Randy Bachman is a man on a mission. He could kick back and probably live out the remainder of his life in leisure and comfort. However, like his friend Neil Young, Randy Bachman is working more than ever. He’s got a radio show, tours and makes appearances regularly, and continues to collect accolades for his work with the Guess Who and Bachman-Turner Overdrive. For 2015, the focus has narrowed to an album under the Bachman name. At the center of it all is a power trio featuring Bachman on guitar and vocals, Anna Ruddick on bass, and Dale Anne Brendan on drums. Despite Bachman being a man “twice as old” (his words, not mine) as his rhythm section, there’s a tight chemistry brewing on Heavy Blues.
Because Bachman’s history is intertwined with some of the most momentous eras of rock and roll, it’s not surprising he was able to get a little help from his friends on the project. The always-in-demand-with-little-time-to-spare veteran producer Kevin Shirley took charge from the get-go, encouraging Bachman to maximize his potential and record a solid, no nonsense rock n’ roll record. He also brought in famed blues guitarist Joe Bonamassa to add his light touch on a song. Neil Young, who told Bachman to think outside the box and step out of his comfort zone, was recruited to play on another. Before you know it, other guitarists like Peter Frampton, Robert Randolph, Scott Holiday of Rival Sons, and Luke Doucet of Whitehorse were asked to participate. Bachman even managed to write a song around a lead laid down by the late Jeff Healey.
In the following interview, Bachman tells how it all came together — the idea, the songs, the band, the special guests and the final product. At each turn of the phrase, I could sense the excitement and anticipation in his voice. After he takes his band out on the road to promote Heavy Blues, he intends to call up more friends and record a follow-up. He’s still open to working with Fred Turner in the future and he’s always got his Vinyl Tap radio show to fill any void. Right now though, he’s taking care of business and letting it ride…
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