Hard rock/punk band “Deadhand” is making waves with their debut album. I read a very strong cd review and I had learn more about the band and their guitarist, Brendan Scholz. From the tunes I’ve listened to, this band rocks and if you’re into hard rock/punk, this album does not disappoint.

I recently interviewed Brendan about the new album and the new band:

1. What does your debut album mean to you? Is there a theme that you think or hope it communicates?
This album means quite a bit to me. Definitely an achievement knowing that this DIY effort is seeing the light of day after a years worth of frustration. It seems to be receiving a fair share of praise as well. This always makes it seem worth it. As far as a theme goes, I’d say it’s  dealing with all the hardship in your daily life and trying to make things better based on what you’ve learned from past mistakes. There is also the idea of stopping to appreciate what you have, before it inevitably falls apart. Mr. Sunshine and rainbows.

2. I’ve read that you had a lousy experience towards the end of your former band, Lydia Vance, looking back at it, was there something you could have done to avoid it? Any advice for other artists that feel the pressure to create something that is untrue to themselves?
In retrospect there’s nothing we could have done to change the outcome. We were victims of circumstance and changing times. The only advice I can offer is staying true to yourself, and making sure the music you’re playing is the music you love. 

3. In working at Cowtown Guitars, did that help open any doors or connections for you that you might not otherwise have had the opportunity?
I lucked out with my job at Cowtown Guitars. It’s the dream day job of any guitar player to work  in a vintage guitar store. It never made me any “connections”, however it lead me to lifelong friendships with Shrapnel records owner Mike Varney, and former Ozzy Osbourne guitarist Jake E Lee. 

4. For the song “Sheep”, what did you use for a guitar and effects?
For “Sheep” I used my 1978 Marshall JMP 100, Fulltone OCD Ver. 2 through an Orange 4×12 with Celestion Vintage 30′s for leads, and heavy rhythms. For cleans i used a Chinese VOX AC30 with Celestion Greenbacks. The guitar was either my 1989, or 1969 Gibson Les Paul Custom. 

5. Is Deadhand actively seeking a deal with record label?
If that doesn’t happen in the immediate future, will you continue as an independent artist?Deadhand is always seeking a record deal. However, if said deal does not come to light we will continue on as an independent artist due solely on our inability to never give up.

6. Do you have a favorite venue that you’ve played at? What would be a dream come true venue for you to play live at?
We’ve played a lot of great shows at a lot of great venues. House of Blues is always a favorite.  My dream would be to play Saturday Night Live though. I believe i would die happy after that.

7. Is there a process for you in songwriting? Can you take “Prehistoric” for example and describe how the song came to be?
I don’t really have a set writing process. All my songs come in different ways. “Prehistoric” for example started as the opening riff and the rest of the song was developed around it. 

8. In looking back, was there a particular experience, lesson, book, etc. that you helped you improve your guitar skills the most?
Being primarily self-taught i heavily relied on the influence of good players. There wasn’t really a book or experience that helped me along. Its stereotypical but if it wasn’t for Hendrix I wouldn’t have a guitar in my hand.

For more on Deadhand and their music, visit
Deadhand on Facebook
The Artery Foundation