I kid Eddie every time we talk. I have been called “Eddie Trunk” on occasion. I don’t think it’s a compliment. It comes down to passion for the music. Eddie’s got it. I’ve got it. Given my nerd-like devotion to that style of music, I am often asked why I’m not a co-host on “That Metal Show.” “You can do that show…you *should* be doing that show.” I hear it a lot. I’ve e-mailed Ed on occasion, to clown him for missing “stump” questions. Or, to rip his “Top 5” picks. Despite what some people say, Ed’s a good dude. He loves what he does, and there aren’t many people doing it. So, I tip my hat to the boy. He’s got a good sense of humor regarding who he is, and couldn’t care less what you think.

Dave’s an interesting guy. He’s clearly smart. He can play better than most of his contemporaries. He’s in a legendary band. Still…I sense a bit of disconnect with it all. He makes it seem so effortless, that it comes off as if none of it matters. It’s actually impressive. 30-plus years in, and he’s still regular.

Here’s what I love about Sublime: They write some of the most lyrically inappropriate music that gets played on radio all over the world. Seriously…Listen to some of the stuff they’re singing about. But, as long as it’s set to a nice, Ska-beat, all is forgiven. I was one of those people that never thought Rome could step in, and “replace” Brad. Thing is, he’s not even trying. And he’s a hell of a singer. I had them play live-acoustically, and this is what happened.

Guitar legend, and one of my personal  favorites,  Steve Vai  actually gave me his cell phone number. I put it to use on the day he was playing in the Valley, and *tried* to get him to commit to finishing a 10-CD Box Set project, he began over ten years ago. He masterfully avoided the question.

Here’s a band that I hope, does really well. You’ve probably seen them on a recent car commercial. The one with the two guys, sitting on the porch, dropping some blues. They are simply fantastic. And their CD “The Bomb Shelter Sessions,” is well worth seeking out. I didn’t have to do anything with these live performances. Just got good levels, and let them go. Hope you dig on Vintage Trouble!