Interview by: DJ
Photo: Alex Solca
IMPELLITTERI, the legendary heavy metal band, is back with a new album, ‘War Machine.’ We sat down with guitarist Chris Impellitteri to talk about the album, their lead singer Rob Rock, and the current state of metal music.
We’ll discuss the making of ‘War Machine,’ the inspiration behind the album’s title, and what fans can expect from the new songs. We’ll also talk about Rob Rock’s long career and the band’s loyal fanbase around the world.
Plus, we’ll discuss how artificial intelligence is changing the music industry and the impact of IMPELLITTERI’s classic song ‘Out Of My Mind (Heavy Metal).
IMPELLITTERI are:
Chris Impellitteri : Lead Guitarist
Rob Rock : Vocalist
James Pulli : Bassist
Paul Bostaph: Drummer
Produced By : Chris Impellitteri
Studio: NRG Recording studios , Studio B
Recorded By: Mike Plotnikoff, Jun Murakawa
Mixed & Mastered: Jacob Hansen at Hansen Studios
‘War Machine’ Track List:
1) War Machine
2) Out of My Mind (Heavy Metal)
3) Superkingdom
4) Wrathchild
5) What Lies Beneath
6) Hell On Earth
7) Power Grab
8) Beware the Hunter
9) Light It Up
10) Gone Insane
11) Just Another Day
Full Text Transcript from Interview
MGM: So, thank you guys for tuning in to another episode of My Global Mind, whether it’s on the YouTube channel or on our magazine. We have the pleasure of talking with Mr. Chris Impellitteri today from Impellitteri, an awesome guitar player. A lot of you probably know that I’m a big fan of Impellitteri’s past records all the way up to now, so no pressure, Chris! This is what it is. I’ve always enjoyed your work, and I’m also a big fan of Rob. Rob is a tremendous vocalist, and I’m really happy to talk to you again. We spoke, I think it was a couple of years ago. I don’t know if you remember…
Chris: The compilation record was coming out—the Wake the Beast compilation, right?
MGM: Yeah, yeah, that’s right! We spoke for a little bit about that. So, I’m happy that you have the new album that’s finally coming out. That’s great!
Chris: Yeah, there was a lot of work that went into that. It’s been, what, four or five years since our last release? So, it’s good to finally have it done.
MGM: Absolutely! It’s pretty heavy, man. I’ve been listening to the promo the last couple of days, and it’s really solid stuff.
Chris: Thank you, I appreciate that.
MGM: And you have some surprises with the lineup, including Paul Bostaph, who’s a powerhouse of a drummer. I have to say, when people listen to this record, they’re going to know it’s him on the drums.
Chris: Yeah, Paul’s an amazing drummer. We’ve been fortunate to play with some of the greatest rock and metal drummers over the years. Behind the scenes, I’ve worked with a lot of them, but for this record, we had a wishlist, right? We wanted someone who could really enhance the music we’d written. Giles Lavery, who helps manage the band’s day-to-day activities, reached out to Paul. Turns out Paul was very familiar with Impellitteri because his band, Forbidden, was on Combat Records, a subsidiary of our label Relativity/Sony when we released our first record. So, when we called him up to talk about it, he was in.
MGM: That’s awesome! What do you think he brought to this record that’s different from past albums?
Chris: Paul brings tremendous skill and power, but what makes him unique is that, unlike many thrash metal drummers who focus on speed and technicality, Paul can also create a groove like John Bonham of Led Zeppelin. He brings this incredible groove that can make a song feel wide and powerful. On multiple songs, we’d send him demos with a certain idea, and he’d do the opposite, making the song bigger and more dynamic. He’s 25% of this record!
MGM: That’s a great answer because people need to understand how dynamic Paul is as a drummer. He’s not just heavy and fast—his technical fills and groove really elevate the music. And with your guitar playing, Rob’s vocals, and the bass lines, it all just comes together. We’ll talk more about the bass later, but I want to mention how much I enjoyed hearing that part of the record too.
Chris: Yeah, the bass was a big part of this record too!
