This week we interview a great melodic rock singer, Russell Arcara. He just happens to be featured on our new album as well. Who would have guessed?
Russell, can you tell us what you've been up to?
Right now I'm doing two projects with my partner Steve Deacutis: "The Way" (pop alternative) and "Friction" (heavy). The Way is signed to Atenzia Rec. and is in the stages of completion. Friction, which hasn't been shopped yet, is 9 Cuts deep and is on its way also. I'm am so proud of both these bands. They're contemporary and are the best work I've done so far. You can find out more info at www.soundspa.net
You've been in a few bands: Prophet, Surgin, Arcara, The Way, etc. Which of the bands you've fronted has had the most success? Of which do you think "Man, why was I in that band?!"
The most successful would be Prophet. I have no regrets to answer the second question.
Your follow-up to Arcara's "self titled" was "A Matter of Time" in 1997. But that time round, there was no sign of Karl Cochran, except in the "thank you" list. Where did Karl go?
Karl went on to play bass for Ace Frehley and is enjoying his own solo projects. He's doing great.
Rumor has it you were in the band Prophet with a drummer named Ted Poley. Is this the Danger Danger singer of the same name? Does he play drums or sing better?
Yes, it's the same Ted. I think Ted is talented any way you slice it. Ted stories? Hmmmmm … he always had great looking girlfriends :)
You're from New Jersey, right? In your opinion, musically what is the best band or singer to come from New Jersey?
I'm New Jersey-born-and-raised. You may not expect this but here goes … Frank Sinatra and Bruce Springsteen.
You recently did a song for the new Liberty n' Justice album "Soundtrack of a Soul" called "State Of Grace." Can you tell us about this song at all? This song is Sharon Murr's favorite, by the way.
I think it is so important now for us to awaken the children to spirit, to love. That's what the Son is about. It is sometimes disheartening to see how asleep at the wheel we are as a human race. If I can give just a little nudge and someone will give me one back once in a while that will start us off on the right path.
Recently you and Justin discussed doing live shows for charity/relief aid. We've just got to ask &hellp; do you really have this "kind of heart" and want to help those who have lost so much?
Yes! I will give as much as I can. I can't do it alone. With all these other singers you have onboard we can really help those less fortunate.
Name the three highest points and the three lowest points of your musical career to date.
My music is my soul I can't place that kind of judgment on my career. It's like saying I love one child more then the next. It's not a thought. I just thank God every morning when I wake and a beautiful sound comes from my voice.
When can we expect the new CD from your band The Way. Who else is in this band?
The CD is due out this spring. The band consists of Stevie D. (Guitars and everything else you can think of), Charlie Calv (keyboards), John Bongiovani (Bass), and Billy Orrico (Drums).
Spiritually, what do you believe?
I have my own relationship with God. There's something inside that feels correct or it doesn't. It will tell you to go right instead of left. Listen to that. Truly listen to that.
The last of Russell Arcara.....
Last band you played with?
Friction
Last time you prayed?
Right now
Last CD you bought?
Notorius B.I.G
Last time you watched "The Sopranos"?
Is this a Jersey thing? :o
Last "Famous person" you hung with?
Who cares?
Last website you went too?
What does 2005 and beyond hold for the musician Russell Arcara?
The sky is the limit.
And finally a L n' J 4-ALL Word Association. We mention a name or thing and you give us your thoughts.
Jeff Shernov (Exhibition)
Dont really know him all that well but I'm doing his next record
Rocco Fury (Arcara)
He was never in Arcara but he's a nice guy. Hehehehe
Steve Perry (Journey)
Beautiful voice
John Bongiovani (Bass Player)
Talented. Great guy.
Magnus Soderkvist (Atenzia Records)
He signed The Way need I say more.
Stephen DeAcutis (Arcara)
Steve is so underated. He has to be one of the most talented people I know. After this record he will no longer fly under the radar. Great songwriter, Great guitarist, Great Producer.
Charlie Calv (The Way/Shotgun Symphony)
Charlie and I were brothers in another life. We may not see each other for months but it still feels like I saw him yesterday. And I mean that in a good way. He tickles those ivory's pretty good too.
Richie Sambora (Bon Jovi)
Who?
John Cafferty (Eddie and The Cruisers)
Dont know him.
Bobby Lucas (ex-Exhibition singer)
Don't know him either.
There you have it. Make sure to check out The Way. (Man, I can't believe he doesn't know who Richie Sambora is!)