» Fan Zone http://harvesterofsofia.com/en Wed, 23 Nov 2011 08:47:14 +0000 en hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.3.1 Ron Quintana to Harvester of Sofia: Metallica owes it’s huge success only to the luck http://harvesterofsofia.com/en/2011/11/23/ron-quintana-to-harvester-of-sofia-metallica-owes-its-huge-success-only-to-the-luck/ http://harvesterofsofia.com/en/2011/11/23/ron-quintana-to-harvester-of-sofia-metallica-owes-its-huge-success-only-to-the-luck/#comments Wed, 23 Nov 2011 08:40:44 +0000 admin http://harvesterofsofia.com/en/?p=347 The famous heavy metal promoter and DJ talks to the official Bulgarian Metclub chapter


Ron Quintana is a famous for thinking out the name “Metallica”. In 1981 he asks his friend Lars Ulrich what would be the best title for his new heavy metal fanzine – “Metal Mania” or “Metallica”. Ulrich suggests the first one as the better only because he likes more the second and wants to keep it as a name for his new band. Here is what Ron said in an interview for  Harvester of Sofia:

What was the first Metallica song you heard and when? What did you think?
I played the hell out of the Metal Massacre LP with them on it and loved it

Do you remember your first time when you saw the band live and hоw was concert?
They were a lot of fun

Have you ever thought in 82-84, that Metallica will become one of the most influential bands in the history of rock music?
no, even up to ’86 we thought they might only be a local band

Do you still keep in touch with the boys from the band?
I talk to each of them every year

Do you keep anything valuable from those first concerts – flayer, poster,Lars’s sticks, underwear …?
I Keep everything especially those early flyers, but sold Yong Metal attack shirt for rent once

Do you think that rock and metal word would be so popular nowadays without the appearance of Metallica?
i dont know…

What the band owes its huge success over the years. The talent of the musicians, the sense of music, Lars’s management or something else?
LUCK LUCK LUCK

What is Metallica personally for you? Did Metallica change your life in some way?
They’re friends I was proud to help because they really were good guys before Napster crap…

Do you know something about Bulgaria?
I always wondered what Bulgaria was like as I love history, but in 1982 Americans like me only traveled as far east as Greece and Italy and Austria, I wanted to visit Romania and Bulgaria and other Eastern countries…maybe next time Im over there I make it to Sofia! Or Transylvania! or…..

 

ASSSETO

]]> http://harvesterofsofia.com/en/2011/11/23/ron-quintana-to-harvester-of-sofia-metallica-owes-its-huge-success-only-to-the-luck/feed/ 0 Bob Nalbandian: Nobody from Metallica even thought they would become one of the most influential bands in the history http://harvesterofsofia.com/en/2011/10/25/bob-nalbandian-nobody-from-metallica-even-thought-they-would-become-one-of-the-most-influential-bands-in-the-history/ http://harvesterofsofia.com/en/2011/10/25/bob-nalbandian-nobody-from-metallica-even-thought-they-would-become-one-of-the-most-influential-bands-in-the-history/#comments Tue, 25 Oct 2011 13:54:36 +0000 admin http://harvesterofsofia.com/en/?p=334 An iconic figure that was present at the first concert of the band in an interview for Harvester of Sofia

Harvester of Sofia continues its new section for interviews with popular people that are first-hand witnesses to the first steps and further development of Metallica. We give to you Bob Nalbandian who is called the official historian of the band by many. He was an iconic figure in the early days of Thrash in Bay Area. He now works as a journalist and owns Shockwaves Skullsessions Podcast – a part of Roadrunner Records, an editor for different magazines and writes books among other things. He and Bill Hale recently published the Metallica: The Club Dayz 1982-82 photo album, where Bill was in charge of photography and Bob took care of the texts.  He should also be given credit for the the popular guitarist Marty Freedman joining Megadeth in the early 90s of the past century. After that he has worked with bands like Seplutura, Type-O Negative, Last Crack, etc.

What was the first Metallica song you heard and when? What did you think?
First song i heard was “Hit the Lights” which was their first ever recording of an original, this was the version w/ Lloyd Grant on guitar that was featured on the original Metal Massacre record. I was probably one of the first 10 people to actually hear this song. This was just after they recorded the demo of this track so it had to be early 1982. At the time I loved it, even though the production was very poor.

Do you remember your first time when you saw the band live and hоw was concert?
Of course I remember. I saw the very first ever Metallica show, it was at a small club called Radio City in Anaheim, CA. I believe it was March 1982.

Have you ever thought in 82-84, that Metallica will become one of the most influential bands in the history of rock music?
I would have never thought that. I don’t think anyone in the band would have thought that either at the time!

