RJ Interview with LadyAslan

Hello Everyone and welcome to RJ Presents. This undertaking, mind you, has been something that I had wanted to do for some time now. However, it was when talking (chatting actually) with a friend recently that not only reaffirmed in my mind that indeed I did wanted to put forth the energy to do this. I had asked why I had not seen them reading or writing on Myspace for such a long time. Their reply was, “I love everyone I read but I want more, something, someone new and different to read”. Realizing that there is a wealth of talent out there that is being, shall I say, under read and an appetite for newer faces exists. Those were the words that pushed me forward to actually doing it. Allow me now to introduce to you my inaugural guest Ladyaslan.

Although I have been friends with Ladyaslan for more than two years now. It wasn’t until recently that I discovered that she was a writer. Talking with her in preparation for this presentation, not only was she receptive and enthusiastic. I found her to be intelligent, witty, genuine and quite forthcoming.

An intriguing aspect of her personality that she openly shared with me during our discussion is her Wiccan faith. I found it fascinating to listen to her enlighten me on Wicca as admittedly, I probably held some misconceptions about it. She explained the most important Wiccan teaching to me. "Do what you want to do, but do not harm anything in the process.” "This means you must think about how your actions will affect yourself, other people, and the world.”

I found her writing to be eclectic, much of it seemingly born from her faith. With a mixture of darkness and enlightenment, often with a subliminal tinge of the erotic or perhaps fairytale. A real treat for those who enjoy darker writes and/or are open alternate poetic expressions.

Below is the conversation I had with her that will give you even more insight to her personality followed by her poem/lyric “Whispers In The Dark” that she has chosen to share with us.


Rory: Hello Ladyaslan, how are you?

Ladyaslan: I am just dandy...just got back from the new M. Night movie Devil....it was AWESOME!

Rory: I take it you recommend it

Ladyaslan: Yes.....had some great spooky moments~

Rory: When I first met you and saw your profile on Myspace, it really had sort of a gothic feel to it. Is Goth and all of what it implies to some, applicable to you

Ladyaslan: Hmmmm.....Goth...Punk..etc is really just a state of mind. What is applicable to describe me or imply what I am, is well, just alien ha-ha. I'm an author so that right there makes me eccentric~

Rory: At what stage in your life did you take to the genre. With those sort of darker images and undertones.

Ladyaslan: ha-ha Try all my life. Really I learned to read at about 3 to 4 yrs old. Mom taught me with Stephen King books. My FIRST book I ever read was Pet Cemetery and my Grams would tell me vampire themes bed-time stories soooo that should explain a great deal!

Rory: Really!! Pet Cemetery?!!! Wow! Was that scary for you as you remember?

Ladyaslan: Noooo it was GREAT. I remember reading the word "fuck" and flipping out because "back then" no one said that word a lot ( in movies was one thing ) but a BOOK. I was amazed and that was when my Mom told me about something called freedom of speech and basically one can write and say anything one wants in a book/story. I was just amazed. Now fast-forward to my senior year of High School and I read Amityville Horror. OMG now THAT is and always will be a SCARY book to read~I slept with the lights on for a WEEK~

Rory: Yes Amityville the book and the movie scared me as well.

Rory: Now before we get to your writing I want to ask you about something that you are quite passionate about. That being Duran Duran To The Hall of Fame.

Ladyaslan: ahhhhh YES my WILD BOYS~

Rory: First explain when you became and why remain so passionate about their music

Ladyaslan: I remember hearing Planet Earth on the radio ( when it was BRAND NEW lol ) on my way to my Grams house ( early 80's like '81 I think ) one weekend and was like WOW what is that. My mom liked what she heard too and went out and bought me the debut DD album the following weekend, from there the rest is history. I grew up in New-Wave I guess one could say ( not sure...I remember lots of neon and men in eyeliner as I was growing up lol ) Goth music and the lifestyle finally hit the American soil and I was in the middle of it (my parents owned a pub that hosted a great deal of live bands MANY different genres ) and as the years progressed so did albums by DD and their music was different. NOT pop as the American's like to categorize it The band ALWAYS wrote ALL their music and still do and I like how surreal and erotic their music is, there really is a great deal of innuendo in their lyrics.

Ladyaslan: I remain passionate about them because Duran Duran has always been on the forefront of Human & Animal rights campaigns and are true believers in Freedom Of Speech. Duran Duran have donated time and money and music to the above mentioned ideals and just recently donated time to the War Child Charity ( helps children affected by war ) for a Bowie Tribute album. They re-made the song Boys Keep Swinging and all proceeds go to this foundation. That just goes to show that they really are a band that cares about humankind and this wonderful Earth we tread upon. For over 30 yrs Duran Duran can still kick ass live with awesome shows and wonderful music. They NEVER sold out to become like the other "cookie cutter" bands / musicians. I would name a few "cookie cutter" types but I would probably offend A LOT of people ha-ha

Rory: Would you characterize your passion for them as purely appreciation or may it have crossed over into what could be characterized as obsession.

Ladyaslan: Well the true definition of "obsession" is compulsive preoccupation with often unreasonable idea or emotion, so its safe to say I am not obsessed ha-ha. I do have a healthy passion and attraction for the music and great lyrics and Duran Duran have fed my needs year after year with their music and melodies. A Duran Duran song ( for me, in my opinion only ) that can fix any bad day or wrong doing ( in general ) for me music is my therapy and life line without music life would not be worth living, music cleans the soul of every day dust and even helps heal old wounds of love. Save a Prayer, it has made my soul smile more times than any apology could ever do. Great writing...great melody...great band...forever a fan~

Rory: How much of their music and the artistry of their performances influenced or somehow made its way into your writing.

Ladyaslan: I would say more than 70% of what I write was awakened by a Duran Duran song at some point in time. Duran Duran had a way; that when they released a new album it was hauntingly accurate to something poignant happening in my life ( death, birth, being let down, hurt...etc ) and it was like a cosmic gift, like Mother Earth, saying everything will be alright, play this album and get lost in the melody, of course I have MANY other bands that move my soul to dance and cry, but Duran Duran have stood the test time with my inner child and being that they can raise my senses to an altered level of consciousness. Perhaps its a sort of autism I have, but all I know is music and writing are close to my heart and can help ease ALL facets of my life whether it be physical, emotional, mental, social, aesthetic, and spiritual hence my dark and erotic and sometimes sublime prose’s...7 out of 10 times I had Duran Duran playing in the background~

Rory: After meeting you. I would see you at my blog of course and here and there leaving comments on other blogs. You would post a blog yourself now and then but not too often as I saw it. Now two years later I’ve discovered that your a full fledged writer. Not only are you posting more but you have a book out. Were you hesitant about posting your work and also tell us about your first book.

Ladyaslan: There is A LOT people in the virtual world do not know about me because they have never asked or people just "judged a book by its cover" no pun intended ha-ha. I have MANY SECRETS. I was never hesitant about posting my work. I actually post quite a lot and have been for at least 4 yrs now. Before my book was published ( or as I worked on it ) I posted a great deal of poems on my Ladyaslan page on MySpace, then when my book was complete I made a MySpace page & Facebook page for my book Victorian Days and Punk Rock Nights and things progressed from there. Sometimes writers block or not enough time in a day would keep me from posting but I did and still do post on MySpace and sometimes Facebook. Also my fan base is not really in the U.S. Most of my sales came out of the UK and Serbia and Italy. I feel that my dark and sublime poems and short stories are seen for the art they are outside the U.S. cause let's face it, the U.S. likes to put all things in a category and if you are into the dark arts or sublime thought, well then they paint you as the darkling in the corner and totally ignore the fact that a Lord Byron poem awoke a part of said writer's soul and they freed the thought or dream or fantasy by writing about it

Rory: So basically you've been writing all along and for quite some time

Ladyaslan: Yes, my debut book Victorian Days and Punk Rock Nights was written well over 30 yrs ago ha-ha...my first book of poems and short stories were pieces I have been writing since I was about 10 yrs old. I then found them after a move and decided to "tweak" them a bit and a few friends came upon my "stash" and really liked what they read and sort of egged me on to write a book and showcase my poems. Part of me ALWAYS wanted to write a book and the other part of me really didn't want other people to read what I wrote because of the subject manner ( I was over the fact of always explaining myself and why I said this or why did you write that no one could read for the sake of reading anymore) but then I just said "fuck it" and let my soul loose per-say. Victorian Days and Punk Rock Nights was a TRUE LABOUR OF LOVE. I designed it, I wrote it, I bled for that book and I am doing it all again with a "sequel" coming soon to a book store or online vendor near you~ ha-ha

Rory: You know I could talk to you at even a greater lengths but we do have poem of yours to present. Thank you so much for spending time with me and giving the readers some insight to who you are. Also thanks for being my first guest here at RJ Presents.

Ladyaslan: Oh no!! Thank you for thinking of me and wanting to learn more about me. It is a true honor to be interviewed by you my dear~for you are also among the great new artists out there and I want to one day have your book in my library. Have a truly FAB weekend and )O( Blessed be!



Whispers In The Dark

Synthesizers were playing from the moon at night
Mirrored paths with never ending light
Electric jukeboxes that glitter but are not gold
So goes the story as she watches it unfold
She was living underwater when her world started to drown
She then quoted virgin scripture to remove the blood face clown
Acrylic and Le Clair were the only ones who lasted till the end
Our lost girl was swimming in the attic and her mind started to bend

Whispers in the dark, whispers that spark
I saw that green monster’s broken remark
Whispers in the dark, whispers that spark
I saw you in the pool naked with doubt

Christians and vampires were walking hand in hand
The Prince of silver bullets was singing in the band
Strobe lights and philosophy were all being used
I was smoking red absinthe just to stay amused
Voiceless lovers and strangers playing in the sky
Tall black boots wiggle spy and sigh
Messages were stalking all the things she said
The green eyed monster wanted the witches blood bled

Whispers in the dark, whispers that spark
I saw that green monster’s broken remark
Whispers in the dark, whispers that spark
I saw you in the pool naked with doubt
( fade out )

Ladyaslan
©Ladyaslan2010

To learn even more about Ladyaslan visit her Myspace page www.myspace.com/ladyaslansbook
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/witchpot23
For more information on her book Victorian Day and Punk Rock Nights www.ladyaslan.com/author.htm

DDTTRH (notre mission)

L'idée d’introniser Duran Duran dans le Temple De La Renommée Du Rock n’est pas une idée nouvelle. Dans le passé,quelques organisations ont fait le même genre d’effort comme par exemple le site web DuranDuranfans.com, qui a envoyé une pétition en 2006 au Rock Hall pour cette même année. (http://www.petitiononline.com/duran06/petition-sign.html) . Nous avons également appris que www.notinhalloffame.com se concentre sur de nombreux groupes oubliés par le Hall (y compris Duran Duran),dignes de faire partie du célèbre Rock and Roll Hall Of Fame. La réponse à notre pétition nous prouve que les fans du groupe attendent depuis longtemps que Duran Duran reçoive cet honneur mérité.

