The third episode of That Metal Show lacked the chop busting of the second, ‘Thrax-centric episode, but was a metal geek’s dream come true as former Slayer drummer Dave Lombardo came in to talk shop.
Let’s break down the episode…
The Top 5: This was a highly contentious subject for the guys — the best side projects. Eddie and Don both railed against the current trend of super groups that seem to be forced in order to catch a quick buck. I agree. There’s way too many “super groups” and “side projects” from artists, that it’s nearly impossible to follow who’s doing what. The guys came up with their definitive top five side projects which included (in no order): A Perfect Circle, Down, Halford, Stone Sour and Black Label Society. Now, there was a bit of controversy as Eddie strongly disagreed about Black Label’s inclusion. It’s a situation I find myself ambivalent to. On one hand when BLS was first started it was not Zakk’s primary band — he was the lead guitarist for Ozzy Osbourne. However, now, this is full-time band, so does BLS count as a side project? An interest debate for sure.
John 5: The Rob Zombie guitarist REALLY impressed. When you think Rob Zombie scintillating guitar work usually doesn’t jump to the forefront of your mind. It’s usually the production and showmanship (more on that later). However, John 5 (sans make-up and Rob Zombie band get-up) killed it. He was able to play some slow, bluesy stuff and some amazing Van Halen-esque virtuoso solos. Listening to him speak on his career was quite revealing — who know the man was an axe-man for Zombie and Manson started out performing with k.d. lang and his first national touring show was at Radio City Music Hall.
Dave Lombardo: While the former Slayer drummer is not as charismatic as the members of Anthrax it is still enthralling to listen to this drummer. Having seen him perform at Metal Masters 4 in 2012 at Gramercy Theater, I can easily say Lombardo is one of the best drummers in the game. To hear speak candidly about Slayer and his own solo work was pretty cool.
The Throwdown: In their weekly ‘which is better’ segment, the guys debated who was the better showman Rob Zombie or Marilyn Manson. MAN, this is a tough one. Both are so theatrical, so I was surprised that it was almost unanimous that Rob Zombie was chosen as the best showman. Again, having seen Rob Zombie in concert, I can say that the stage show he puts on is unbelievable. His energy and charisma is off the charts and that his sound (live) is outstanding.
All and all, a solid episode of TMS.
Tune into That Metal Show every Saturday night on VH1 Classic.
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