MGM: Definitely. Now, I’ve been a fan of your stuff from the past—albums like Answer to the Master and Screaming Symphony are still underrated in my opinion. I feel like any fan of Impellitteri would agree with me, but I wanted to point out that your music has a signature sound. When I hear an Impellitteri song, I just know it’s you. There’s something about your guitar playing and Rob’s vocals that just works so well together. You’ve really developed your own sound over the years.
Chris: Thanks, man! I appreciate that. We’ve worked really hard, and over the years, we’ve just evolved. We developed a personality and a sound, and a lot of that comes from the great artists we grew up listening to. Van Halen, Randy Rhoads, Blackmore, Yngwie, and Demiola for me; Rob loved singers like Brad Delp, Dennis DeYoung, Lou Gramm, and of course, Ronnie James Dio and Ian Gillan. We absorbed all that, but somehow, we developed our own sound out of it.
MGM: That’s amazing! Now, let’s talk about the new album. I’m not sure when you started recording or writing for it, but I was really impressed with some of the songs. Out of Mind is such a cool track, and the video is doing really well. It’s getting a lot of views—especially considering how tough it is to break through in this digital age.
Chris: Yeah, Out of Mind was one of those early riffs that just spoke to us. It’s heavily influenced by Richie Blackmore. The song is really a celebration of heavy metal and the experience of going to a great metal concert. It’s about that moment when the lights go down, the lighters go up, and the whole crowd becomes one. It’s just fun.
MGM: It really is! I can see why you guys chose it as the first single. And like you said, it’s resonating with fans. Let’s talk about some of the other tracks. Super Kingdom stood out to me, especially with its lyrics about AI and technology. And Hell on Earth—man, those riffs are killer!
Chris: Yeah, Hell on Earth is one of those songs where the riff is the first thing that came to me. It reminds me of something from Metallica’s Master of Puppets, but a bit more technical and bigger. And with Super Kingdom, you’re right—the lyrics tackle what’s happening now with AI and how it’s affecting our world. It’s a really timely song.
MGM: Absolutely. I also loved Power Grab. Rob sounds amazing on that track. How does he keep his voice sounding so good?
Chris: Rob’s a genetic anomaly! It’s all about genetics. He has that range naturally, and it’s incredible that he’s still able to hit those high notes night after night. He’s one of the few singers who sounds just as good live as he does on record.
MGM: That’s amazing. He’s always been one of my favorite singers. It wouldn’t be the same without him in the band.
Chris: I agree. Rob is a huge part of our sound. It’s like having your own Bon Scott and Brian Johnson in the same band. When Rob’s in, we sound like Impellitteri.
MGM: That’s great. I was actually going to ask you about the touring situation. We cover a lot of stuff not just here in North America, but overseas as well, particularly in Europe. It never ceases to amaze me how bands from here tour over there, and vice versa, especially with metal bands. I’m wearing a shirt from Powerwolf, a German band. Do you know them?
Chris: I’ve heard the name, yeah.
MGM: They’re huge in Europe, playing arenas, but when they come here, they play smaller venues. It’s not financially viable for them to do arenas in the U.S., which I find interesting. The whole dynamic of the music industry here versus overseas is completely different. Some bands play arenas over there but struggle to fill smaller venues here. It’s one of the reasons we started the magazine — to showcase the music that was happening over there that wasn’t getting any attention in the U.S. What are your thoughts on this?
Chris: It’s tough. You have to hit the markets where there’s demand, but it’s expensive for us to tour overseas, and vice versa. That’s just how the industry works, especially when mainstream radio doesn’t play certain genres. It limits exposure, and for underground bands, it’s much harder. In places like Japan, for example, the mainstream media is all over it, playing our records, promoting shows. Here? It’s a challenge because mainstream radio is very corporate, and they prioritize certain artists.
MGM: Absolutely. Back in the 80s, it was different. Bands were all over radio and TV, selling records like crazy. When Stand in Line with Graham Bonnet came out, I remember you being on MTV. The reach was incredible back then.
Chris: Yeah, when we hit with Stand in Line, our video premiered on MTV, and my manager told me, “You’re going to be on live at 9:30 PM tonight, with 25 million people watching.” Whether they liked us or not, that’s a lot of exposure! It helped build popularity quickly. Nowadays, it’s different. It’s people like you helping expose us to your audience, which is awesome, but it’s not the same reach we used to get.
