Patrick Rondat (Elegy)
When and why did you decide to take part in this tribute album?
Lars contacted me in December 2000 for this tribute, I had played as guest on a previous album of his. I was happy to do it because I am a fan of Jason.
On which song do you perform and why did you choose this one?
I play on the "Jam Outro" - it is the final track on CD 2. I wasn't worried about which song I could do - and I was also very busy at the time, so Lars and I decided the easiest way was for him to send me a song and I could do the solo part. I was just very proud to be asked to do such a thing.
Which other musicians accompanied you on this song? Tell us more about the recordings.
James Byrd, Torben Enevoldsen, Ron Thal, Mike Chlasciak, Sami Asp and Lars Eric Mattsson are also playing on this song. For recording, Lars sent me a DAT tape, and I recorded at home and sent it back to Lars.
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When did
you first hear about Jason’s illness and what was
your reaction? I don't remember when I first I heard - but I was so shocked! I mean, this guy was so good, he was so young and had a great musical future, and so many things to bring to music. I felt it was such an injustice that this could happen, it was really terrible news! What’s your opinion of Jason’s musical work (Cacophony / David Lee Roth etc)? I am a great fan of Cacophony and Jason's solo albums - "Perpetual Burn" has to be a 'classic' ! Jason's playing is great, but also the composition is excellent. His work is a big part of the history of rock guitar, every player must listen to this stuff, not only for the solos but also for the rhythm guitar. |
Has Jason influenced your playing and / or songwriting?
Like everybody, I have many influences, but yes, when I listened to Jason I was very impressed by him, and listened many many times to his albums, so I am sure there are things from him in my music.
Have you ever met him?
No, unfortunately, I never met him.
What are the current plans of your main band and / or yourself?
I just finished with a show of Jean Michel Jarre in Greece (I worked with him previously in 1993/94) - so now I am concentrating on composing some songs for my next solo studio album, which I hope will be ready in 2002. I am also waiting for the re-release of my first two albums "Just for Fun" and "Rape of the Earth" - this will happen on Nov 15th 2001. I also played with Ian Parry and Consortium Project, the second album is to be released shortly and I am working on the next Elegy album which should be recorded late this year (2001) or at beginning of next year. I like to do Master classes and I'm also working on an 'on-line' guitar tuition project with CNP (Click 'n Play Music) - working with young new players is very exciting and important to me - so I am keeping very busy just now. It was a great pleasure and an honour to be part of the Jason Becker Tribute Album and I thank you for that.
For more info, visit www.Rondat.com.
Mistheria
When and why did you decide to take part in this tribute album?
In December 2000, I was collaborating with Neil Zaza on some of his tracks, recording keyboards. Neil was very enthusiastic about my feel, my sound and about my arrangements and so, when Lion Music was busy putting together the list of artists, Neil put my name forward to them. They did not hesitate and immediately sent me the contract to be part of the Jason Becker tribute album. I was very happy to be part of such big and important event in the company of other phenomenal artists, but more than anything, the fact that all proceeds from the album sales would go to Jason gave me an incredible enthusiasm!
On which song do you perform and why did you choose this one?
I chose "Urmila", a piece that on Jason's original recording (on the album "The Raspberry Jams") is very simple, only a keyboard pad and his guitar. I thought that the simplicity of the track, with his beauty, could give me lots of creative possibilities, I could in other words elaborate a lot. And so it is that even if my version is a little distant from the original I think that I have kept the elegance and spirit of Jason's version, with updated sounds and a touch of grandness. I was looking for a piece that would give me the opportunity to express my turmoil, I wanted to translate in music my contemplation on our sad fragility: to be captured at any moment by the fatality of destiny and to be constrained in the vice of life with no way out.
| Which other
musicians accompanied you on this song? Tell us more
about the recordings. I arranged, orchestrated and performed the song, with the involvement of my friend, Florida's virtuoso guitarist, Rick Renstrom (www.rickrenstrom.com). I recorded the whole song in my personal studio in Italy. I first worked on the elaboration from the original song, orchestrating the main theme and thereafter adding the "virtuoso" intro between my synth and Rick's guitar. I then enriched it with ambient effects (voices, clapping, etc...) very emotional, giving the idea of an event that's about to happen... Rick did a great job, trying to give Jason's feel adorning it with a dose of virtuosity. When did you first hear about Jason’s illness and what was your reaction? |
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I had known for a while, speaking with my musician friends, that Jason was very sick, but I wasn't aware of the particulars. When I received the invitation to participate to the album, I searched and documented myself as much as I could on the events, by listening to Jason's discography to immerse myself in his composing style and by visiting his website. At that point, I saw the evident signs of his sickness: the thing that struck me most was to bring together the rocker image printed on the record covers with the latest photographs. I felt a shudder through my body! And with these emotions inside, I started working on "Urmila"...
What’s your opinion of Jason’s musical work (Cacophony / David Lee Roth etc)?
Jason is and will remain a star in the universe of Rock history for ever...!
Has Jason influenced your playing and / or songwriting?