Nous sommes reconnaissants envers ceux qui nous ont précédés et nous reconnaissons leurs efforts. Nous souhaitons avoir leur soutien car nous croyons que notre effort est unique, et plus important encore, exceptionnellement bien placé pour fournir des résultats à long terme.
Voici pourquoi:
1. Il n'y a pas d'autres efforts "spécifiquement" consacrés à Duran Duran et leur intronisation au Temple De La Renommée Du Rock (et aucune que nous avons trouvé ayant vu le jour à Cleveland, Ohio - Maison même du Rock and Roll Hall Of Fame).

2. Notre pétition n’a pas d’ultimatum et nous sommes déterminés à la garder ouverte pour les fans et les décideurs du Hall, aussi longtemps qu'il le faudra.

3 . Nous croyons que notre effort aura plus de pouvoir en devenant officiel,que simplement en tant qu’appendice à une page de fan,par exemple. De plus, notre engagement et tout ce que nous faisons est centré sur ce seul et unique but qui est de faire tout notre possible pour convaincre le Hall of Fame (et ses comités de vote) d'introniser Duran Duran dans le célèbre Hall.

4. Cela signifie que toutes les démarches que nous ferons auront un impact direct sur la réalisation de notre objectif. Que ce soit d’entrer en contact et faire des entrevues avec des groupes influencés par Duran Duran, la recherche sur Duran Duran et les médias, la recherche sur les efforts de Duran Duran et ses oeuvres de charité,concerts bénéfices,etc,ou le support à notre pétition officielle (non seulement de la part de fans, mais aussi de grands noms de l'industrie musicale ,et même de ceux qui sont électeurs dans le comité Rock Hall) sont toutes des démarches uniques à notre effort,qui nous croyons feront toute la différence en bout de ligne.

5 . Nous ne sommes pas limité à aucun pays car nous savons que les fans de Duran Duran existent partout sur la planète, et nous croyons qu'il y a beaucoup de gens qui veulent témoigner leur amour pour le groupe et sa musique. Nous nous efforçons d'assurer que notre message atteigne aussi ceux qui parlent français, italien, espagnol, et d'autres langues.

Cet effort en est un d’amour de la musique. D'amour pour Duran Duran (qui existe,compose et enregistre ses propres chansons,et se produit sur scène depuis maintenant plus de 30 ans),d’amour pour les fans,d'amour pour l'industrie de la musique et d'amour pour les partisans loyaux du groupe des 30 dernières années. J'irais même jusqu'à dire même par amour pour nos critiques et détracteurs - car même ces derniers peuvent nous aider à modifier notre message de telle manière qu’il devienne acceptable pour ceux que nous essayons de convaincre de la pertinence de cette cause.

Comme toujours, si quelqu'un a des commentaires / suggestions, ou veut aider notre cause de manière plus directe, s'il vous plaît écrivez à ddttrh@gmail.com. Merci!
Kirk Harrington, organisateur principal de DDTTRH (Duran Duran To The Rock Hall,Officiel) Traduction : Mr. Mystère

Nous avons Durandy!

Je suis heureux d'annoncer qu’avec les efforts de Donna Searle et moi-même, nous avons réussi à joindre Durandy (Andrew Golub) au sujet de notre effort avec DDTTRH. Nous avons récemment vu sa signature sur la pétition. Merci Durandy pour votre soutien! Voici un mail qu’il nous a envoyé.

De: Andy Golub Pour: Kirk Harrington Sent: Fri, 14 mai 2010 22:47:11 Objet: Lettre à vous Cher Kirk,
Je tenais à vous écrire et à exprimer mon soutien à vos efforts afin d’introniser Duran Duran dans le Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. C'est une tâche ardue, et je ne peux qu'espérer que toute une liste de noms puissent peser sur la conscience de ceux chargés d'examiner les artistes éligibles au HOF. Peu d'artistes ont autant influencés l'évolution musicale et culturelle que Duran Duran l’ont fait. Ils ont influencés la musique,pratiquement donnés naissance aux vidéos-clips,contribués à la mode, photographie, film,etc... Ce groupe a abordé tous les domaines, ce qui leur a assuré une réputation et une renommée mondiale.

Je suis sûr que les fans et les nombreux artistes ayant été influencés par le groupe, apprécient vos efforts impressionnants et je suis heureux de faire ce que je peux pour appuyer la cause. Bravo à vous tous pour ce que vous avez déjà accompli, et je vous souhaite le succès avec ce projet d’introniser Duran Duran dans le Temple de la renommée du rock prenant leur juste place aux côtés de pionniers ,collègues,icônes, et légendes de la musique. Way to go Kirk! Je vous remercie de votre engagement et de votre vision. Cordialement, Durandy
(traduction: Mr. Mystère)

Entretien avec In City

ambiance de club emboucanné,cigarettes,eye liner noir, ... Dancing in the Dark ... Erotic Love... sont toutes les choses qui viennent à l'esprit et éveillent les sens lorsque vous écoutez “Velvet Heaven” par Incity ... Le projet de Minsk qui est né à la fin du printemps 2009 derrière qui se cache Alex Thorn (chanteur,musicien,auteur-compositeur).

Le premier EP du groupe "Rock in the City" désigné comme étant du “rock incluant des saveurs pop-synthé et de l’électro, avec arrangements orchestraux, voix masculines et féminines”,comprend d’élégantes mélodies puissantes et magnétiques.

Alex s'est assis avec Ladyaslan de DDTTRH pour une conversation sur le groupe mythique et pourquoi il devrait être intronisé au Rock Hall.

Ladyaslan, DDTTRH: Parlez-nous de Incity.... quel est le style de votre musique? Incity a été créé par moi (Alex) dans la dernière année et présentement nous avons un mini-album "Rock in the City" en vente. Avec ce groupe,j'ai voulu exprimer et réunir différents types de musique en tant qu’auteur-compositeur et chanteur. Le concept comprend des riffs de guitare extrêmes, divers échantillons électroniques, arrangements d'orchestre, deux voix : masculine et féminine,et même des éléments drum'n'bass sur une de nos pièces, "Waves of Electro". La partie lyrique de cet album parle de l'amour, des désirs, de la folie (dans le bon sens), des sentiments de nuit, du potentiel émotionnel de chaque personne. Pendant l’enregistrement,j'ai collaboré avec des musiciens de studio mais récemment,j’ai ajouté à la guitare Andrew, et Vladimir à la basse, afin de pouvoir me produire “live”. Nous tournons aussi notre premier vidéoclip.

Ladyaslan, DDTTRH: Pensez-vous que Duran Duran méritent d'être dans le Rock and Roll Hall of Fame? Incity: Bien sûr! Et aussi dans le catalogue mondial des grands groupes new wave (si cela existe!) . Ils ont produit et continuent de produire de la grande musique,avec une touche visuelle toujours intéressante.

Ladyaslan, DDTTRH: Est ce que Duran Duran a influencé la manière dont vous pensez comme auteur et musicien? Incity: Ce n'est pas un secret que de nombreux groupes musicaux aux accents de synthétiseurs ont cessé leur activité après 5 ou 10 ans d’existence. Mais Duran Duran est un phénomène unique. Ils ont traversé les nombreuses périodes musicales et évolué tout au long de leur 30 années d’existence. Ils ont produit de très grands albums pop en gardant une place dans le coeur de leurs nombreux fans. Nous espérons être un jour aussi pertinents et présents dans le cœur de nos fans que Duran Duran l’est depuis ses premiers succès. Le membres de DD sont tous à la fin de la quarantaine maintenant et ils font toujours une musique originale,innovatrice, et énergique. Sur l’album Red Carpet Massacre (2007) Ils ont travaillé avec Timbaland,Justin Timberlake,et d’autres réalisateurs en vogue sans sacrifié leur propre signature. Leur atmosphère romantique sur les premiers albums (Duran Duran,Rio,Seven and The Ragged Tiger) m'a toujours impressionné,alors oui, ils nous ont influencés en tant que groupe.

Ladyaslan, DDTTRH: Quelles contributions pensez-vous que Duran Duran a offert à la musique et à l'industrie de la mode au cours des 30 dernières années? Incity: Pour moi,comme pour beaucoup de gens sur la planète,DD sont le miroir et le symbole des années 80. Ils sont le parfait reflet de cette époque. Depuis 1981, ils ont vendu des millions de billets de spectacle, et des millions d’ albums. Ils sont devenu de véritables icônes de la musique et de la mode. Ils sont intemporels,et leur marque ne s’effacera jamais.

Ladyaslan, DDTTRH: Quelle est votre chanson et vidéoclip préférés du groupe Incity: Il est difficile de choisir une seule chanson ou une seule vidéo étant meilleur. Le groupe est très talentueux et a plusieurs façades... J'aime toutes les chansons des deux derniers albums et les hits des années 90 comme Ordinary World et Come Undone. J'écoute leur musique depuis le début (1981) .

Ladyaslan, DDTTRH: Souhaiteriez-vous voir un épisode de Glee entèrement consacré à Duran Duran comme ils l’ont fait avec Madonna? Incity: Je n'ai pas vu cette série télévisée. J'en ai entendu parler mais je ne peux rien dire. Probablement que je devrais corriger cela. Je vais commencer par l”épisode intitulé "Le pouvoir de Madonna" :) Si Glee a travaillé avec la musique de Madonna,il pourraient certainement le faire avec celle de Duran Duran.

Ladyaslan, DDTTRH: Où peut-on acheter une copie de votre EP et quand peut-on attendre un CD complet? Incity: Dans les semaines à venir ... peut-être plus tard ... Un téléchargement gratuit en Mp3 de notre nouveau single "Own Reality” est offert sur notre site officiel www.incityrock.com . Présentement,nous n'avons pas de contrat avec une maison de disque et notre EP n'est pas encore disponible sur le marché. Nous allons informer nos fans avec le site web sur le EP. Un album complet de Incity est en production et sera prêt pour la fin de 2010.

Merci pour l’entrevue et votre intérêt envers Incity, Alex (Incity) Rejoignez Incity sur MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/incityrock
(traduction: Mr. Mystère)

Entretien avec Ty, alias “King Of Trash”

Honnête,féroce,”ballsy”,loyal, et à l’humour méchant ,voilà ce qui décrit très bien l'auto proclamé Roi de la poubelle ! Un esprit libre est né, Tyrone Lee Needham, à Nottingham le 19 août 1976. Sa carrière l’a souvent emmené loin de sa ville natale,cependant, il est resté en contact avec ses racines et considère toujours Nottingham sa vraie maison. Pour lui,Duran Duran est l'une de ses nombreuses influences avec Elvis et Dusty Springfield, pour n'en nommer que quelques-uns. Il ya beaucoup de gens qui ont influencés Ty, mais l'un des plus importants est Mark Gamble, qui Ty a connu et travaille avec depuis 1999 . Un artiste à succès et producteur de son propre chef, Mark a trouvé le succès avec son propre groupe Krush et a également produit une série de singles dont Don't Go par KWS. Ensemble, Mark et Ty ont perfectionné leur partenariat créatif et en 2005, Ty a commencé à travailler sur son premier album solo entièrement écrit par lui.

