Episode 141 - Metallica Crew (Chad Z)

On this special episode we sat down with the lovely Chad Z to talk all things teching for James and Metallica in general. Here are a few of the topics covered: PS - The interview begins around the 27 minute mark. - growing up a drummer in Wisconsin - breaking into the music industry as an audio engineer in Minneapolis - touring with The Breeders, Garbage, Hole and Tori Amos - working with Veruca Salt and Bob Rock - details on getting the Metallica gig - being healthy on the road - establishing trust with James - making the pedal changes live for James - working with Metallica at HQ during writing/recording sessions - what he does when Metallica isn’t touring - the Grammy’s/Gaga fiasco - the Chris Cornell Tribute show - making mistakes at a show - James kicking his guitar in St. Louis - James’ unique digital acoustic guitar - solving problems on stage - transitioning from real amps to Fractals - the process of matching the tones from the albums to the fractals - the correct tunings for Sad But True, Thingy, Seek and Dream No More - the purple baritone Snakebyte vs. the ESP Grynch - the “Blue” and “Black” identical backline systems - Metallica’s studio plans for 2020 - Favorite cities while traveling - favorite songs on the setlist like “The Outlaw Torn” - why “No Leaf Clover” is a pain in the butt - staying physically and mentally healthy on the road - Hurting his shoulder at the Lisbon show - How James chooses which guitars to play - re-stringing James’ guitars - Metallica releasing official Ernie Ball strings - Chad’s personal preferences for guitars and musical taste - the differences between European and US audiences - accommodating guest guitar players like Lemmy, Mustaine, etc. - The logistics of preparing for a show like S&M2 - Metallica’s enduring legacy