JON HARVEY
The frontman of Canadian rock ’n’ rollers Monster Truck had a musical awakening the first time he heard Eloy.
“Eloy really helped me discover that music doesn’t always have to be straightforward.”
“My dad introduced me to Eloy’s music. He has a humungous record collection and, as a kid, I was inundated with every style of music. He took an affinity to prog when I was in my mid to late teens and I got quite the education. Growing up in Canada, every radio station plays Rush the entire time – Fly By Night is a brilliant record, but there are other bands out there!
When I was young, I was all into Yes and King Crimson – just the normal poppy songs you hear on the radio – but I didn’t get into most of the German prog until my early to mid 20s. I have tried to play their music, but you know how long I took with [Yes’] Roundabout?! I swear to God, it must have taken me about eight years to learn that bass line!
To me, Eloy are like a more complicated Pink Floyd. Their music has got more parts to it and it’s a little more intense. They were a phenomenal band, probably one of Germany’s best, and they really helped me discover that music doesn’t always have to be straightforward.
Dawn is my favourite Eloy record. I just love it and I listen to it all the time. The beginning basically starts with a symphony and within three minutes you’re head-locked into a huge, heavy rock riff. They had a great balance on the record and I really enjoyed it. They produced most of it themselves as well. I think that really shows in their music and the way they paint a landscape with their songs.
I had kind of a prog band going before Monster Truck. We were called Who’s Your Poet and we were into math rock. We had songs that had 20 riffs! The guitar player was a virtuoso and, for me to keep up on bass, I had to learn how to show off. It taught me how to jam with people and it taught me how to play.
When I’m not playing, I listen to thinking man’s music. Porcupine Tree were a good example of where prog is going musically now. I think Steven Wilson is really awesome. I really like Opeth as well. Prog is nice to play, but it’s nicer to listen to.” NRS
True Rockers is out now via Mascot. See www.ilovemonstertruck.com for the latest tour dates.