We’d like to know a little bit about you for our files, but we don’t like regurgitating press releases or asking the easy questions. At Tone Deaf we only ask the tough questions, so just hold still, grit your teeth, clench your buttocks and be still while we put on the rubber gloves, apply the thumbscrews, and pull out our thermometer while you open up and say ahhhhhhhhhhh… Truthful answers only or we drink your rider while you’re on stage.
Who gets the most ‘off stage action’ in the band? What’s the secret to their success?
The Turk, most definitely gets the most action. I’d say you can attribute that to his looks, charm & tenacity.
Have you ever been arrested? Where were you, and what was it for?
There are 8 of us in the band. And yes there have been a few arrests over the years. I’d say the most recent arrest has a large amount to do with why the band is breaking up. But our lawyers have advised us not to speak too much about that. I can tell you though, it involved a roll of film, a toupee, and a John Roscoe. A few of the guys are going into witness protection and I’ll be taking a long holiday on an ocean liner.
What’s been the worst day job you’ve ever had?
I used to work in the fish market on Newcastle foreshore. Gutting and sometimes scaling fish. I lost the tip of my left index finger on the job one day. It has forever changed my guitar playing technique. However it has enlightened me to other talents I was unaware of.
Sex, drugs and groupies – In what order do you prefer them and how often?
In that order I’d say. ‘Often’, ‘sometimes’ and ‘in moderation’.
Take us back to the first gig you went to. Where was it and what was the venue?
Possibly George Washingmachine at the Dubbo RSL club. I’m not sure. I started at the Jazz festivals at a very early age. I remember T-bone was about 3 years old, which would have made me 8 years old at the time. He went rogue on the dance floor. After that he wanted to become a fiddle player. I’m kinda glad he ended up on trumpet though. It’s much more useful in a horn section.
What’s your favourite site to download music from and do you ever pay for it? Can we find any of your releases there?
I’m a little old fashioned. I still listen to vinyl. I know that this probably makes me sound silly. But I enjoy the interaction with my record player so much more. I don’t really download music. But you can find our album ‘Sellin’ You Salvation’ on iTunes. At the same time you can buy A split 7” of ‘Catch Afire” and “Sacred Heart”, which are the first and last tracks of that album… you know, if you’re like me and you enjoy the tactile pleasures of the ol’ 45rpm.
What’s the furthest you’d go to win over a new fan?
Seriously? Have you seen our live shows? We pretty much stop at nothing!
Right, here’s the plug section – tell us about upcoming gigs/tours and releases.
Okay. Mojo Juju & The Snake Oil Merchants are splitting up! Our last show in Melbourne will be at ‘the Jitterbug Club’ at Red Bennies, on Saturday April 2nd. Tickets are $20 presale at www.redbennies.com or $25 at the door. Get in early because Sydney sold out 3 nights in a row! Melbourne only gets one show!
