Micha: Why is now a good time to re-release Apogee and why the full length tour in support of it?
Mike: It was Relapse’s idea to re-release Apogee. The original distribution of the record wasn’t as good as it could have been, and both Relapse and Bongzilla collectively thought the rest of the world should hear it. Relapse has always wanted Apogee. We’re doing a big tour to tighten up some new songs for the new record, Amerijuanican.
Micha: So, why not release a new album?
Mike: We had been touring so much the past two years, thus holding us back from writing new material.
Micha: Why are Stash and Methods For Attaining High Altitudes out of print?
Mike: I’m not really sure. Re-releasing both Stash and Methods would be up to Relapse. I’m not sure they could sell enough copies to warrant reprinting.
Micha: On most of the Bongzilla releases the vocals are mixed low and it’s known that you guys think of them as another instrument. I was presently surprised to have them mixed louder on Apogee. Was this done in the remix or is this how it was originally recorded?
Mike: Apogee was never remixed. Maybe it happened during the re-mastering process. I didn’t notice a difference. The vocals have always been a sort of angry piece in the Bongzilla puzzle. We’re mostly trying to insight anger about the current state of marijuana laws in the great police state of America. Bongzilla’s new plan is to set America free again. Soon, we’ll be living in the United States of Amerijuanica.
Micha: When were the live tracks recorded?
Mike: The live tracks were recorded at two Marijuana legalization festivals, which occur annually in our hometown, in Madison, Weedsconsin. “Witchweed” and “Dealer McDope” were recorded at Weedstock, a springtime event. “Sacred Smoke” and “American” were recorded at Harvest Fest, a fall party, which speaks for itself.
Micha: “Grim Reefer” may be your grimmest “jam” ever.
Mike: Thank you! “Grim Reefer” is a term we use for herb, which makes people that don’t smoke as much as we do, CRAZY. If by “jam song,” you mean playing a riff for what seems like eternity, then yes. “Grim Reefer” happens to be a personal favorite.
Micha: Did you guys trip out playing Emissions from the Monolith this year?
Mike: I always love playing Emissions, and seeing all of my friends from great bands. This year’s line up was like the Cannabis Trophy of today’s heavy, sludge rock n’ roll.
Micha: The publicist at Relapse was afraid I wouldn’t be able to reach you guys by email and I’ve noticed you don’t have an official web page. Are you guys not internet friendly (ha, ha)?
Mike: We’re internet friendly. I think because we’re all huge potheads, shit like that always gets overlooked. Too stoned to use a computer…
Micha: What’s the worst bust y`all have had for possession?
Mike: Knock on wood! Only minor possession charges. Feeling especially lucky, considering the amount of CD’s we sell. (wink, wink)
Micha: How did the StonerRock.com thing come about for the support of the tour?
Mike: StonerRock.com has always been an incredible helping hand in the spreading Bongzilla’s word. We’ve always gotten them high when we see them.
Micha: Any good news in the Bongzilla camp?
Mike: Last but not least, Bongzilla has parted ways with our old bass player, Gunner. Standing in for Gunner will be Dixie Dave, of Weedeater. Huge thanks to Dixie and his family for helping us out with this tour.
Micha: Right on, see y`all on the road!
Mike: Thanks for giving us another opportunity to spread the word. I want to remind you all that it’s voting season again. SMOKE N’ VOTE, VOTE 2 SMOKE!