Voici l’entrevue de DDTTRH avec Ty (King Of Trash):

Ladyaslan, DDTTRH: Pensez-vous que Duran Duran méritent d'être dans le Rock and Roll Hall of Fame? TY: Tout à fait! En fait, ces gars là méritent le titre de Chevaliers, pour leurs contribution musicale, et les recettes qu'ils ont apporté au Royaume-Uni au cours des 30 dernières années. Donnez-leur le Temple de la renommée ... ou nous vous enverrons les chiens! hahahaha (blague)

Ladyaslan, DDTTRH: De quelle manière pensez-vous que Duran Duran a ouvert la voie pour les groupes électro au fil des ans? Ty: Toute personne qui fait de l’électro pop, et qui disent qu'ils n'ont pas étés influencés ou inspirés par Duran Duran sont des menteurs... Pour faire de la musique pop en 2010 vous devez retourner puiser dans les années 80,et Duran Duran à ouvert la voie à tout les autres groupes du genre depuis leur formation en 1978. Ils ont montré qu’il est possible d’être libre grâce à la musique avec son propre style et sa propre attitude, et que la musique est là pour être à la fois aimé et joué ,et que vous avez la liberté de mélangé les genres si vous le voulez, comme ils l’ont si bien fait en mélangeant guitares rock et synthés!! YEAH!

Ladyaslan, DDTTRH: Quelles contributions pensez-vous que Duran Duran a offert à la musique et à l'industrie de la mode au cours des 30 dernières années? Ty: Hmmm ...Girls On Film,entre autre! Cette chanson a bien réussi à la radio et les charts avant même que la vidéo notoire et controversée soit filmée, mais la controverse qui a suivi a contribué à maintenir le groupe dans l'œil du public et la chanson dans les charts pendant plusieurs semaines. Ce que D2 disait en gros était “ Nous faisons la musique que nous aimons et si ça en choque certains alors tant mieux!” Duran Duran a amené un nouveau public à la musique New Wave (c’est à dire TOUT LE MONDE!!!). Je n'ai pas vu de fans plus fidèles que les fans de Duran Duran, qui ont la chance d’avoir un groupe qui continue d’enregistrer et de se produire en spectacle,et d’être meilleurs que jamais après plus de 30 ans d’existence!

Ladyaslan, DDTTRH: Quelle est la genèse de la chanson (RIP) Ty : La nostalgie: cette chanson à l’origine avait un son très Pet Shop Boys, j'étais fatigué de voir des gens ne pas aimer la musique pop parce que leurs amis ne trouvais pas ça cool. J'ai grandi en écoutant : Pet Shop Boys, Madonna, Bruce Springsteen, Duran Duran, Dusty Springfield, et de la musique de Motown ... tout cela était maintenant considéré comme “cheesy”,et j'étais à la fois blessé et choqué parce que cette musique a ouvert la voie pour la musique que les jeunes écoutent maintenant et j'ai décidé de ré-écrire "Nostalgia". Pendant que j'écrivais, j'ai entendu aux nouvelles l’annonce de la mort de Michael Jackson ... J'étais navré et peiné d’apprendre qu’une autre créature de musique pop au talent énorme avait disparue ... j’ai alors transformé la chanson Nostalgia en y parlant de la mort de Michael, ou comme j’aime le dire: le jour où la musique est morte!

Ladyaslan, DDTTRH: Êtes-vous impliqué dans des organismes de bienfaisance? TY: Oui je le suis. Je suis impliqué dans Treehouse Appeal à Ipswich Royaume-Uni, l'organisme de bienfaisance a comme but d’amasser autant d'argent que possible pour construire un hospice pour les enfants. Ils ont aimé ma chanson "Rainbow Never Dies" alors j’ai décidé que tout l'argent amassé avec cette chanson serait donné à cette oeuvre de charité... J’en ai parlé dans des interviews radio etc ...

Ladyaslan, DDTTRH: Que signifie le terme "pop néo-romantique» pour vous? Ty: Cela signifie la liberté, cela signifie la musique fabuleuse, mélodique,et classique. Cela signifie avoir les couilles de faire la musique que j'aime,un genre de statement.

Ladyaslan, DDTTRH: Quel est votre chanson et clip favori de Duran Duran?
Ty: Difficile ... euh ... comme chanson, ce serait New Moon On Monday, et comme vidéo, ce serait Rio. je veux faire une chanson sur un bateau de riches aussi...lol

Ladyaslan, DDTTRH: Est ce que Duran Duran vous inspire quand vous composez des musiques et des paroles de chansons?
Ty: Je ne peux pas dire qu'ils inspirent mes paroles, mais je peux dire qu'ils ont inspiré certaines de mes mélodies ... comment Duran Duran ne peut il pas inspirer n’importe quel personne fan de bonne musique?

Ladyaslan, DDTTRH: Quels sont vos projets pour l'avenir ... tout ce que vous souhaitez partager sur votre groupe? Ty: Pour le moment j’en suis à écrire et à enregistrer mon prochain album. J’ai déjà 6 chansons pour cet album qui aura un son plus “edgy” et organique. Je suis très excité, j'ai écrit avec mon ami Tom Emerson, nous travaillons bien ensemble et je l'aime, mais j’aime aussi travailler seul. Je suis aussi ouvert à travailler avec d'autres producteurs et également de continuer à travailler avec mon principal producteur Mark Gamble,

Ladyaslan, DDTTRH: Si vous pouviez refaire une chanson de Duran Duran, ce serait laquelle et pourquoi? Ty: New Moon On Monday ... elle est spéciale pour moi, et je pense que c'est leur chanson la plus douce et mélodique à ce jour. J'ai toujours aimé leurs albums et aimerait reprendre New Moon On Monday :-) J’espère que vous aimerez l’entrevue ... je vous remercie beaucoup c’était vraiment amusant. Si je peux aider d’une autre manière à introniser D2 dans le Hall Of Fame ce sera avec plaisir. En espérant vous parler de nouveau bientôt. xx xxx

Pour en savoir plus sut Ty et King Of Trash, cliquez sur les liens ci-dessous ~ http://www.reverbnation.com/kingoftrash
http://www.myspace.com/kingoftrash"
(traduction: Mr. Mystère)

Entretien avec LeClair

Entretien avec LeClair, chanteur / compositeur / multi-instrumentiste / producteur...

Voici quelques lignes à propos de LeClair.

-Mélomane aux goûts éclectiques, LeClair a expérimenté dans plusieurs styles musicaux . Il a également été DJ à temps partiel, et a aussi fait du remixage pour les icônes de la musique pop DURAN DURAN. Simon Lebon et Warren Cuccurullo avaient adoré les remixes de LeClair et voulaient faire paraitre l’un d’entre-eux sur le troisième simple du groupe à être tiré de l’album pop expérimental Medazzaland. (malheureusement,avant même que cela ne se réalise,le groupe mythique brisa son contrat avec les disques EMI,et ce troisième simple ne sorti jamais). Quelques conversations avec Simon et Warren donnèrent le coup de pouce dont LeClair avait besoin pour se concentrer encore plus sur ses propres compositions, et enregistra un grand nombre de chansons aux saveurs alternatives/acoustiques sur la vie,l'amour,le sexe,la guerre,et la paix. Récemment ,Chicanery (le nouveau projet de Warren Cuccurullo et Neil Carlill) a invité les internautes via son site web officiel à visiter la page musique de LeClair sur facebook,en soulignant son travail avec Duran Duran et Warren Cuccurullo. (vous trouverez le lien plus bas).

LeClair est végétarien, et essaie de soutenir autant que possible les causes suivantes: Amnesty International, Peta (pour le traitement éthique des animaux), et d'autres causes contre la haine, le racisme, la traite des êtres humains, l'homophobie, et l’exploitation des enfants.

- Voici notre entrevue avec LeClair.

[DDTTRH, Kirk]: Pensez-vous que Duran Duran mérite d'être intronisé dans le Rock and Roll Hall of Fame?
[LeClair]: Évidemment! Duran est un des plus grands groupes de l’histoire de la pop Britannique. Ils étaient le groupe phare des années 80,et étaient le standard pop à suivre de la majeure partie de cette décennie,que de nombreux autres groupes immitèrent par la suite. Ils sont en quelque sorte les pionniers du vidéoclip,mais je crois que c’est surtout à cause qu’il font de la bonne musique qu’ils durent depuis si longtemps. Comme je l'ai commenté sur votre page Facebook, vous ne pouvez pas ré inventer ou effacer l'histoire, et qu'on le veuille ou pas, qu’on aime le band ou non ...ces gars-là font partie de l'histoire de la musique, et ils méritent certainement leur place dans le Hall Of Fame. Ils ont même influencé Madonna qui a été intronisé au Temple il y a quelques années.
Bien sûr, ils avaient une image très forte (peut être même trop), mais Prince, Michael Jackson, Madonna, David Bowie, Elvis ,Les Beatles,avaient tous eux aussi une image très importante.

[DDTTRH, Kirk]: Quelle contribution pensez-vous que Duran Duran a offert à l'industrie de la musique au cours des 32 dernières années (depuis leur formation en 1978)?
[LeClair]: une énorme contribution qui est encore palpable aujourd'hui, et une très diversifiée musicalement parlant. Ils ont réussis à enregistrer 12 albums totalement différents,se ré-inventants sans cesse en enregistrant quelque chose de nouveau à chaque fois, ce qui n'est pas une tâche facile. Au milieu des années 80, Duran était le groupe le plus populaire de la planète,et au lieu de répéter la même recette à succès qui les avait rendus riches et célèbres, ils se sont mis à prendre des risques et à continuer de faire ce qu’ils voulaient musicalement (et je leur tire mon chapeau pour avoir eux les couilles de le faire et de réussir à si bien à le faire).

Beaucoup de jeunes aujourd'hui aiment la musique du groupe et n’accordent pas d’importance à l’image de Duran et leurs vidéoclips. Ils aiment tout simplement la musique éclectique de ce band parce qu’elle a très bien passé le test du temps.