Do you still keep in touch with the boys from the band?
Yes, I actually saw Lars and James on their Death Magnetic shows at Orange County and Las Vegas.

Do you keep anything valuable from those first concerts – flayer, poster,Lars’s sticks, underwear …?
Underwear?? No, I don’t have much of that old stuff, I got rid of most my collection years ago.

Do you think that rock and metal word would be so popular nowadays without the appearance of Metallica? Would the heavy music ever become mainstream without them?
Oh yeah, I don’t think it would have changed the popularity of metal but Metallica certainly took metal to a whole new level.

What the band owes its huge succes over the years. The talent of the musicians, the sense of music, Lars’s management or something else?
I think it’s a combination of all that that earned Metallica their huge success. Not to mention they wrote incredible metal songs!

What is Metallica personally for you? Did Metallica change your life in some way?
Absolutely, being a part of that whole metal movement in the early ’80s (publising my fanzine Headbanger and being involved in the whole tape-trading movement. So Metallica definitely had an impact on my life from the early years on through today.

Do you know something about Bulgaria? Would you say something special to the members of HOS?
I don’t know much at all as i’ve never traveled to Bulgaria, but i did see the Big 4 show that was filmed in Sofia so I kind of have a feel for the city just from watching that concert. I would just like to say to all the members of HOS to keep the Metal Spirit alive!

]]> http://harvesterofsofia.com/en/2011/10/25/bob-nalbandian-nobody-from-metallica-even-thought-they-would-become-one-of-the-most-influential-bands-in-the-history/feed/ 0 Brian Slagel from Metal Blade Records speaking to Harvester of Sofia about Metallica http://harvesterofsofia.com/en/2011/10/14/brian-slagel-from-metal-blade-records-speaking-to-harvester-of-sofia-about-metallica/ http://harvesterofsofia.com/en/2011/10/14/brian-slagel-from-metal-blade-records-speaking-to-harvester-of-sofia-about-metallica/#comments Fri, 14 Oct 2011 08:48:21 +0000 admin http://harvesterofsofia.com/en/?p=327 The man, who gave the band it’s first break 29 years ago


As Metallica celebrates it’s 30th anniversary the Bulgarian chapter Harvester of Sofia decided to contact some of the most famous people, who followed the band from it’s early days till now.

It is a great honor for us to introduce our first guest Brian Slagel – the owner and founder of Metal Blade Records. Slagel is known for giving Metallica their first break in 1982, with an appearance on Metal Massacre, a compilation album on Metal Blade.

What was the first Metallica song you heard and when? What did you think?
It was Hit The Lights when they delivered it for the first Metal Massacre album. It was much better than what I thought they might do

Do you remember your first time when you saw the band live and hоw was concert?
Yes, they opened for Saxon at the Whisky in LA in 1982. It was their 2nd gig ever. James only sang and did not play guitar. They mostly played Diamond Head covers.

Have you ever thought in 82-84, that Metallica will become one of the most influential bands in the history of rock music?
None of us ever thought anything like this would ever happen.

Do you still keep in touch with the boys from the band?
Yes I see them quite often. I have always been good friends with all of them. Just hung out with them at the Big 4 in NYC. Great guys and good friends.

Do you keep anything valuable from those first concerts – flayer, poster, Lars’s sticks, underwear …?
Ha-ha, no sticks, but I do have some flyers and the original demo…

Do you think that rock and metal word would be so popular nowadays without the appearance of Metallica? They certainly have had a major influence on metal for sure. Would the heavy music ever become mainstream without them?
Hard to say, but I think they were the perfect band to blend heavy and mainstream. A major influence on metal for sure

What the band owes its huge success over the years. The talent of the musicians, the sense of music, Lars’s management or something else?
I think all of that has helped them

What is Metallica personally for you? Did Metallica change your life in some way?
Certainly being around in the early days and my connection to them has helped legitimize myself and Metal Blade. Also the great friendship with them as well.

Do you know something about Bulgaria? Would you say something special to the members of HOS?
I have never been there, but want to go someday. Thanks to everyone for supporting Metal and keep it up!!

