Interview : Robert Cavuoto
Live Photos: DJ
Founding member and guitarist of Queensryche Michael “Whip” Wilton has just released his highly anticipated solo album, Whip Volume 1, released on December 6, 2024, via Rat Pak Records.
Along with vocalist Mark Winterman, drummer Sonny Sudra, and bassist “Hodgy” Michael, the band delivers nine fast, aggressive, and diverse songs with unfiltered lyrics and surprising themes. Together, they demonstrate how hard rock should sound: fast, loud, and dangerous!
The album showcases Michael’s rebellious spirit and uncompromising artistic vision as he pulled songs from countless years of stockpiling riffs and demos to form a perfectly cohesive album. From the first notes of the hard-hitting opener “People Suffer,” it’s clear that he has poured his heart and soul into crafting an album of songs that crackles with raw energy and unbridled passion. The use of Marshall amps compliments his searing guitar work, as they are the bedrock, which gives the songs their edge and bite. His solos rip the sonic landscape of the album with tastefulness and fluidness. Whip Volume 1 demands to be played loud and will leave a lasting impression long after the final notes fade away.
Order Whip Volume 1 here with its tremendous bundles: https://ratpakrecordsamerica.com/michaelwilton
It’s always interesting and insightful to speak with Michael about his music. In my interview, he explains how the album was forged during a guy’s night out for burritos, shares that some songs date back decades as they never fit for Queensryche, and discusses the themes and his perspectives on the song’s creation. He also reflects on Queensryche’s early years and the constraints that resulted in their debut EP containing only four songs, the challenges the band faced when Chris DeGarmo left, and how they plan to regroup in the studio in 2025 to craft their next album. Please follow My Global Mind on Facebook, Twitter, Spotify, and subscribe to their YouTube channel.
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