What was the biggest fun during the making of Such a Thrill?

I had always wanted to record an album where I played all the instruments. The most fun for me recording the last record was full filling this idea I had had for many years.  It was by far the most difficult in some ways, but easier and more fun in many ways. The creative process is quite different. To go into the studio each day and not really know what I was going to do exactly was the most fun.

If we want to know you, which song do we have to listen to? And why?

Probably the song: Revisit The Past. That song is very autobiographical. I mention The Plimsouls in the song as they were and are a huge influence in my writing.

The music industry has changed a lot (or so they say). What did it bring you? And what not?

The music industry has always been a mystery to me. You have the “industry” within the group itself, and in the old days you would create something and then turn it over to others to market and hopefully promote and sell your music. That made staying focused on writing and performing easier as one was not taking care of all the business. Nowadays we all do most of the work ourselves. We have access to worldwide distribution and can cut out the middle man so to speak. The downside is the value of recorded music has diminished a bit. One must handle every aspect of their work which has its advantages, but takes a great deal of time away from the creative process.

Who is the best musician in the world nobody has heard of yet? And why will this change very soon?

Quite honestly most people I would like to mention have probably already been heard of. I think the Butler Brothers, Stephen and Brian of Smash Palace are one of my favorite current bands that deserve a huge audience. Their band in the 80’s, Quincy put out one of the greatest Power Pop records at the time and it was hardly noticed by the masses. Smash Palace just released a new album and I hope it takes off for them.

She tells you she will decide on a 5-song-mixed tape if there is going to be a second date. Which 5 would you put on?

Fun question!

1. Arcade Queen by The Rubinoos

2. Zero Hour by The Plimsouls

3. Pump It Up by Elvis Costello

4. Don’t Wait Up For Me by Paul Collin’s Beat and

5. Heaven Tonight by Cheap Trick as the evening dramatic closer!

What’s up for the next couple of months?

I am recording the second Bottle Kids record at the moment. Again playing all the instruments.  It is a lengthy process so the next two months at the very least.