My song writing is definitely different, probably due to the fact that I belong to a different generation (I'm 30 years old), and also that my musical background, first Classical and then Progressive, created my style. I can however say that listening to Jason is part of the basics. For me, like for many others, who wanted to enrich their styles, receive his emotions, his feel, his strong melodies, his blues that transpires in each note, the beauty of his passages, and his energy in creating emotion. The essence of music!
Have you ever met him?
Unfortunately no, we have only communicated via email. I would very much like to meet him because I admire someone who, regardless of the battles of life, smiles and has the strength to be present. Jason, your example is one of a great soul and strength of personality!
What are the current plans of your main band and / or yourself?
After the album "The Beginning", self produced with the awesome band Viracocha (you can listen to the whole album on www.mp3.com/mistheria), I am busy working on my new album, a personal project produced by Lion Music. I established a link with them for "Warmth In The Wilderness", and they trusted me wanting me as a special guest on the debut album of Winterlong (a young Swedish band) and on Torben Endevolsen's next project. I was left very breathless by the way in which Lasse Mattsson of Lion received me, accepting to produce my album that will have illustrious guests (Neil Zaza, Rick Renstrom, Maxe Freeman, Gerald Kloos, Max Romano and, I hope, great stars as Rob Rock and Mike Terrana!) It will surely be an incredible album! I would particularly like to thank Lasse Mattsson and Neil Zaza and, of course, a very special thank you to Jason.
Rick Renstrom (Rob Rock)
When and why did you decide to take part in this tribute album?
A few months ago, my friend Mistheria asked me to play some solos on a song. How could i refuse?
On which song do you perform and why did you choose this one?
I performed on the song "Urmila." Mistheria chose the song. I had never heard it before, but it sounded like something I could handle.
Which other musicians accompanied you on this song? Tell us more about the recordings.
Mistheria recorded all the tacks in his studio and sent me the master and I recorded my solos at my home studio. I used a Korg PX2, Charvel Predator and Jackson DR Pro.
When did you first hear about Jason’s illness and what was your reaction?
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I read about it in
one of the guitar magazines. I was devasted and couldn't
believe it. It was a complete shock. What’s your opinion of Jason’s musical work (Cacophony / David Lee Roth etc)? Incredible! "Perpetual Burn" has some of the most intense guitar playing ever! No one has ever been so original as Jason. He was in a class by himself. |
Has Jason influenced your playing and / or songwriting?
In some ways for sure... By the time he hit the scene, I was just mastering Yngwie's style and hearing Jason definetly pushed me to work even harder at certain techniques and song structures.
Have you ever met him?
No, but it would be a pleasure and an honor to have one moment with him.
What are the current plans of your main band and / or yourself?
I am currently finishing my first full length solo album. It is 50% instrumental and 50% vocal. Rob Rock has written all the lyrics and has recorded demo versions of the vocal songs. I am going to be shopping my album to several labels in the European market... many other surprises to be announced. Coincidentally, Mistheria performs all the keyboard parts on my album. I am currently in Rob Rock's touring band and we are looking to do some more tours over in Europe very soon. I will also be appearing on Powergod's Metal Tribute album performing solos for Hear n Aid's "Stars" and M.A.R.S. Project Driver's "You and I".
For more info, visit www.RickRenstrom.com.
Ray Luzier (Dave Lee Roth Band)
When and why did you decide to take part in this tribute album?
I was asked by Josephine (Phantom Blue) and Eric Zimmerman, both good friends of mine. I felt honored that they asked me to play and Jason has always been one of my favorite guitarists.
On which song do you perform and why did you choose this one?
"Baby's On Fire" with Josephine and "Rain" with Eric.
Which other musicians accompanied you on this song? Tell us more about the recordings.
Ray with David Lee Roth |
A bunch of great
musicians including the Bissonette Bros. and Ralph Saenz
from the Atomic Punks. We had a blast
tracking, everyone was very easy to work with. When did you first hear about Jason’s illness and what was your reaction? I actually performed at his first benefit concert in '91 and met him there. I was really crushed when I learned about his condition. He was so happy and touched that everyone was there to perform for him. I also got to help in the studio with the recording of "Perspective." It was a great experience and very emotional. |
What’s your opinion of Jason’s musical work (Cacophony / David Lee Roth etc)?
I've always loved his feel and energy. The perfect executions, phrasings and chops. I was a huge fan of his work with Dave and now that I'm a member of the DLR Band, I can appreciate his work even more learning tunes that he's recorded with Dave.
Has Jason influenced your playing and / or songwriting?
Definitely, listening to anything he's recorded is nothing but inspirational.
What are the current plans of your main band and / or yourself?
I'm touring with the DLR Band (check www.davidleeroth.com for dates), doing sessions in LA and tracking my own CD. Check out www.rayluzier.com (opening in September) for more info.
Thomas Wolf (Stormwind)
When and why did you decide to take part in this tribute album?
I got the invitation and felt honored to participate on a project to such a great guitarist as Jason. I also think that he need the support, no one can really understand the position he faced the last years.
On which song do you perform and why did you choose this one?