]]> http://harvesterofsofia.com/en/2011/10/14/brian-slagel-from-metal-blade-records-speaking-to-harvester-of-sofia-about-metallica/feed/ 0 Justin Hunt speaking to Harvester of Sofia: Metallica is, and has been, my best friend for the past 25 years http://harvesterofsofia.com/en/2011/08/06/justin-hunt-speaking-to-harvester-of-sofia-metallica-is-and-has-been-my-best-friend-for-the-past-25-years/ http://harvesterofsofia.com/en/2011/08/06/justin-hunt-speaking-to-harvester-of-sofia-metallica-is-and-has-been-my-best-friend-for-the-past-25-years/#comments Sat, 06 Aug 2011 08:21:33 +0000 admin http://harvesterofsofia.com/en/?p=313 The highest compliment to me from James is to have his respect for me and my art like i do for him and his


The Bulgarian Metclub chapter Harvester of Sofia has the pleasure to meet you with Justin Hunt. He is an American filmmaker and became popular among Metallica fans with the film „Absent” in which James shares the story about his father who left the family when Hetfield was only 13 years old. The documentary movie examines the need for an emotional bond that children without fathers often experience. Justin Hunt was negotiating with possible narrators when his big break came via an e-mail. “I was driving on the freeway I almost crashed,” Hunt said. The e-mail was from METALLICA. Hetfield wanted to be involved with the project.

We contacted Justin for an interview:

Do you remember your first Metallica show and what impression the band left in you after that?
My first show was in 1999 at the blockbuster pavilion in Phoenix, Arizona (USA). i drove 9 hours to get there from las cruces, new mexico. jerry cantrell and days of the new opened for them. i was blown away. all i’d heard up to that point were tapes and cds, and this was real and in front of me. i could feel jason’s bass in my chest. it was amazing and unlike any other experience in my life, up to that point.

Have you ever thought that after more that 30 years Metallica will be one of the biggest bands in the music scene ever and that they will go beyond every boundary of the heavy metal music?
having studied, for the past 20 years, their professionalism, drive, management of self and business, marketing tactics and sheer aggression at taking control of their situation, as opposed to reacting to it, it doesn’t surprise me in the least that they are where they are.

Which are the songs that you think Metallica should play on stage more often? What is your dream setlist?
i think it’s important to mix up the set lists. so, i don’t have a ‘play more’ wish list. i am, however, a fan of a few of the classic concert favorites: bellz, one, creeping death, harvester, etc. if there is a track or two i’d personally like to see in concert that i haven’t yet, i’d say fixxxer, outlaw torn, bleeding me.

What has changed in the band as Rob came in? Do you think the fans already prefer him to Jason?
no comment on that one. i wouldn’t speculate or presume to speak for the fans on who they like better. they’re both amazing musicians. personally, i always had a liking for jason and his attitude, from the fan’s perspective. it did my heart good to see him onstage with them at the hall of fame induction.

How do you see Metallica in the near future (10 years) – less concerts and 1-2 new albums at most or nothing will change much and the band will continue roaming the planet with lots of shows each year.
i think metallica will continue to do what they’re best at doing, playing music for their friends, until they feel that they’re not doing it at their highest level. that’s how they operate, at the top. if ever they don’t feel it’s their best, then they’ll more than likely make what they feel is the best decision for the band and the hundreds of millions that love them.

What is Metallica personally for you? Did Metallica change your life in some way?
metallica is, and has been, my best friend for the past 25 years. they mean the world to me. they completely changed my life and how i approach it. actually, i wouldn’t say they changed it. they shaped it.

Did anything changed now after you and James are friends? Is there a difference between James Hetfield from Metallica and James the person?
our friendship is something that i have the deepest respect for. i think so many people are used to, and need, james hetfield of metallica that they lose sight of the fact that james hetfield is also a human being, just like you and i. is there a difference between the two? not much. what you see onstage now is the same james hetfield that makes faces at and jokes with my two children or that i discuss issues we face in life as men with. he’s utterly authentic as a person, and just happens to be one of the greatest guitarists and front men of all time. the highest compliment to me is to have his respect for me and my art like i do for him and his.

You made some screenings across USA. Do you have plans doing this in Europе?
i’d like to do some screenings in europe, for sure. i really just need to create a grassroots effort there and get the support of people like you to help get those things in motion. i’m doing all of the booking myself, so if anyone wants to do a screening they need just reach out and spark the conversation.

Have you ever expected that your movies will have such a huge impact for the people? And have you ever thought that you will make great successes with both of them?
i’d hoped they would, but i never expected it to be at this level. i don’t really make the films with the intent of reaching a certain number of people or affecting one particular group. i just make them because i feel they need to be made, and let God take it over from there.

Tell us more about you future plans?
professionally, i’m just hoping to keep going with these movies and making a difference in this world. i’m shooting my third film now and have ideas for more. i’d also like to direct a feature film soon. one goal i do have is to expand beyond the u.s. and really start causing an impact in other parts of the world on a larger scale.

Don’t laugh a lot now… If you ever make a movie for bullterriers will you call Kerrie King’s father? (Random question from one of our members)
i’ll mull over the bull terriers concepts and make SURE i call kerrie king’s father, should i move forward on that. ;)

Do you know something for Bulgaria?
i don’t know as much about bulgaria as i’d like to. one thing i have been told is that the women there are beautiful, which, as a single guy, makes me want to visit. we should definitely do a screening there! ha ha.

