From the Bay Area & Sacramento comes a solid group of metal veterans that have come together to ROCK YOUR WORLD!
Ain’t nuthin’ but energetic, melodic, heart-thumping, fist-pumping, sleazy & sexy ROCK and ROLL!!!
Jamie Paullus
Spokane’s music scene is alive and thriving; this month, Jamie Paullus, always our eye in the city, brings us Lacuna Coil and Exodus.
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Sherry Keith
In celebration of the January issue, and the coming of our best year yet, 2015, Mystic Photography brings you a band called...New Year’s Day!
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said!)
Cover Photo by Patrick Häberli
To all our friends and readers:
Wow, it's been a long road. CV WorldWide will be turning 3 (yes, THREE) years old in a couple of months, and it's hard to fathom having done so much during our short time. We've had our ups and downs, we started small but expanded to another market then decided to go world wide with our product, and we couldn't be more excited. I look for bigger and better things for us in the future, starting NOW!
As I look forward to this next year, I can't help but have more than a bit of excitement in my mind. We recently announced a partnership with PureSteele Communications to bring our bands' music and products to the world via radio play and interviews - I don't have a good excuse, but this has been delayed due to personal reasons to this pointbut we are now ready to connect bands and DJ's and get things moving. To those bands who have expressed interest in participating and promoting their music - forgive me, but get ready!
I tend to be a private person, but I also wanted to take this public time to thank my business partner and co-owner, Sherry Keith. You could NOT ask for a better person to share the journey of this Magazine with; she‟s a pistol wrapped in roses, a strong woman with a soft side, a passion for music and musicians, and an real eye for taking great concert photos. She‟s to be the glue that holds the Mag together when it looks like it‟s going to fall apart; she‟s the bull in the china shop who tries he hardest to bring us the best in local concerts. She‟s been with the Mag pretty much since the beginning; I cannot think of a better co-pilot.
There are others who need to be acknowledged; Jamie Paullus (and Kat), up in Spokane, a guy who never fails to deliver the best bands and the best photos. Brien DeChristopher, who graciously allows us to use his musician advice from his blog, and has done so for many months. Quite a few others have “come and gone”, some sadly, some with a “good riddance”, but it‟s all part of the character of this Magazine. Many others will probably come and go in the future, but we will do our best to remain steady.
Our BEST wishes for a healthy and prosperous 2015!
(CVWW) What are the current band members andtheir role.
Warrel Dane / Vocals
Lenny Rutledge / Guitars
Brad Hull / Guitars
Jim Sheppard / Bass
Dave Budbill / Drums
(Lenny Rutledge) The current band members are all the same as the original line up accept for the addition of Brad Hull
(CVWW) Any story behind the name?
(LR) Yes, I was a huge fan of a movie called „Logans Run‟ back in the 70s. The movie was set in the future when the earth had pretty much gone to shit. Everyone lived under a dome and the policy was when you turned 30 you died or more accurately you were executed. There was a ceremony that you had to attend called „Carousel‟ when you were approaching 30 and basically you were euthanized. However, there were rebels who resisted. They were called „Runners‟. The Runners were lead on a path by an underground society to a place outside of the dome city that was called „Sanctuary‟. The Runners were hunted down by sentinels called the „Sand Men‟. The key
to enter the Sanctuary was an Egyptian Ankh. Very cool movie if you like that cheesy 70‟s type of shit.
(CVWW) Good movie - and yes, androids DO dream of electric sheep! OK, let’s take a walk back a few years…talk about the founding of the original band, how did that come together?
(LR) My cousin Sean and I started out the band together. We found a $100 dollar bill on the floor of a record store when we were out getting whatever the current release was at the time. We ran across the street and bought a Les Paul copy guitar from a store called Music West. It was like fate because we were looking at this guitar for a few weeks. I think we were 15 years old at the time. After that we always talked about starting a band called Sanctuary. We spent the next few years working our asses off to reach our dream. It took us a few years and many different members before we had a solid line up but we were very ambitious. We were constantly working on our dream. We built a giant stage that wasn‟t humanly impossible to even move but it looked cool in our huge warehouse that we practiced in. We always thought very big even from the start.
(CVWW) Tell us about the discovery by Dave Mustaine originally, did Lenny really track him to an after concert party?
(LR) This is a true story. It seems hard to believe even for me looking back. Remember this was 1986, fans didn‟t have as much
easy access to bands and Facebook and such. Anyway, as a band we rehearsed constantly and eventually decided to record a demo that contained most of the songs on „Refuge Denied‟. Our demo was continuously played on the local college radio station. We felt we needed some type of boost to get us to the next level. I remember telling the band I was going to take our demo down to the Megadeth / King Diamond show that was coming through town. I was determined to have one of my heroes hear the Sanctuary demo.
I must have been crazy to think it would be that easy. I had a friend with me and we were with two very attractive girls. We were waiting behind the venue and I remember somebody said Megadeth is staying at a hotel down the street. So we went down there and walked the floors of the hotel listening for the loudest room. When we finally found the room, the door happened to still be open. We pushed the two girls in first and we were all welcomed with open arms. Dave
was sitting at a table in the back of the room. He had a bit of a salty reputation that I was well aware of and he locked eyes with me and said, „You! Come here!‟ I thought he was going to throw me out for sure. He was drinking Courvoisier and offered to share his bottle with me. I don‟t know why, but we hit it off really well. He was super-cool. We got to talking about music. Eventually, I said, „I got this tape of my band and you have to hear it! It took a lot of convincing, but I eventually got him down to my buddy‟s car. We listened to the demo and he really liked it. I remember he gave me his phone number and I wasn‟t convinced it was his real number. The next day I called the number and on the answering machine was Dave. He called me back a few weeks later, saying he loved the tape and that he wanted to produce us. The rest is history. After that point we did a lot of touring with Megadeth. Dave was always a great inspiration and mentor to us all.
