Sean Kilbride, Canadian drummer notable to playing P.E.I. Rock band Haywire. Sean has also played with Kim Mitchell, Sass Jordan, Alannah Myles and Tom Cochrane. Sean Kilbride Interview August 14, 2013.
Haywire Interview
1. Since your days with Haywire what’s been going on in music?
For the most part, I’ve been a working musician ever since, freelancing with various artists. I’ve also played in rock musicals here in Toronto such as We Will Rock You, Rock Of Ages, The Toxic Avenger, and Hedwig and The Angry Inch.
2. Throughout the years which notable bands have you played with?
I was with Kim Mitchell for a few years and have played with Sass Jordan, Alannah Myles, Tom Cochrane, and Moe Berg to name a few. I also got the chance to back up Brian May and Ian Gillan.
3. You are endorsed with Sabian cymbals. How long have you been playing them?
I’ve had the pleasure of playing Sabian for 25 years now.
4. In your eyes which Haywire albums would be essential to have if someone were stranded on an island?
If you had the ‘Best Of’ compilation, ‘Wired’, you’d probably be alright.
5. What are your best memories with Haywire in the 1980’s?
There are so many. I’ll give you two. The first time we headlined our own show in Toronto at Ontario Place . It was 1987 and back then, it had a revolving stage. I looked out and we had packed the place, 6000 people. Dance Desire had just been released. Also, playing The Budokan Theatre in Tokyo, where Cheap Trick and Bob Dylan recorded live albums.
6. How many shows do you do in a year now and how many does Haywire do?
Every year is different. When I was doing musicals, it was 8 shows a week. It really does vary now. Same with Haywire. We only did a couple last year. However, there is a new recording in the works, so I believe the gigging output will increase.
7. What were your earliest influences in life?
The three bands that were most important to me back then, chronologically, were Kiss, Rush, and Genesis. After that, my musical mind opened up and the list would be very long.
8. What would be some of your main influences today?
The top of the heap for me is Neil Finn and Patty Griffin. Older bands and artists are still a big influence…Bowie, Zeppelin.
9. What could we find interesting in your music collection at home?
A lot of music that is not rock. I love playing it, but don’t necessarily want to listen to it at home. I’d rather hear John Denver’s ‘Sunshine On My Shoulders’ , ‘Everything I Own’ by Bread, or ‘Against All Odds’ by Phil Collins.
10. Could you describe what goes on in a day in your life as a musician on tour?
Not much touring these days for me. If it’s a road gig, it’s usually a fly-in where it’s an early airport call and all of the nuisances involved with that. Soundcheck, eat, maybe have a nap, gig, and back to the hotel for probably an early call the next day. The Haywire days were much different. It really was a luxury to get on the bus after a show and wake up in the next town, usually having the day to yourself.
11. Where do you see Music in 100 years from now?
Haven’t the foggiest idea, but I believe that the great rock n’ roll will be looked upon quite favorably.
Extra questions with Sean Kilbride drummer for Haywire.
Life without music would be…painfully dull.
*No favorites, just examples of some I really like.
Favorite movie…Recently – Life Of Pi.
Favorite sport…Hockey
Favorite food…I enjoy a nice fish n’ chips.
Favorite drink…Beer.
Favorite book…Recently – Bumping Into Geniuses by Danny Goldberg
Favorite band…Too numerous
Star Wars or Star Trek…First 3 Star Wars, The Star Trek Movies
PC or Mac…Mac