Digest

This episode of the Eddie Trunk Podcast features in-depth interviews with rock icons Slash and Wolfgang Van Halen. Slash discusses his new live album, upcoming tours with Guns N' Roses, his blues album "Orgy of the Damned," and his involvement in film production. Wolfgang Van Halen talks about his latest album "The End," his songwriting process, his strong stance against AI in music, and the evolution of his band Mammoth WVH. The podcast also includes discussions on the state of rock music, tributes to rock legends, and promotions for various brands and sales events.

Outlines

00:00:00

Introduction and Podcast Overview

The episode begins with Jay Leno announcing a giveaway and then introduces the Eddie Trunk Podcast, a platform for rock and metal interviews originating from his SiriusXM show "Trunk Nation." Full shows are available on demand via the SiriusXM app.

00:04:10

Interview with Slash: Tributes, Influences, and Guns N' Roses Updates

Slash discusses the passing of Ace Frehley, his early KISS influences, phone issues during the interview, and updates on the Guns N' Roses tour in Brazil, including the new drummer. He also touches on Axl Rose's in-ear monitor issue and confirms a future US tour, while expressing reservations about playing at The Sphere.

00:17:26

Slash's Music Projects and Film Production

Slash details his upcoming Conspirators album, his contribution to a Bad Company tribute, his blues album "Orgy of the Damned," and the Serpent Festival live album. He also discusses producing the film "Deathstalker," working on "The Breach" and "The Crow Girl," and his music for Halloween Horror Nights.

00:29:46

Slash's Live Performances and Post-Interview Discussion

Eddie Trunk recaps Slash's releases and asks about his favorite live songs with Guns N' Roses. A post-interview discussion covers the confirmed US dates for Guns N' Roses and Slash's perspective on The Sphere, contrasting it with Metallica's interest.

00:39:15

Sales Event Promotions

This section features promotions for Toyota's "Here and Now" sales event, Walmart's holiday gift shopping with popular brands, and Lowe's early Black Friday deals on appliances and ladders.

00:40:45

Interview with Wolfgang Van Halen: "The End" Album and Creative Process

Wolfgang Van Halen discusses his new album "The End," his approach to social media and mental well-being, his studio-centric songwriting process, and the inspiration behind his songs. He also talks about working with producer Elvis and the creative fulfillment he finds in playing all instruments for Mammoth WVH.

00:46:39

Wolfgang Van Halen: Influences, Legacy, and AI Stance

Wolfgang shares his drumming influences, discusses playing Van Halen songs, and reflects on his emotional connection to his father and the Van Halen legacy. He expresses gratitude to fans and discusses the challenges facing rock music. He strongly dislikes generative AI in music, emphasizing human artistic intent.

00:59:30

"The End" Music Video, Live Shows, and Future Plans

Wolfgang explains the title and artwork for "The End," details the making of its music video with Robert Rodriguez, and discusses his enjoyment of music videos and potential acting aspirations. He talks about Mammoth's evolving live show, the upcoming tour with Miles Kennedy, setlist curation, and the possibility of a live album.

01:09:11

Touring History, Van Halen, and Rock Legacy

Wolfgang reflects on memorable touring moments, including opening for Metallica. The discussion touches on Van Halen's "A Different Kind of Truth," his experience performing with Ozzy Osbourne, and the legacy of Randy Rhoads. The immediate focus is on the upcoming tour, with no immediate plans for new videos or singles.

Keywords

Q&A

• Where can listeners find the full content of the Eddie Trunk Podcast?

  Full shows and interviews from the Eddie Trunk Podcast are available anytime on demand using the SiriusXM app, in addition to the live radio broadcast.

• What was the cause of Axl Rose's performance issue in Brazil?

  Axl Rose experienced an issue hearing during a performance due to a problem with his in-ear monitor mix, where he could only hear the drums.

• What are Slash's concerns about performing at The Sphere?

  Slash believes The Sphere might be more suited for visual shows than traditional rock and roll performances, and he is hesitant about the venue's setup for a rock show.

• When is Slash's Conspirators album expected to be released?

  The Conspirators album is finished and will be mixed in January, with a planned release in 2027, followed by a full tour.

• What is Wolfgang Van Halen's stance on generative AI in music?

  Wolfgang Van Halen strongly dislikes generative AI, considering it "stupid" and a form of stealing, emphasizing that it lacks the artistic intent and human heart found in genuine art.

• Who directed the music video for Wolfgang Van Halen's song "The End"?

  The music video for "The End" was directed by Robert Rodriguez, who collaborated with special effects legend Greg Nicotero and actor Danny Trejo.

• What is Wolfgang Van Halen's perspective on the future of rock music?

  Wolfgang believes that while rock music isn't dead, the current landscape is saturated with content, and younger generations have a different relationship with music, making it challenging for new rock bands to gain the same prominence as in the past.

• What can fans expect from Mammoth WVH's upcoming headline tour?

  Fans can expect an evolved live show with enhanced production, including lights and effects. The tour will feature a 90+ minute setlist drawing from Mammoth's three albums, with Miles Kennedy providing support.

• Is there any news regarding future Van Halen releases or projects?

  While Wolfgang is focused on Mammoth WVH, he mentions potential reissues from the Hagar era of Van Halen. However, specific announcements and details are managed by Alex Van Halen, who is the keeper of that information.

• What was Wolfgang Van Halen's experience performing with Ozzy Osbourne?

  Wolfgang described the experience of performing "Crazy Train" with Ozzy Osbourne as surreal and a dream come true. He was honored to be asked and to have had the opportunity to spend time with Ozzy.

Show Notes