(CVWW) Sanctuary was a real
divergent, raw, and different sound from most of the 80’s thrash metal; there were a lot of “cookie cutter” metals bands back then, talk about the decision to chart your own course in terms ofsound… (LR) Great question…however, I don‟t know that we ever really thought about it that much. We just played what we wanted to. We felt fortunate that people responded to the music we were making.
(CVWW) It really locked up when you found Warrel Dane… well, actually, sort of pilfered him from another band, yes?
(LR) Dave Budbill suggested that we check out this guy Warrel Dane from Serpent‟s Knight. We heard a demo that they did and we were convinced that we were better. We knew once WD saw our stage show and heard our songs he would be interested. Basically we stole him from that band. Not really all that uncommon. Warrel came out and
jammed with us for a night and we gave him a demo of some of our songs. He claims he went home and took LSD and wrote the lyrics for “Soldiers of Steel” that night. When we heard his contribution to the song we were blown away.
(CVWW) 1987’s ‘Refuge Denied’ then 1989’s ‘Into the Mirror Black’ were incredibly successful and led to tours with Megadeth and Fates Warning; being a child of the 80’s ourselves, tell us about“the life” back then?
(LR) It was a very exciting time for us. Once the ball started rolling it was quite the ride. I think we all really enjoyed ourselves… maybe too much at times.
(CVWW) ‘Refuge Denied’ is described as “angry young men just going for it” while ‘Into the Mirror Black’ was deemed “more cerebral”; tell us about the difference in songwriting and approach between the 2 albums…
(LR) Haha.. I think that‟s pretty accurate. We were young and just playing what came natural to us. It was all about having a good time and playing the music fast and heavy. I think when the second album came along we were a little more seasoned and thought more about mood rather than just intensity. I like both approaches and I feel Mirror Black was a natural progression.
(CVWW) Did you ever envision Sanctuary touring the world when you first started out?
(LR) Actually it was our dream so we were hoping it would happen. We thought about it every
day and eventually we worked at making it happen every day.
(CVWW) ‘Into the Mirror Black’ got rave reviews around the world, was THAT going to be your entrance into the metal headlining fraternity?
(LR) These are great questions but I don‟t know how to answer that. We could have had a chance at that but I don‟t know if we thought about it. You never know how things will turn out.
(CVWW) Soundgarden & Alice in Chains were contemporaries…was there a bit of healthy competition with them, being in the same town? Any animosity?
(LR) I think most of us were fans of both of those bands. Especially AIC. We partied with Jerry and Layne many times. I know Warrel and Jim knew them well. Jim was actually in a band called Sleaze with Layne for a while.
in your hometown of Seattle, and the bottom falls out… bittersweet after so much early success?
(LR) I was ok with it really. There were a few bands that you mention previously that I actually really like.
(CVWW) But kudos to Sanctuary for NOT caving into record company pressure and changing their sound…was that a hard decision to make at the time?
(LR) It was not a hard decision. We pretty much had metal carved into our DNA.
(CVWW) Do you think that, with grunge gaining popularity at the time, the path you walked was really inevitable? With your success, is there anything you could have done different to change the outcome short of altering your identity to suit the record labels?
(LR) For me it was pretty much the end of the band at this point. Doing anything different wouldn‟t have mattered since the band broke up. We had run our course. Egos were fat and we were drunk assholes. Rumor has it Nevermore had similar issues but apparently they had stamina.
(CVWW) Fast forward 18 whole years – Nevermore was a huge success in the interim, but of course you all reconnect…what was the first catalyst of the reunion?
(LR) We had casually considered the idea of doing some type of reunion in the past but it was more of a joke or not really serious. In 2009 we were asked if we
would be interested in contributing our song ‟Battle Angels‟ for a video game called ”Brutal Legend”. That kind of got the ball rolling in a more serious way. We started talking frequently and eventually decided to jam.
(CVWW) Did you all have much contact in the interim?
(LR) We all saw each other at events and parties. Also I assisted in a Nevermore demo recording in the mid 90‟s.
(CVWW) What do you feel is different now than back in the day? Is there a different “vibe” or “ambience” to the members ofthe band?
(LR) I like to think that we have developed tolerance. Maybe that comes with age and experience. Don‟t get me wrong, we still have our moments but I think we process it differently now.
(CVWW) Is the “musical message” of Sanctuary different
now; given the wisdom of time and age?
(LR) Again, I don‟t know. We write what we write. We hope that our audience responds and so far the reaction has been really good.
(CVWW) How is the process of recording, mixing, and producing a record changed from the late 80’s to today?
(LR) Technology has changed all of it. For the most part it has added convenience to the entire process. It‟s so much easier to share ideas and everyone has a mini recording studio on their computer now.
(CVWW) Aside from “being older” have you noticed any difference in the fans at your shows?
(LR) A lot of our fans have grown up with us. It‟s great to see all ages at the shows. We actually see parents that were fans with their kids that are fans as well.
(CVWW) Tell us about the new members since the reunion… how did their joining come
about?
(LR) Brad was the replacement for Sean when he quit in 1990. We were on a tour of the West Coast and Sean Blosl got in an argument with Warrel on stage during a show and left the stage. It was very awkward and that was the end of our partnership with Sean. After that point we asked Brad Hull to step in to finish our tour obligations. He was a friend in the local metal scene and a killer guitar player for a band called „Forced Entry‟. Brad fit in very well but as you know Sanctuary broke up shortly after. When we reformed Jeff Loomis was the guitar player for a short time. When Nevermore broke up that partnership ended as well. That‟s when we decided to see if Brad as interested. Now Brad is a full time member and a great addition to the current lineup.