Stormwind chose the opening song "A Little Ain´t Enough" (David Lee Roth). I think it's a great song with a catchy chorus... the solo part was changed to get a new approach to the song.
Which other musicians accompanied you on this song? Tell us more about the recordings.
Stormwind are Thomas Wolf - Guitar, Thomas Vikström - Vocals, Patrik Johansson - Drums, Kaspar Dahlqvist - Keyboards, Andreas Olsson - Bass. For more Info: www.stormwind.nu. We wanted to have the best quality on the recording, so we chose the EMI Studios here in Stockholm, Sweden. I arranged the song and Thomas Vikström put some more choir in to the bridges as we wanted it to sound like Stormwind.
| When did
you first hear about Jason’s illness and what was
your reaction? I heard about his illness last year and was very moved about his spirit. I think he got a lot of 'Zen' in his state of mind and really 'catch the day'! What’s your opinion of Jason’s musical work (Cacophony / David Lee Roth etc)? Well, I think the work with David Lee Roth proves that commercial rock needs the energy of a driven rock guitarist. However, the Cacophony work shows a technical side. Has Jason influenced your playing and / or songwriting? |
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I guess he had inspired me as Steve Vai with that feeling of 'playing from the heart' when it comes to laying the solo parts.
Have you ever met him?
No.
What are the current plans of your main band and / or yourself?
Stormwind will release the 'mighty' album "Reflections" on October 29 and I will also write some movie music later this year.
Ralph Saenz (Atomic Punks)
When and why did you decide to take part in this tribute album?
My great friend Ray Luzier asked me if I wanted to sing a track that he was playing on... I said "Hell yeah, I would love to contribute to that"!
On which song do you perform and why did you choose this one?
I sang on "Baby's On Fire". The song was chosen for me, and I really love the song we did together, it was killer.
Which other musicians accompanied you on this song? Tell us more about the recordings.
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Josephine from Phantom
Blue on guitars - amazing! Tip Petersen
on the bass, he was
the coolest guy and a great player. When did you first hear about Jason’s illness and what was your reaction? During the recordings of David Lee Roth's record... I was sad for Jason. As a fellow working muscian I could never imagine the passion being stopped by a disease... I felt bad for him. What’s your opinion of Jason’s musical work (Cacophony / David Lee Roth etc)? |
Amazing blues based rock 'n roll guitar player. What other kind is there?
Has Jason influenced your playing and / or songwriting?
Yes, in a big way... Anyone can go at anytime. In the past I have taken my voice for granted, doing drugs and drinking, smoking and just playing the Rock Star role that can kill anybody... What happened to Jason made me think more about how precious life is and how lucky I am to be even alive, let alone having a talent to entertain people for a couple hours a night...
Have you ever met him?
Yes, through his fingers.
What are the current plans of your main band and / or yourself?
To perform forever. It is a gift that God has blessed me with and I plan on doing it until the fruit comes flyin' or my heart stops pumpin'.
For more info, visit www.TheAtomicPunks.com.
Mike Campese
When and why did you decide to take part in this tribute album?
Well, Nicky Baldrian asked me if I wanted to be on this CD around Feb 2001. I immediately said "yes". I thought it would be a great oppurtunity for me. Jason was such an amazing guitarist. I'm very honored to be part of this CD.
On which song do you perform and why did you choose this one?
I'm performing the song "Concerto." Nicky suggested a few songs that I could redo and "Concerto" was on the list. I haven't heard it in a while. So when I listened to it I said "yes, I'm doing this song". The guitar is incredible and the melodies are great. It also fits my playing style.
Which other musicians accompanied you on this song? Tell us more about the recordings.
The only other person I used is Art Bernstein for live "V" Drums. I mixed live Drums with programmed Drums. When all the tracks were finished, I had him come over to record. I played and recorded all the instruments myself. I recorded this song at my home studio. But after I finished the tracks, I took it to a different studio to get it mixed properly.
When did you first hear about Jason’s illness and what was your reaction?
Back when he was in David Lee Roth's band. They were saying he couldn't tour because his body was getting weak. I was really shocked, I couldn't believe it. It's too bad it happened to him, he was so amazing.
What’s your opinion of Jason’s musical work (Cacophony / David Lee Roth etc)?
| I think all of his
work is great. The Cacophony albums are
incredible and his work with David Lee Roth
was great. His technique was amazing, plus he had alot of
feel in his playing. He really had his own style. Has Jason influenced your playing and / or songwriting? Yes, I think he has. From listening to his music over the years it comes out in your playing. Especially back when Neo-classical was big, he was one of the hand full of players that was king at that style. |
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Have you ever met him?
No, I wish I did. Jason and Marty Friedman did a clinic at G.I.T. back in '89 when I was going to school there. I didn't get a chance to talk to him. I would love to meet him.
What are the current plans of your main band and / or yourself?