Jouer certaines pièces du groupe est une tâche beaucoup plus complexe que certains le crois (j'ai même vu Dave Grohl des Foo Fighters l’admettre sur youtube). Certaines de leurs chansons ont des structures et des progressions d'accords inhabituels, et disposent de lignes de basse ambitieuses (Rio), de partitions de guitare complexes (les années Cuccurullo), un travail très créatif de synthé, et demandent un registre de voix parfois très haut perché (Wild Boys).

Ils ont influencés beaucoup d'autres artistes dans les années quatre-vingt, et le font encore aujourd'hui. Sans Duran, les groupes comme The Killers, Franz Ferdinand, The Bravery, Keane, White Lies, pour n'en nommer que quelques-uns, auraient certainement un son très différent.

[DDTTRH, Kirk]: Quel est votre chanson préférée et quel est votre clip favori de Duran Duran? [LeClair]: C'est très difficile de répondre à cette question, et honnêtement je ne peux pas nommer q’une seule chanson (ce serait comme me demander pour une seule chanson des Beatles ou de Bowie, quand nous savons tous les deux qu’ils ont un riche catalogue dans lequel choisir) ... donc je vais vous donner, disons ... 2 vidéos préférés (et les vidéos,c’est vraiment pas important comparé à la musique), et 5 chansons. C'est le plus petit nombre que je puisse vous donner étant donné qu’on parle d’un catalogue très diversifié ici.

Chansons:
1. Ordinary World (ils devraient êtres intronisés au Temple de la Renommée Du Rock simplement pour avoir composée celle-ci,c’est une des meilleures ballades jamais composée).

2. The Chauffeur: Parce que cette pièce unique ne ressemble à aucune autre chanson qui existe. J'adore la mélodie d’ocarina à la fin, et 30 ans plus tard, cette chanson a gardé toutes les cellules de son originalité et de son attrait. Comme la plupart de leurs chansons, The Chauffeur a brillamment résisté à l'épreuve du temps.

3. Come Undone: Il ya quelque chose de rassurant dans la belle mélodie de celle-ci. Une parfaite mélancolie. Et d'un point de vue de compositeur / producteur, Come Undone pourrait être la seule chanson mettant en vedette cette boucle de rythme sur-utilisée des années 90 ,ayant gardé sa fraîcheur d’origine. Une de leurs plus belles mélodies à ce jour.

4. Skin Trade (version album, pas le single edit): Pour moi, c'est l'un des peaks musical de Duran. Une pièce fortement influencée par Prince et Les Rolling Stones. Un son black que j’adore. La structure de la chanson, les accords, et bien sûr le solo de trompette remarquable durant le bridge ... Ça c’est de la musique! Produit par le funkmaster Nile Rodgers.

5. Lady Xanax: Duran a de nombreux visages musicaux, et celui que j'aime le plus, évidemment ,compte tenu de mes choix, c'est ce côté plus riche,sombre,et intellectuel. Lady Xanax est un bon exemple de la richesse et jusqu’où peut aller musicalement Duran. Cela pourrait presque être une chanson de Pink Floyd ou de Radiohead. Rien de commercial ou de pop dans cellle-ci. Un diamant peu connu tiré de l’album alternatif : Pop Trash.

Bonus ;.) : Save A Prayer (version album, pas le single edit): Ces gars là étaient déjà des maîtres de la mélodie pop dès leurs débuts. J'adore l'intro, la ligne de basse, l'ambiance ... un véritable classique des années quatre-vingt, et toujours un moment particulier pendant un spectacle du band.

Vidéos préférés:
1. Girls On Film (non censuré): Parce que J’aime la glace,c’est tout.

2. Perfect Day : J'aime les couleurs et les textures de celui-ci, il est visuellement superbe. J'aime les fleurs lancées qui contrastent avec les mots "destroy" et "hate". (Sans mentionner qu'ils ont fait un hommage emarquable à Lou Reed avec cette reprise).

[DDTTRH, Kirk]: Est ce que Duran Duran vous a inspiré en tant que chanteur / auteur et compositeur? Si oui,dites-nous comment:
[LeClair]: Leur sensibilité pop m'a certainement influencée, comme beaucoup d'autres artistes que j'aime qui ont réussi à créer quelque chose de nouveau et d’unique: Prince (mon idole), Peter Gabriel (un autre idole), Radiohead, David Sylvian, David Bowie, The Velvet Underground, The Police, The Beatles (mes maitres),The Rolling Stones (autres maitres), Massive Attack, Daniel Lanois, U2, Björk, etc.

[DDTTRH, Kirk]: Quels sont vos projets pour l'avenir ... tout ce que vous aimeriez partager?

[LeClair]: Eh bien,une de mes vieilles chansons "New York In Smoke" a été lancée il y a quelques mois sur iTunes et d’autres magasins de musique en ligne. J'ai l'intention de mettre de nombreuses autres pistes disponibles en ligne, et j’espère sortir quelques albums de matériel original ... J’ai beaucoup de matériel accumulé dans plusieurs styles différents qui a besoin de mixage et de mastering. Je fais de la musique depuis si longtemps,elle est toute ma vie!

Je vais également continuer à soutenir des organismes comme Amnesty International, Peta et d’autres causes. Essayer de faire de ce monde un meilleur endroit est important pour moi. En tant que citoyen de cette planète, je pense que c’est ma responsabilité d'essayer de faire quelque chose contre les injustices en tout genres.

... Et aussi,bien sur, entrer de force ,si il le faut ,cette bande de musicien de Birmingham dans Le Rock and Roll Hall Of Fame! ;.)

Merci DDTTRH, répondre à vos questions était très amusant.

Pour écouter la musique de LeClair (ou un message que Simon Le bon a laissé sur son répondeur quand il travaillé avec Duran Duran),ou pour rejoindre sa nouvelle page de musique sur facebook...visitez : www.myspace.com et http://www.facebook.com/pages/LeClair/18951943148?ref=mf

Pour en savoir plus sur "Duran Duran au Temple De La Renommée du Rock",et pour signer notre pétition. Visitez notre site web! : www.ddttrh.info

Interview with Eric Alexandrakis

ERIC ALEXANDRAKIS Is classically trained since the age of 6, and originally discovered by Duran Duran's John Taylor, [composer, producer, multi-instrumentalist] Alexandrakis has had dozens upon dozens of his songs licensed to various media. Also a pioneer in digital copyright protection [Alexandrakis produced the first digitally watermarked CD while in graduate school (technology developed by bluespike.com)], he is also a critically acclaimed Indie artist having three times entered the top 40 radio charts in the Adult Contemporary genre.


Eric has recently guest stared on Showtime’s hit show Dexter and has popped up on Oxygen’s Reality TV show ‘Bad Girl’s Club”! He set some time aside to interview with me about…well a potpourri of VERY COOL things from movies to music we covered it all and he is a REAL treat to chat with and a REAL inspiration to anyone that feels they could use some sunshine in their life!

Here is Eric Alexandrakis; have a seat and ENJOY~


LadyaslanDDTTRH: Do you think Duran Duran deserve to be in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame?

Eric Alexandrakis:

Well they do meet the requirements, and considering how much of an impact on music and pop culture they have had, it’s a no brainer.

LadyaslanDDTTRH: Are you a self taught musical talent or were you classically trained? At what age did you start to play music?

Eric Alexandrakis:

When I was a tiny tot, I would always try to make music out of anything I could find. I took classical piano lessons from age 6 to 16, and got heavily interested in John Williams, Mozart and Thomas Edison. In between I picked up as many instruments as I could get my hands on, while taking art classes, theater classes…then had my first recording session at age 16. From then on, I became heavily interested in production/sound engineering and learning everything I could about everything musical. So I’m a mix between schooled and self-taught. Mostly self-taught.

LadyaslanDDTTRH: What is your favorite Duran Duran song and video?

Eric Alexandrakis:

It’s hard to pick, but “New Moon On Monday”, “Ordinary World” and “Big Bang Generation” tends to stick out today. It might change tomorrow. “Big Bang” more so because of the killer production.

Videos…love what Nick Egan did with “White Lines”…those scratchy plates of color that are also in “Live Forever” by Oasis,…the black and white bits…the editing in “Too Much Information”, and what Ellen Von Unwerth did with color in “Electric Barbarella”…especially the super 8 bits in the beginning…I think they were super 8. I have one of her books, she’s really cool.

LadyaslanDDTTRH: How would you describe the specific style and sound of your music to any New Wave/ Electro/ fans that hadn't’ heard your music before?

Eric Alexandrakis:

Since I write a lot of for TV, it tends to vary according to what someone wants. What I enjoy playing with the most is a sort of electro/rock vibe, where I blend electronic elements, with acoustic ones to create color and tension. I’m a big fan of early 60’s, 70’s albums that sound raw and almost like they were done in one take with imperfections. John Lennon’s first solo album has a sound to it especially that I love. I like to retain that in some things, but I also love totally perfect sounding records that have uniqueness, like the ones that come out of Anthony Resta’s Studio Bopnique. That’s the best sounding stuff coming into the world today that I know of.

LadyaslanDDTTRH: What contributions do you feel Duran Duran has made to the world of music and fashion in the past 30 yrs?

Eric Alexandrakis:

The thing about DD is that their contributions go well beyond the obvious, and I think only mentioning that part isn’t really an accurate representation.

The musical style has always been a unique approach, but what makes them more unique than any other artist is how their careers have merged musical elements, with fashion, design, technology, artistic evolution and “extracurricular activities”. By the latter I mean things like side projects, John’s fashion designs with Juicy, Simon’s work with Nick Wood (which by the way, most people probably don’t know this but SYN is the most in demand music production house in Japan, perhaps even Asia), Nick’s side projects/art, Roger’s DJ’ing… I also like how their musical style was stretched during the 90’s, which is always an important thing for artists to do.

You also have technological firsts. Most of the general public has no idea that a Duran Duran song was the first track to be downloaded off of the internet via Liquid Audio. Aside from everything else they’ve done, if being the first downloaded band in history isn’t worthy of induction into the rock and roll hall of fame, then the whole thing is a sham.

There are a ton of interesting/important accomplishments that the general public has no idea about, as when a band like DD becomes as big as they have…more than once…the largeness of the image tends to supercede the other stuff. I’d like for all them (as a band and as individual artists) to be recognized for more than just the obvious. One just needs to look.

LadyaslanDDTTRH: What Duran Duran song would you like to remake if you could and why?

Eric Alexandrakis:

I have no idea, I wouldn’t even bother. More fun to listen to the records.