Would you say something special to the members of HOS?
for the harvester of sofia chapter: i can tell you from personal experience that are you supporting not only the greatest heavy metal band of all time, but some of the most amazing men i’ve ever met. the music of metallica comes from within these men, not from the standpoint of ‘what would be commercially successful?’ in essence, you are not ‘fans’ of the music, you are literally friends of metallica who are sharing in their experiences here on this planet. they know who you are and they appreciate you and love you. i’ve been to HQ and have seen the banners hanging from the walls. you mean as much to them as they to you. don’t ever forget that. it’s that mutual love and respect that makes it worth every ticket you’ve ever bought, every line you’ve ever stood in, every shirt you’ve ever worn. and i’m honored, as a friend of metallica myself, to be invited into your chapter to share a few of my experiences. after all, isn’t that what being a metallica fan is all about?

much love from the states…justin

ASSSETO

]]> http://harvesterofsofia.com/en/2011/08/06/justin-hunt-speaking-to-harvester-of-sofia-metallica-is-and-has-been-my-best-friend-for-the-past-25-years/feed/ 1 Tod from Welcome Home: Metallica concert is the best you could ever go to http://harvesterofsofia.com/en/2011/05/04/tod-from-welcome-home-metallica-concert-is-the-best-you-could-ever-go-to/ http://harvesterofsofia.com/en/2011/05/04/tod-from-welcome-home-metallica-concert-is-the-best-you-could-ever-go-to/#comments Wed, 04 May 2011 08:02:20 +0000 admin http://harvesterofsofia.com/en/?p=310 Almost all fans of the band are crazy, says metallitaz from Colorado



Here is the final one of the interviews we made with popular Metallica fans from all over the world for the past 2 years. We talked to Tod Struthers from Colorado, USA

HoS: What is your name (nickname) and position at your local chapter?
-Tod Struthers and my PPM name is metallitaz. I am the Chapter Head of Welcome Home (Colorado).

HoS: When was the first time you have heard Metallica and which song? Your favourite album or song? And explain why?
-I am not sure when I first heard Metallica – probably the mid 80s. My favorite album and song is Master of Puppets because it has all the elements in one song – the heavy parts, the fast parts, the slower melodic middle part.

HoS: When and where you have seen Metallica Live? Which one is your personal favorite? And how many concerts you want to see in the future?
-I have seen Metallica around 30 times. My favorite was the show in Park City Utah in 2006 because it was such a small club to see them in!

HoS: Where are the craziest Metallica fans you’ve ever met?
-The craziest fans I have ever met – hmmm… almost all of them are crazy!

HoS: Would you take the offer to work for Metallica if they ask you to?
-I would work for Metallica except it would hard to be away from my wife and my kids for so long!

HoS: If it was up to you what would you change in the live performance of Metallica?
-I would like Metallica to play all the unusual songs they never play like Trapped Under Ice, Dyers Eve, Orion, etc.

HoS: If I have never been at a metallica show how you will convince me to go?
-I would tell you how incredible their live show is and how it’s the best concert you could ever go to!

HoS: When did you join the MetClub and when was born the idea for the local chapter?
-I joined Metclub in 1999 and I wanted to start a local chapter after goign to many cities around the US that had so many Metallica members in their chapters and wanted to get together with Metallica fans at home in Colorado! Our purpose is to have fun celebrating Metallica’s music together! I give out Metalluca prizes to those who come to chapter events and also have chapter contests!

HoS: Do you know something for Bulgaria? Would you say something special to the members of HOS?
-I do not anythign about Bulgaria except where it is on a map! I have a friend from Romania which is very beautiful, so I am sure that Bulgaria is beautiful too! I know they have beautiful people!

ASSSETO

]]> http://harvesterofsofia.com/en/2011/05/04/tod-from-welcome-home-metallica-concert-is-the-best-you-could-ever-go-to/feed/ 0 Skullface from Metal Monster: We are very lucky to be Metallica fans http://harvesterofsofia.com/en/2011/04/19/skullface-from-metal-monster-we-are-very-lucky-to-be-metallica-fans/ http://harvesterofsofia.com/en/2011/04/19/skullface-from-metal-monster-we-are-very-lucky-to-be-metallica-fans/#comments Tue, 19 Apr 2011 14:04:52 +0000 admin http://harvesterofsofia.com/en/?p=305 I love the people who have a passion and Metallica is a beautiful passion


Dear friends, we spoke to Pascal from no more existing French chapter Metal Monster.

