electronic music happening at the time. Early WARP label and similar stuff. It felt so good to be able to make our own ‘finished’ music without going to a cold, damp rehearsal room and waiting for the drummer to turn up!

EgoAssassin (Q): If you only had to name one band, artist, or person in life that has been the biggest influence on the I Monster

I Monster (A): For me it would be erm…. well I don’t know. I buy and listen to so much stuff. Genesis, Robert Wyatt, Beatles perhaps. Dean will have different answers, but he has no taste.

EgoAssassin (Q): How would you best describe the musical style of I Monster?

I Monster (A): Sweet and sour.

EgoAssassin (Q): What do you think is the biggest problem with the music industry today? (if you feel there is one)

I Monster (A) I don’t know. But I think there’s a lot of arse-licking going on though, back-handers and all that.

EgoAssassin(Q): Is there any new bands out now that you guys look up to as being groundbreaking or visionary?

I Monster (A): I’m not sure about ‘new’ bands. I don’t listen to many. The newest bands that fit that category, for me at least, aren’t particularly new…Outkast, Radiohead, Flaming Lips and a few other bands.

EgoAssassin (Q): What living musician would you like to play live with before life is over?

I Monster (A): Kate Bush would be good.

EgoAssassin (Q): Do you get recognized in public often? I assume not since you are always wearing masks….

I Monster (A): No. Only by friends and family.

EgoAssassin (Q): How did it work out that I Monster got the track “The Blue Wrath” featured as the main intro song for the Simon Pegg film ‘Shaun of the Dead’? This must have been exciting for you guys, yeah?

I Monster (A): It WAS exciting and we got to meet them, walk up the red carpet for the premiere (no one knew who we were) and got paid a little bit of money. I believe it happened because a fan of ours (who we didn’t know at the time), Paul Putner, who is a regular actor on UK television including Little Britain, recommended our album to his friend Edgar Wright, who directed the movie.

EgoAssassin (Q): What was the worst live show you have ever played?

I Monster (A): Manchester or the second time we Rennes in France. We got too drunk. The equipment didn’t work and neither did we.

EgoAssassin (Q): Any tour plans for North or South America coming up?

I Monster (A): I hope so. We will release the new album over your side, so it would be great to follow it up with some live stuff. We’ll play any town that has a micro-brewery or a brewery for that matter.

EgoAssassin: The End.

Much thanks to I Monster for their time, and check out the official I Monster Website: http://www.imonstermusic.com

>>>Click here to Listen to I Monster<<<