LadyaslanDDTTRH: Tell us about the digitally watermark CD that you support in regards to copyright protection…

Eric Alexandrakis:

One of my best friends invented the digital watermark (bluespike.com), and came to my department head when I was in graduate school at The University of Miami School of Music to test his technology out on a release. I was producing an album for the school’s record label, and we had decided to embed the technology within the cd as a test. I was super excited about it because it was obvious what the impact would be, so Scott Moskowitz (the inventor) and I became really great friends, and together we oversaw some of the initial testing. Over the years I watched it evolve, was involved in some additional testing, and it’s amazing to see how it’s applied today. I remember several years ago sitting in Berlin reading a newspaper article about how a rough cut of the first “Hulk” movie had been put online illegally. Due to the technology embedded within the promo, I think the FBI was able to trace the kid that did it in like less than a week. Now it’s everywhere.

LadyaslanDDTTRH: Tell us how you met and rock out with your unique and innovative crew: Steve Ferrone, Warren Cuccurullo, and Anthony J Resta? What is your favorite creation the four of you have created together thus far?

Eric Alexandrakis:

We all have this common thread, DD, and my music production/licensing company. My company represents/works with a lot of high profile artists, and those three guys were people I wanted to work with. We became friends over the years, and since I already do composing and licensing of my own material to various media, I thought it would be cool to create a scoring collective of sorts to try something new. I’ve been anti-collaboration for years due to some bad experiences, but I’ve started to snap out of that. Plus when you have access to those types of musical abilities, it’s very hard to not want to immerse one’s self in their talents to learn from the best. I consider myself a life-long student of music, more than anything.

We started planning the project early last year, but had a few bumps along the way as everyone is involved in lots of things, so getting together is always difficult. A few demos were being passed around, which were really cool, but due to commitments it was hard to get locked down. We had a 5th member early on as well, Roger O’Donnell of The Cure, who had too many commitments and had to drop out right before the 5 of us had made plans to have some sessions in LA. He’s a great friend and super amazing talent, you should check him out.

We’ve only really been full-on planning and solicitation wise since about April of this year, and that’s been mostly organizational and paperwork related. We have a lot of interest, so now it’s a matter of moving into the next stage of promo, which we are almost at. We’re also working on new music (long distance for now), and will probably get together once Steve is off the road and has rested from his round the world twice in a few months stint! It’s incredibly exciting, as we aren’t limited to one approach or style, and don’t have to answer to anyone but ourselves.

LadyaslanDDTTRH: If you could have a sit down with any member of Duran Duran who would it be and what would be topic of discussion? ( I have a feeling you have done this already ha-ha )

Eric Alexandrakis:

Being artists and adventurists…if that’s even a word, I’d take them to hike the Gorge of Samaria in Crete, and to the Minoan Palace of Knossos. That would stimulate lots of interesting discussion I think.

LadyaslanDDTTRH: When can fans expect the single “Mediterranean Sea” with John Taylor of Duran Duran to be released? What is the theme of the song and how did you both contribute to the genesis of this song?

Eric Alexandrakis:

You’ve really done your homework! “Mediterranean Sun” will be out next Summer, and probably end of this year in Australia, as their Summer is in December. Promo can take ridiculously long to plan, and this is part of a new album project of mine called “Terra”. It’s a travel themed album, whose over 30 songs were written and recorded in a matter of hours. 97% of the whole album was done in one take. I’ve been releasing a new single every two weeks since Spring, and I have an EP called “Terra Firma” coming out on August 30th via iTunes.

The song came about when I was on the beach in Rethymno (Crete) filming over exposed shapes, waves and pretty girls with black and white super 8 film. The chorus came to me then, and the rest just flowed. I asked John if he would mind playing on it, and he graciously said yes. He was going to play on another one as well called “London Girls”, but there was no time. Was lucky to have him on one. He’s been very encouraging over the years with my material, and I’ll always be very grateful.

LadyaslanDDTTRH: If you don’t mind, would you share with our readers the trials and tribulations you went through when you battled cancer ( twice )? What form did you get diagnosed with? Has it changed the way you view life and yourself in general? *My father is a Prostate cancer survivor….going on 10 yrs cancer free, your story hits home with me*

Eric Alexandrakis:

I’m very glad to hear your Dad is doing well. They say if everything is ok for ten years, then you’re in the clear

I had Hodgkin’s in my chest twice. The first time I kept getting this pain in my left chest, had no idea what it was. With these things we tend to ignore and assume it’ll pass, but it kept getting sharper and lasting longer…sometimes for two weeks straight.

Finally one day I was lifting some weights and noticed a lump on my chest. I thought that I’d pulled a muscle, as it was really hard and strange. Soon thereafter I was diagnosed and started 6 months of chemotherapy. I essentially had a tumor the size of a fist pushing through my rib cage.

During the 6 months I had chemo every two weeks, which would leave me nauseated for about 5 days. To keep myself from losing my mind, I recorded an album called “I.V. Catatonia” during the 6 months of treatment on a friend’s borrowed 4-track recorder. It was a lot of fun creating, smashing stuff in the garage, I had very little to work with and borrowed instruments from friends. The album has my chemo nurse on the cover.

At the same time I was producing a band called Eyes of Pandora, mixing another album and getting ready for pre-production on a record by an artist that had recently been dropped from Atlantic Records. I was probably overdoing it, as I remember being in a big studio having to barf in between my guitar takes. Looking back it was actually quite funny, in a sort of twisted way.

For about a year I was clear, then it came back. I then had to have a stem-cell transplant, with a month’s stay in a germ free “bubble” in the hospital, with about 8 blood transfusions, chemo, crappy food…but pretty nurses. The day I was admitted, I ended up having a catheter cut and pushed into the side of my throat, pushed into my heart and pulled out of a hole in my chest…without anesthesia…twice! After that, I realized I could handle just about anything.

The relapse made me paranoid, impatient and a little nuts…and it took several years to get back to “normal”.

LadyaslanDDTTRH: How did you come to work with John Taylor of Duran Duran & Patty Palazzo ( of Juicy and Punkmaster.com) on John’s solo album Japan ( 1999 )?

Eric Alexandrakis:

I met John at a solo show, gave him some of my tapes, and a few months later he and Patty approached me to sell my first album “9 Demos On A 4-Track” on Trust The Process. I’ve always been heavily into photography, and sent Patty the pics from the show I had met them at, which they put on the site and used in the CD. I’ve admired Patty’s designs for a very long time, and love her Punkmasters line. We’ve been friends ever since.

LadyaslanDDTTRH: How did you come to have a supporting role in the hit Showtime series Dexter

Eric Alexandrakis:

It was nothing major really, the casting agent called me to do it, and I said ok. It was a new experience doing TV, and more than anything I was curious to see how the whole process worked. Almost got my fingers smashed by a sliding van door during a scene, and had fun with the main cop dude that wears a hat all of the time.

LadyaslanDDTTRH: What was your overall experience in filming Miami Vice with Colin Farrell and Jamie Foxx?

Eric Alexandrakis:

Totally fascinating. Loved watching the process, being directed by Michael Mann, watching him plan out a scene… CF and JF were very cool. JF was gangsta rapping in Bill Cosby’s voice, and CF was either drinking or smoking for 3 days straight. I was in a bunch of scenes, but only one or two made it into the film. Burned my scalp, got slightly dehydrated, and drove some fancy cars. It was a fun experience, but I didn’t like the movie.

LadyaslanDDTTRH: Tell the readers about how you entered the Top 40 radio charts….when…where…and which songs….

Eric Alexandrakis:

My Christmas song “Here Comes The Snow!” was promoted to U.S. adult contemporary radio, and charted in the top 40 three years in a row. I think it peaked at #22. Every so often someone texts or calls me during the holiday seasons, saying that they are shopping in a store and they hear that song on the speakers. That’s always fun.

LadyaslanDDTTRH: Anything you would like to share with your fans?

Eric Alexandrakis:

Keep in touch!

To learn more about Duran Duran to the Rock Hall - Official Effort (DDTTRH) and to sign our petition, please visit our hub site http://ddttrh.info/.

Interview with The Unquiet Void

The Unquiet Void is the electronic alter ego of Jason Wallach. Since 1989, he has created a unique style of synthesized ambiance that stirs the soul and stimulates the mind.

Working as a one-man electronic orchestra, Jason composes pieces of celestial ambiance. He has honed his stylings on numerous compilations, usually paying tribute to those artists that had influenced him over his decade long musical career. Covers of David Bowie, Lycia and Black Tape for a Blue Girl as well as original compositions have gained The Unquiet Void an international following of ethereal and ambient music fans.

On the strength of these songs Jason is sought after for soundtrack work and has scored the independent film Scorpio from Phantom Productions. Scorpio is the first full length CD from The Unquiet Void. He continues to score for computer-animated films in addition to TUV.

The Unquiet Void may be down... but it is not out! Coming soon will be the digital release of the "Closet Space" score to the indie Lovecraft inspired horror film from director Mel House. This may be followed by a limited CD release as well - stay tuned. The film will finally see DVD release in October 2010. Also, the album "The Bursted Soul" under the moniker PUREE OF HEART (The Unquiet Void vs. 4th Sign of the Apocalypse) has been submitted for CD release overseas. We'll keep you posted.

Jason Wallach is an old friend of Ladyaslan and he took some time to chat about his unique music and soundtrack work with moi~ I give you The Unquiet Void:

LadyaslanDDTTRH: Do you think Duran Duran deserve to be in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame?

The Unquiet Void: There's no doubt in my mind about that! I certainly feel that their first three albums were genius. I guess I'm a little surprised to hear that they're not in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

LadyaslanDDTTRH: Are you a self taught musician or were you classically trained? At what age did you start to play music?

The Unquiet Void: I have no musical training whatsoever; I operate purely on expressing emotional discovery and growth unless I'm exorcising personal demons which tend to slow me down at times. The writing process is basically my sitting down and touching base with myself and I play what I feel, whatever clicks within me.

LadyaslanDDTTRH: What is your favorite Duran Duran song and video?

The Unquiet Void: My favorite video, I would have to say, is "Waiting for the Night Boat" which is a fairly eerie song. That and the giant coconut crabs scuttling across the beach. I haven't seen it in a good many years but I remember feeling fairly unnerved by it as a kid. My favorite song, hands down, is "The Chauffer" because I can't fathom a more brilliantly visual and beautifully arresting song that they've done.

LadyaslanDDTTRH: How would you describe the specific style and sound of your music to any Ambient/ Electro/ fans that hadn't’ heard your music before?

The Unquiet Void: Well I would describe it as dark-ambient and ethereal. There are some very tribal qualities about some of the earlier work and then you also have something of a pop song in "Breathing Liquid Breath" so I really think of my music like Legos, the basis is that they're all blocks but you can add and / or subtract various components at any given time. I feel the music is sometimes confrontational, sometimes whimsical and always true to me.

LadyaslanDDTTRH: What contributions do you feel Duran Duran has made to the world of music and fashion in the past 30 yrs?