Well I'm promoting my 2 solo CDs "Total Freedom" and "Full Circle". I'm working on tracks for my 3rd solo release. I wish I could get a record deal so I can get my music heard more. I've been playing with my trio. I would love to go overseas. Also I would like to play with more national acts. Ok, I had fun doing this interview and am very honored to be on the Jason Becker Tribute album. If you want to know more info on me, go to www.mikecampese.com.
Eric Sands
When and why did you decide to take part in this tribute album?
I saw a news posting on Guitar Nine Records and contacted Nick with regard to helping promote the CD. Nick visited my website, listened and invited me to participate. I was honored to say the least!
On which song do you perform and why did you choose this one?
I chose "Mandy's Throbbing Little Heart" as Jason is very spiritual and this piece lent itself to expressing a deep sense of spirituality.
Which other musicians accompanied you on this song? Tell us more about the recordings.
This project is very special to me and I wanted to make an effort to create a spiritually moving piece that's as inspiring as Jason is. No small task! I asked all players to dig down deep and bring as much feeling as possible into their performance. Since the original piece was more or less a 60 second sketch from the "Raspberry Jams" CD, I interpretted the song on fretless bass, which has an ethereal effect, added some parts and rearranged it with Shawn Malone on drums. Carlos Baez added a keyboard pad, Gaurav Malhotra added hand percussion, Jeff Hodges from Man on Fire added keys and produced the song in Pro Tools. I then wrote the melody on guitar and sent a rough mix on ADAT to Kansas Violinist David Ragsdale who added his unique touch to the piece. It's a slow, melodic piece with some intense moments. It passed the "goose bumps" test on several occaissions, so I'm pleased with the results.
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When did
you first hear about Jason’s illness and what was
your reaction? It seems I heard about it ten years ago. Very unfortunate that things like this seem to happen to the nicest people. What’s your opinion of Jason’s musical work (Cacophony / David Lee Roth etc)? Astounding! His playing had developed to such a mature state at an early age. It's inspirational that Jason continues to be an important contributor to society via his compositions and life example. |
Has Jason influenced your playing and / or songwriting?
Jason's biggest influence on me is way beyond music. He teaches an important life lesson by example of his extreme bravery, and strength of spirit.
Have you ever met him?
I've never met him, but he's had more impact on my life than most people. I can honestly say I love and respect the man.
What are the current plans of your main band and / or yourself?
I'm currently rehearsing with progressive rock band Man on Fire, preparing for the annual Progday festival, putting the finishing touches on the new Man on Fire CD which also features David Ragsdale on Violin. (We'll be shopping this CD heavily to record labels.) I have plans to record my first full length solo album as well. You can always listen to MP3's and get the latest on my websites:
www.mp3.com/ericsands
www.mindspring.com/~sands
www.mindspring.com/~manonfire
Anders Johansson (HammerFall)
When and why did you decide to take part in this tribute album?
I recorded my track December last year. I got the request from Lasse of the label Lion Music. I played on another "Lion-record" (Rolf Munkes Band) and I think that's why they asked me, since they had just dealt with and heard me.
On which song do you perform and why did you choose this one?
"Primal" from Jason's "Perspective" album. I took that one since I assumed everybody playing on the record are a shredding type of a player and since I played everything myself on my track (and I don't shred on guitar/ keyboards since drum kit is my first instrument) I thought it might be a good idea to have a "mellowish" song that differs from everything else on the album.
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When did
you first hear about Jason’s illness and what was
your reaction? I think it was a while back when I was rehearsing with Marty Friedman in LA. I of course thought it was sad and kind of unbelievable like always when you hear something like that. What’s your opinion of Jason’s musical work (Cacophony / David Lee Roth etc)? |
I like it!
Has Jason influenced your playing and / or songwriting?
Maybe a little from hearing Cacophony.
Have you ever met him?
Yes, shortly in Marty's apartment in Hollywood. Great guy! Nice and polite.
What are the current plans of your main band and / or yourself?
Record albums with HammerFall and with my brother Jens. Do sessions.
For more info, visit www.HammerFall.net.
Linda McDonald (Phantom Blue)
When and why did you decide to take part in this tribute album?
As soon as Nicky Baldrian asked us, we were there. It sounded like a wonderful idea to be able to give some goodness to a fellow musician. Josephine and I both had a few things going on and decided to work with some of our other projects for this tribute album instead of doing the Phantom Blue thing and so we ended up contributing two tracks instead of just one!
| On which
song do you perform and why did you choose this one? I play on "Becker Ola". This song jumped out at me to be done with a live horn section, so that was what we did. Which other musicians accompanied you on this song? Tell us more about the recordings. |
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A great fresh new female guitar player on the rise named Carina Alfie did all guitars, and a long time friend, Charles Chastain played bass. Carina is well known back home in Argentina and has 3 solo albums out there. She’ll be making some noise in the music scene over here very soon. Charles has a funk band called Urban Family Dog, whom he plays bass for and writes the arrangements for their 4 piece horn section that we borrowed for this recording. We also had a DJ/ Vinyl percussionist come in and put some scratching down as well. It was a really fun experience, kinda invented as we went along. We didn’t know about this until a week before Carina was going back to Argentina so we had to really get it together quickly, but it was a lot of fun to do. I hope Jason likes it!
