KEY POINTS:
Guitar wolf are not for the weak, and girls, watch out, Seiji and the boys will be making eyes at you from behind their super-dark shades when they play the Kings Arms in Auckland next week. It's been a tough 18 months for the noisy Japanese trio following the death of original bass player Billy. But they're back, with bassist Ug, and badder than ever.
Can you tell us about the first time you got your hands on a guitar?
I picked up the guitar when I wanted to start Guitar Wolf. I couldn't play anything at all. One day I bought an album of Link Wray just because I liked its artwork. The first song, Rumble, blew me away. It's so simple even kids can play. That defined the style of my guitar.
When did you realise music would be your life and why?
It's a big question. Music is not life. It's always staying beside us, with us, and it's a part of everyday life.
What was Japan like when Guitar Wolf started in 1987?
I forgot what it was like. I think Japan was peaceful.
What position does Guitar Wolf hold in the Japanese music scene? And did you inspire a Japanese punk rock renaissance?
I have no idea. I'm not interested where we are positioned in the scene. I'm sure Japanese punk rock is the most powerful and best of the world as long as Guitar Wolf is in Japan. The band who ignited Japanese punk rock is the band called Anarchy.
Was there at first some opposition and criticism of the type of music you wanted to play?
I don't know 'cause I don't listen to them.
It's been a while now since Billy died, so how has it been for you guys and what gaps did it leave in Guitar Wolf?
It was quite a shock for me. When I saw his deathmask I became determined. I decided to spark harder and explode more. I chose not to fall into the gap he left and I splattered the gasoline over the gap and lighted fire.
Why did Ug take over from Billy, because I'd imagine it takes a certain type of person to be a member of Guitar Wolf?
Complete beginner of music. 19 years old. Bad boy.
What does he bring to the band?
Ug brought us back to the basic. Simpleness that only a beginner can have. He took all the old habits away from us. He destroyed the previous framework in good way.
Have you been writing new songs and what form are they taking? And when will we be able to hear a new album?
We've just finished recording the new album. It will be out in the beginning of 2007. The title is secret.
Guitar Wolf is all about straight-up rock'n'roll, but how has the band's sound changed and progressed over the years?
We haven't progressed. We've regressed. I want to go straight much more intensely.
To get the New Zealand fans warmed up tell us about the very last gig you played in Japan and what it was like?
I warn you, especially those Kiwi girls, not to be bitten by the wolves.
How are Japanese audiences different from other countries?
Well, they wear kimono and topknot. I can't see them 'cause my glasses are too dark.
You've played hundreds of gigs over the years but are there any that you'll never forget?
The gigs in Argentina. They were hungry for R&R. But I remember almost all gigs I've done.
What are the essential elements for a true rock'n'roll lifestyle?Getting girls. No?
And lastly, what does music mean to you?
The only thing I can be cool with on this planet.
* Guitar Wolf, The Mint Chicks, Don Julio and The Hispanic Mechanic; Kings Arms, Thursday