The Unquiet Void: You know Duran Duran was somewhat of a sexual awakening for me. The ambient / ethereal pop qualities of their music merged with such a strong sexually playful charge. Interestingly enough the vibe was never one of chauvinism, Duran Duran were much more insightful and creative than that. This was the first exposure to that sort of thing that I ever had. I think their music is extremely articulate and, as mentioned before, insightful. Sure they were a pop band but they had something to say and were unapologetic in doing so. They were commanders of the new-romantic era of music alongside artists like Gary Numan and John Foxx. I think Duran Duran defined a generation. They were accompanied by the visual tailoring of director Russell Mulcahey whose work was just as stunning as their music. Very emotional and stylish stuff! Mulcahey's film Razorback is pertaining to an abnormally large and incredibly ill pig stalking the Australian outback. It also contains some of the most beautiful cinematography ever committed to film.

LadyaslanDDTTRH: What Duran Duran song would you like to remake if you could and why?

The Unquiet Void: I have been waiting until I'd be ready to do a cover of "Planet Earth." There's something uniquely science-fiction and intensely erotic about that piece. It's also extremely well written and groovy as hell. It's dark and tantalizing and I've always been very taken by it.

LadyaslanDDTTRH: Tell us about your soundtrack work with the indie film Scorpio and the others? How did you get involved in that area of music making?

The Unquiet Void: Well I was friends with a guy who wanted to make a film and I sent him some music and he immediately decided I was the guy for the job. I had been developing and evolving my sound and technique since I was 15 in 1989. I saw this as my golden opportunity to have the post production and mastering of my first album paid for. To be quite honest I completed most of the work on the material on that album before I ever even read the script. I honestly didn't care much for the script from the get go but I spoke with my mother about the significance of the astrological sign, of which there are references in the film. So I based the additional material I created for the CD off of those properties rather than the script. That's how I came to be involved in film scoring. The film was given limited release on DVD by Cutthroat Video back in 2002 I believe. I did the make-up effects for the film and have a ridiculous cameo in it as well. The DVD features the director's cut of the film entitled Dark Night of the Soul.

LadyaslanDDTTRH: Tell us about the score of Closet Space? What is the film about and why did you decide to score it?

The Unquiet Void: Closet Space is a Lovecraft-inspired indie horror film about a group of scientists who are assembled to investigate the disappearance of their professor and his team. Looming over this occurrence is the fact that a parallel universe was discovered and the entrance to this plane is through a closet door. That's all I'm going to say about it... it's a really cool little film and I am overjoyed to have been a part of it. I sent director Mel House a friend request on MySpace back in 2007 and literally the next day I get a message asking me if I wanted to score his film which had roots in Lovecraft's universe. I took a look at the initial trailer which was comprised of footage from the excursion gone awry and was completely impressed by what I saw and how it was handled. I'm a big fan of good horror stories where something terrible happens that you only get glimpses of and then you spend the rest of the film discovering what the hell is going on. Mel does that theme a great deal of justice in this film. I have a tremendous amount of love and respect for Mel having worked on this with him... he had complete faith in me and gave me 99% creative control. What I mean by that is once I got what it was he was after he knew I could do it to his satisfaction and off I went.

The score for this film is very weird and cosmic. It's dark and very experimental too. Mel and I share a great love of 70's & 80's horror films and a track I did for the score titled "Descent" is my homage to Ennio Morricone's score for John Carpenter's The Thing. One bit of trivia I will fill you in on is that I am unaccredited as a sound FX artist on the film... this was a last minute favor Mel asked of me in preparing the film for post-production. I know some of the sounds have since been changed and that's fine by me as long as one very specific scene bears my sound FX mark... and trust me, you WILL know the scene when you see it! (evil grin) The film is available for pre-order on DVD at Amazon.com.

LadyaslanDDTTRH: If you could have a sit down with any member of Duran Duran who would it be and what would be topic of discussion? ( I have a feeling you have done this already ha-ha )

The Unquiet Void: I think it would be with Nick Rhodes because he weirded me out the most as a kid. I think I would want to know why he so closely resembled Andy Warhol and I would want him to show me his synthesizer that created all those amazing arpeggiated rhythms back in the day.


LadyaslanDDTTRH: When can fans expect a new single….new CD….new live show? Or is The Unquiet Void going to disappear for a while?

The Unquiet Void: The Unquiet Void has disappeared for a while following the creation of my second Lovecraft based album "The Shadow-Haunted Outside." Being as deep in Lovecraft's universe as I was and using his work as a platform to deal with my own emotional detritus was an intense combination and repelled me from even doing music anymore at all. Coming full circle now I know I have more in me that still needs to be realized out loud it just needs to be a lot less Nihilistic than that album. So I think I'm distanced enough from that time and I'm ready to begin work on something new. In fact, I am already working on the planning and construction of something new and for now it's mostly on the down-low. As far as live shows go I would love to play live again being I have only done it once before back in December of 2004 at the Middle Pillar Christmas party in NYC. Great experience there! I'd love to play in NC, SC, GA & FL... NYC again for sure and especially RI because of the Lovecraft work. We'll see, I'll need some time to plan something, I'm certainly open to the experience.

LadyaslanDDTTRH: Anything you would like to share with your fans?

The Unquiet Void: There is going to be a third Lovecraft album! It will harken back to the tale "At The Mountains of Madness" and occur prior to Poisoned Dreams and The Shadow-Haunted Outside.

To learn more about Duran Duran to the Rock Hall - Official Effort (DDTTRH) and to sign our petition, please visit our hub site http://ddttrh.info/."

TO FOLLOW THE UNQUIET VOID:
http://www.wix.com/jsnwallach/the-unquiet-void
http://www.facebook.com/#!/The.Unquiet.Void?ref=ts
http://www.myspace.com/theunquietvoid

Petition to Glee on behalf of Duran Duran and DDTTRH

For you Gleeks out there...this is a letter I sent out today, petitioning them to do a show on Duran Duran. I hope something comes of it! I will keep you informed!

Dear Glee (at Fox),
I became addicted to your show recently, thanks to my lovely wife's interest in it. I must say, I love the themes, characters, the interactions between the characters, and especially the music. I'm writing
because I can see an opportunity in your show to possibly support (even if indirectly) my grassroots movement, Duran Duran to the Rock Hall (DDTTRH).

This effort began in Cleveland, Ohio (close to the school where you set your show and home of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame) and its main message is to drive awareness that Duran Duran meets the criteria for Rock Hall inclusion AND has an impressive collection of songs from 1978 to the present day AND should be inducted. Not only this, but if you compare Duran Duran to other Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductees, you would find that the number of awards they've received and the innovation with music videos introduced (through MTV, for example early on in their career) is more than enough reason to have them inducted.

Here are some interesting things about our effort that Glee might find interesting:

* We have an open petition at http://www.thepetitionsite.com/1/duran-duran-to-the-rock-hall-of-fame/ and we are getting signatures from all around the world.
* Each week, we release on average 2 band/artist interviews...bands that have come forth and told us why they think Duran Duran belongs in the Rock Hall. Some noteable supporters include: Scarlet Soho, Scissor Sisters, M. Douglas Silverstein (writer/producer), Your Vegas, Uru, and Chicanery (Neil Carlill and Warren Cuccurullo--who used to play for Duran Duran).
* We have released press articles. Our first was in the Barrie Examiner of Ontario Canada. Please visit our www.ddttrh.info site and click on 'In the Press' for articles on this. We are set to release another one with the 'Sun Press' here in the Cleveland community.
* We have done a wealth of research on the band...including what they've done for the community, modern bands who have said they've been influenced by the band, and appearences of them in TV and Film.
* We have online presences on Facebook, Myspace, Twitter, Blogger, and Youtube (2 videos released to date!).
* We are in the process of translating our message into Spanish and French.
* We have a dedicated staff (one of the staff is a published award winning poet from the UK), all committed to making this thing happen. To learn more about them, please go to www.ddttrh.info and click the 'DDTTRH Staff' link.
* We have an official logo (below), a flier (attached) and are releasing t-shirts soon!


So, on behalf of DDTTRH (for more information, see www.ddttrh.info), I would like to formally petition that Glee have a special episode for Duran Duran. I even had some ideas that I think would work for the
characters...as follows:

* Kurt would relate well to Nick Rhodes and his liking for makeup. Plus, the band itself is all about 'glam and fashion' which Kurt would be attracted to.
* Finn might relate well to Simon LeBon because he is a pretty boy and a good singer.
* I'm imagining a scene between Emma and Will with 'Come Undone'.
* Since the kids feel so out of place, perhaps the song 'Ordinary World' would be applicable to them
* Or, if you go with a theme like Quinn struggling with fitting back into the Cheerios (plus the separation from her parents) after having the baby, you could go with 'Falling Down'.
* If the cast gets the opportunity to go on a yacht because they've won a major contest, 'Rio' would be a great choice.
* We have a flier that could be posted all over the High School next to the Glee sign-up lists!


Really, the depth, breadth and number of Duran Duran songs can leave you a lot to work with.

Thank you, I look forward to hearing from you about this proposal.

Sincerely,

Kirk Harrington
Lead Effort Organizer, Duran Duran to the Rock Hall - Official Effort
www.ddttrh.info

Open position: Lead Blogger Specialist

DDTTRH is seeking a Lead Blogger Specialist to jazz up our Blogger site and help post blogs in multiple languages on a regular basis. If interested, please email Kirk by going to www.ddttrh.info and clicking the 'Contact' link.

Thanks! Kirk

Lead Spanish Translator, Hanna Cruz

I am pleased to announce that we have a new staff member at DDTTRH, Hanna Cruz. She has volunteered to be our new Lead Spanish translator...and she's already working hard to translate our artist interviews into Spanish! Here's more about her...from her...

"I was born and raised (and still live) in La Romana in the Dominican Republic, I recently graduated from high school and I just started studying marketing at a local university. In my free time I gawk over cosmetics, fashion and pop culture, and I am currently attending beauty school.

I'm a relatively new fan -- I've been a fan from around the time Astronaut was released. The first song that had caught my attention was "What Happens Tomorrow"; I remember liking the message and musically it was very beautiful as well. After that, I had heard a couple more songs by them (such as "Notorious" or "Come Undone") but none of them really caught my attention for some reason. It wasn't until I watched the "Rio" video and listened to the song that my senses were hooked, it sounded unlike anything else I had heard before. I am from a younger generation so it's not like I had heard much of Duran Duran before, but after watching so much fun on the screen and listening such harmony of instruments I knew I had to know more about them.

What I love about the band is their ability to change album after album, not wanting to be caged in one style only and there is always that constant desire to be better musicians in every sense. I can enjoy an album like Rio and then listen to Medazzaland right after because I can appreciate not just the great, intricate music in these albums but also the heart and soul put into them by the band. They hold a very special place in my life, to me there always seem to be a Duran song for every feeling I am going through, and they have definitely have broadened my musical tastes; if it weren't for them, I wouldn't have even heard of more than half the artists I love now!