HOS: What is your name (nickname), where are you from and position it your local chapter?
My nickname is Skullface and I was the Head Chapter of the local chapter Metal Monster.

HOS: When was the first time you have heard Metallica and which song?
The very first time it was at home and It was Battery when I bought Master Of Puppets album.

HOS: Your favorite album or song? And explain why?
I’ve got plenty favorites songs…my top three…Creeping Death, Whiplash and I love Bleeding Me because the riff of James in the middle of the song It’s one of the better riff of the Almighty… The Riff!!!

HOS: What is Metallica personally for you? Did Metallica change your life in some way?
Metallica had changed my life when it burst into it after the death of my brother in 1986. Metallica is in me.

HOS: What is the most insane thing you have ever done inspired by Metallica?
Tattoo??? Yes tattoo because it’s for the rest of your life and all my projects too.

HOS: When and where you have seen Metallica Live? Which one is your personal favorite? And how many concerts you want to see in the future?
I’ve seen Metallica live for the first time at Bercy in November 10th 1992 at Bercy Paris in the snake pit.
Vincennes 1993
Paris Bercy 1996 (2)
Belgium Pukkelpop Festival 1997
England Reading Festival 1997
Nulle Par Ailleurs TV show Paris 1997
Elysée Montmartre Paris 1997
Paris Bercy 1999
Eurockeeennes de Belfort 1999
Berlin symphonique 1999
Chicago 2000
Paris 3 shows in one day 2003
Paris Bercy 2003
Italia Bologne 2003
Paris Parc des Princes 2004
Germany Rock Am Ring 2006
Germany Rock In Park 2006
Spanish Bilbao 2007
Tchecoslovaquia 2008
Taratata FrenchTV Show audience + Soudcheck just behind the kit of Lars 2008
Paris Bercy 2009 (2)
Lyon May 23 2010
Zurich June 18 2010

HOS: Where are the craziest Metallica fans you’ve ever met?
All the Metallica fans are crazy!!!

HOS: Have you ever met some of the guys in person and what was the first thing in you mind when you saw them?
I have the chance to met them several times and each time I told to my mind ｫUs Metallica fans we are very lucky!!!ｻ Metallica it’s a big family !

HOS: Would you take the offer to work for Metallica if they ask you to?
When I saw Metallica at Taratata tv show in 2009 I worked for the group during all the day. It was very cool and a great experience but only one time. It’s not my place behind the stage…my place is in the audience with the other fuckin’ crazy fans!

HOS: You must explain what is Metallica to your 5 year old kid, how will you do that?
When I went to the show at Bercy with my son in April 2009 a big deal happened at the end of the show just before seek and destroy. James asked to light the arena as each night and just before Seek and Destroy he asked to my son his age!!! Him like me we were panic and we didn’t answer to James! I’ve got the photos of this moment! When I have the chance to met them at Nimes in July 7 2009 I explain this moment to the members and asked them to write a word for my son. He practice guitar and I took a photo of him with his guitar and James wrote to my son ｫDear Marvin, keep playing, I’ll see you on stage!!!ｻ My son is 8 years old and he has a word from each member of Metallica above his bed !!!

HOS: When did you join the MetClub and when was born the idea for the local chapter?
I joined the fan-club in April 25 1993 and my number is 3091. The idea to create my own local chapter was born in 2005. But I decided to stop it more than a year ago and it didn’t exist anymore but the webzine continued.

HOS:  What is the main purpose of your local chapter?
The webzine is original and very complete I think we were the only in the world to purpose a magazine with 52 color pages.

HOS: Do you know something for Bulgaria? Would you say something special to the members of HOS?
Yes I know the local chapter of Bulgaria and congratulations for your work. I know what it is to work in a local chapter and it’s not easy to enjoy every fans. I love the people who have a passion and Metallica is a beautiful passion.
Hey members of HOS keep support your local chapter and maybe see ya soon on the road…metal up your ass!!!

]]> http://harvesterofsofia.com/en/2011/04/19/skullface-from-metal-monster-we-are-very-lucky-to-be-metallica-fans/feed/ 0 Michal from metallica.sk: There are many passionate fans in Bulgaria http://harvesterofsofia.com/en/2011/04/09/michal-from-metallica-sk-there-are-many-passionate-fans-in-bulgaria/ http://harvesterofsofia.com/en/2011/04/09/michal-from-metallica-sk-there-are-many-passionate-fans-in-bulgaria/#comments Sat, 09 Apr 2011 20:18:22 +0000 admin http://harvesterofsofia.com/en/?p=298 When you’re standing next to James, you’ll start shaking

Our next Metallica friend from abroad we talked to is Michal from Slovakia

HOS: What is your name (nickname), where are you from and position it your local chapter?
My name is Michal, I am from Bratislava, Slovakia and I am a Chapter Head of metallica.sk, the Czech and Slovak Local Chapter of the Metallica Club.