(CVWW) What do you think it is that works so well now; how is the synergy different now?
(LR) I can‟t explain it other than it feels like it did back in the day when we first started out. A lot of energy and chemistry. I think we have also developed tolerance over the years.
(CVWW) Are your goals more modest these days; at this point, do you honestly feel that there is some unfinished business in the pathofSanctuary?
(LR) Our goal is the same. TOTAL WORLD DOMINATION!
LoL Actually we really just want to continue recording and playing shows for as long as our fans enjoy it.
(CVWW) What is the driving
factor for you these days – after so much success early and even over the years?
(LR) We simply just do this because it‟s a blast. I know that is kind of a boring answer but it‟s the truth.
(CVWW) Sanctuary is a LEGEND in the Seattle music scene, tell us your thoughts about the musiclife in Seattle now…
(LR) You‟re very kind with the Legend title. The Seattle music scene has always thrived. I don‟t know if I‟m qualified to comment on the current scene. I‟m so far removed where I live outside of the city but there are many bands from Seattle that are very talented. This is a great question for Brad.
(CVWW) Does it feel odd to be considered “legends” (which implies “old guys”) and role models for so many Seattle bands?
(LR) I don‟t know. Again we don‟t really think about being
“Legends” or “Old Guys”. We are just happy that people like our music. We feel very fortunate to have the opportunity to share the music with our friends and fans around the world.
(CVWW) Many times we speak with “newer” bands who speak of influences, what does it say about Sanctuary that you are so influential and popular STILL in the Seattle music scene?
(LR) That‟s flattering but I guess people recognize good music.
(CVWW) Do you have a favorite city or venue to play?
(LR) In the US that would be Seattle and New York. We also have a really good reception in Europe and Greece.
(CVWW) Tell us about a particularly memorable show that really made it all worthwhile for you guys.
(LR) Playing 70,000 tons of Metal was one of my favorites. There
were many bands on that cruise that I was stoked to see. I remember the second night we were out to sea and I heard a knock on my cabin door at 4 am. The knock was very intense and loud and I woke up in a panic thinking the boat was sinking. Jeff Loomis had been pounding on my door. When I finally woke up and ran to the door, nearly naked, to my surprise on the other side of the door was Uli Roth, one of my alltime guitar hero‟s jamming on his guitar. Loomis and Van Williams were laughing in the background. My eyes were barley open but I will never forget that.
(CVWW) What kind of pressure do you feel, if any, to produce a successful record; is there any pressure to “produce” with every new musical offering these days, given your history and past success?
(LR) I think that all the band members would agree that for us we were just focused on releasing a quality album. It had to be up to our standards first. If we could accomplish that then we thought we might have a chance that fans would also agree.
(CVWW) ‘The Year the Sun Died’, how has it been received so far?
(LR) The response has been very positive. We look forward to playing these songs live. We have had great reviews and the reaction at shows is awesome.
(CVWW) Did you want to make any “statement” with the album? Or is it just a continuation of a road traveled long ago that is no longer bumpy and
stretches as far as the eye can see?
(LR) Again, another boring answer but we weren‟t trying to make any statement we just wanted to record a killer album.
(CVWW) Let’s talk about the music industry today...and social media...music distribution is much different now, do you see that as progress? The ability to market/sell individual songs, does that benefit the industry asa whole?
(LR) I‟m not sure I would say all of it is better. I think there are many aspects that empower the independent musician with options. On the other hand, it‟s really difficult to sell records now. Bands have a difficult time making money off their sales. Downloading music illegally seems to be the norm now. I guess that creates innovation. Hopefully it doesn‟t kill the music business. I suspect musicians will always find a way.
(CVWW) How have you all changed as people and as musicians over time?
(LR) No change, were all still drunk assholes! LOL! I can‟t speak for all of us but I feel we have become more patient and tolerant over the years. I believe also all the time we put in has made us better musicians.
(CVWW) They say “youth is wasted on the young”, is there any advice you would have given your younger selves?
(LR) Yes, we would have told
our younger selves to write hit songs! Actually I think we were all pretty happy with the way we did it. I‟m not sure If I would have changed anything.
(CVWW) Where do you see the band in 3-5 years?
(LR) Hopefully still writing and recording. I think we will continue as long as the chemistry is still there and we are all having fun. I feel like we have momentum right now and we intend to keep pushing forward.
(CVWW) Have you guys always wanted to play music, or were there other interests when you were younger?
(LR) I think I wanted to be a fireman. My father was a fireman and I always thought it would be a cool job.
(CVWW) What other bands do you guys listen to during downtime and relaxation, what’s on YOUR musicplayer?
(CVWW) Okay, what’s in store for the remainder of 2014 and into 2015? What other big projects are in the works?
(LR) Right now we have a tour planned in Europe with Overkill in March. We are also playing the Rock Hard fest in May.
(CVWW) Any final words you would like to convey to your fans?
(LR) We want to thank all our friends and fans all over the world. If it wasn‟t for them we wouldn‟t be here and we are all looking forward to bringing our live show everywhere we can. You can get info on everything Sanctuary at...
Gear the Pros Use!
After playing 30+ years, I've gone through a TON of gear! From a tiny little Fender Champ practice amplifier, and a 3/4 sized Harmony Flying V purchased out of the JCPenneys catalog, to two full stacks and a plethora of guitars.
As a primarily metal guitarist I paid close attention to the ever-evolving line of tube amps, pre-amps, rack mount, solid state, and midi gear. From specialized stomp boxes, to multi effect units, and everything in between. Throughout all this, there have only been 3 constants; Floyd Rose tremolo systems, Ernie Ball strings, and Delrin picks gaged .073.