For all their musical achievements, and also because they do meet all the criteria required, the band should be inducted to the Rock and Roll Hall, and also to create general awareness about the significance of Duran Duran within the music industry and within the public.

I am so glad to be joining this campaign and the staff of DDTTRH and I really hope that with all our joint efforts we'll be able to achieve our goal -- and all while having fun at it!"

Hanna

Interview with Amber Ghosh

Amber Ghosh is a photographer and has a quite the following! Amber shoots couples and group shots to fashion and concerts and events. She’s a Graphic designer/Retouching/Photo Restoration expert and TFP/TFCD available . Amber loves photography & is a makeup connoisseur and quite the dinosaur enthusiast and feels “life is but a dream”

Amber spoke to Ladyaslan of DDTTRH about what she does and her thoughts on Duran Duran going to the Rock Hall…here is the interview~

LadyaslanDDTTRH: Do you think Duran Duran deserves to be in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame?

Amber Ghosh: Absolutely! To be quite honest, when you approached me for this interview and I read about your petition, I was shocked they weren't already in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. How could such a thing be true?!

LadyaslanDDTTRH: Tell us about yourself...what makes you tick? How long have you been involved in photography?

Amber Ghosh: What makes me tick, that is a tough one. I've always been drawn to what some might consider 'strange'. I am always looking for things that push the visual aesthetic, be that through fashion, fine arts, movies, music videos, makeup, photography or even food! I think that is what drew me into photography. Photography in itself encompasses all of those things. I can take my camera to a concert and convey the raw sensation of an over the top light show or I can visit a quiet art gallery on a Sunday morning and snap candid pictures of a mother explaining an interactive art piece to her son. With photography, I can encapsulate all of those visually appealing (or assaulting) genres with one fell swoop.

How long have I been involved in photography? Well, if you want to be technical about it, I started as a photographer for my yearbook in middle school. I went around campus and went to football games taking pictures, and then put together a collage (hand cut, in the days before Photoshop :P) that went into our yearbook. Since then, I've always been the "friend who has the camera" taking a million pictures at every party, family trip or rock show. Now, I've left that middle ground of enthusiast and am breaking into professional.

LadyaslanDDTTRH: What is your favorite Duran Duran song and video?

Amber Ghosh: My Favorite Duran Duran song is Come Undone. I know A LOT of people probably say that, but come on... it's an AMAZING song! I had it on every mix tape I made in the 90's. Electric Barbarella is a close second, and is my favorite Duran Duran video. Often when I'm shooting with female models, the song & video for Electric Barbarella are playing in my mind. I take a lot of photographic inspiration from that song.

LadyaslanDDTTRH: Tell us about the event you shot: Destroyed The Future, Electric Gods Are Industry?

Amber Ghosh: Oh that was a fun one! That even took place at The Scoot Inn here in Austin, TX and was organized by my fiancé, Avi. 5 bands played: Destroyed For Comfort, The Future Process, Pulse Electric, Gods Are Ghosts, and Art Versus Industry. I named the event by combining all of the bands' names. It was a great night, I was having so much fun talking to members of the crowd, I hardly got any shots of the bands playing and focused more on getting pictures of the antics of the audience... especially as they had more and more to drink!

LadyaslanDDTTRH: What contributions do you feel Duran Duran has made to the world of music and fashion in the past 30 yrs?

Amber Ghosh: I think they have contributed more than people give them credit for. Most of their videos are fantastical and surreal, which is the exact direction high fashion has taken. Oddly, fashion and music seem to be melding into one giant puddle of synthesizers and spiked heels *cough* Lady Gaga *cough*. I'm not sure whether to thank Duran Duran or give them a slap on the wrist at some points, but it safe to say they had a huge hand in combining popular music with fashion and vanity.

LadyaslanDDTTRH: When did you decide / realize that photography was your ultimate calling?

Amber Ghosh: It wasn't until mid-2008 that I started to consider photography as a profession. I took my Canon point & shoot with me everywhere, had friends model for me, took pictures of my fiancé's band and finally realized, "This is what I want to do". It was an odd and liberating awakening for me. 2 years, one D-SLR camera & 4 lenses later here I am, trying to make a name for myself.

LadyaslanDDTTRH: You have a pic on your FB website: Samantha with the blue eye shadow and lace over the face (I had a hat that the black lace covered the face like that in the mid 80's ) JUST FANTASTIC!! What was the motivation for this shoot?

Amber Ghosh: Thank you! I love these shots, and I love lace. Samantha, the model, brought this amazing lace hair bow with her the day of the shoot. After I did her makeup, we put on the hair bow and I realized that if we put it on upside down the lace would cover her face. I've had some people tell me it's a bit grim, as if she is some glamorous widow mourning the death of her husband. I take that as a compliment, honestly. Anytime I can evoke a feeling in someone with my photos, be it positive or negative I consider it a success. I also think Samantha and I were both influenced by the fashion in IAMX & Imogen Heap's video "My Secret Friend". We had been discussing it recently, and I think it bled into our look for that shoot.

LadyaslanDDTTRH: Will or would you ever consider publishing a book of your work ( the shots you take ) for a coffee table type book?

Amber Ghosh: Yes, I definitely would. To see my work published would be a dream come true. To see it on someone's coffee table would be an even bigger dream come true.

LadyaslanDDTTRH: The 1/2 of Destroyed for comfort and 1/3 of Art Versus Industry photo ( INCREDIBLE he was the SIMON game~ LOL ) what is the story behind that shot?

Amber Ghosh: Ha-ha, well that was really just a candid shot before all of the bands started playing. The guy from Destroyed For Comfort, Ralf, always has the BEST outfits for their live performances. When I saw that he was the Simon game, I just had to get a picture of it! Avi made that silly face and there you go, priceless shot!

LadyaslanDDTTRH: If you could have a sit down with any member of Duran Duran who would it be and what would be topic of discussion?

Amber Ghosh: It would have to be Nick Rhodes. The topic of discussion would, surprisingly, not be about music, but rather his experience with art and photography. I'd love to pick his brain about his book of abstract Polaroid photography "Interference," and his experiences with Andy Warhol and The Factory. Then I'd probably beg him to model for me.

LadyaslanDDTTRH: Anything you want to speak about or share with the fans?

Amber Ghosh: Just that I am so grateful for all of the positive response I've received so far, and invite everyone to check out my portfolio page on I have a lot of incredibly creative projects coming up, and I think, if anyone, fans of Duran Duran will appreciate the vision I'm trying to achieve.

To learn more about Duran Duran to the Rock Hall - Official Effort (DDTTRH) and to sign our petition, please visit our hub site http://ddttrh.info/.

FOLLOW Amber Ghosh:

Facebook at: http://facebook.com/ambersphotos

MySpace at: http://www.myspace.com/amberghosh

Twitter: http://twitter.com/amberghosh

Deviant Art: http://amberghosh.deviantart.com/

Blog: http://amberghosh.com/

Interview with Massive Ego

Massive Ego are:

MARC MASSIVE (vocals)
OLLY FROST (synth)
ANDY JT (synth)
COLLAGEN GIRL (synth)

Genre:

Electro-Pop-New Wave

Hometown:

London.UK

Record label:

ZYX (Germany)/Klone/Academy St (UK)/Avex (Japan

Massive Ego comprises of lead vocalist Marc Massive, Olly Frost, Andy JT and Collagen Girl. Over the years there have been several line-up changes for the band since being formed in 1996 with fellow school friend Andy Thirlwall however the consistent factor in the band is front man Marc. Who over the last decade has modeled for Dolce and Gabbana, Paul Smith, Yoji Yamamoto, appeared in various pop videos for the likes of Elton John, Take That, Holly Johnson, Wet Wet Wet, Andy Taylor (Duran Duran), Boy George, Ezee Possee & advertising campaigns for Levis and Nikos 'Sculpture' parfum with model agency's Storm & So Dam Tuff, to name but a few. Over the years Marc has graced many magazine covers and has been the subject of much press interest.

He also spent time working as a dancer for Boy George and his project "Jesus Loves You" and MC Kinky. Massive Ego have participated in UK club tours and annual performances at the biggest Pride events and at celebrity parties including supporting Sigue Sigue Sputnik on tour, performing at Steve Strange's (Visage) book launch in London and were watched at The Salon on Channel 5, & Celebrity Big Brother’s Little brother for Channel 4. Performances have also included Manchester's Mardi Gras, Euro Pride, Brighton Pride, Summer Rites, and London's Finsbury Park in front of over 10,000 people at Big Gay Out. As well as clubs the length and breath of the UK including Heaven, Sound, Limelight, Ghetto, Flamingos & Trannyshack to name a few. Massive Ego have seen UK single releases on Academy Street Records, & Klone Records.

Promo videos for Planet Earth & Supernature were released on two DVD music compilations CLUB VISION and CLUB VIDEO playing in shopping malls, bars & clubs in the USA. 2004 saw Marc Massive establish himself as an underground DJ in London. His first residency was the Friday nighter PopCell which ran for 3 years at Central Station in Kings Cross. Marc has also DJ'd in the VIP Lounge at Church in The Cafe De Paris, The Black Cap, Soho Revue Bar, The Green, & Cuckoo Couture & XXL. Marc with his partner & fellow band mate Olly Frost, also curate the extremely successful art/club event ACT ART now in its 6th year. The band released several singles on UK labels Academy Street, and recently Klone Records, as well as releases in Japan, Australia & America.

With many tracks appearing on compilation CD's over the years. Marc has sang duets with DJ Dusty O on the single 'My Heart Goes Bang' and the electro track based on Visage's 'The Anvil'...'Nite Klub Skewl' produced by club DJ legend Tasty Tim. The debut album 'Nite Klub Skewl' is out now on Klone Records, receiving rave reviews in Boyz,QX,The London Paper,F*@k Magazine,Bent to name a few, as well as recently being interviewed by a USA based podcast GoRainbowRadio.com.

Marc Massive completed guest vocals on producer Pianoman's (Blurred)track which has been put out under a new alter-ego Vile Child. PopCell the legendary pop trash nite promoted by Marc & Olly returned to a weekly Saturday nite slot at XXL in Arch 3 in the Autumn of 2007 for a 3 month residency. Marc & Olly have since taken a break from the club promotion to concentrate on other forthcoming projects.

Two new tracks 'Sex Drive' a cover of the Pete Burns/Glam 90's club hit and a cover of David Bowie's 'Hallo Spaceboy' have just been recorded by the band with GrooveSistersMedia. Also new is the 2008 version of MASTER & SERVANT produced by L.O.E.P production team. Mix package of SEX DRIVE / MASTER & SERVANT is on its way soon IN 2009...Watch this space boy!

