Published: January 18, 2004
Rockum's Gino Alache talks with Firesign founder Steve Heyden about the band's latest album, Truth Or Consequences, its beginnings, musical influences and plans for 2004.
In this interview, Heyden discusses the formation of Firesign, the band's lineup, musical influences, discography, future plans and the possibility of reaching new audiences in South America.
Gino Alache: How and when was Firesign formed?
Steve Heyden: After I left Bad To The Bone, I was looking for new ground for my songs and guitar. That was in 1998, and it took a long ride to get where we are now.
Gino Alache: Whose idea was it to name the band Firesign, and why?
Steve Heyden: I was looking for a short name that everybody could understand and remember.
Gino Alache: How would you describe Firesign's musical style?
Steve Heyden: We play in-your-face melodic hard rock with lots of guts and guitars!
Gino Alache: Who is currently in the Firesign lineup?
Steve Heyden:
Arthur Schlichting – guitars, backing vocals
Klaus Enderlin – drums, backing vocals
Rudi Brandelick – bass, backing vocals
Steve Heyden – guitars, lead vocals
Gino Alache: Who is responsible for writing the music and lyrics?
Steve Heyden: I wrote most of the songs so far, but Arthur recently came up with a lot of good stuff. You could say the guitar guys write all the songs!
Gino Alache: Could you tell us about Firesign's discography?
Steve Heyden:
Fourplay (2000)
Wheelin' An' Dealin' (2001)
Truth Or Consequences (2003)
Gino Alache: Which bands have influenced Firesign?
Steve Heyden: Every member has different influences, but to name a few: Deep Purple, Dokken, Iron Maiden and Guns N' Roses.
Gino Alache: What are the band's plans and expectations at the moment?
Steve Heyden: To sell a decent amount of our CDs and play live as much as possible.
Gino Alache: Which band would you most like to share the stage with?
Steve Heyden: We'd play with any band!
Gino Alache: Do you have any plans to visit South America?
Steve Heyden: Well, let's put it this way: we'd like to make some new fans and friends there!
Gino Alache: What do you know about Peru?
Steve Heyden: Well, Lima is the capital, and there are high mountains, similar to other countries in South America.
Gino Alache: What does 2004 look like for Firesign?
Steve Heyden: Play live and sell CDs—anything goes!
Gino Alache: How can fans in South America obtain Firesign albums and merchandise?
Steve Heyden: Through www.firesignrockshard.de and www.mapleleaf-records.com.
Gino Alache: Finally, what is your opinion of Rockum?
Steve Heyden: You are very informative and everything... You are doing a great job! Thanks!