When did you first hear about Jason’s illness and what was your reaction?
One year we saw Jason at the NAMM Show, and he was walking with a limp. I can’t remember if he told us what was happening at that time or not, or if he knew it yet himself. The next year he had a walking cane, the next year it was one walking apparatus on each arm, and it grew progressively worse each time we saw him. When I found out what it was, I hadn’t heard of it before and didn’t really understand what it does to a person. As I became more informed on this illness I couldn’t believe how brave Jason always was whenever we saw him. That cat has spirit!
What’s your opinion of Jason’s musical work (Cacophony / David Lee Roth etc)?
Pure genius. I’m not a guitar player but I do have ears and know he hears a lot more in his head than most people could ever imagine! What a brain, what a player, what an ability to convey emotions in his musical work like he does! The young punk dare you to play this if you can stuff with Cacophony, the maturity on his solo stuff, and everything else in between. He can do it all.
Has Jason influenced your playing and / or songwriting?
He has inspired me by showing me that you really can be that good at what you do.
Have you ever met him?
Yes. When we were doing our first Shrapnel album at Prairie Sun Studios, Marty Friedman was producing our album and Jason was producing Ritchie Kotzen’s debut in the chicken coop next door. It was some fun times. One night we were treated to a Cacophony rehearsal in the pre-production room for a show they had that weekend. That was awesome, and quite frankly, a little scary!
What are the current plans of your main band and / or yourself?
Phantom Blue is going to hit the East Coast for a tour late October through early November. We’re also negotiating a European tour for next Summer at the moment and plan to get into the studio late this year/ early next year to do a new album. I just recorded some drum tracks for Carina Alfie’s 3rd release, "Transmission", at Steve Vai’s studio, the Mothership. I’m also playing out with an L.A. based tribute band to Iron Maiden called The Iron Maidens. Shameless plugs: www.phantomblue.com and www.theironmaidens.com.
Carina Alfie
When and why did you decide to take part in this tribute album?
I was lucky meeting Linda McDonald in one of my trips from Argentina and after jamming and rehearsing she introduced me to the project (November 2000). And of course I'm honored to be part of it.
On which song do you perform and why did you choose this one?
I performed the song called "Becker-Ola".That decision was made for by both of us because being a fan of Jason Becker's music was really hard to choose only one tune.
Which other musicians accompanied you on this song? Tell us more about the recordings.
Linda McDonald on drums, Charles Chastain on bass, etc... It was great to work with Charles and Linda. We didn't have much time to rehearse but it felt like we've played together for a long time.
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When did
you first hear about Jason’s illness and what was
your reaction? I heard about it a long time ago and it made me really sad. But on the other hand it is amazing to know there's a lot of people that love him and respect him joining forces together to help him to live a better life and keep on composing. What’s your opinion of Jason’s musical work (Cacophony / David Lee Roth etc)? His work is excellent. I enjoy all the stuff. Cacophony is part of my private CD collection. He's a great guitar player and composer. |
Has Jason influenced your playing and / or songwriting?
Yes, I think that for all musicians and guitar players in this genre he's being a huge influence.
Have you ever met him?
No, I never did but I'd love to.
What are the current plans of your main band and / or yourself?
Finishing my new album at Steve Vai's studio and also keeping rehearsing with Phantom Blue for the upcoming tour. On the other side I've my original project in Argentina with Lunatycas (female, heavy group) and also with Linda McDonald and Charles Chastain my own band here in LA.
Phi Yaan-Zek
When and why did you decide to take part in this tribute album?
Jason was a huge inspiration for me when I first started playing guitar. This tribute CD was for me a wonderful opportunity to show my appreciation and support for Jason's talent, musicality and spirituality.
On which song do you perform and why did you choose this one?
I choose to do "Air" from the album "Perpetual Burn". I remember being totally mesmerized by that piece when I first heard it at the age of 17. It's beautiful and graceful, while retaining a virtuoso flow. Playing this piece was not only a technical challenge, but gave me an appreciation of the grace and ease with which Jason played the guitar.
Which other musicians accompanied you on this song? Tell us more about the recordings.
Because the piece is basically a written out scored piece of music, there's very little room for improvisation. So I decided to make my own interpretation of the piece by changing the arrangement. The original is based around two main guitar parts, so to make my version different I decided to use a piano to play the second main guitar part. Fortunately I'm really good friends with brilliant pianist and composer Lale Larson from Sweden, and he had the time and enthusiasm to do it. So he recorded the grand piano part first in Sweden, and then I was able to add all the guitar parts and arranged keyboard parts on top of that in my studio in Wales.
| When did
you first hear about Jason’s illness and what was
your reaction? I first heard that he had to leave David Lee Roth's band because of illness, but it was in an interview in a Guitar Magazine, a year or so later that I heard of the full extent of Jason's illness. Well, it just opened my heart to hear what he's been through. It's made me realise how fortunate I am to be able to create and play my own music, and I cherish that. |
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What’s your opinion of Jason’s musical work (Cacophony / David Lee Roth etc)?