Through it all, I've managed to sift through the latest new gadgets and things, and have put together a rig that never disappoints me, or lets me down.
Guitars
I discovered Carvin guitars in the mid 80’s when my friend showed me a catalog he had received. After reading all the specs, but still skeptical because I couldn't actually try one out (mail order only), I decided to throw caution to the wind and ordered their bottom of the line, one pickup guitar with a Floyd Rose. A Black DC125.
I fell in love with this guitar, so a few years later I bought a green DC127 with a Floyd. These guitars have been my mainstays for many years; however, approximately 5 years ago, I purchased a 1992 Gibson Explorer, and from the first note, was instantly hooked! Although it only has 22 frets, and no Floyd Rose (the HORROR!), I have completely fallen in love with this guitar! From the warm clean tones, to the smooth yet crunchy rhythm punch to the gut, and the sweet, creamy lead sauce that drips out of every note. The Gibson Explorer is absolutely, without question, my favorite guitar. And in my opinion...the BEST guitar I have ever owned. And I've owned a buttload of different guitars!
Pickups
With the exception of my Fender Stratocaster, Every guitar I own, and play live OR record with, is equipped with EMG Active pickups. Usually the 85/81 neck/bridge combination. With the exception of The Explorer. Which as a 60/81 Neck/Bridge configuration.
The reason I have chosen the EMGs, is that I seem to have more control of what's coming out of my gui-
tar. They definitely keep the errant/screechy/ear bleeding feedback to a minimum. Instead replacing it with the sweet rich harmonic overtones inherent to each particular guitar.
Picks
I used Dunlop Tortex picks gaged .073 for the longest time, but switched to Clayton picks of the same material and thickness. They just happen to have my band name and autograph on them.
Amps
I've used tons of 'em. From a Peavey Rockmaster Preamp to a Carvin Quad X preamp with a Mosvalve poweramp, to a Line6 Spider 3 150w head into two Peavey Butcher 4x12 cabinets, loaded with Celestion GL85s. I've had good tones and great tones with these different combinations, but one day I discovered the Line6 MKII Bogner 2x12 combo amp. With a mere 40 watts of tubed power, 2 12" Celestion Vintage 30 Speakers, and all the effects I need built into the design, I can toss that puppy in the back of a 1974 Ford Pinto if I needed to, and STILL keep up with all but the hardest hitting drummers! That puppy blasts, and sounds awe-
Some! Hell, I've mic'd it up at some bigger shows hiding behind some scrims (small mesh banners, typically put in front of amps on stage) and NO ONE was the wiser. And at just under 50lbs, I save my back for the important stuff, like banging my head, and thrashing around onstage!
However, relying solely on this rig for my live shows, I encountered the following problem...Airline baggage handlers don't give two don't give two shits if your amp has tubes. And at 50lbs, it seems to be just light enough for them to want to play games like, "See how far you can throw this into the baggage compartment before it touches the ground!" Plus, when you're playing festivals overseas, they also like to tack on those extra Baggage fees. Which add up EXTREMELY quickly.
So. Wanting to put that extra money into touring necessities, (BEER), as a band, we would just send our rider to the venues with our equipment preferences as well as the bowl of M&Ms with the brown ones taken out.
pile of sludge. Not exactly the tone I'm trying to achieve in front of 20-50,000 people.
Finally, after playing about 10 of these festival shows with a rented backline, I decided, "Enough is enough!" I went out and purchased the Line6 Pod HD500X. Now I have COMPLETE control over my tones, as well as a footswitch that I'm also completely familiar with. Problem solved!
Effects
Although the Pod HD500x has good versions of virtually every effect I typically use, I like the feel and sweep of the Dunlop wah-wah pedals, so I add one of those to my signal chain.
Straps
Unfortunately, there is also a pitfall of doing that as well. Most Backline Rental companies in Europe don't carry Line6 amplification, so I'm usually ending up with a Mesa Boogie Triple Rectifier. Or Triple RectumFryer, as I like to fondly refer to it!
Now any guitarist that knows this amp is probably thinking to himself right about now, "Triple Recs are bad ass, whats wrong with that? And my reply should be, "Nothing, nothing at all!" That is until I was served up my first one. Sure, it's a killer sounding amp, until the tubes have been put through the wringer by hundreds of guitarists putting thousands of hours on them at torturous volumes. So basically, once the tubes have taken that kind of beating, the amp typically sounds like a muddy, lumpy
I've been through several different guitar straps, but once again, Dunlop straps are my preferred choice. The ones I use are wider, and thicker than your average strap, are definitely more comfortable, have the coolest designs, and NEVER slip on me, which means my guitar is always at the perfect height for my playing style.
Attached to each strap are a pair of Schaller Straplocks. These insure that my guitar NEVER hit's the ground accidently, and I would NEVER try and play live without them! They're the cheapest insurance you can get for your "Baby!"
Strings
I've tried many different electric guitar strings, but ALWAYS come back to Ernie Ball. They're the strings that work best for me. I only use Ernie Ball Slinky Cobalt "Skinny Top/Heavy Bottom" on my electrics. The gages are .010-.052.
On my Acoustic guitars I only use Elixir Polyweb Custom Lights. Gaged .011-,052.
Stands
In my opinion, there is only ONE brand of guitar stand that I trust my guitars to hang on, and that's Hurricane Stands. I have 3 stands made by them. They're the best, simple as that!
Wireless System
Line6 G50. Very accurate replication of your guitars signal like you were using a cable. Has NEVER let me down.
Mics
Shure SM58, and SM57
Well...that about sums it up. Thank you for letting me share my rig preferences with the world. I'm sure I'll continue to keep trying to find what may possibly suit my needs better, but until then. I'm pretty damned happy to be able to have what I do!
