EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH RUSTED ROOT!
Rusted Root's founder and leader, Michael Glabicki, answered some questions put to him by the Pony's own Dr. Zoom.
DZ: The release this year of Stereo Rodeomarks seven years since Rusted Root's last studio CD. What were you guys up to during this period?
MG: This year also marks our 20th anniversary. I would call the break in between our last records a rejuvenation period. It was a time of figuring out how to maintain a real personal life and sense of self while keeping the intense full band schedule going. We were touring, recorded a live album, and worked on solo projects in that time but kept it a bit more like vacation. Now we are rejuvenated and ready to go another 20 years. I'm writing the next record now, it should be out next year.
DZ: On Stereo Rodeo you have a cover of the Elvis Presley hit Suspicious Minds. That song has been a favorite cover of "classic Asbury" bands including Bobby Bandiera, John Eddie and Bruce for many years, making it an even more interesting choice around here. Why that one?
MG: I love the song! It's mysteriously powerful and moves the emotions in a deep, deep space. I was fooling around playing it at a soundcheck and asked the drummer to try a Latin beat. We played it that night and it was a big hit with our fans. At that point we didn't really have a choice but to put it on the record. Looking forward to seeing the reaction in Asbury!
DZ: Rusted Root had its national breakthrough in 1994 with When I Woke, followed by touring with some of the biggest bands in the land, including the Grateful Dead, Dave Matthews and Led Zeppelin's Jimmy Page and Robert Plant. What was the Page/Plant reunion like to be on ?
MG: That was a blast. It was awesome for us to learn that we could win over Led Zeppelin fans. The tour was a little over six weeks and went to Europe. We played Wembley Arena with them but the promoter forgot to advertise that there was an opening act. So when the lights came on everyone went crazy thinking it was Led Zeppelin. When they saw us they went silent and sat down. It was our first gig in England. We eventually won the crowd over and it was a great show.
DZ: Can you give us a hint of what will be happening on stage at the Pony and on this tour?
MG: We have a few tricks up our sleeve that are top secret but beyond that, we keep every show loose and try to play to the unique vibe of the town we are in. Look out Asbury!
Rusted Root will be at the Pony Saturday night. Go to
rustedroot.com for more about Rusted Root.