Jason's early work was so full of fire and passion - it seemed to me at the time that he had unlimited potential on the guitar. The stuff with Cacophony and his solo work opened new doors for me both in terms of guitar playing and compositional ideas. His later playing and music showed a real depth of maturity and versatility developing in his style which also inspired me.
Has Jason influenced your playing and / or songwriting?
Very much so, in my first few years of learning to play guitar and write my own music. But now that inspiration is more spiritual, and also in terms of me finding my own true musical voice and expressing that.
Have you ever met him?
No, but I did receive a very kind and supportive letter from him back in 1990.
What are the current plans of your main band and / or yourself?
I'm currently in the middle of recording my next solo CD called "Hyperspatial Solar Juice". It's a real unique sounding instrumental guitar album which also features some amazing keyboard playing by Lale Larson and a guest solo by guitarist Terry Syrek, who has recorded the track "Temple Of The Absurd" for Volume 2 of the Jason Becker Tribute album.
And last but not least Tommy Denander gives the prospects for the soon-coming VOLUME 2 of the Jason Becker Tribute album:
Tommy Denander (Radioactive)
When and why did you decide to take part in this tribute album?
I heard about it from Nicky Baldrian when they started the whole thing and I asked to be involved mainly since it's for a good cause and also because I dig Jason.
On which song do you perform and why did you choose this one?
I'm involved in two tracks... first I did a special version of an Cacophony track called "Desert Island" with me and Michael Thompson on guitars, Geir Ronning (Prisoner, Rainmaker) on lead and backing vocals plus Kristoffer Lagerstrom on backing vocals that was meant to be on Volume 1 but it was finished a little too late so it will be on Volume 2. I told Nicky and Lars that if there's anything else I can help with just ask me cause there's no limit to what I would do for Jason, so they told me that there's a lot of cool people who wanna be a part but have no song to guest on. The idea then came up that I should write a special song called "Jason" and much like the "Hear 'n Aid" thing we'll get all these stars on to this track. I'm writing it with my good friend Bobby Kimball from Toto who will also help bring in lots of big names!
When did you first hear about Jason’s illness and what was your reaction?
I heard about it almost 10 years ago and I was both shocked and in disbelief. It seemd so unfair that this nice guy would get this just when fame was knocking hard on his door.
What’s your opinion of Jason’s musical work (Cacophony / David Lee Roth etc)?
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Extremely good.
He's one of the few of the "shredders" from the
80s that I liked cause there's so much more than just
playing fast, same with his partner Marty
Friedman. Has Jason influenced your playing and / or songwriting? Not at all, cause my influences comes from such a different place than rock in general. Have you ever met him? I'm still not sure... I have vague memories of having met him in 87-88 when I lived in LA, but I met so many people in 3 years that I really can't tell, I'd love to meet him though cause he seems to be a great guy. |
What are the current plans of your main band and / or yourself?
Right now it's all about Radioactive and the promo work for it plus putting together a DVD documentary about the making of the album. I'm changing a lot in my career right now which will be known in a week or so! Thanks for doing this, Ralph.
For more info, visit www.TommyDenander.com.
Johnny Lima
When and why did you decide to take part in this tribute album?
A few months ago, Pamme from Haven asked if I'd sing with her on a song for the Jason Becker tribute album, and I thought it was a good idea to be part of it because it's a tribute to an awesome human being.
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On which
song do you perform and why did you choose this one? "Tell The Truth". I didn't choose it, although I think it's a great song. I'm not too picky. HAHA! Which other musicians accompanied you on this song? Tell us more about the recordings. Pamme and Robin McAuley. I don't know the musicians involved, but they did a fantastic job. When did you first hear about Jason’s illness and what was your reaction? |
I heard about it probably two or three years ago. I can't remember exactly when. It saddens me that someone as great as Jason has to go through something like this. But he seems to be a strong individual spiritually, and that will take him a long way. The mind and the spirit can do more than we could ever imagine. I wish him nothing but the best.
What’s your opinion of Jason’s musical work (Cacophony / David Lee Roth etc)?
He showed a lot of class when playing. His guitar playing said something, unlike a lot of guitar players from that time.
Has Jason influenced your playing and / or songwriting?
I've never been influenced by any guitar players. But Jason as a person has influenced me to appreciate everything in life and not take anything for granted.
Have you ever met him?
No, but I hope I get the opportunity someday.
What are the current plans of your main band and / or yourself?
Currently, I'm in the studio recording my new album "Made In California" which is due for release in February 2002, through N&T/ Frontiers Records. Anyone interested in hearing a rough mix of a new song can go to www.mp3.com/johnnylima.
Jonathan Mover
When and why did you decide to take part in this tribute album?
I was invited to play by Gerhard
Pichler, having just played on his new Melodica
CD.
On which song do you perform and why did you choose this one?
