Forming back in 1991, US band The BellRays combined rock and soul sighting Blues as a teacher and Punk as a preacher. These two musical components together make for an explosive live show with emotion and energy, experience and raw talent. So with that in mind, be prepared when The BellRays will be hitting Australian shores once again when they return this June for a 5-date tour of our capital cities.
We caught up with The BellRays ahead of upcoming Australian tour to chat tour van munchies, Anzac cookies and eating on the road.
What were your food influences when you were growing up and what kind of food did you eat at home or with your family?
My mom basically cooked dinner every so it was pretty basic stuff. Fried chicken was every Sunday for a long time. She made spaghetti every couple of weeks. Meatloaf, Tuna Noodle Casserole and Goulash were frequent.
What dish or cuisine do you most like to eat on tour and why?
I look forward to Shwarmas and Kebaps when I tour Europe. Except in Italy where I like pizza and pasta. Even the truck-stops there have great pizza and pasta.
What type of food do you hate, and what is the most disgusting thing you’ve ever eaten?
I had a sausage crepe in the south of France only it wasn’t sausage it was tripe and it stank and tasted awful. It was just like Menudo (which I can’t stand). I tried eating a few bites but almost threw up. Thankfully, Lisa traded with me and I had her delicious crepe instead.
What type of food do you make sure to avoid before a gig or going on stage?
I try to avoid eating anything with in a couple of hours of going on stage. I move around a lot and if I eat too close to show time my stomach goes nuts.
Imagine for a second you can request anything on your rider at tour upcoming tour in Australian during June. What food do you put on it?
I like roast sandwiches in the dressing room. If I could have a pot of clam chowder going that would be great. And since it is Australia, a huge plate of ANZAC cookies.
What’s your favourite music venue to eat at?
La Nef in Angouleme France. The chef there makes every dish special. He also makes us feel at home by coming out to greet us every time we play there.
What’s on The BellRays shopping list for tour van munchies?
I always look for popcorn and sodas (diet coke or diet pepsi) But any king of fruit and egg salad sandwiches are usually easy to get.
Is there any particular Australian cuisine that you are keen to try whilst out here on tour?
Those damn ANZAC cookie are always on my mind. I even make them at home.
If you had to cook a meal for anyone else in the world, who would it be and what would you cook them?
I would love to cook huge pots of red beans and rice and cabbage for people who really needed a good meal. Refugees, drought, flood victims etc. I know what it means to me to have someone cook for me so I can’t imagine what it would mean to someone who had no idea where their next meal was coming from.
