Post by tackhead311 on Oct 5, 2009 17:02:00 GMT -5
MILE MARKER ZERO
From the moment they formed in 2003, New Haven, Connecticut quintet Mile Marker Zero have taken a slightly off-kilter, multi-tiered approach towards rock music that bordered on duality. Their songs are epic and ambitious, filled with unconventional arrangements and challenging rhythms, yet they also flow with powerful melodies and memorable choruses. Even their name is a dichotomy.
1What is behind the bands name?
We wanted the name because we want it to reflect either the beginning or the ending of a journey. Just like our music we want to have layers to it.
2 How would you describe MMZs sound?
Progressive hard rock. We want to have that hard progressive sound but also to be catchy at the same time. I like to have some long solos but also to have a layered texture to the songs .Try to bring different elements together in one song to try and appeal to varied musical tastes.
3 You have a degree in jazz guitar,who are your influences?
Mike Stern is a all time favorite of mine. Biréli Lagrène, Allan Holdsworth and Wes Montgomery
4 What gear do you like to use?
Paul Reed custom 22 in a Blue Matteo finish. Mesa Boogie amps. I use a Gibson Les Paul Classic for my drop D guitar. My new favorite toy is Axe-Fx Effects Processor, I don't use many effects but when i do this thing has it all!
5 What groups are you enjoying today?
Porcupine Tree who we got to open up for here in CT. Opeth is another ,there just a great band. Chick Corea in any band he is in i love him.
6 what our your favorite venues to play?
Toads place is just great,we don't get to play there nearly enough in my opinion. Great for the band and great for the fan and it has 3 bars to boot! Webster theater is another fave of mine in CT
7 Your thoughts on the games Rockband and Guitar Hero?
Speaking as a guitar teacher as well i think they're great. 7 years ago i would be teaching the same 3 power chords to the songs kids wanted to play. Now i get kids that come in and "hey teach me the solo to Crazy Train!" On the other hand, I would also say they now come in and expect to play Dragon Force just as easy as they learned it in the game , i have to reign them in ,like you need to learn some scales and chords first. the game though gives great exposure to music and that's cool. I had a 9 year old student that wanted to learn to play "Lonely is the night" how awesome! I love the fact it is a tool to inspire music. I would love to have some MMZ in the game!
8 Any advice for young kids starting out?
Yes tons lol. Be open minded and go outside of your realm. If you want to be a Pantera like band and cant find a screamer go outside your town. If you find someone you like and he sings well try it you may start a new trend . Keep your mind open and play and practice and do it for the love of music. Don't pigeon hole yourself to one type !
9 Your favorite song to play live?
Crimson Red is a favorite of mine because its got one of those long guitar solos i love to do !
10 What is on the horizon for MMZ/
We will be doing a east coast tour that will hopefully expands to the west coast.After that hopefully working on a new album.
Check out www.milemarkerzero.com for information!