I believe the song title had to do with something about a bucket...? ("Drop In The Bucket" - Ralph) The song was chosen by Gerhard Pichler and Ted Poley.
| Which other
musicians accompanied you on this song? Tell us more
about the recordings. Gerhard, Ted poley, Kenny Aaronson, Paul Morris and a few others. It was a fun afternoon, full of clown humor! Drums were done right away, I split for another session and heard I missed quite an evening. Thanks a lot you silent muthaf*ck#rs!!! When did you first hear about Jason’s illness and what was your reaction? I first heard of Jason's illness way back in the early 90s when I was asked to play in a trio with Steve Lukather and Michael Anthony at the first Jason tribute show in Los Angeles. my reaction was sadness, for something so tragic to happen to such a gifted person. |
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What’s your opinion of Jason’s musical work (Cacophony / David Lee Roth etc)?
I'm not very familiar with most of it, but the little I heard was quite impressive.
Has Jason influenced your playing and / or songwriting?
No, but his strength and perseverance should serve as an inspiration to us all.
Have you ever met him?
Only briefly at the LA show with Steve and Michael, just to say hello and lend my support.
What are the current plans of your main band and / or yourself?
Still busy with many sessions and my studio in NYC called Skyline. Right now I am recording with Swim on MCA up at Longview farm studios in Massachusetts, then back to finish a record with a band from NYC called Shimmerhead.
For more info, visit www.jonathanmover.com.
Mark Mangold
When and why did you decide to take part in this tribute album?
It turned out that Terry Brock mentioned it to me and I was of course happy to participate, unfortunately Terry was out of town during the time of the recording, but I ended up doing a bit anyway.
On which song do you perform and why did you choose this one?
I was asked to play keys (as it turned out organ) on "Drop In The Bucket".
Tell us more about the recordings.
John Pace arranged it all and supplied the studio, which is in NYC. It was pretty quick, a one take thing, and great to see and re-hook up with the guys also who were there.
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When did
you first hear about Jason’s illness and what was
your reaction? Like everyone else, you want to help and reach out to do whatever you can do. This small gesture, besides being fun for all concerned, is the kind of thing that musicians, who are the kind of people who are generally of good spirituality of some sort and have their hearts and priorities in the right places in general, are more than happy to do (example the many free concerts always participated in by all). There is a kind of group mentality with musicians who share this lifestyle and this "language" of music and emotion, as opposed to, for instance, a politician or terrorist. |
What’s your opinion of Jason’s musical work (Cacophony / David Lee Roth etc)?
Scathing and tasty guitarist, who seems to be able to translate emotion into music and sound, you don't hear the technique, you just hear and feel the heart.
Have you ever met him?
Unfortunately not.
What are the current plans of your main band and / or yourself?
The Sign continues to tour occassionally (just had a wonderful gig at the Lokersee Festival in Belgium). Drive, She Said is almost finished with our new record, and the solo record is about two weeks from being done. Looking forward to that immensely. Thanks so much for asking and for helping spread the word about this record. All the best, Mark Mangold.
For more info, visit www.indigorecords.com.
Pat Heath
When and why did you decide to take part in this tribute album?
I had heared through Nick Baldrain that they were putting the album together and had told Chris (Green) about the project and we both felt that it would be kind of cool to do something for it as both chris and I grew up on Becker and Friedman's playing. We contacted Nick, he talked to Lasse (Lion Music) who agreed to audition some of our recordings.
On which song do you perform and why did you choose this one?
"Go Off". Why? ...cos it was the only one left to cover!!!
Which other musicians accompanied you on this song? Tell us more about the recordings.
Chris plays guitar for Uk band Pride. Their vocalist plays 12 string guitar on it as does their bass player. The drums I programmed myself (which was a nightmare!!!) as because of a lack of time they were midied into a EMU 6400 ultra sampler. The bass was Di into the desk and the guitars were live miked in the live room. We used a Peavey 5150 head and 4 x 12 cab and the lead guitars were done through a Laney GH100 head and 4 x 12 cab. The audio was recorded onto logic platinum usng a mac. Glorious to work with!!
When did you first hear about Jason’s illness and what was your reaction?
I had a good friend who I used to spend a lot of time with in my teens. My guitar mentor if you like. One night we were up playing and drinking beer and he pointed to that classic picture of Jason kissing the neck of his guitar. He asked me if I had heared of him and I shook my head. He played me "Air" from "Perpetual burn" and my jaw hit the floor. He then handed me the issue of GUITAR WORLD that the picture had come from and I read the article. I think it was the letter that Jason had written of his story. I was horrified. So upset. This is why I am so proud to have played on the CD!
What’s your opinion of Jason’s musical work (Cacophony / David Lee Roth etc)?
Cacophony blow me away, always have done. Roth I am not so familiar with but I know Jason is a genius. One of my fave recordings is the "Raspberry jams". I love ditties and ideas in their most basic form. The ropey old 4 track stuff is that moment. The inspiration. Developing and idea where it can go one way or the other. Very cool stuff.
Has Jason influenced your playing and / or songwriting?
Very much so. More my technique than anything really. Friedman as well. The harmony stuff I love.
Have you ever met him?
No but I would dearly love to. He is a massive idol. I don't get starstruck really but I wouldn't know what to say!!!
