Interview : Robert Cavuoto
Photos: Adrian Hextall
Mr. Big is closing out their 35-year career in a BIG way by releasing two sonically powerful albums to serve as a farewell and victory lap. In July, they released their 10th studio album, simply entitled Ten, and their last-ever live album and DVD release, The BIG Finish Live, which came out September 6th via the Evolution Music Group.
The band consists of Eric Martin [lead vocals], Paul Gilbert [guitar, vocals], Billy Sheehan [bass, vocals], and Nick D’Virgilio [drums, vocals].
The BIG Finish Live is a live album and concert film of the band in Budokan, Tokyo, last summer, where the band played their seminal 1991 release, Lean into It, in its entirety with additional Mr. Big classics. Filmed in 4K, it is available in different formats, including 180g Black Vinyl (3 LP), Hybrid Stereo Multi-Channel SACDs (2), MQA-CDs (2), MQA-CDs + Blu-Ray (2), 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray (featuring behind the scenes and interview footage), and cassette (2). These formats will include a booklet/insert that includes previously unreleased photos from their Budokan performance and a sticker or postcard gift for fans.
To order The BIG Finish Live, click here: https://lnk.to/TheBigFinishLive
Ten is a triumphant celebration of the band’s illustrious 35-year career, with Mr. Big firing on all cylinders to deliver a high-energy musical experience that will delight long-time fans. It recaptured the spirit and unbridled enthusiasm that has defined their sound over the decades with such songs as “I Am You” and Right Outta Here.” Guitarist Paul Gilbert, widely regarded as one of the most technically gifted players in rock, is in top form, unleashing a barrage of blistering riffs, scorching solos, and melodic flourishes that showcase his virtuosic talents. Mr. Big takes listeners on a celebratory journey, revisiting the signature elements that have made them one of rock’s most beloved and respected acts.
To order Ten, click here: https://lnk.to/Mr.Big_Ten
It was a pleasure to interview Paul as he delved into the captivating career of Mr. Big. In my interview, he recounted the equipment challenges the band faced during their overseas tour leading up to their stellar performance and recording at Budokan for The BIG Finish Live. He also discussed the theft of his four prized guitars while on tour and his thoughts on whether he will ever get them back. Paul’s passion and enthusiasm were contagious as he reflected on the invaluable lessons he’s learned from his 35-year tenure with Mr. Big and its profound impact on the band’s songwriting and his personal artistic growth. Please follow My Global Mind on Facebook, Twitter, Spotify, and subscribe to their YouTube channel.
The BIG Finish Live track listing:
1. Addicted To That Rush
2. Take Cover
3. Undertow
4. Daddy, Brother, Lover, Little Boy (The Electric Drill Song)
5. Alive And Kickin’
6. Green-Tinted Sixties Mind
7. CDFF- Lucky This Time
8. Voodoo Kiss
9. Never Say Never
10. Just Take My Heart
11. My Kinda Woman
12. A Little Too Loose
13. Road To Ruin
14. To Be With You
15. Big Love
16. The Chain
17. Promise Her The Moon
18. Where Do I Fit In
19. Wild World
20. Paul Gilbert Guitar Solo
21. Colorado Bulldog
22. Billy Sheehan Bass Solo
23. Shy Boy
24. 30 Days In The Hole
25. Good Lovin’
26. Baba O’Riley