When a band features members who, between them, have played in bands like , then you know there is going to be some talent on offer. Now it may have been a while since you've heard of some of the bands these guys have played in but, finally, they've got their acts together, the result being Rainmaker 888.

INTOXICATED - Zakk, could you tell us a bit about Rainmaker888's colourful history please ?

RAINMAKER888 - The band came about in 97/98 after leaving Lionsheart, I thought about doing a solo project, so I drafted in Rishi, who spent a short period in Cradle Of Filth in '94, then we brought in Mark (Drums) and Ryk (Guitars) and, I think, Benjamin ex-COF / The Blood Divine) just tagged along. Soon though, it became a full blown band and we just continued that way.

I - How did you guys all end up working together bearing in mind you all come from different musical backgrounds ?

R - Long story, short version. Basically, back in 1995 when I was managing COF. After that fiasco, our friendships continued, hence Rishi and Ben being in the band. Mark was in a really cool doom band called Incarcerated and loves Sabbath so he was in and Ryk is a childhood mate of Rishi's.

I - Like I said, you all come from different backgrounds, how easy or difficult is it for you to work together ?

R - Actually, we all find it alarmingly easy, that's why we formed a band. It seems the easiest thing to us. I mean, we all have a love for Heavy Metal, that's our middle ground, I think the influences can be heard as well, quite symphonic. We never argue about tunes because that's all they are... just tunes.

I - Having come from established bands like Cradle is it difficult to start again from scratch ?

R - Yes! In a short answer, but it is the only way to do it. We believed in this band so we got out there and did it. We've been gigging since February 1999 and opened for Zakk Wylde and Orange Goblin. No-one really wanted to help us at first but now the promo is out and circulating, we're getting more attention.

I - Is there any meaning behind the name Rainmaker888 ? What about the 888, does it represent anything ?

R - Rainmaker is our handle, it's as simple as that and 888 is the never-ending symbol.

I - When you formed Rainmaker888, what were your aims ?

R - To release products. We have twelve great tunes ready and we can't wait to release them and start touring. We want to be a great British band. A lot of British bands are sounding American, good luck to them, we're not scared of our roots though.

I - Is that the purpose of the promo, to get you signed ?

R - Yes, the aim of the promo is to get us signed, that is why it isn't for sale. A lot of people have e-mailed me for a copy but, be patient, the tunes are going to be on the album. We're currently talking to a US label about an autumn release. We'll keep you posted.

I - I suppose the amount of contacts you made earlier on in your careers must help ?

R - The trouble with contacts is that they move on. No-one stays in the same place for long in the music biz. The only way to get noticed is to get out there and gig, have a quality promo and believe in what you do!

I - Speaking of gigs, you've got one coming up with UDO ?

R - The UDO gig should be pretty cool. The German Metal Hammer are coming over to have a look at us, along with a couple of labels.It should be a nerve-wrecking night. Also we should be opening for Liberty 37 in Dudley in February and then we'll demo up some new songs and continue on the album. We'll just have to see what the future brings.

I - Alright Zakk, thanks for your time, anything else you want to say ?

R - Thanks for your time Graham and for your interest in the band.

INTERVIEWER - Graham Finney

CONTACT INFORMATION

Click here to visit the Rainmaker888 website.

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