What are the current plans of your main band and / or yourself?
Brave New World is the band I am working on at the moment. We have a album coming out the end of the summer called "Monsters". And we have just finished touring the UK with Ted Poley and Melodica which was very cool. The demos for the second BNW album are being done and Chris and I are starting the writing for a full Evolution album. Proper harmony guitar stuff. Very shreddy.
Chris Green (Pride)
When and why did you decide to take part in this tribute album?
Basically Pat Heath gave me a call and mentioned that there was this tribute album being made for Jason Becker and would we like to submit a track. I think my first answer to it was something you probably can't print but I remember it ending in 'off ' (ironic I guess considering the track we ended up recording). Anyway, we agreed to discuss it over a few beers which led to a few more and by this point we'd convinced ourselves it was worth a go, I mean pat and I had been listening and admiring Jason's work for years and to get on to this album would be an honor.
On which song do you perform and why did you choose this one?
We didn't really have too much choice on the track we did as we had got in to this project at a very late stage (we were given 3 weeks to learn, record and submit the track to be precise). all I remember was actually learning 2 other songs and finding out they had already been done by someone else! We ended up choosing the tital track off the 'GO OFF' album which was partly because it is such an amazing track and partly because no-one else had done it yet. So we set about learning this track as quickly as possible (not an easy task I'm sure any guitarist can imagine).
Which other musicians accompanied you on this song? Tell us more about the recordings.
When it finally came time to record the track we chose a little studio called 'Ground Zero' in Hove, Sussex. Pat knew the guys that ran the studio and it was a very relaxed atmosphere. With such a tight deadline we didn't have time to find a drummer so we had to program the drums (sorry Pat, I mean you had to program the drums) which again wasn't easy as a lot of the track was free-time and hard to actually put to a straight beat. Then we got Simon Farmery in to play the bass, I've been in a band with Simon for some time now and knew he was not only reliable but an exellent musician, we also got Mat Mitchell, the singer in our band, to record a splash of 12 string to brighten things up a touch. Pat and I then recorded all the guitars which I can safely say for both of us was the biggest challenge either one of us had ever had to record. It was a tough session with some hairy moments but we finally got it done and were really happy with the results.
When did you first hear about Jason’s illness and what was your reaction?
I first heard about Jason's illness a few years back now, I didn't actually believe it at the time, I mean I've heard so many tall stories about rock stars over the years and few of them turn out to be true. I think I actually saw a documentary on the whole thing and that's when it hit home to me what was actually happening. I felt absolutely gutted when I found out, I mean this guy was probably the reason that a lot of guitarists picked up the guitar in the first place, I know that for me his playing was so inspirational, it made me realise that there were still so many holes in my technique and that there were also so many boundaries to be broken, not just with regards to playing, but imagination. It seemed to me that Jason had somehow managed to learn everything about theory and technique, then just forget it and let his imagination do the rest and this was incredibaly inspiring for me.
What’s your opinion of Jason’s musical work (Cacophony / David Lee Roth etc)?
The first Becker album I owned was the "Speed meatal symphony" album, I remember listening to it in horror thinking "no, that's just not possible to play", I mean every guitarist thats heard of Cacophony would probably agree that the Becker/ Friedman partnership was the most awsome team that ever was. So I was eager to find more and this led to "Perpetual Burn", "GO OFF" and "Raspberry jams", even checking out the "Little aint enough" album. I was really impressed with the Dave Lee Roth stuff because it proved that he could on one hand be this off-the-wall genius with solo stuff and then just slip in the role of a band member and play as part of a melodic rock band. This was cool because so many so called guitar gods have tried the whole "I'm part of this band now" thing but end up ruining it by making the band sound like a glorified 'THEM' and Jason didn't do that in my opinion and in doing so proved his versitility.
Has Jason influenced your playing and / or songwriting?
As far as influencing my playing, that's a big 'YES', ever since I started playing lead guitar I wanted so badly to be able to 'Sweep pick'. It just sounded so cool , it wasn't just shredding it was shredding with 'finesse' and style. Not many guitarists were using this technique to the extent that Jason was, you'd get the odd sweep here and there which was cool I mean, I'm in a melodic rock band myself and you have to refrain from self indulgence once in a while, but with Becker he'd do it for a whole bloody song. EXCELLENT, since then I was never short of new directions with soloing.
Have you ever met him?
No, I've never met Jason but it would be an honor to meet him one day.
What are the current plans of your main band and / or yourself?
At the moment things are quite hectic, i'm in a band called PRIDE who have just released our debut album "Far From The Edge" on Point Music for a Europe release and we are just in the process of signing to EMI in Japan which was pretty cool. Its available in all Virgin, HMV, Tower Record stores nationwide. I'm not sure of the stores for the rest of Europe, if you get a chance, check it out! or email us at Pride_ffte@hotmail.com for any info. Apart from that, Pat and I are looking at recording an instrumental album under our band name EVOLUTION which would be a great laugh, we'll be starting on that when we both get some spare time from our band schedules so look out fot it!
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