American rock band Buckcherry head to 02 Academy, Newcastle this month so Wayne Madden caught up with the band to speak about pirates, artwork, and UK crowds.
There’s been a lot of change in Buckcherry over the years to this point. What are some of the constants, musically?
The one constant, and probably most important, is Josh’s vision and songwriting in Buckcherry since day one. It’s no secret that there have been a few different players along the way – some integral, some not – but the fact remains: Buckcherry is one of the last successful, uncompromised rock ‘n’ roll bands out there.
Releasing a press release in 2008 blaming pirates for the illegally downloading of your music was quite funny. Can I ask, though, how do you feel about album sales these days? Does purchasing music in the “age of streaming” still have an appeal?
Ha, I don’t remember that, but I guess it doesn’t matter though – all music sales have gone down the shitter. Yep, it’s the “age of streaming” and recorded music has become the loss-leader, making it more difficult for the artist to keep making music for a living.
What kind of things can we expect from the shows? You’ve got a diverse catalogue so can we expect such diversity onstage?
It depends on which set you’re seeing as we have different setups for festivals and headlining shows. One thing’s for sure, though – you’ll get the hits. We’re in rehearsals now for the ‘Warpaint’ record cycle and since the musicianship in this band is at an all-time high, I’d like to stretch out musically during the segues and solos.
As a collector, I love your guitar pick designs and will no doubt be bothering you for some designs on the night. But I’d love to know what inspired you to start creating these little artworks and if you trade or collect them yourself with other artists on the road?
Sometimes it’s a saying going around the bus, sometimes a funny movie, or just maybe something as simple as a logo and signature. I’ve never thought about trade them with others, though.
How long have you known your tour buddies Hoobastank? And what can you say about them?
I met them back in 2006 and kept running into them at festivals and, eventually, we ended up doing shows together in SoCal. The singer, Doug Robb, is a downright kickass frontman with a solid machine behind him.
I know you’re back for Hard Rock Hell in November, too. Do you enjoy the British crowds?
I love the British crowds! When they love you there’s nothing better.
What’s the long-term goal right now for Buckcherry?
Getting to share the music we make with millions of people around the world.
Buckcherry head to 02 Academy, Newcastle on Tuesday 12th February. Tickets, priced at £23.00 (plus booking fee), are available from seetickets.com.
