JOHN WEST INTERVIEW
Intromental Webzine interviews world-class heavy metal vocalist John West (known from among other Royal Hunt, Artension and numerous solo albums), to discuss the new disc, the past and the future...

Interview by Claus Jensen
This is your third "John West" solo disc - how do you think this one separates itself from "Mind Journey" and "Permanent Mark"?

"It is really different in that it is a completely different line-up, except Lonnie Park on keyboards. With the different influences of different players, you get new sounds approach, everything is changed. I don't want to repeat myself and be boring. Also, it is a lyrical concept, which is new for me."

You've used a lot of famous musicians this time around - and most of them you've already worked with in other projects/bands in the past. Was it with the purpose of attracting more fans that you've included all these guys, or was it simply because it's easier to work with people who you know.?

"I strive to work with people I like. If they are famous in some way, it is a bonus. I know a lot of famous people who I wouldn't care to work with on my solo stuff. I also wanted this album to be heavier, and I think my choices in players accomplished that naturally."

I know that you and Chris Caffery had this "American Metal" thing going. I guess you don't have time for that any longer?

"It was a one shot thing. We just got together during some time off and did a fun tour with friends. Maybe again someday? We are both too busy right now. We leave for Japan this week for promo tour for Earth Maker. Chris, Lonnie, and myself."

With Artension you've made 5 albums and only 2 with Royal Hunt; which one do you consider your main band? And why?

"Actually, I have four with Royal Hunt. Fear, Intervention, The Mission, The Watchers. I consider Royal Hunt my band because we tour together. Artension has never toured, and everyone is in different bands. It would be a cool live band though...."

On this new solo disc you lyrically focused on the Native American spirit. How important is this to you? Knowing that you are a Native American yourself and having seen your "stage-gimmicks" (hehe) with Royal Hunt, I would presume that it's something of high importance in your life?

"I live my life as a modern American, but my heart and soul are grounded in the Native way of thinking. I spend a lot of time in the woods, Bow hunting, camping etc. These things are important to me for many reasons, and helps keep my sanity in a crazy world!"

Could you explain a bit about the concept?

"The spirit "Shenandoah" lives and dies being reincarnated as many different forms. One song a tree, a bear, a warrior. One death leads to a re-birth into another life. Very fascinating stuff!"

Now, I've been a huge fan of your voice for years, but I've always thought that you never really showed all your potential on the solo discs. On "Mind Journey" there's only one song that really kick my balls so to speak ("Lady Ice") and the rest of the songs are fine, but not exceptional. I didn't care much for "Permanent Mark" (sorry.). However, in both Artension and Royal Hunt I think your voice if over-the-top fantastic. Where do you as a singer feel most comfortable? Which project appeals most to you as a vocalist?

"I think stylistically, you try different things, and some people really like them, and some don't. I have people tell me all the time Permanent Mark is my best stuff, so...I just sing the way I do, over whatever style of music is there. I have many different sides to my voice, and I am most comfortable when I am not confined to one style."

Is there any chance on you ever playing live with this solo material?

"Everyone would like to do that who is involved. Let's see how our schedules go. We are all in busy full time bands right now!"

I've seen you live with Royal Hunt at those gigs you've done in Copenhagen, and I must say that on the last tour (with Pretty Maids) you were much more comfortable on stage and simply RULED, compared to the very first gig you did in Denmark with that band. Is this the way you see it as well? Do you feel like you're a "live-singer" or a "studio-singer"?

"I am both, for different reasons. It takes time to get in a groove with a new band. We are all comfortable now on stage, and it shows! I am a real technician in the studio, I want everything just right. Live, I like to put on a show, period."

I've simply have got to ask you about this . on the "Machine" album of Artension it seems like you were just a "hired" gun for doing the vocals, cause the band picture is simply the worst piece of crap I've ever seen. Your picture is cut into the band picture in a horrible way. Photoshop is a great programme, but .. Hehehehe . WHY did you let this picture get released?

"I don't know what you are talking about. I look like a cardboard cutout in real life! :)

I would assume that the guys in Royal Hunt have taught you some Danish . so please, tell me some of the bad swearwords you know in Danish, haha ..

"Sorry, my strict religious background won't allow me that pleasure. ha ha... I do know how to order beer and Jack Daniels though!"

Anything you'd like to add?

"Thanks for all your support, and keep the dream alive! See you soon on tour..."