While Three Bad Jacks are usually classified as “rockabilly,” the band takes it cues from a variety of influences from Elvis Presley, Joe Strummer and Joey Ramone. The result is a mix of rockabilly, punk and good old rock and roll … live and raw. And defiant of categorization.
Expect plenty of fireworks and showmanship as well — the band has become known for their fiery performances. Figuratively and literally.
Aptly named frontman Elvis Suissa took a few moments to talk about the band’s past and future, and what you can expect if you catch their show Friday night in Denver at Benders, or at another stop on the road.
After all, for this veteran of the stage and small clubs, the road is his middle name.
DP: The band has gone through some lineup changes over the years, so tell us about the current lineup:
ES: They are great players and they get things done, no complaining all the time. If you are not in a band with people on the same wavelength it is hard. I like the fact that they speak about how to improve on their music skills as opposed to how girls think they are music gods. You know, Spinal Tap (crap) — it drives me crazy.
DP: What do you love most about the guys in the band right now?
ES: They are hardworking and easy to get along with. Some people need an entourage to follow them, they don’t. I am not into artificial people who need validation.
DP: How are things going on this current tour?
ES: This is a great tour. I think it just keeps getting better. All the shows have been very well attended and it is really great playing with guys who can make it sound like it should. It was always aggravating playing in a band with a member who would rather play video games or do drugs. It takes the fun out of playing music. I have had some great people come through the band that simply could not tour anymore and I sure miss them. But I am talking about the douche bags that would screw the fans over, things like sleeping with fans’ girlfriends, stealing, missing plane flights … I am not joking. This band is not about that — our fans are like family.
DP: Do you have any crazy tricks up your sleeves for the show? Do you still do the “bass on fire” trick?
ES: We set the whole stage on fire — drums, bass, guitar … we have been destroying everything in sight. We duct tape out gear constantly. My new Fender guitar looks like it has been under a muffler for 10 years.
DP: With primetime shows promoting pop junk food like American Idol, how do you think rockabilly bands can survive and thrive in the current musical climate?
ES: I pay karaoke singers no mind. American Idol is a [expletive] joke and the people judging are [expletive] clueless … they do not live on the road and wake up dreaming of music. They are Mickey Mouse Club rejects. This is the most I have ever thought about this subject. I do not think American Idol listeners listening to bad Aretha Franklin versions of overdone songs would like us. I remember someone offered us a $100 tip to play Mustang Sally. Well you can guess I did not — I do not do this for money. I have passed up record deals for this reason. I want to stay away from any kind of dog and pony show.
DP: What would you tell bands is the most important thing they must know or do to survive in the music business?
ES: Play with band members that are not problematic and that are like-minded. If your idea for a band is learning your craft and being good at what you do, look for those kind of people. If you like over-the-top tattoos and making sure everyone sees them on your promo picture and stupid nicknames and bios that make you seem like you are Johnny Cash but draw three people in your backyard — live the dream! I have learned about personality clashes, they do not mix.
DP: What makes you keep coming back for more tours?
ES: I just love playing music — it has been my only dream. I live rock and roll. It is my life.
DP: Where so you see yourself and the band five years from now?
ES: Rocking!
DP: And when are you coming out with a new album?
ES: By the end of the year. We are working with a great engineer who recorded people and bands like Frank Sinatra, Black Flag, Blasters, Blondie, and a bunch of other great artists. It is exciting to be around a person like that. Very inspiring. I have been waiting for this my whole life.
DP: Is there anything you’d do differently if you had it to do all over again?
ES: Seriously, I take full responsibility in thinking I could make some past members more interested in being a better musician. I wasted a lot of time with people. Almost like a relationship — if a girl is sleeping with all your friends it is time to cut her loose. I should have done certain things faster instead of prolonging the inevitable. But I am happy now!
Originally posted for Examiner.com and on my music blog, Mayhem Media.
