At Copenhagen airport. I love this place. It’s like you’ve got the whole world here in miniature – every nationality, all kinds of people with all kinds of stories, destinies and destinations – only within these walls. I love it. When I was going through security I saw a security officer holding a tiny little baby while the mother was putting her bags up for inspection. He was smiling. When the mother and child passed the security, once again, two security women took turns holding the baby and it just made me smile to see THEIR faces. People meet and share small moments, but moments is what life is made of. :) Better make each one count.
It’s also easy to see which ones don’t tavel a lot. They don’t know those unwritten rules that the rest of us take for granted: To stand to the right on the escalator and let people pass to the left (maybe the other way around in other countries, but you NEVER take up ALL the space), letting people get OFF the train before you try to ENTER it, Somehow it’s just so logical but some people don’t know that by experience. But apart from that, it’s my favorite thing in life to travel. :)
I just enjoyed a light lunch at Joe & The Juice with an immunity-boost juice (I try to stuff myself with vitamin C and organic juices before and during travel. So many germs when there are so many people around you, better be safe than sorry).
Two hours before boarding time. I’m looking forward to the trip with Emirates. Already checked the menu and the in-flight movies. I know what I want to watch already, and I love the Emirates-comfort. Even in Economy it’s top notch. Next time I travel with them I will be eligible for an upgrade with my miles.
Almost 5 hours to kill in Dubai but it was a huge airport, I’ll just go “window shopping”. Many hours until I get to Seoul but it’s the journey, not just the destination, that I enjoy.
I’ll be updating here as often as I can – depending on when I can get free Wi-Fi. :D Saturday evening it’s OZZY TIME!
Today is Saturday – and in exactly one week, I will be in Seoul, South Korea to see the first Ozzy solo gig in quite a while. I’m super excited about it, cause I didn’t think he would do anything solo anytime soon. The whole Black Sabbath-thing has been going so well that I pretty much thought that that was going to be his main focus for another few months at least.
But when I heard that he’s putting his band back together for this gig I was so glad to hear the news that I didn’t even stop for a second to ponder whether or not I would or should go to Korea to see the gig. OF COURSE I WAS GOING! :)
I love Ozzy.There’s something so lovable about that man – as crazy as he can be, he’s genuine and his enthusiasm and big smile on stage is so contageous. He might be The Prince of Darkness to some, but to me he’s The Prince of Smiles.
I always leave his gigs with a big smile. A lot of times his vocals might not be perfect and to some, his show consists mostly of doing the “Ozzy walk“, but I love all of those things. Even that hose! I don’t know how many times I’ve been soaked in either water or foam, and I feel like a kid all over again going: “Yeah! Do that again!” It’s so liberating.
The songs are classics, and he’s never done a bad solo album EVER. Sure, different albums appeal to different people, but all in all, I can’t think of any album that has sucked. The songs are always the best. And he’s got the best people to play them too.
And of course, guitar mainman, Ozzy’s squire – Gus fuckin’ G, will be on his right side, making him sound even more brilliant.
What’s not to like? This will rock everybody’s socks off, and I can’t wait!
I have a long flight ahead of me on Thursday. About 16 hours with a landing in Dubai, and all I’ll get to see is an airport, a hotel, a gig and maybe a mall before going straight back home and back to work. I won’t even have time to get jetlagged! I think…. and hope.
When I was in Australia for the Firewind tour, I was fine for the first few days before the ‘lag kicked in, but this time I won’t even be around that long. We’ll see.
It doesn’t matter. The adrenaline will make everything else go away, I’m sure. :D
Some things simply ARE worth flying to the other side of the globe for!
As promised, the not-your-average-interview with Madam X bassplaying madman, Chris “Godzilla” Doliber.
It’s a fun look into the thoughts, life and antics of this anything but subtle showman – and there will be YET more, as we went a little more in depth with some of the topics here below, in a phone conversation a few days after this was done. So, if you’re a Madam X-fan, subscribe to this blog, like my Facebook-page InTheRearviewMirror or follow me on Twitter, and you’ll be the first to know when it’s up!
Back to the roots: Can you remember the moment when you realized that music was going to be your life? (what band, album, concert or other event triggered it?) I was very young and my father screamed “everybody come here quick!“. The family gathered around the television to watch The Beatles on the Ed Sullivan show. The Rolling Stones, The Doors. I asked for a guitar for my 6th birthday. I suppose seeing my father and mother so excited about music somehow fueled my desire to play.
