KRASHCITY Magazine Issue 10

the local clubs every couple of weeks or so.

You also get booked for private gigs. What was the most amazing gig – private or public - that Almost Queen played?

Randy: We did a gig for The Nestle Corporation in Guadalajara, Mexico. It was estimated that they had spent over one million dollars for this corporate party. I had never seen a party like this in my life, you could only imagine (or maybe you couldn't) the lengths they went to. Even the bling was "blinged out". For entertainment, they hired us, an ABBA band and a BEATLE band, who were spectacular. After they performed, I thought we were dead in the water, but surprisingly enough, these party guests, suits and all, literally attacked the stage, dancing and some even stage-diving! It was sublime and yet perplexing. (laughs) KCM: Do you see taking the next logical step to theater with the act, where a Queen show belongs given the dramatics of the original band?

Randy: Without a doubt! Of all the venues we perform at, it's the theaters that really fit the part. Theaters lend that ambience and mood we are always trying to capture. It fits perfectly with QUEEN. In fact, that's what Freddie Mercury was all about and what he was trying to create. Take the opera, rock music mixed with the classical influence… I don't even think HE was thinking arena rock!

It has been ALMOST QUEEN's ambition and goal to do a full theatre tour. Maybe if we are lucky, a nice residency somewhere in New York City? (laughs) KCM: Director Julie Taymor who is between gigs right now due to the ‘Spiderman – Turn Off The Dark’ challenges she endured. Julie has a musical background, having directed Across The Universe, set to a Beatles soundtrack. Do you see the band making a connection with Julie or another major director?

Randy: To be honest, Julie is a perfect candidate for us to work with. Her experience with Broadway, music and opera screams ALMOST QUEEN…. tell her to call me! (laughs)