MGM: That’s a good point. The industry has shifted to relying on platforms like social media, but it’s not always effective, and AI plays a role in it too. It feels automated sometimes, with bots or farms pushing numbers. It’s not organic. How do you feel about technology and AI in music?
Chris: Technology is great in its place, but I didn’t want to make a record where files were shared back and forth. I wanted the real band experience, recording together. Our next video is almost like a documentary of us in the studio, which strips away the artificial elements. It’s about showing the real, human side of making music.
MGM: That’s awesome. And as you go on the road and release more videos, I hope you get more exposure in the States. You’ve got a fan base here for sure. It’s a tricky market, but people appreciate your work.
Chris: Yeah, it’s tricky. We’ve done dates in the States, and it’s always interesting. I remember years ago we played the Whisky a Go Go in California — famous venue, but small. We did it as a warm-up show before a Japan tour, and by 1 PM, there was a line around the block for an 8 PM show. That’s when I realized we do have a lot of support here.
MGM: That’s incredible! The Whisky is legendary. Lemmy loved that place.
Chris: Yeah, it was tight! Our gear barely fit on stage, but it was a blast. It felt like a private party, but the support was overwhelming.
MGM: Let’s talk about the record for a minute. Do you have any favorite tracks?
Chris: Definitely. Out of My Mind has a fun riff, and War Machine, the opening track, is great. Super Kingdom is Paul’s favorite, and I love it too. The solo in that one is special. I also love Hell on Earth for its monster rhythm riff, and Wrath Child—definitely a nod to Iron Maiden.
MGM: I thought of Maiden when I saw that title! It’s a great track. I love that you bring melody into your music. With all the doom and gloom out there, it’s refreshing to hear fun, headbanging songs.
Chris: Exactly! Melody is everything. Even with heavy music, people still crave something they can sing along to. It’s why bands like Van Halen and Dio have stood the test of time. Good melodies live on. When people come to our shows, we want them to rock out but also have fun.
MGM: I agree. It’s all about the song. Melody, riffs, and hooks are what make a song memorable. Your latest single is catchy as hell. I’m pushing it on our platforms because I think it’s one of your best.
Chris: Thanks! We’re proud of the song and the videos we’ve done. We don’t buy hits or views. Everything is organic. Some bands pay for millions of views, but for us, it’s all about real engagement. We want people genuinely connecting with our music, not just algorithms pushing numbers.
MGM: That’s the right approach. Genuine connection beats artificial numbers any day. I hope the new album continues to soar. It’s a great piece of work, and your guitar playing is stellar as always.
MGM: It’s great to see how the live music scene is evolving. How do you feel about older generations bringing their kids to see rock and metal shows?
Chris: I think it’s fantastic. When someone in their 40s or 50s takes their kids to a legacy band show—like Foreigner, for instance—they’re introducing them to a piece of history. These kids might not have heard the music before, but their parents have a connection to it.
I always encourage parents to take their kids to see these classic rock bands before they retire or before more members pass away. This genre of music is hard to introduce in today’s music landscape. It’s just not the same anymore. The older rockers have lived through it, and it’s important for the next generation to experience it too.
MGM: Absolutely. It’s crucial to keep that music alive. Speaking of legacy bands, you recently met Lou Gramm from Foreigner. What was that like?
Chris: It was awesome! I met him about a year and a half ago at the Heavy Metal Hall of Fame induction. We shared some great conversations about music and the band. It’s a mixed bag, though; while I’m thrilled they’re out there sharing that great music, there are times when the band performing doesn’t even have any original members. It can feel like a cover band experience, which is concerning.
But I do hope parents are taking their kids to these rock shows. Bands like Iron Maiden still have their original lineup, and you can feel that energy on stage. Def Leppard and Metallica have their core members too, which is great for fans.
MGM: It’s definitely special when the original members are still part of the experience. There’s a unique energy that comes with that. Speaking of live music, congratulations on your recent induction into the Heavy Metal Hall of Fame!
Chris: Thank you! It’s a bit surreal, to be honest. The Hall of Fame aims to honor bands that have had a significant impact on other artists and musicians worldwide but aren’t always recognized by mainstream media.
