MISSISSIPPI- In the third interview for the facebook group Glam Metal Universe, I chronicle a conversation with Phil Monti, drummer for one of the most exciting bands of the new wave of Sleaze, 17 Crash. I spoke briefly with Phil, who took the time to speak with me just before the release of their newest album, Through Hell And Back.
Hi Phil, thanks for taking the time to chat. First off, how did you guys come together as a band?
It’s a pleasure for me to do this with you! I started this band 8 years ago after being tired of finding no serious or motivated guys to play with. So, I started my shit. I wanted to run a band by myself, make noise, have fun, and play some 80’s sleaze glam rock ‘n roll! After a few months of seeking members, Ros Crash saw my ad and contacted me. We rehearsed and hung out and he joined the band after a week. That was it. The journey began!
What are your short term and long term goals for the band?
Well dude, no short or long term goals to be honest, we just want to have fun, get bigger and bigger, increase fans, play and travel a lot, and keep on making the best music we can.
What moment did you have that made you decide to pursue music as a profession?
Day 1, man. Music has to be done seriously and to do that you need a lot of tie. You can’t give 30, 40, or even 80 percent or that. It always has to be 100 percent in every situation.
What musicians would you say influenced you more than anyone else?
Well, as a born and bred sleaze/glam metal band, we surely got all our influences from the 80’s Los Angeles music scene. I’m pretty sure you noticed that our name is also the title of an LA Guns song, so there’s your answer.
What are your favorite bands and albums?
With one answer I’ll respond to both. For me personally, the ones that totally changed my life are Guns ‘n Roses Appetite For Destruction, Motley Crue’s Shout at the Devil, Skid Row’s Slave to the Grind, and the self titled LA Guns.
If 17 Crash could open for any band ever who would you want it to be? Who would you want to open for you?
It would be amazing to open up for Motley Crue man! Could you imagine the fun? Or maybe they could be the opener for us? Hahahaha! During the soundcheck, I’d be like, “Hey Tommy, remove your throne and put up mine fast, gotta play dude!” Haha!
You recently opened for Lita Ford. What was that experience like and what’s she like in person?
Bro, that was insane. It was like back in time 30 years ago. Loud, old school metal heads everywhere. Rad night! Packed club, great vibes, just an incredible experience. She’s very sweet. Still hot, and a beast on stage. She delivered a great show and kicked ass big time. What a legend! After the show, we also met Bobby Rock, her drummer, and he congratulated us for our show. That was so cool, man. Unforgettable night; forever in our hearts.
What can you tell us about the new album?
Hot, loud, groovy, heavy, sticky, kinky! You’ll love it! Be prepared!
What do you like to do in your downtime?
We spend time with our dears, pets, listening to music, going to concerts, reading, going to the beach, watching movies, and shopping.
Lastly, and most importantly, in regards to Van Halen, are you a Dave or a Sammy guy?
Dave forever man!
Thanks again Phil. Was a pleasure chatting with you!
Thanks man! Thanks to you guys (Glam Metal Universe)! Rock on, and keep on following 17 Crash on every social media platform!
You can find the band at the following social media profiles:
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/17crash
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/17_crash_official/
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/Rock17Crash
Youtube: http://www.youtube.com/17Crashband
On a personal note, the new album by 17 Crash, Through Hell and Back is absolutely outstanding. A perfect love letter to fans of our beloved genre of glam metal, this album will take you straight back to 1988! I urge you to pick it up now, along with their other albums, Reading Your Dirty Mind and Hit The Prey.
You can pick up their albums on all digital platforms, and also here: 17crashonlinestore.bigcartel.com/
Glam Metal Universe: The Interviews 