When Meldrum hit the scene with their debut release, 'Loaded Mental Cannon' in 2002, it was like a juggernaut! Stirring and shaking up the music world like a bat out of hell! The genesis of Meldrum are planted in hard rock, with a cross-section of genres strengthened by the band's remarkably powerful and organic songwriting. Think Black Label Society with a shot of Corrosion Of Conformity. Fronting the band is Moa Holmsten's gargantuan vocal style, combined with Michelle Meldrum's heavy guitar riffs and lying underneath it all is a pounding rhythm section with fiercely bombastic grooves.
Meldrum have toured with Motorhead, and Sepultura in Europe and Zakk Wylde's Black Label Society and Nashville Pussy here in the States. Leaving their mark on all those who have witnessed their wicked assault on stage. Hell, The Rocker and I are still shell-shocked from the last time we saw the band. Well folks, Meldrum are now ready to unleash a new onslaught with the release of their new album, 'BLOWIN' UP THE MACHINE'.
The Rocker and I had a chance to chat with Michelle Meldrum before she headed off to Sweden for a little R&R, here is what she had to say about the band's latest release, 'BLOWIN' UP THE MACHINE...
AAM: Let's talk about your new album, 'BLOWING UP THE MACHINE'. How long were you guys in the studio? Are you guys satisfied with how it turned out?
Michelle Meldrum: From start to finish it took about 3 months to record. As far as being satisfied, I think we did a damn good job. So yeah we're satisfied.
AAM: The new album features a cameo by Lemmy Kilminster from Motorhead. You have to tell us, what was it like recording with Lemmy? How did that come about?
MM: Recording with Lemmy is the greatest. Come on, he's Lemmy from Motorhead! He helped us out on the track, "Miss Me When I'm Gone". How that came along was from touring with Motorhead in Europe. Those were some killer shows!
AAM: All the songs on the new album are KILLER. Any personal favorites?
MM: I love them all. The two that stand out for me are, "Purge" and "Down Your Throat". In fact the video for "Purge" is up now at our myspace page.
AAM: How did you get a record deal with Frontiers a label known for the more melodic rock scene?
MM: They released our first album in Italy. Then when they heard our new album, they were the ones most excited about it. So, that is who we went with. You know how the old saying goes, 'Money talks, bullshit walks' (laughs).
AAM: How does it feel to wear the hat of "Producer"?
MM: Well, there have been a few people that we've wanted to work with, but due to time schedule, it didn't work out. Zakk Wylde wanted to work with us at one time, but he's got his plate full with Black Label Society and of course, Ozzy. Then there was Toby Wright (Alice In Chains) that also wanted to work with us. When it comes down to it, nobody knows out material better that us. So, until we can get someone who we can put 100 percent trust into, then we'll just produce our music ourselves.
AAM: Any memorable moments while recording the new album?
MM: Yeah, Moa our singer. Singing in her bra drinking beer and watching porn! That's what gets her inspired (laughs).
AAM: Who are your musical influences? Anything out there as far as other music you are listening to?
MM: Not really. No new bands have really impressed me. Not a lot of guitar solos in songs today, you know what I mean? But, I'm into the greats like, John Sykes, Gary Moore and of course Zakk Wylde then there is John Norum (laughs). As far as riffs go, there is Dimebag and Tony Iommi. I've always been a big Megadeth and Metallica fan also.
AAM: A woman after our own hearts! Have you been asked to perform at Ozzfest?
MM: No, not yet. We would love to play Ozzfest, still waiting for the invite (laughs).
AAM: The music industry can be pretty rough. Being a rock band that is fronted by women, did you have to put up with a lot negativity?
MM: No, I've been dealing with that for years. It's a matter of taste if you like the band or not. It doesn't make a difference if its fronted by women or not.
AAM: So, what's next for Meldrum? Any project outside Meldrum you are working on?
MM: Right now, we are focused on making the next Meldrum record. Our plan right now is have it done by next year. I've been in the studio these last few months writing new songs with Gene Hoglan. So we have enough material to choose from for our third album. As far as outside the band? There have been some talks about doing a Phantom Blue gig next year. Like at festivals in Europe. Actually right now, I am fixing up the old Wargod demos and I am going to release those.
AAM: Anything else you would like to add?
MM: We are looking forward in seeing all you people on the road, hopefully on the upcoming Motorhead tour in Germany. Until then, STAY HARD!!!!! MELDRUM
The Rocker and I along with All Access Magazine would like to thank Michelle Meldrum for sharing her time with us. We look forward to rocking out with you guys soon! Cheers!
For more info on Meldrum: www.meldrum.nu