HOS: When was the first time you have heard Metallica and which song?
I am not really sure, but it might be The Unforgiven sometimes late 1991/early 1992. I fell in love with Metallica for life one year later, in the early 1993.

HOS: Your favorite album or song? And explain why?
If I have to pick up one studio album, it would be The Black Album simply for the reason that it was my first album from the guys and it attracted me to Metallica.

HOS: What is Metallica personally for you? Did Metallica change your life in some way?
Metallica means a lot to me. It may sound as cliché, but there’s no better way to say it. And did it change my life? Yes, most of the people I consider my best friends I met only because of Metallica.

HOS: When and where you have seen Metallica Live? Which one is your personal favorite? And how many concerts you want to see in the future?
To this date, I saw Metallica more than 30 times. Prague 1996 was my first one. The one which I missed, and which I’m going to regret forever, was the first and only Metallica show in my country so far, the gig with Megadeth as support and Jim Martin joining Metallica for Last Caress later during the show, the June 8, 1993 show in Bratislava. My favorite shows from those I’ve seen? Prague 1996 for being my first one, Rock Im Park 1999 – my first one in the first row, a concert with the Berlin Symphonic Orchestra in November 1999 (for me, that was also the last time I saw Jason Newsted). My other favorite shows include the gig at Wembley 2007, Sofia 2008 (I mean this – not just because it is in Bulgaria; I had a really good time at that show – great sound, great view, everything great), Jonschwil 2008 and also, for the obvious reasons, the Death Magnetic Release Party show in Berlin from September 12, 2008.

HOS: Where are the craziest Metallica fans you’ve ever met?
A: Bulgaria scores high on this list, because of many passionate fans willing to travel far for Metallica. The craziest fans I saw live in action at a show though were in Turkey.

HOS: Have you ever met some of the guys in person and what was the first thing in you mind when you saw them?
Yes, several times. I was extremely nervous, as you can imagine. I was lucky to work for the MetClub couple of times last year, which included shooting Meet & Greets, so I spent more time in one room with them last year than ever – which did not make me feel much more calm, but it gets a tiny little bit easier every time. Although when you’re standing next to James Hetfield (or any other Metallica member)… you can’t help it, you’ll start shaking. ;)

HOS: You must explain what is Metallica to you`re 5 year old kid, how will you so that?
The kid will know it much earlier than at 5 years of age. ;)

HOS: When did you join the MetClub and when was born the idea for the local chapter?
The first time I joined the club was in 1998 or 1999, I think. Around that time, I created my first website about Metallica, which later become www.metallica.sk. That’s how I started to meet people with the level of appreciation for Metallica as myself. I have always been thinking about founding a fan club, so that’s only one step from there to creating a local chapter.

HOS: What is the main purpose of your local chapter?
It’s mostly the website with a board, where we chat every day about Metallica. We also meet in person occasionally.

HOS: Do you know something for Bulgaria? Would you say something special to the members of HOS?
I’ve met some very nice people from Bulgaria at Metallica shows and parties, and on the Internet, too. Thanks for being so cool. I hope to meet you all guys again when Metallica storms through Europe again.

]]> http://harvesterofsofia.com/en/2011/04/09/michal-from-metallica-sk-there-are-many-passionate-fans-in-bulgaria/feed/ 0 Jonas from The Metallica Collectors Club: I miss all the “motherfucker” etc. in the live performance from James http://harvesterofsofia.com/en/2011/04/01/jonas-from-the-metallica-collectors-club-i-miss-all-the-%e2%80%9cmotherfucker%e2%80%9d-etc-in-the-live-performance-from-james/ http://harvesterofsofia.com/en/2011/04/01/jonas-from-the-metallica-collectors-club-i-miss-all-the-%e2%80%9cmotherfucker%e2%80%9d-etc-in-the-live-performance-from-james/#comments Fri, 01 Apr 2011 13:21:53 +0000 admin http://harvesterofsofia.com/en/?p=292 I first heard the band in 1990 and the song was One, as I was instantly hooked, says our swedish friend

Here we go back to the interviews with some of the popular Metallica fans abroad. Our guest now is Jonas from Sweden

HOS: What is your name (nickname), where are you from and position it your local chapter?
Hey, I am Jonas from Sweden. And I run The Metallica Collectors Club (www.tmcc.se) I am also in the crew for Metallica Club Scandinavia (www.metallica.se)

HOS: When was the first time you have heard Metallica and which song?
I first heard Metallica in the winter of 1990 and the song was One. I was instantly hooked. I couldn’t believe how powerful Metallica’s music was (and still is).

