It's been nearly twenty years since Collective Soul's Hints Allegations And Things Left Unsaid caught the world's attention. As frontman Ed Roland readied for a tour with the superest of supergroups, we caught up with him and talked about the band's anniversary, The Sweet Tea Project, and Kings Of Chaos.How are you doing today?
Great, thanks.
You're getting ready to play three dates in South Africa with Kings of Chaos, an all-mega-star band consisting of Guns N' Roses' Matt Sorum, Gilby Clarke, and Duff McKagan, Def Leppard's Joe Elliot and Vivian Campbell, Skid Row's Sebastian Bach, and Deep Purple's Glenn Hughes. How did you get involved with the project?
I was blessed enough to join Kings of Chaos in South America last year and it was an amazing experience. And to be onstage with rock legends and my personal heroes is a thrill of a lifetime.
How will the shows work? You've got three great vocalists. Will you take turns doing sets?
Yes, all members take turns performing and then come together at the end of the show.
Will you eventually bring the show to the States? Maybe a week-long residency at Vegas or a mini-tour?
No set plans at this time but anything is possible.
Are there plans to record the shows for the fans to purchase?
Don't know this one.
Let's talk about Ed Roland And The Sweet Tea Project. What made you start another band? How does The Sweet Tea Project differ from Collective Soul?
Sweet Tea Project is releasing an album in April. The band started with mutual friends I've known for years writing songs that were not necessarily right for Collective Soul. Very Americana sounding.
It's been nearly 20 years since the release of Hints Allegations And Things Left Unsaid. Will the band or record label be commemorating the anniversary in any way?
Yes, we will be releasing a new album and touring in 2014 for the band's 20th anniversary.
Finally, we have two questions we ask everyone we interview. What was the first album, cassette, or CD you purchased with your own money?
Elton John's Greatest Hits.
And lastly, it sounds like you might be living a version of this in June, but you're in charge of a music festival. You can ask any five acts, living or dead, to perform on the bill with you. Which five do you choose and what song do you all perform as the final jam?
Paul McCartney, Elton John, Foo Fighters, Willie Nelson and The Cars. "Somewhere Over The Rainbow."