Stay Metal!
Brad Hull
Perspective: 10 Motorcycle Safety Tips I Learned Riding A Harley Davidson Through The Mountains
By JEFF ST. AUBIN, ASKMEN
Once you go two wheels, it's hard to go back.Thethrilloftearingupamountainpassona 1,200 cc Harley is nothing short of exhilarating, and doing the same on a 125 cc Minsk is no less exciting.
That's the great thing about motorcycles youdon'tneedtogofasttohavefun.
By default you are thrown into the world around you. You are no longer acaptive in asteel cagebutratheramodern-daycowboyroamingthe world on his iron steed. Whether you're burbling along with your lady jammed up against the sissy bar or dragging your knees clipping apexes, the wayofthebikeisthewaytogo.
Nevertheless, riding a motorcycle is one of the most fun things you can do, but like so many experiences worth doing, it's dangerous as hell.
The world is not a friendly place and it seems to have a special thing against motorcyclists. So, if youwanttohopontwowheels,youneedtoknow whatyou'redoing.
I got to participate in Harley-Davidson's TasteofFreedomTour,apartoftheir110thanniversarycelebrations,andwasluckyenoughtoride acandyred1200CustomSportsteracrosstheSan Bernardinomountains.Wewereapackof12relativelyfresh drivers, and weall learned alotabout whattodoandnotdowhileridingabike.Hereare 10lessonsthatwillhelpyouhavethetimeofyour lifeandcomeawayallinonepiece.
1. Wear A Helmet
Your mom's a smart lady -- you should listen to her. When she told you to always wear a helmetasakid,shedidsoforareason.Yourcranium mayhavegotten alittlethickerin the ensuing years,butnomatterhowdenseitmaybe,itwon't protectyouagainstasolidcrackagainstconcrete. Brain damage is no fun, eating through a straw is hardly pleasant and trying to communicate with a damaged parietal cortex is no walk in the park. Don't be an idiot; wear a helmet. You mayneverneedit,butwhenyoudo,you'llbeglad youdid.
2. Wear Gloves
This one may seem innocuous, but just think about it for a second. Every time you fall, what's the first thing you do? You put your damned hands out. It's human instinct, and when you're flying off your handlebars at 50 miles an hour, all you have is human instinct. If you're wearing apairofsimpleleatherglovesinthecase ofaminorspill,you'lllikelycomeawaywithafew
scratches at worst. If you had on a proper set of gauntlets like these, I doubt you'd even break the skin.
3. Wear Proper Boots
You may have grown up tooling around on your cousin's Vespa in nothing but a pair of sandals and swim trunks, but that doesn't mean you shouldcontinuedoingso.Whywearsolidover-the -anklefootwear? Thatold Vespalikelyweighed at most 300 pounds take a Heritage Softail for a spin, and you're working with nearly 800 pounds of chromed-out metal. When you accidentally tip that bad boy over and experience that "oh, sh*t" momentandgruntliketheHulktosaveyourbaby, thelastthingyouwantisyourfootslippingoutor youranklegivingway.Goodsolesareessential,as isampleanklesupport.
A proper jacket and pair of pants are also essential. In the event of a real spill, only proper riding leathers will give you the protection you need. The last thing you want to be is a SQUID (Stupid Quick Underdressed and Imminently Dead).
4. Look Where You Want To Go
You go where you look it's just how it works. When you enter a corner, it's imperative thatyouturnyourheadandlookthroughtheturn to where you want to go. There's nothing like the sensation of entering acorner and all of a sudden realizing thatyou'renotturning, you'rejustgoing straight toward the opposite lane of traffic. Then you realize you're staring at a goofy-looking rock on thefar side oftheroad and the lightbulb goes
off, you turn yourhead, lookout at the exit ofthe curve,givealittleleanandyou'reintheclear.
5. Never Use The Front Brake First
Whenaraccoonleapsoutatyou,asemidecides to change lanes or your exit pops up out of nowhere and it's time to hit the brakes and shed thatspeed,neverhitthefrontbrakesfirst.NEVER. You musttrain your instincts to alwaysgo forthe rear brake first. If you grab the front break with any kind of enthusiasm at speed, you will eat it. This is not a question; it is a fact. Brake first with yourfoot,notyourhand--you'llbegladyoudid.
6. Slow In
Turning in,leaning down and powering out -- there's nothing like it. And when you get in the flowandyou'recuttingapexafterapex,you'regoing to wantto kickthingsup anotch. You need to remember to keep things in line, though, and alwaysbrakebeforeyou enter acurve. Racing drivers preach the church of smoothness, and that means accelerating and decelerating in a straight line. Grabbing the brakes in the midst of a corner is liable to upset your weight distribution, mess withyourtractionandgenerallyscrewthingsup. The faster you're going, the more these effectsaremagnified. Go in too hot, grab thebrakes in a panic and you'll realize that you would have been much much happier if you had just downshifted and chilled a bit. Slow in, fast out leave thespeedforyourwayout. If you want to learn more about HarleyDavidson's110yearsofhistory,checkoutmyfeatureontheevolutionofHarley-Davidson.
7. Watch Out For Sand & Debris
A motorcycle has much less traction than a car, and when debris like sand and gravel get between you and the road, it can have very detrimental effects. To avoid getting screwed by the sandman,youshouldalwaysbeonthelookoutfor sand and gravel and avoid driving over it in the first place. This means avoiding the shoulder and beingawareofthingslikeconstructionsites. When riding in a group, it's important to help each other out and point out roadside hazardsasthey appear. Pointoutwith yourlefthand fordebrisand obstacleswhen they'reon yourleft
and kick out your right foot to let your buddies know when there's a big patch of gravel on the right.