HOS: Your favorite album or song? And explain why?
I do not have a favorite album; I love all of them in different way.

HOS: What is Metallica personally for you?
The best band in the world!

HOS: When and how did you start collecting Metallica stuff and what is your most precious possession?
The year was 1994 and I wanted all the Metallica items they had release. My favorite items are 7” Master of Puppets, Fan Cans and all the signed stuff i have.

HOS: When and where you have seen Metallica Live? Which one is your personal favorite? And how many concerts you want to see in the future?
I have seen Metallica live in Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Finland, England, Ireland, Germany, Czech Republic, Belgium, Netherlands, Latvia and Estonia. My favorite is the one in Berlin 1999 with the Berliner Symphony and Rock im Park 2006 ’cause they’ve played the whole album “Master of Puppets” entirety – celebrating the 20th Anniversary of its release!

HOS: Where are the craziest Metallica fans you’ve ever met?
In Germany!

HOS: When did you meet the guys in person for the first time and what was the first thing in you mind when you saw them?
It was in Stockholm 1999. “First thing in you mind when you saw them?” One word – WOW!!!

HOS: You must explain what Metallica is to you’re 5 year old kid, how will you do that?
I wouldn’t say anything to the 5 year old kid. I would just play one of Metallica’s songs. Then he will know.

HOS: When did you join the MetClub?And how did joining the club changed your life?
I joined the MetClub in 1996 after I found a flyer in Gothenburg for joining the Metallica Club Scandinavia so I joined them both at the same time.

HOS: If it was up to you what would you change in the live performance of Metallica?
I miss all the “motherfucker” etc.  in the live performance from James and I would probably change the end song and not have Seek & Destroy all the time.

HOS: Do you know something for Bulgaria? Would you say something special to the members of HOS?
Hope to meet all of you people on the road and please visit The Metallica Collectors Clubs home page. C-ya!

]]> http://harvesterofsofia.com/en/2011/04/01/jonas-from-the-metallica-collectors-club-i-miss-all-the-%e2%80%9cmotherfucker%e2%80%9d-etc-in-the-live-performance-from-james/feed/ 2 Harvester of Sofia has conquered the HQ again http://harvesterofsofia.com/en/2011/03/27/harvester-of-sofia-has-conquered-the-hq-again/ http://harvesterofsofia.com/en/2011/03/27/harvester-of-sofia-has-conquered-the-hq-again/#comments Sun, 27 Mar 2011 20:22:20 +0000 admin http://harvesterofsofia.com/en/?p=284 Our banner right above Metallica’s heads


Bulgarian local chapter Harvester of Sofia received a new recognition from Metallica. For the second year in a row the group chose to put our banner into its HQ. We are very proud of this and can’t wait to see the band again this summer in Germany and Italy.

]]> http://harvesterofsofia.com/en/2011/03/27/harvester-of-sofia-has-conquered-the-hq-again/feed/ 0 Mark Eglinton speaking to Harvester of Sofia: It’s you – the fans, who keep this music alive after all http://harvesterofsofia.com/en/2011/02/07/mark-eglinton-speaking-to-harvester-of-sofia-its-you-the-fans-who-keep-this-music-alive-after-all/ http://harvesterofsofia.com/en/2011/02/07/mark-eglinton-speaking-to-harvester-of-sofia-its-you-the-fans-who-keep-this-music-alive-after-all/#comments Sun, 06 Feb 2011 21:54:22 +0000 admin http://harvesterofsofia.com/en/?p=274 There’s no real reason why Metallica wouldn’t be happy with my book, says the author of  “James Hetfield: The Wolf At Metallica’s Door”

It is a great honor for us, the Bulgarian Metclub chapter Harvester of Sofia, to share with you the interview we made with Mark Eglinton – the author of the “James Hetfield: The Wolf At Metallica’s Door” book.

1. Mark, tell us more about yourself ‚do you have a family, what else you‚are doing except writing, where do you live and who is your favorite band?
Well. I’m Scottish, forty years old and I spend my time between Edinburgh and Seattle right now. I have two sons who are 14 and 10 and both of them dislike my taste in music, despite my best efforts to convert them. I spend most of my time working just now but when I’m not, I like to travel and do adventure sports. I have many favourite bands – both metal and non-metal – but on balance, Slayer are the band that I have liked continuously since my teenage years.

