Jackie Kazjer: I've been doing radio since college. I started at WSOU, Seton Hall University's pirate radio station. That's where my love of radio - and metal - really solidified. I worked at rock radio stations around the country after graduation, which eventually led to doing radio in Los Angeles. L.A. was longing for a metal show, and I pitched one to the program director/creator of Indie 103.1. I've been doing it for that station ever since, six years now. Over the course of that time, I was continually asked to provide my show to other stations, in effect "syndicating" it myself, until a proper syndication company approached me with an offer. To date, my show can be heard on over 27 radio stations around the country.
Who has been your favorite interview?
For the book, my favorite was Bob Daisley. Speaking to a guy -the guy - who was such a huge part of the Ozzy Osbourne/Randy Rhoads story was amazing. Bob is very articulate, and he was very detailed in his memories about that time and those songs. He's really good natured with a sense of humor, too. It's funny, what was supposed to be a 30- minute interview ended up being hours, which led to another long phone conversation, also for the book.
Are there any metal artists that you would like to interview, but haven't?
I would love to someday interview Bruce Dickinson and Mike Patton! Maiden is supposedly working on a new album, and Faith No More reunited in 2009, so I've got my fingers crossed that I'll get that opportunity sometime soon.
What's the most fun you've had doing an interview?
He wasn't interviewed for the book, but anyone who has ever spent any time with Zakk Wylde knows that talking to him is like no other interview. So, definitely Zakk. He's always a lot of fun.
What are your favorite metal magazines and websites?
I love Revolver and Metal Hammer. I was also a big fan of Metal Edge, and I still have old copies from back in the day. Blabbermouth.com is our CNN in the metal community, obviously. And there is this guy at About.com who has done some great interviews and reviews about metal, (YES - I'M TALKING ABOUT YOU.) There are a few others that I check out from time to time, but those are the main ones, for sure.
If you were put in charge of heavy metal, what changes would you make?
I would insist that anyone signing a record contract be fully aware what signing anything means these days. There is a misconception about getting signed, and there have been too many mistakes. Having a record out that no one knows exists doesn't do anyone any good. There have been a lot of great bands that were never given a fair chance. Also, I think a class on what to expect when joining a band, and what to expect when you are obligated to tour on little money - not to mention surrendering a normal home life - would go a long way toward preventing future band breakups. I know it's tough out there these days, but if young bands were better informed on what they're really getting themselves into, they would be better equipped, or mentally better prepared.
What was the first metal concert you attended?
The first rock concert I saw was Bon Jovi - hey, come on, I'm from Jersey! The first metal show I saw was Pantera.
What's the best metal concert you've attended?
I think the first time I ever saw Slayer live, being in the pit, it solidified me as a metalhead. Clothing and bodies were flying everywhere! That was it, I was sold.
What genres of metal are your most and least favorite?
I'm a big fan of old school thrash, but aren't we all? Although I consider myself a fan of metalcore, I fear for the future of that sub-genre because so many sound-alike bands have created such a dark cloud over it, even just by saying they're metalcore. I really appreciate the younger bands that are bringing back the old school thrash sound, but with much better production. But I'm longing for what's next. So many bands come along that I think, "these guys are going to change things," then it doesn't happen. I feel like I'm waiting for something innovative, because it's been awhile.
Who is the most underrated metal band?
When it comes to the old school, I definitely think Overkill hasn't been given the credit they deserve. Their power was somewhat overshadowed by the success of bands like Metallica and Slayer. But they continue to deliver strong albums, and they've never tried to go mainstream.
If I had to pick a newer, more contemporary band that I think is underrated, definitely Between the Buried and Me. Also, Devin Townsend, who has done so much more than people know with band like Strapping Young Lad. He's been involved in some very significant projects, and I really do consider him a genius.
Who is the most overrated metal band?
I don't think you can really say a band is overrated, because music is such a subjective art form. If someone likes a band, then that band is valid to that fan, and cliché as it sounds, metal really is all about the fans. I'm just not pretentious enough to devalue someone's listening taste as insignificant.
What band is going to break big in 2010?
Man, I really hope it's Volbeat! Those guys are amazing, both live and on record.
Who are some of your favorite metal bands?
I love a lot of metal bands! If I didn't, I wouldn't be doing any of this. But Pantera, Gojira, Slayer, King Diamond, Ministry, Children of Bodom, Iron Maiden, At The Gates, Machine Head and Black Sabbath immediately come to mind - but that's just to name a few.
What is your all time favorite metal album?
That is always such a hard question! But I'm going to say Iron Maiden's The Number of the Beast. It's a great album with fantastic songs and amazing performances. Plus, it's influential, and I definitely think it helped shape the genre.
Anything else you'd like to mention or promote?
Fullmetaljackieradio.com is my web site where you can check out everything from metal news, to metal videos, to a list of all the stations that broadcast my show. There are some great contests there, too. And Roger Lotring just launched a new blog called The Angry Pen, (and you can find us both on Facebook.)