When you do have to go over a patch of sand,thekeyistokeepitslowandsmooth,avoiding abruptthrottleorbrakeinputs. You also want to try and keep your bike as upright as possible. Lose traction at a 50-degree angle and you're going to go down; lose traction while perpendicular to theground and you should beable to roll right on.
8. Don't Drink
Duh?
Thisshould reallybe ano-brainer, butneverridewhileintoxicated.Twobeerscanbeasdangerousassixbecauseridingrequiresmakingsplitsecond decisions and reacting with precision and confidence. Alcohol not only slows your reaction time but gives you a false sense of confidence, making you more likely to try and squeeze throughthatdisappearinggaportakeon acorner waytoo hot. It'syourresponsibilityto avoid collisionsandmaintainsafespacingwhileontheroad. Doing so while stone sober is demanding enough asit is. Doing so while seeing doubleand burping upbubblesofbooze nighonimpossible.
9. Act Like Nobody Has Mirrors
The average commuter is off in his or her own littleworld, chatting awaywith theirfriends, dreaming oftomorrow'spartyorscanning theradio 'cause they need to twerk it like Miley. They aredoing everything butlooking outformotorcyclists,andthismeansyouneedtobeconstantlyon your guard. A good rule is to act as if everyone around you has no mirrors and can only see straight ahead. This means you've got to avoid blind spots, maintain proper spacing and assume that everyone and anyone may unexpectedly change lanes at a moment's notice. This may sound like an imposing task, and it is, but with timeitwillbecomesecondnature.
10. Roll Into It
The key to riding safely is keeping things smooth. Just as you never want to slam on the brakes, you never want to tear open the throttle. It's all about keeping the bike and yourself balanced. This applies as much to operating the machineasitdoestoapproachinghowandwhenyou drive. Don't expect to drive cross-country a week into your license. Know your limits and be aware of how much and what kind of experience you have.
You never stop learning, and every ride is anopportunitytorefineanddevelopyourskills.If you'rejustgetting started, find afriend who rides andfollowalong.Watchinghowmoreexperienced ridershandlethemselvesisoneofthebestwaysto learn and improve. If you're an experienced rider, don't be miffed by newbies asking advice -- you wereoncethere,too.Everyridershouldtakepride inusheringinnewmemberstotheclubthatismotorcycling -- just make sure they know these essentialtipssotheycanhavethetimeoftheirlives andkeepondoingsoforyearstocome.
Cyanide is here to bring back the glory days of heavy metal...to party like it's 1987, for fans of Motley Crue, Van Halen, Def Leppard, Kiss, Ratt and Guns 'N Roses, among other legendary heavyweights. Their 11 song debut album “Lethal Dose” is full of high octane, sex, drugs and rock 'n roll fueled tracks.
From the up tempo opener „Bitches to Blame‟ to sleazy album-closer „Whole 'Lotta Trouble‟ (dedicated to the legendary Sherri's Ranch in Pahrump, Nevada), this album brings back the spirit and attitude of classics like „Too Fast for Love‟, „High 'N Dry‟, „Out of the Cellar‟ and „Appetite for Destruction‟.
Vocalist Rob Hussey, Guitarist Marc Andrews, Bassist David Karr, Drummer Ryan Gillan, and on live backup vocals Miranda Trenholm, have created a timeless hard rock album that has been sorely missing in this world of computerized auto tune drivel. Tracks like „Drinkin'„, „Pump it to Me‟ (featuring John Zito of Count's 77 on slide guitar), „Lookin' for a Good Time‟, first single „What Comes Around Goes Around‟ and the classic power ballad „It's a Long Road‟ prove this band has what it takes to take 80's hard rock into the next generation.
Cyanide has wowed audiences with its original songs as well as spot on covers while opening for such legends as Skid Row, Stephen Pearcy of RATT, Bulletboys, Black 'N Blue, Tuff, Femme Fatale, Cheap Thrill and more. Now with the release of “Lethal Dose”, the band is poised to take the next stop from local phenom to national sensation.
Like Cyanide on Facebook at www.facebook.com/cyanidelv and visit their official site at www.cyanideband.com to download the first single, What Comes Around Goes Around free! Lethal Dose will be released worldwide on January 27th and Cyanide will hold a CD release party bash at Count's Vamp'd in Las Vegas, Saturday January 31st, 2015.
(CV WorldWide) What are the current band members and their role…
Dave Saker /guitars/vocals
Steve Jones /Bass/Vocals
Larry Bernal/drums/vocals
Karl Granneman /vocals
(CVWW) Let’s take a walk back
a few years…talk about the founding of the original band, how did it come together, what was the catalyst behind it
(Dave Saker) The band was actually together about 20 years ago, broke up, then we all saw each other at a Y&T show after all those years, and decided to take
another shot at it, went to rehearsal and it was like we never lost a beat.
(CVWW) Any story behind the name?
(DS) No story behind the name except for 3 Eddy's in the band at the time, now there is no Eddy's
in the band…moving forward.
(CVWW) Is this the original lineup, or have there been any changes over the years? Talk about the process & journey to assembling this group...Bad Boy Eddy comes from a variety of Bay Area rock bands, how have your paths converged?
(DS) I used to be in Ace Diamond, Steve Jones was in Kings Queen, Larry Bernal was in Spoiled Rotten, and Karl was in Darkside Shine.
(CVWW) What is it about this combination of musicians that really clicks?
(DS) We all love 80's music!
(CVWW) Who do you guys count as your musical influences?
(DS) We Love Green Day, Mot-
ley Crue, Y&T, Michael Schenker, Scorpions, DIO.
(CVWW) Have you guys always wanted to play music, or were there other interests when you were younger?