Can you recall your very first gig, the first time you had to face a crowd? My first gig was playing a High school dance. I remember the girls swarmed around like bees. Music, Money, Pussy. I was hooked!
When you joined Madam X, it was during a period when many were sceptic as to if women could play rock’n’roll. Was that ever an issue for you? Did you ever question if Roxy and Maxine could play or if you even wanted to be associated with women in a heavy metal band? I never thought of it as playing in a band with women nor did I ever give a fuck what anyone else thought. They are very accomplished musicians. Both had scholarships to the University for Music. They can talk circles around me about music theory. When they auditioned me I was blown away by their musicianship! After several hours of foreplay they gave me a call back. Ask the cat from Skillet, Evanescence, Smashing Pumpkins. I’m sure you’ll get the same answer.
Did you ever think, during all these years when you were busy doing other things and playing in other bands, that Madam X would get together again? (You did a reunion gig in the early 90s but was the band dead as far as you were concerned or were you always hoping there would be a new beginning for Madam X?) You know, you move on in life. I don’t live in the past. I always have songs ideas running through my head. Like, damn this would be perfect for the X if we were together. I pretty much thought Madam X would never play together again. I thought they all hated me. At least for now it seems their skin is tough enough to put up with me for a little while. Okay, so I hit myself in the head with my bass. They hate that. Why? Because I have knocked myself out before, and most recently Sweden Rock, I got vertigo and had to leave the stage to go vomit during Maxine’s guitar solo. Why do I do it? Because that’s who I am!
So now, what do you see in your crystal ball – what are your hopes and plans for the future, both for the band and for you personally? My crystal ball is in the shop. But I’m looking forward to releasing what I feel is the best music we have written. We have a fresh renewed feeling. The weight of Madam X 80’s is off of us and now we are producing some great songs that cross over from who we were to who we are.
On a personal level, I’m looking forward to taking a ride on the Vomit Comet that is the plane that trains the astronauts. As the plane performs a parabolic maneuver the occupants become weightless. Yes, you can get a ticket for that ride, but it is a bit pricey. Also I am working on a website that will connect all strip club DJ’s worldwide, stripclubmusiconline.com
If you are an artist and have a song that is suited for the strip club industry, sexy, dirty… Maybe you’re the next Skrillex, Buckcherry, Nickelback, Melleefresh. Upload today and your music can be played worldwide tonight!! That’s a captive audience of over 1 million people a day in strip clubs. stripclubmusiconline.com is the largest strip club DJ data base in world.
…………………………
BUT WAIT! THERE’S MORE!
20 RANDOM QUESTIONS
What are some of your hobbies (apart from playing)? What are you passionate about and how do you get your kicks? My # 1 hobby is scuba diving on ship wrecks in Lake Superior. My max depth so far is 232 feet on air, that was on a beautiful little ship called the Comet. I like to surf.
What’s the craziest thing Godzilla has ever done?
That is really hard to answer. To a crazy person nothing seems crazy. Things I might regret doing? Smashing a 1965 Fender P bass, value $10.000 plus. Pushing over a stack of Ampeg SVT’s, a total of 4 heads then not having anything to play through the next night. Breaking my bass techs jaw bone. Spitting on Sebastian. [there will be more on this topic soon, as we went a little deeper in that whole discussion during a phoner a few days later]
How did the name Godzilla become your nick?
On stage I tend to have a short fuse, it doesn’t take much to set me off. Bret named me Godzilla because of my bad attitude. However the rumor is because my manhood is large, green and scale Y.
What’s the biggest difference between Chris Doliber and Godzilla?
I am a Gemini, 2 people 1 skin. Chris will help an old lady cross the road, anonymously buy elderly persons a meal in a restaurant. Godzilla will set himself on fire to get attention!!
Whats the best piece of advice anyone has ever given you?
Keep your dick in your pants.
What do you do to keep fit? Diet, excercise, and how disciplined are you?
I try to run everyday at least 2 miles. I do pushups, squats… things I don’t have to go to the gym for. I eat everything but prefer red meat, chicken , fruits and lots of vegetables. Salmon when I’m feeling freaky.
What makes you angry?
Wow. This is going to take a while. Someone driving the speed limit in the inside lane. In the U.S that’s the passing lane or the fast lane. Look, I’m in a hurry. It’s my ticket, I will pay it if they can catch me, so get the fuck out of my way. Abuse of animals, children and the elderly. All others “fair game”.
If you could put together your favorite band, consisting of any musicians – dead or alive – who would you pick?
