Powerman 5000 first exploded into the rock worlds consciousness in the mid 90s with their catchy songs and striking imagery. The band have constantly released albums since their initial breakout, never losing their lust for life and music. Their latest album New Wave is out now and we had a chat with frontman Spider One to hear all about as well as talking all about new wave music, David Bowie, movies, playing Ozzfest and more.
Your new album New Wave is out now. How did the recording of the album go?
As with every recording, it’s a process of feeling great about the songs and then hating them and them feeling great again. Equal parts fun and torture! Also, we recorded this record at my house which was the first time I have done that.
Why did you decide to call the album New Wave?
I like the term New Wave. First, no one every uses it anymore. It’s was a label and genre that existed for a short period of time in the 80s and suddenly it was never spoken of again. It’s great because no one lays claim to it so I figured I would steal it back for myself!
Are you fans of new wave music at all?
Yes! Some of my favorite bands might be considered New Wave! Devo, Blondie, the Cars.
Your new single is called David Fucking Bowie. Can you tell us about the impact the Thin White Duke has on you as a performer?
He was a big influence. David Bowie existed outside of what was expected and created art that was not earthly. I have always loved that.
How would describe the bands musical style on New Wave?
I think that the album is mess of things collected together. Similar to those new wave bands of the 80s it is difficult to say exactly what style it is. Which to me is a good thing. I’m not interested in being a style.
The album features the song Sid Vicious In A Dress. What is that song about?
The madness of love.
You Shot a video for the song, can you tell us all about that?
The video features my head being exploded by a baseball bat wielding insane girl. I think that is all that you need, really! Hahaha!
You are playing at the Rocklahoma festival in May with Perfect Circle, Cheap Trick and Clutch. You must be looking forward to that?
Yes! Playing big festivals is a blast and Rocklahoma has such a wide variety of bands! It will be great!
How did your recent US tour go?
Tour was fun as always!
Did you play much new material?
We have been playing Cult Leader and Sid Vicious in a Dress. Next tour we will most likely add some more new songs!
What are your favourite songs to play live?
It changes every night. Each crowd is different which makes each song feel different as well.
Have you got any more dates lined up in the new year?
We are putting together dates right now for the spring.
Will you make it over to the UK and Europe with this album?
Yes! We haven’t been to Europe since 2015 and miss it! Can’t wait to get back!
What has been the most memorable tour you have ever done and why?
That is difficult to say. I have been so lucky to have toured all over the world and shared the stage with so many great bands like Metallica, Pantera, Ozzy and Kiss. I don’t think I could choose my favorite.
Your first album The Blood Splat Rating System was released 22 years ago. What are your memories of that time in the bands career?
Those where some of the best years! No matter how much success you get I don’t think it is ever as fun as when you are first starting out. I have such fond memories of starting the band in Boston. It was all so exciting back then! Anything seemed possible!
Powerman 5000 really blew up with the Tonight The Stars Revolt album. Was that a crazy time for the band?
That was a very crazy time! We went from being completely unknown to being on the radio and MTV! We where selling out shows every night! It was hard to believe at the time that all of those things were finally happening!
You played the initial Ozzfest festivals in 1996 and 1997. How were those experiences?
It was really exciting to have been a part of those first Ozzfests! We had never done anything like that before and sharing the stage with all of those amazing bands forced us to become better!
The bands music has featured in a lot of films such as Freddy Vs Jason, Bride Of Chucky, Zoolander and Blade 2. How did it feel to hear your music on the big screen during these blockbuster movies?
I love when we have music in films and TV!
What are your favourite films of all time?
I have so many movies that I love but I would say some of my favorites are Jaws, Taxi Driver, A Clockwork Orange, Alien, The Shining.
What are your opinions on the rise and rise of social media and it’s effects on the music industry?
I don’t know. Technology and social media has changed everything. You either embrace it or get left behind.
What are your main influences as a a musician?
I try to just do what makes me happy. I always have my ears open for inspiration but at the end of the day it has to be uniquely you. I would say that at an early age I discovered Punk rock and that had a big impact on me. I don’t think I would have ever been interested in making music if it wasn’t for punk.
What were your top three albums of 2017?
I don’t think I even bought three albums in 2017! Haha!
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