(DS) We have always played music as kids and always wanted to be rock stars, we played with anyone we could after school; as a matter of fact I quit wrestling, baseball, and soccer just to play in a band.
(CVWW) What other bands do you guys listen to during downtime and relaxation, what’s on YOUR musicplayer?
(DS) Judas Priest, Blink 182, Fuel.
(CVWW) Based on Antioch, CA, Sacramento is your local music scene - are you still based
there? How would describe the musicscene there?
(DS) Yes we are still based out of Antioch, and Concord, and the crowd just loves 80's music here, we have a huge following.
(CVWW) Do you have a favorite city or venue to play?
(DS) Our favorite place to play is in Concord at a club called Vinnie‟s, we will be there on New Year‟s 2014.
(CVWW) Tell us about a particularly memorable show that really made it all worthwhile for you guys.
(DS) The best show we have ever done was with Michael Schenker in Sacramento at the Boardwalk.
(CVWW) Now, tell us about a show that made you think “damm, is this really worthit?"
(DS) Hehe, nah…
(CVWW) What do you hope to accomplish with your music, what message do you try to convey?
(DS) Our accomplishment will be to reach the universe with our tunes, we don‟t try to send any message at all, just a good time out to see a kick ass rock show, and they all get their money's worth, so people say “damn that was the best freakin‟ rock band I‟ve ever seen!”
(CVWW) What kind of pressure do you feel, if any, to produce a successful record; is there any pressure to “produce” with every new musical offering these days?
(DS) There is no pressure, we play what we want, whenever we want, JUST LIKE THAT!
(CVWW) How has the process of recording & producing an album changed from the days of yore?
(DS) The recording process is way easier than it was 20 years ago; it‟s all technology, you just have to have your homework done when you go into the studio.
(CVWW) Let’s talk about the music industry today...and social media...music distribution is much different now, do you see that as progress? The abil-
ity to market/sell individual songs, does that benefit the industry asa whole?
(DS) It‟s actually easier to market your music today; iTunes, Amazon, on and on, post your tunes pay your fee and work the „net.
(CVWW) In the end...Social Media platforms...savvy PR tools or necessary evil?
(DS) Pro tools all the way!
(CVWW) Is the “musical message” of Bad Boy Eddy different now; given the wisdom of time and age after having been together for a while?
(DS) Like i said before there is no musical message, just great seasoned written ROCK N ROLL.
(CVWW) How have you all changed as people and as musicians over time?
(DS) We don‟t anger as quickly, and listen to what we all have to say to each other with respect as adults and professionals in the music biz.
(CVWW) What can fans expect to see at a show?
(DS) A great visual show, with just Kick Ass Music that you can walk away from after the show, and still remember the tunes, they are stuck in your head!
(CVWW) What is it about your music that you feel appeals to fans?
(DS) The energy and the show on top of the killer music is what appeals to our fans!
(CVWW) Do any of your songs speak to you on a deep personal level?
(DS) Yes, the songs called “Fly
Away”, and “Super Sonic Freak”.
(CVWW) They say “youth is wasted on the young”, is there any advice you would have given your younger selves?
(DS) Go and see as many bands as you can of all types and soak it all in!
(CVWW) Where do you see the band in 3-5 years?
(DS) Touring and selling lots of CD's!!
IF ROCK , HARD ROCK , SLEAZE , OR GLAM IS WHAT FLOATS YOUR BOAT THEN WE CAN HONESTLY SAY TO YOU DONT PASS UP BAD BOY EDDY CAUSE THIS BAND IS SERIOUSLY OVER THE TOP!
(CVWW) Okay, what’s in store for the remainder of 2014 and into 2015? What other big projects are in the works?
(DS) We already have shows booked up „til April with major national acts such as Michael Schenker, Pat Travers, Jack Russell's Great White, Faster Pussycat, and Uli Jon Roth.
(CVWW) Any final words you would like to convey to your fans?
(DS) We are here for a long time, and we are gonna keep playing shows, writing new tunes , and releasing new material, its time for BAD BOY EDDY TO OPEN UP A CAN OF WHOOP ASS!
By Robby DeGraff (from Cars.com, reprinted with permission)
From washing and waxing to detailing the interior,peoplebabytheircarsinallsortsofways. Butit's equallyimportant to takecareof yourcar before you putitinto storage. Here are afew tips tomakesureyourcarisreadytogowhenyouare.
The Final Detail
Thoroughly clean your car, inside and out, beforestorage.Thelastthingyouwanttodoisput a car cover on a dirty car. Give your ride a good handwash,polishupthatchromeandapplyacoat ofwaxtothepaint.Makesuretogetridofanytree -sapdrops,too.
If there are unpainted metal places under your car that are prone to rust, buy a can of rubberized undercoating and spray on a protective coat,keepinginmindthatitneedstobereapplied yearly. Be careful not to spray this coating near any exhaust components that can get hot because products like this can be very flammable. For collectors, if you're worried about keeping your car in original condition, a coat of WD-40 will also work.Youcanalsostuffasockintheexhaustpipe sothatsmallanimalswon'tfindanewplacetoset upcamp,butbesuretoremoveitbeforeyoustart thecaragain.
Throw out food wrappers, soda cans and anyother trash thatmayhaveaccumulated in the cabin.Ifyouplanonsteam-cleaningthecarpet,do that far enough in advance (or after) storing the cartoavoidmoisturebuildupandmold.Foradded interior protection, you can buy a set of seat covers. To soak up cabin moisture, purchase a few packs of desiccant from your local dollar store or conveniencestoretoplaceonthefloor.
