An Interview with Mark and Christian Danger from the Rosedales

The Undead Have Never Sounded so Good!

Whether you like horror punk, spookabilly, ghoul rock, or 50's-style dance music, the Chicago-based band The Rosedales has a little something for everyone. The four-man lineup of Mark Danger (bass and lead vocals), Christian Danger (drums), Johnny Krypt (guitar), and Rip Fantom (guitar and lead vocals) delivers an unforgettable combination of amazing melodies, heart-stopping riffs, and adrenaline-boosting beats. On top of that, not only are The Rosedales responsible for one of my favorite CDs of all time (the 2003 release Raise Your Spirits from Shallow Grave Records), but they also dress up like the undead and drive to every gig in a flame-covered hearse. So needless to say, I was thrilled when Mark and Christian Danger recently took time out of their busy graveyard schedule to chat with me about music, horror movies, the afterlife, and much more...

SUZANNE: Welcome, Mark and Christian. Let's begin at the beginning. Did you guys already have an interest in music as children, or was that something that came later? And who were some of your favorite musical artists growing up?

MARK: I discovered KISS at a very young age. They were the coolest band for a little kid. The blood, fire, and costumes were awesome. I even had a pet hamster named "Ace." My favorite bands growing up would be Iron Maiden, Danzig, and KISS. Lots of great memories associated with those bands.

CHRISTIAN: Being that Mark is my older brother, I was exposed to music at a young age. The band that stands out in my mind the most is Iron Maiden. They were and still are a big influence in my playing.

SUZANNE: Danzig, KISS, and Iron Maiden are all dear to my musical heart, as well. (thumbs-up) Now how about your childhood Halloween costumes? Were they run-of-the-mill, or did you really go for it horror-style and whip out the disembodied hands and fake blood? And would you please nominate your choice for the best Halloween candy in the entire universe?