Well, this band will have the most musicians ever on a stage together. Look, just because a musician is notable doesn’t mean he or she would be a good fit in just any rock combo. That’s what band chemistry is, all the right ingredients to make explosives. It’s highly likely they have surrounded themselves with musicians that will compliment his or her style.
Okay, here we go – but I will narrow it down to keep payroll in check. You know, too many mouths to feed. Let’s start with the meat and potatoes.
Band #1
Rob Halford– vocals. Dimebag Darrell & Zakk Wylde – guitar. Cliff Burton– bass. Bill Ward – drums.
Band #2
Freddie Mercury and Ian Hunter – vocals. David Bowie – vocals and sax. Brian May & Jimmy Paige – guitar. John Deacon or John Paul Jones – bass. Cozy Powell or John Bonham – drums.
Oh yeah, that motherfucker Godzilla to clean the stage when their done being brilliant.
Band #3
Bret Kaiser on vocals. Maxine Petrucci on guitar. Roxy Petrucci on drums, and yours truly.
Whats your first thought upon waking up? NOT AGAIN! Just kidding. On many occasions I feel like I won the lottery. I love my house, it sits on 4 acres, it’s a big old place that looks like a castle, but it’s home to me.
Aside from food, water, and shelter, what one thing could you not go a day without? Your smartphone? A sentimental keepsake?
My family and friends. All in all, I’m pretty much okay without all that shit. I’m an artist so I will beat on hollow logs and make pictures on cave walls .
Are you a good liar?
I don’t think I’m a good liar. I think I would like to be a better liar, but liars are not thought of in a good way, so disregard that 2nd comment. I was lying when I said that.
Are you a good judge of character?
I would like to believe so, but my track record proves different. As many times as I’ve been screwed on deals, I’m surprised I haven’t gotten pregnant.
Do you have a “things to do before I die”-list?
Most definitely. People or things? Skydive, see the great pyramids in Egypt, fly a Jetfighter, have a chat with Ian Hunter. Punch a bully in the mouth.
In everyday life, what is your number one pet peeve? Wow, so many so little time. I always put my left sock and shoe on first. Even if my felt shoe is across the room and my right shoe is within arm’s reach. Don’t touch my tooth brush, EVER!!
If you could go back in time to change one thing what would it be?
Only one thing? I would give Adolf Hitler’s father a condom.
If you were a super hero what powers would you have?
Aside from X-ray vision. I would stand 300 feet tall and breathe radio-active bile. Not really a super power but that’s just who I am.
Do you find yourself attractive?
No, I don’t find myself attractive. However, I have a good heart and a charming personality. I really don’t care if someone finds me attractive, as long as they find me. I definitely look better in the dark.
If you had a warning label, what would yours say?
Godzilla: Extremely Hazardous, Highly Toxic. Avoid contact with skin and eyes. Prolonged exposure could cause paralysis or loss of life. Chris Non Toxic, use as directed.
Your favorite alcoholic drink? (and non-alcoholic)
Yukon Jack on the rocks. Gin and tonic with a twist of lime. Cafe Patron on the rocks , Mint Julep, Wine, Water, Coffee , Tea. Any fruit juice.
If you could change anything about yourself what would it be?
I have always been comfortable in my own skin. Although I have many flaws, I don’t think I would change a thing. It’s just who I am.
There are so many things happening now that I can’t keep up – so expect a bunch of blogs very soon. Still a few more from Sweden Rock Festival for instance – and also, keep an eye out for an interview with Madam X’ wild bassman, Chris “Godzilla” Doliber! One of the most interesting people I’ve talked to in a while. I love it when I think I know what to expect, and then get something completely different. Very cool guy.
So, while you’re waiting for that, here’s a little teaser from that conversation!
[Roxy Petrucci and “Godzilla” meeting their fans at Sweden Rock Festival back in June]
Let’s start with a Godzilla quote that would look great on a t-shirt:
Are you a good judge of character?
I would like to believe so, but my track record proves different. As many times as I’ve been screwed on deals, I’m surprised I haven’t gotten pregnant.
If you could go back in time to change one thing what would it be?
Only one thing? I would give Adolf Hitler’s father a condom.
Are you a good liar?
I don’t think I’m a good liar. I think I would like to be a better liar, but liars are not thought of in a good way, so disregard that 2nd comment. I was lying when I said that.
What’s the craziest thing Godzilla has ever done?
That is really hard to answer. To a crazy person nothing seems crazy. Things I might regret doing? Smashing a 1965 Fender P bass, value $10.000 plus. Pushing over a stack of Ampeg SVT’s, a total of 4 heads then not having anything to play through the next night. Breaking my bass techs jaw bone. Spitting on Sebastian.