Mice and other small animals can create trouble if they get inside your car. Even though thereisn't asurefirewaytoprotectyourcarfrom mice, there are steps you can take to make your carlessappealingtothem."Iusuallygotothedollar store and buy the cheapest drier sheets I can find,andputthoseinsidemyvehicles,"said Davin Reckow,claimspartsspecialistforHagertyCollectorCarInsurance.Youcan alsoplacemothballsin socksandsetthembothinsideandaroundthecar, butyou'llprobablyneedtoairoutthecabintoget ridofthatdistinctivesmell.Mousetrapsworkwell outside the car, but never put them in your car. Thelastthingyouwanttofindisadeadmouseon your passenger seat, especially months later. If you are storing your car in your own garage at home, remember that pest poison traps can be hazardoustoyourpets.
Tires
It's worthwhile to inflate your tires to a higher air pressure before storing your car becausetirescanslowlylosepressureovertimeand withtemperaturechanges.However,don't exceed thetire'smaximumairpressure,whichislistedon thesideofthetire,andbesuretofillallfourtires tothecorrectairpressurewhenyoutakeyourcar out of storage. If you already know one of your tires has a leak, replace it because it will deflate
completely over time, and your car could end up kneelingonitsrim.
Don't engage the parking brake for storage as it can become "frozen" and difficult to disengage. If you're worried about your car rolling, get some wheel chocks or blocks of wood to wedge againstthetires.
For the more mechanically inclined and for ownersofcollectiblecars,youcanputyourcaron jackstandstotaketheweightoffthetiresandsuspension. By doing this, you can avoid getting flat areas on your older tires and wheels. Procedures for doing this vary greatly from car to car, so if you'reunfamiliarwiththeproperandsafewayto raise your car, consult with someone who knows. In all instances, be sure the floor of your storage siteiscompletelyflatandmadeofconcretebefore undertakingthis.
Fluids and Power
It's a good idea to use fuel stabilizer. Why? Reckow said most ethanol-blended fuels have a shelflifeofonlyaboutthreemonths.Ifyou'restoringacarforsixmonths,fuelstabilizershouldhelp
It'salsoagoodideatochangeyourcar'soil and oil filter and check and top-up all other fluid levelsbeforestoringyourcar.Ifyouliveinacolder climate, make sure your car has enough antifreeze. Once you'vetopped offthe fluids and added fuel stabilizer, take your car out for one last ridetocirculatethenewfluids.
Your car battery should be either removed and stored, or connected to a trickle charger or battery tender. You can get one for less than $50. Make sure your battery tender or charger has a floatmodeorautomaticshutofffeaturesothebatterydoesn'tgetovercharged.Youcanrunthebattery tender's cables up through the underside of the engine bay so that you can keep the hood closedandyourcarcoverinplace.
If you want to remove the battery but still have it on a battery tender, set it on a piece of wood in your garage and attach it to the tender. Make sure not to lose track of the two battery bolts.Keepingyourcar'sbatterychargedprolongs thelifeofthebattery, and you don't have to wonderwhetheryourcarwillstart.
Youcanalsoremovethebatteryandstoreit in a warm room in your home. Keep in mind that coldbatteriescanfreezeandmaycrack.
Car Cover
Invest in a quality car cover. If you store your car outside, make sure that cover is waterproof and is securely attached to your car so that highwindsdon'tblowitoff.Universalandcustom -fitcarcoversareavailableatonlineretailersand at auto parts stores. There is a big difference between a $25 universal-fit car cover and a $300 high-qualitymodel-specific cover. Yourbestbetis to get one that's breathable and keeps out moisture.Nevercoveryourcarwithaplastictarpasit willseverelyscratchthepaint.
A basic carcoverisworthwhileifyou store your car inside because it can protect your car's freshly waxed exterior from accumulating dust and dirt. In addition, Reckow said, a thicker car
cover provides a layer of protective padding for your car's exterior in case you bump it while you moveitemsaroundinyourgarage.
It's easier to have another set of hands availablewhenputtingacoveronyourcar;italso eliminates the risk of having the cover touch the ground, picking up grit. However, before you put thecoveron,makesureallthewindowsanddoors arefullyclosed and thatvaluablesand necessities are out of the passenger compartment. You don't want to open a covered, storage-ready car just to get your cell phone's car charger. If you have a fixedantenna,you'llalsowanttoremoveitbefore covering up. You can put the antenna in your trunk or on the floor by the passenger seat so it's readilyavailableforreinstallation.
In addition to a car cover, consider a car jacket. Just drive your car onto the jacket, put a softcarcoveron it(thisisa must) and zip up the outerplasticjacket.Thissolutionprovidesprotectionfrommoisture,rust,rodentsanddust."Ionce stored a '66 Chevelle convertible, stripped of paint, right on a lakefront in Michigan,” Reckow said."Afteronewinter,therewasnotalickofsurface rust.” Make sure your car is completely dry andcoolbeforeputtinganykindofcoveronit.
Starting It Up
A common discussion among people who storecarsiswhetherornottostartiteverysooften."Ifyoudoaproperjobstoringacar,youdon't need to start it," Reckow said. "But if you want to start it up, just remember what you have to removeandputbackon."Inotherwords,don'tstart your car with those socks still stuffed in the exhaust or the battery tender's cables in the engine bay. Completely remove the car cover, too; don't justpeelitbackenoughtogetinthedriver'sdoor. Neverletacarrunwithitscarcoveron orwith thegaragedoorclosed.
Once your car is started, let it warm up to its operating temperature to remove any condensationandcyclethefreshoilthroughtheengineto lubricatethepartsabit.Then,don'tforgettoredo thestepstoreturnyourcartoitsstoragestate.
Brien DeChristopher is the guitarist and primary songwriter for Seattle Seale-based hard rock band "Agents Of Chaos". He has logged countless hours on stage in live performance, and studio recording time.
You can see this and other Pearls of Wisdom at http://www.blogster.com/briendechristopher/