LATEST NEWS: The band release their new second album through German dance label DANCE STREET/ZYX Records..MASTER & SERVANT is out now and features 15 tracks, plus 2 videos

Here is the juicy and fun and witty interview with Ladyaslan and Marc Massive from Massive Ego…they spoke about Massive Ego…art…freedom of speech…Nick Rhodes and all sorts of tomfoolery. Enjoy the interview~

LadyaslanDDTTRH: Do you think Duran Duran deserve to be in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame?

Marc Massive

I do think they get overlooked far too often for these kinds of accolades, although they did get a star on the Hollywood walk of fame and a lifetime achievement at the Brits. I’m sure their mantelpiece at home is bowing under the strain of all those awards that have quite deservedly been bestowed on them.

LadyaslanDDTTRH: How did you all come up with the name Massive Ego?

Marc Massive

The name came about as a response to the year’s I spent as a model at Kate Moss’s agency Storm models, and generally being around entertainment industry types who’s ego’s quite often outshone any resemblance of talent or personality, so naming the band Massive Ego was a bit of a piss take against that really.

LadyaslanDDTTRH: What is your favorite Duran Duran song and video?

Marc Massive

That’s a tough one to call with the size of their back catalogue. I enjoyed and loved tracks from every one of their albums and side projects but the ‘7 & The Ragged Tiger’ era was released at the height of my early teenage adolescence, with the sound and look of everything associated with that album being right on target for me. Nick Rhodes as any of my friends will tell you is my ‘pop god’ and has shaped my being and awareness of music more than any other artist. At this point in their career he single handedly had the ‘pretentious pop-star’ act down to a fine art and I love him for that. I spent many a lonely hour locked in my bedroom with photos of Nick, analyzing every minor detail to the point of obsession, attempting to transform my own hair and looks in his image. I've always loved the more melancholy atmospheric sound of Duran Duran such as 'Secret Oktober', 'The Chauffeur' (especially the Blue Silver acoustic version which I intend to have played at my funeral), 'We Need You', 'Winter Marches On', 'Someone Else Not Me' and 'Pop Trash Movie'. The Arcadia album and project still sounds as fresh as the day it was released, a very underrated album and one that I still love every single track and video from especially the extended Election Day video which ranks as one of my all time favourites.

LadyaslanDDTTRH: How would you describe the specific style and sound of Massive Ego to any New Wave/ Electro fans who hadn’t heard your band before?

Marc Massive

Electro meets dance pop best describes our sound; visually we are like the bastard child of Marilyn Manson and Pete Burns. We started off in the late 90's releasing hi energy dance covers through to trance and progressing to a more electro pop sound that we have now. The new material we are working on has a darker feel to it and will be less obvious dance floor orientated as previous tracks, although we always work with a variety of gifted remixers and producers to bring in the dance floor mixes for the different genres.

LadyaslanDDTTRH: What contributions do you feel Duran Duran has made to the world of music and fashion in the past 30 yrs?

Marc Massive

They made English pop credible in the US in the 80's and were probably our greatest export in those days. These days I love the fact that so many credible bands cite Duran as an influence and force to be reckoned with, just waiting now for their fashion influence to come back round again, although the recent Antony Price collections he designed exclusively for UK high street store Top Man had a definite nod and wink back to his old designs he did for Duran in the 80's.

LadyaslanDDTTRH: Tell us about Massive Ego's remake of Duran Duran's Planet Earth and why did you all pick that song?

Marc Massive

We recorded it way back at the end of 1999 and it became our second single on a small dance label in the UK called Academy Street records. It was a bit of an obvious choice for us as it was about to be the new millennium and everyone was reflecting on the state of the world and the damage the human race had inflicted on mother Earth and for me Planet Earth reflected these concerns and seemed apt to cover and update in a more club dance floor friendly way. We recorded it with a top producer friend of mine Barry Stone who was one half of the production remix team Jewels & Stone and it had that whole Sash sound going on which was very current in the late 90's. The 12" mix of the track is still one of my favourite tracks we've ever done, it was also the first video we got to do for a track, and considering the budget for it amounted to about £20 it turned out okay. I was thrilled at the time the single came out as I’d given a copy to my friend Antony Price (Duran's fashion designer) who played it to Nick in his car and reportedly loved our version of it and jokingly commented about me to Antony that 'If he's better looking than Simon's he's got the job!'.

PLANET EARTH VIDEO http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N6zw8toQZm0

LadyaslanDDTTRH: What would be your 2nd Duran Duran song Massive Ego would like to remake if you could and why?

Marc Massive

I was just thinking the other day that 'Pop Trash Movie' could make a good dance track, I'd love to give it a go for one of those Duran Duran tribute albums that get released occasionally, love to be on one of those, so if anyone here’s about such a project get in touch as I’d love to contribute something.

LadyaslanDDTTRH: When did Massive Ego originally form and how did you all meet?

Marc Massive

We formed in '86, originally as a duo with me and fellow Durannie school friend Andy on arriving in London and deciding we wanted to form a band. There's been several line-up changes over the years with members coming and going as the band changed styles and sounds. In the 90's we were a fully functioning indie band with guitarists and live drums, one of our guitarists Dan Black has recently gone onto huge success as a solo artist. We returned in the mid 90's as an electronic dance band and toured clubs the length and breadth of the UK and abroad. That's where we are now, a 3 piece which comprises of me on vocals, Olly my partner on synth & latest recruit the very sexy Collagen Girl on guitar synth. Original founder member Andy is also back in the fold writing and producing with us and doing the odd live show such as Pride London which we did in July on the main stage at Trafalgar Square.

LadyaslanDDTTRH: Tell us about the single Sex Drive- what was the public reaction and the thought behind the song?

Marc Massive

Sex Drive was originally written and recorded by Pete Burns from 80's band Dead or Alive; he recorded it in the 90's with Italian dance producers Glam. We were asked to cover it for a 90's compilation called 'I Love the 90's' and I liked the results so got a load of great mixes done for it and recently had it licensed in Germany. We've always had something of a pervy reputation as a band not so much through our off stage antics or sleeping with groupies in a Marilyn Manson manner, but through our visuals and band shoots so recording a track with a title like 'Sex Drive' fitted the biography perfectly.

LadyaslanDDTTRH: If you could have a sit down with any member of Duran Duran who would it be and what would be topic of discussion?

Marc Massive

Reminds me of a question Nick was once asked on kids TV 'If you could be a fly on the wall, who's wall would you be on and why?' and he answered 'John's' with no explanation as why..just a dirty laugh. Erm, I'd probably want to have tea with Nick and discuss the comings and goings of his sex life and delve into whether he's every batted for the other side, as I've got this hopeful feeling he has and does from time to time. I used to think him and Warren made quite a nice couple and see a similar thing going on with Mark Ronson...of course it's only wishful thinking on my behalf. I went to Nicks birthday party some years ago at Crazy Larry's club in Fulham and was sat with him at a table with Neil Tennant and some people I knew but didn't think it was an apt time to ask Nick about his sex life so I remained tight lipped and speechless.

LadyaslanDDTTRH: Tell us about Act-Art 8 Censored & how you're affiliated with that campaign?

Marc Massive

It's an annual art/club event that I co-curate with my partner Olly. Now in its 8th year and featuring 100+ artists and attracting 1000+ people through the door each event it's gone from strength to strength. It takes a good 4 months to organize and pulls in a huge amount of press interest. It's become such a big beast that when were organizing it everything else including the band has to take a back seat and is put on hold until it's over for another year.

LadyaslanDDTTRH: What was it like to dance and work with Boy George for his project "Jesus Loves You"

Marc Massive

I was very lucky to have worked with George, and got to travel to places I’d never been before and got the first taste and bug for performing from those years. I'd never really thought about picking up a microphone and forming a band before I’d worked with George, but once you get the chance to perform in front of huge audiences you want to do it all the time, it's very addictive. I've got some great memories from those years, and I’m glad I got the chance to do it as I doubt very much I'd be doing what I’m doing now without that leg up the ladder.

LadyaslanDDTTRH: What was it like to support Sigue Sigue Sputnik?

Marc Massive

Martin Degville's my neighbour now living round the corner from me and we often go for drinks and hang out. It was a shame the band split so acrimoniously but what I love about Martin as the front man is that he's kept it going and still tours under the Sigue Sigue Sputnik-Electronic name and is still making great music & visuals. If there's one 80's pop star autobiography that hasn't been written yet that I'd kill to read it's Martins, from the original Blitz kids days where Martin was one of the leading lights, to signing multi million pound record deals at the height of his Sputnik fame and notoriety and the excess rock 'n' roll years it'd be a great read. We got to support them quite a few times over the years and their fan base is still as hardcore as it ever was.

LadyaslanDDTTRH: How cool was it to perform at Steve Strange's ( Visage ) book (Blitzed) launch party in London 2002?

Marc Massive

God we sound like a load of 80's hanger on's don't we? lol, Steve's another friend and someone who's musical endeavors I've always admired and loved. Playing his book launch party in London was good fun, I remember being extra nervous that night as Burnsey (Pete Burns) and Steve Coy from DOA were in the audience to check us out for the first time and they were trying to nick my keyboard player Steady at the time to go on tour with them, which thankfully never materialized.

LadyaslanDDTTRH: What video did you appear in for or with Andy Taylor of ( Duran Duran )?

Marc Massive

I'm fleetingly in the 'Lola' video which Andy covered in the 90's. I got to cavort around on a sofa with a young lady and do some groovy moves in a dance floor scene while Andy mimed the single for the video. I was a bit gutted to be honest that it wasn't a Duran Duran video I was an extra in, in fact even more gutted that a few years later my then agent neglected to send me forward for the 'Electric Barbarella' casting, of which most of my friends & colleagues got a part in which made me immensely jealous of them all for weeks after and couldn't watch the video without spitting venom at the screen, I've got over it now.

LadyaslanDDTTRH: Anything you want to share with the fans?

Marc Massive

I once broke through security at Wembley Arena prior to a Duran Duran gig having waited at the back of the building all day with my friend when we both teenagers. We waited for Duran Duran to arrive in their cars and pull up to the gates at the back of the stadium, as the doors opened and the car drove in we both made a run for it and followed hot on the trail with instamatic cameras in hand hoping to get that exclusive shot..the car stopped for a moment and I saw John and Nick in the back seat turn to look at us both literally a few feet away, now had I had my wits about me that would have been the shot, but no I froze and at that moment the driver put his foot down and sped off leaving us both stood there with cameras up to our faces and no shot..we then escorted back out of the gate. That was the only time I acted like a crazed fan thankfully and bided my time and waited a few year's till I could actually meet them in a more mature manner. The things you do when you’re a teenage Durannie.

To learn more about Duran Duran to the Rock Hall - Official Effort (DDTTRH) and to sign our petition, please visit our hub site http://ddttrh.info/.

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