I remember when I accepted the award; I dedicated it to our fans overseas, especially in places like Japan and Korea, which are significant markets for music.
MGM: That’s a beautiful sentiment. It’s great to acknowledge the fans who support you, especially in regions that might not get as much attention.
Chris: Exactly! I remember playing a show in Korea with Rudy Sarzo stepping in on bass for us. We were unsure what the turnout would be, and then we were greeted by over 30,000 fans. It was incredible. That award is really for them—their support is just as important as ours.
MGM: It’s amazing to hear how passionate your fans are! Now, as for your upcoming record, is there a plan for a tour following its release on November 8th?
Chris: Yes, we’re in the early stages right now. We’re doing teasers and starting media promotions, but our goal is for the record to grow organically. We want to earn one fan at a time, and I believe that this music will continue long after we’re gone.
MGM: That’s the best approach. You can’t force a fan base; it has to be genuine.
Chris: Exactly! I’ve seen promoters dismiss us because we lack social media metrics. But when we play shows overseas, we attract huge crowds. It feels like sometimes the industry is broken—people buy their way into popularity, while true talent gets left behind.
MGM: It’s frustrating to see that happen.
Chris: It is. But I think we’re defining success too narrowly. Personally, I feel successful already with this record. We’ve captured that raw energy and magic of live music.
MGM: Music truly is a powerful force. It can energize and motivate us throughout our day.
Chris: Absolutely! It can be the soundtrack to your life. And you know, I think there’s something mystical about creating music. Sometimes it feels like these riffs come from a higher power, almost like they channel through us.
MGM: That’s a profound way to look at it.
Chris: Yeah, and when I listen to this new record, I feel that euphoric connection to the music. Whether it’s rock or any genre, if it makes you feel good, then it’s doing its job.
MGM: Thank you for joining me today, Chris. I just wanted to start with a compliment to you—your style and exceptional guitar playing are truly impressive. However, what I always emphasize about your band is that it’s not solely about guitar shredding. If someone only focuses on that, they’re missing out on the incredible music you’re all creating.
Chris Impellitteri: I appreciate that! You’re absolutely right. Everyone in the band is fantastic. Paul is contributing significantly on this record, and Rob is, as always, fantastic. It’s funny because I know the band is named after my last name, and I probably should have chosen a different name, but it’s a bit late for that now. The band has never been about me.
I’m flattered when people place me in the same category as great players like Van Halen or Randy Rhoads. It’s humbling and flattering, but the reality is that I’ve always focused on creating a great riff and a solid song. My guitar solo is really just the frosting on the cake. Good frosting makes a good cake even better, but bad frosting can ruin it.
At the end of the day, you must first have a great riff, a great song, a great melody, great lyrics, and a great chorus. The technical aspects that people often credit me for? That’s just the frosting.
MGM: Right. I completely agree. I want to be mindful of your time since we’ve been talking for a while. Let’s circle back to the release date. The record is coming out on Frontier Records, right? I’ve seen November 11th mentioned, but you said November 8th?
Chris Impellitteri: I thought it was November 8th, but I could be wrong. If you have November 11th, I’ll let you correct me if I’m mistaken.
MGM: The press release I have states November 11th, so we should probably go with that.
Chris Impellitteri: Note to self: Don’t listen to Chris! It’s coming out earlier. I could be wrong about everything, including my career! (laughs) But yes, War Machine is coming out in early November. You can expect more videos from that as we continue the promotion cycle. I really want everyone to check this record out. (Chris was right) November 8th it is.
I know I said you’re a big fan of the band, but we’re fans of everything. We promote as much as we can. I feel it’s essential to support bands that need it. You might have a fan base in certain places, but for people in this country who may not be familiar with your work, I encourage them to check out the videos and the entire Impelliteri discography. You have a wealth of material that people should explore.
I get frustrated with some of the industry dynamics, but I urge everyone to delve into the back catalog of a band—not just to listen to what’s trending right now. There’s a lot of great stuff that younger fans might have missed.
MGM: Thank you again, Chris. I appreciate your time, and I wish you the best with the record and for your upcoming tour. If you end up touring in the U.S., I hope to see you somewhere!
impellitteri.net
About Author
