Earl Grey of Chimay – what is the musical pedigree of the Earl?
I started playing in skiffle groups when I was 15, while studying classical
guitar with Gerry Saulter. Since then, I've performed in a number of
groups, including rock band "Scraggly Jane" and world-renowned vocalist
Christie Holub.
Who is Earl Grey?
Earl Grey was the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom from 22 November 1830 to 16 July 1834.
The name speaks to me about tea and beer – and you seem to have the
Belgian ale as a favourite, is this a good assumption?
Yes, this is a name that was earned. Every morning I enjoy a good cup of
Earl Grey tea, and every night I…well….nevermind.
How did you become the new rhythm guitarist/bass player for BN?
We were introduced by mutual friend J. Andrew Colletti. Check out his
upcoming film "Pray For Light" starring Candice Night at
www.firesatmidnightfilms.com
What do you add to the band – musically?
It's about 50-50; some songs I add rhythm guitar and other songs I add
bass. When we perform "Peasant's Promise" live, I add rhythm mandola to the mix.
Secret Voyage – how would you comment on the album and the tour?
It's an exciting time for the band with the momentum generated by the
successes of both the Secret Voyage record and the tours. The enthusiasm
and support of the fans has been incredible, and I feel this is reflective
of both the quality of the record and the quality of the performances.
You came in to BN short time before the marriage of Ritchie, did you
attend the ceremony? If so – what was the best moment?
Yes, I did attend the ceremony. It's difficult to settle on one best moment, for that each chapter of the day was just as refreshing as the last.
What were you listening to as you grew up?
Mostly the sounds of gunshots and screaming. Oh, and S.A. Adams.
Deep Purple and Rainbow – how do you like Ritchie`s earlier bands?
Incredible bands, but you forgot to mention his work with Screaming Lord
Sutch, The Outlaws and The Three Musketeers.
Any favourite tunes?
"Kill The King", "Temple of the King", and anything else "king" related.
Do you spot any prog moments in Ritchie`s career?
Absolutely not! He doesn't play enough major seventh chords.
Ritchie – the guitarist –if you were to use 5 words, what would it be?
"What chords are you playing?"
How is the atmosphere and buzz in the band the hour before you go on stage?
There's a good level of energy and anticipation before each concert. We
even sneak backstage to cheer for the opening bands that play with us, such
as The Geyers and Gothien. All in all, we're all very buzzed before we go on stage.
What is your best BN moment so far?
Paying the $750 "baggage fine" at the airport in St. Petersburg, Russia.
If you were to release a solo album in 2009, what would I sound like?
It would probably sound a lot like gunshots and screaming.
What do you know about Norway?
I know that Norway (or Kongeriket Norge in the bokmål written norm) is a
constitutional monarchy that played host to the 1952 Winter Olympic games in Oslo and the 1994 Winter Olympic games in Lillehammer.
Thank you again Ole and the Blackmore's Night Norwegian Fan Club for this
interview and for your continued support! We hope to see you all in Norway
in 2009!
Earl Grey of Chimay – what is the musical pedigree of the Earl?