2. Do you remember you’re first Metallica show and what impression they left in you after that? Have you ever thought that after more that 30 years; Metallica will be one of the biggest bands in the music scene ever and they will go beyond every boundary of the heavy metal music?
I’ll never forget my first Metallica show. It was 1986 ; I was sixteen and Metallica came to play the Edinburgh Playhouse with Anthrax on the ‘Damage Inc.’ tour. James had his arm in a plaster bandage that night so it was kinda weird in the respect but the combination of Anthrax and Metallica that night – both arguably in their respective primes – was the best concert I had ever seen. Having said all that, Metallica were still no where near being considered a ‘mainstream’ band at that time, so to suggest they’d become the band they are now, might have sounded a little ambitious back in 1986. But they did., so what did I know!

3. Have you met the band in person? What was the conversation about, except the regular things that fans say?
By pure chance, I met James and the late Cliff Burton after that Edinburgh show and from what I can remember, I was unable to form any coherent words!

4. Do you know what does James think about the book you wrote about him?
I have no idea. I know the band are aware of the book and can only hope that they are happy with what’s on it. There’s no real reason why they wouldn’t be!

5. Are you familiar whit Joel McIver, who already gave two interviews for HOS? Share with us something wild you have experienced with him, something you’ll never tell your children?
Yes I know Joel, and he has been one of the biggest influences on my writing career. Unfortunately, due to the fact that we have mostly lived at opposite ends of the country, opportunities to get together have been few and far between. That said, when we do meet up, we always have a good time. As far as wild stories, I can’t help you there, and in reality you would all be surprised by how maturely we behave, ha ha!

6. It’s Metallica’s 30th anniversary this year, do you think that they are planning something special to celebrate it?
Personally I would be surprised. Metallica have rarely done what people expect and for that reason I would doubt that they would make a big deal of that anniversary. I could be wrong though but with the ongoing Big 4 tour and plans to get back in the studio, there won’t be much of 2011 left.

7. In the past few years a lot have been said and wrote about those turns Metallica have made during the years, reading all comments you can come to the conclusion that they are rejected from all of their fans, but when you go to Metallica concert the picture is very different ! The vibe is unique and you can feel the connection between the band and the fans. What do you think causes that?
They’ll never please all their fans and for every fan they lose with an album like ‘Load’ or ‘Re-Load’ they probably gain a few too, so there will always be a strong live following. Even throughout the years where they supposedly alienated some fans with some indifferent ( in my opinion ) studio albums, the live shows were always fantastic. Add to that the fact that Metallica are a visually great live experience.

8. Last year THE BIG 4 made their first concerts together at one stage and the show from Bulgaria was streamed live all over the world. What do you think about the show, did you like it? Do you think the commercial aspect is a strong motivator for the bands more that the fact that they play together for the first time?
I enjoyed the Big 4 show and I think all the bands – particularly Megadeth in Sofia – delievered a set worthy of such an historic event. As far as the commercial angle is concerned, I would guess that the other three bands probably needed it more than Metallica did. Personally I don’t see the fact that they played together as being that significant for anyone other than the fans.

9. This summer the BIG 4 will play at the Sonisper in Knebworth, are you exited about the show and do you expect something special?
Knebworth will be a great show as it’s a historic venue. It does not however boast the best sound compared to other venues but the fact that it is the only UK Big 4 show should make it a special day.

10. How did you felt when your very first published book was finally in your arms?
A combination of fatigue and relief! I had a very short deadline so I had to work some crazy hours to get it all finished. To get that first copy in your hands is a great feeling, but what is even better is to hear good comments and see it on the shelves in bookshops.

11. Tell us more about your future plans for new books?
I’m writing a more general Metallica book for a U.S publisher – a bit of a compilation of information- and that should be finished and out in 2012 sometime. I’m also working with a member of the most famous metal band to come out of Texas on his biography ( apologies to all the other good bands from Texas) and finally, I’m working with a member of the Slayer close family on a book project too. I might even have time to eat and sleep sometime too…

12. Bulgaria is a small country, is there a Bulgarian publishing that made connection whit you about your book?
I have heard from many fans about where and when the book will be published – Bulgaria included, but most of the genuine enquiries go through my publisher. We have already sold foreign publishing rights to other European countries and I would be delighted if Bulgaria happened too.

13. Do you know something for Bulgaria?
Bulgaria is one of the few countries in Europe that I haven’t been to and I would certainly like to visit one day. If my book is published there, I would be very happy to come over and meet the fan club and sign a few copies – in return for a few Bulgarian beers of course!

14. Would you say something special то the members of HOS and all the fans of Metallica in Bulgaria?
I would like to say thanks for showing an interest in the book. It’s the fans who keep this music alive after all – by buying the albums, the books and attending the shows. I have the best job in the world as far as I am concerned and it means a lot that people in other countries take an interest in what I am doing. Thanks very much and let’s hope we can get a Bulgarian version soon!

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