7.5 Tonnes Of Beard recently released their debut EP Denied the Basics, which Phil Johnston reviewed here. The sludge outfit feature ASIWYFA's Johnny Adger among its members, and he kindly took time to discuss the way of the beard, and more with Phil here.
(((o))): Hi Johnny, thanks for taking time to speak to us. Can you explain how 7.5 Tonnes Of Beard came about and who else is involved?
7.5 Tonnes Of Beard (read 7 and a half) was formed on a long ASIWYFA European tour a few years ago. Andy Coles (our sound engineer) had a few riff ideas recorded on his laptop and they were great. We met up, did a little arranging/demoing over a few weekends and ended up with a five track demo. Micky Higgins (Residual Effect) was my first choice for vocals and I was fortunate enough to enlist two of the best guitarists in Belfast to come in for live duties, Ian Booth (Stand-up Guy) and Blane Doherty (Gacy's Threads).
(((o))): Clearly you’re exploring more of your own influences here. Did you feel the need to get this project out of your system?
I've always listened to all types of metal and wanted to play in a heavy band at some point but until 7.5 Tonnes Of Beard I'd never got the opportunity. Andy's riff ideas and our desire to make it something tangible has certainly been like getting a huge load of my shoulders.
(((o))): What sort of stuff can be found on your iPod then? As it would appear an appreciation of heavier sludge/doom would be the case?
I think some people would be surprised what's on there. I have been fortunate enough to have always had good music in my life. Growing up in my parents’ house gave me a good start.
Some of my favourites are fairly predictable but stuff I can't stop listening to would range from Admiral Angry through Bongripper, Converge, Clutch, LaFaro, Mastodon, Russian Circles, Slayer, nothing really at the minute too mental but I'm always on the lookout for new music. Last weekend, I spent most of it listening to Dire Straits! I love heavy music though, nothing is ever going to change that.
(((o))): 7.5 Tonnes Of Beard recently made their live debut. How was it? Did you get a good response and will there be time for further shows?
I think it was great. We're the type of people who pick apart every little nuance of our performance but the crowd seemed into it, it was loud, slow and heavy so mission accomplished. There'll be other shows of course when they can fit around our respective schedules.
(((o))): In recent years the music scene in Belfast and Ireland in general, has really expanded. As well as ASIWYFA there are great acts like Axis Of, LaFaro and Kasper Rosa. And also emerging talent like Hornets, Empty Lungs, along with yourselves. Is there anything you think has contributed to this?
I think it has always been a hotbed of ridiculously talented musicians. It's a pleasure to come from here and be a part of live music in Ireland. I'm not sure what the catalyst has been recently but something is stirring in Northern Ireland and I'm proud to call it my home.
(((o))): How was recording Denied the Basics? Did you spend a lot of time experimenting with tones to get that bowel-rattling syrup thick sound? And was the process much different to how you've previously done things?
Andy got an iRig amp modeller and had already decided to use it for the recording. We spent a while blending effects together and got this amazing sound that we used. I'm so happy with how it turned out. Obviously this was a lot different from my previous experience in studios but all studio time is enjoyable for me as you get the pleasure of letting people hear the fruits of your labour and playing new material live.
(((o))): Was there an influential figure that encouraged you to pick up the bass? Also, have you had support from your family, given the risky career path?
Jack Bruce from Cream was one of the coolest mother fuckers I'd ever seen. Dad was watching a recorded gig of theirs when I was about 9 and I hadn't decided what instrument I wanted to play but he made an impression on me. Up until then I thought bassists just stood at the back and got ignored but there he was singing and co-fronting a band.
(((o))): What does 2013 hold for you, with a new ASIWYFA album due I imagine touring aplenty? Can we expect to see more of 7.5 Tonnes Of Beard as well?
2013 starts to get really busy for ASIWYFA in April and then it's flat out. Obviously 7.5 Tonnes Of Beard made our debut and there'll be plenty more from us. Live shows, writing and recording a full length are all in the pipeline.
(((o))): Thanks for talking to us, is there anything you'd like to add?
Thanks very much for being interested in 7.5 Tonnes Of Beard, keep up to date with all news through the usual channels. Exciting beard adventures await just at the end of your chin! Keep on growing and not shaving!
(Credits: photos by Carrie Davenport)