How did the name Godzilla become your nick?
On stage I tend to have a short fuse, it doesn’t take much to set me off. Bret named me Godzilla because of my bad attitude. However the rumor is because my manhood is large, green and scale y.
What’s the biggest difference between Chris and Godzilla?
I am a Gemini, 2 people 1 skin. Chris will help an old lady cross the road, anonymously buy a elderly persons meal in a restaurant. Godzilla will set himself on fire to get attention!!
What makes you angry?
Wow. This is going to take a while. Someone driving the speed limit in the inside lane. In the U.S that’s the passing lane or the fast lane. Look, I’m in a hurry. It’s my ticket, I will pay it if they can catch me, so get the fuck out of my way. Abuse of animals, children and the elderly. All others “fair game”.
The ULTIMATE rock band (that’s still around, still touring and going strong!) ROLLING STONES visited Sweden on the 1st of July. My friend Hemmi and I drove the 7 hours up to Stockholm to see them.
I had no idea what to expect. I’ve always missed them when they visited Sweden, either I didn’t have any money or I was out of the country or Keith Richards would get the tour cancelled by falling out of a coconut tree! But now they were back and both me and Hemmi wanted to see the Stones – I mean, you just can’t get an opportunity to see a legendary band like that and not go!
There were plenty of people standing in line when we got there but it wasn’t as crazy as it is at heavy metal concerts. The lady in front of us was from Queens, New York, and she was telling her stories about seeing Beatles when she was 14 – that being her very first concert. “They didn’t have the sound equipment back in those days that they do now, you couldn’t hear anything“, she explained. She had also seen Jimi Hendrix, The Who, whoever – ALL the classics. She was travelling all over the world with her husband so see bands (like Stones…) now. I could see myself in her in a way – I hope that will be me when I get to her age. Hopefully I’ll have found a guy who is on the same page by then too! :D
It started raining. Not just raining, POURING, it was nuts! I’m glad I brought my rain poncho to keep me from getting soaked.
They finally opened the doors, with a bit of delay, and I was so relieved to see that there was a ROOF on the Tele2 arena, and not an open air arena. That just made my day. I got in the absolute front of the first section after Golden Circle as well, whereas Hemmi stood a little bit behind, but he’s so tall he can see anything anywhere anyway. :)
The first opener was Swedish singer Amanda Jenssen, a very talented young lady who was competing in the Swedish version of American Idol. I like her, she’s a real musician and she’s doing her own thing.
The second band was something from Norway that quite frankly was so boring I nearly fell asleep. Not my thing at ALL. Besides, it would have been quite enough with just ONE opener.
When it was time for the Stones to enter the stage I was really excited – what would they be able to do live?
I’ll tell you what they did. They absolutely FLOORED ME! I had NEVER in a million years, thought that men in their 70s would be THAT great, that full of life, that amazing – I can’t find another word to describe it.
Mick Jagger was all over the place, all the time, not still one second (except for songs where he was playing an acoustic guitar and singing). Keith Richards…. I LOVE Keith Richards, he’s the coolest man on the planet! I want to kidnap him, take him home and have him tell me stories about his life! Wouldn’t that be the greatest thing. :D
It was a strange sensation, seeing these men – obviously “old”, yet not being old at ALL. There was a glow and an energy beyond belief in Keith – and all of them for that matter. All I could see was a bunch of young naughty, happy boys trapped in older bodies. It just didn’t fit – those bodies should be exchanged to fit what’s inside them – if it was possible. :D I just loved every second of it.
I normally film every show I go to. This was one of the few times that I didn’t care – I filmed maybe 4 songs, the rest of the show I just let the music take control of my body and just LIVE it, experience it! I don’t mind the filming, sometimes it’s even better than without the camera, because the camera zoom functions as binoculars in a way, but this just…nah. Camera away. :D
Everything was top notch. Fantastic backing vocalists, very cool stage show… But you know, even if it hadn’t been for all that – it would have been enough to just watch their faces, the band having fun together and letting the crowd join the party. That’s what it’s all about. It was 100% genuine and I totally and fully understand why they have been on top for 50 years and why people all over the world still worship them. It’s because they’ve got “IT”.
It was just such a pleasure to see that show and I deeply regret not getting tickets to any more shows. But, I really had no idea what I was about to experience. I can only hope that they will come back, just once more – or just do a show or two in Europe again after their tour of Australia.
IN THE REARVIEW MIRROR 