WTMusic: Ross the Boss – Rip Your Head Off

Ross the Boss Friedman is a legendary guitarist with both Manowar and The Dictators, and We Talk Music recently had a chance to attend their show at Dickens Pub and interview Ross before the show.

Live, the Ross the Boss Band is a true force of nature. On this night they played a special Hail to England set, performing all the songs from the classic Manowar album and the new single from the upcoming Forged in Fire CD among others. The new song, Denied by the Cross, is an excellent example of the fierce sound that the new album holds.

Ross the Boss, Marc Lopes
Ross the Boss and vocalist Marc Lopes.

It’s a treat to watch the he incredible precision of Ross the Boss live as he tears through the complicated arrangements of the Manowar catalog. Luckily he’s backed by a tremendous band.

Mike Lepond,, Steve Bolognese
Mike Lepond, on Bass and drummer Steve Bolognese.

As Ross describes it in the audio interview above, a band is only as good as it’s drummer, and the talented Steve Bolognese’s driving beats perfectly.match Ross’s precise playing. Place that with the playing of Michael Lepond, the great bass player from Symphony X, and the group’s rhythm section is as solid as anyone’s.

Singer Marc Lopes is an absolute revelation to see in person. His powerful and dynamic voice is obvious from his two albums with the Ross the Boss band, but you have to experience him in front of a crowd. His stage presence and charisma is tremendous. He gave a true commanding performance,  prowling on stage and owning every moment like a true star.

Ross the Boss, Mike Lepond
Ross the Boss and Mike Lepond from Dickens Pub in Calgary.

In the audio interview Ross gives us a great breakdown of the skills of each band member. He also talks in depth about the current tour and upcoming album. We get some info about The Dictators future plans as well. It’s a bunch of interesting stuff from a humble legend, and worth listening to more than once.

Ross the Boss. Ripping heads off since 1975.

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