On Thursday, March 27, the renowned guitarist Phil X made a special appearance on Loudwire Nights to commemorate the launch of his latest album with Phil X & The Drills, titled Pow!! Right In the Kisser. Be sure to listen to the entire engaging conversation in the audio player located towards the end of this article.

Reflecting on the creation of the new album, Phil X shared with host Chuck Armstrong that the entire process spanned nearly a decade, which he described as a transformative journey.

“One notable track called ‘You Sunk My Battleship’ features Brian Tichy on drums. This was the very first song we recorded for this album back in 2014. Conversely, the last track we completed, titled [‘Seemed Like a Good Idea’], features Tosh Peterson, a fresh talent currently making waves in the drumming scene. We wrapped that up in late October of 2024, marking a full ten years of dedicated recording,” he elaborated.

Throughout this decade, Phil X remained exceptionally active, collaborating with various bands and releasing two albums with the iconic rock group Bon Jovi. Additionally, he embraced fatherhood for the second time, adding yet another layer of fulfillment to his life.

With a chuckle, he remarked, “Since becoming a dad, I hardly find time to practice.” He added, “So when the kids are in school, I seize that opportunity to play guitar. But there’s always the choice of running errands first—like grocery shopping—before I get to jam.” This humorous take underscores the challenges of balancing a music career with family life.

Creating a Unique Track Inspired by Tommy Lee’s Drumming Style

The album Pow!! Right In the Kisser showcases an impressive lineup of talented drummers, including Kenny Aronoff and Tommy Lee, who contributed to this remarkable collection of songs.

Phil X expressed his desire to make the track “Fake the Day Away” particularly special, as it features Lee on drums for the first time in one of Phil’s creations. “I aimed for it to resonate deeply with him,” Phil X revealed. “Most drummers usually say, ‘Just send me anything,’ but I wanted to take a different approach. I decided to send him something I believed he’d genuinely connect with. To prepare, I researched Tommy Lee’s iconic drum solos from Motley Crue concerts, where he was displaying this incredible groove. I thought, ‘What a fantastic groove! I’m going to craft a song around that rhythm.’

After sending Lee a demo featuring his vocals and guitar work, Phil X received feedback from Lee, who slowed the tempo by about ten beats per minute. “I loved it. This is the tempo,” Lee told him, and Phil X was more than happy to oblige.

Phil X remarked, “You’re the boss, man,” acknowledging the creative freedom Lee exercised in refining the track. “I feel fortunate that he was so willing to collaborate. Many artists might insist on keeping the original tempo, but Tommy was focused on making it the best it could be, and the final product is fantastic.”

Unforgettable Moments with Bon Jovi That Shaped Phil X’s Career

In addition to discussing his new album, Phil X shared numerous anecdotes from his extensive collaborations with various artists throughout his career. However, no one has influenced him as profoundly as Bon Jovi.

Phil X fondly recalled a particularly memorable experience [recording Bon Jovi’s Forever] with Jon Bon Jovi. “I had previously recorded a solo, and it was the last day of recording. Jon asked me to revisit the solo for ‘Living Proof.’ He said, ‘Let’s see what you can come up with. Why not bring in some ideas?’ I presented two options, one being a safe choice that was very thematic and melodic.”

READ MORE: Jon Bon Jovi Hopes His Legacy ‘Was There to Do Some Good’

While the team was pleased with the safer solo, Jon encouraged Phil to share another idea that was bolder and more intense. “While sitting on the couch and checking his phone, Jon said, ‘Yeah, okay, record it. Sure.’ As soon as I launched into this new take, he leaped off the couch, clearly intrigued. I wasn’t sure how to interpret his reaction at first, but then he exclaimed, ‘You know, that first solo was great. However, this solo is truly you. It’s so distinctive.’ That was an incredible moment, and it took place on the final day of recording.”

Key Insights from Phil X’s Appearance on Loudwire Nights

• Phil X reminisced about his experience recording in the studio with Chris Cornell for his 2009 solo album, Scream: “As I played guitar, his legendary voice filled the speakers. It was surreal enough to hear him, but having him sitting right there on the couch? My inner Soundgarden fan from the early ’90s was completely overwhelmed.”
• Looking ahead, Phil X expressed enthusiasm for potential performances supporting the new album: “It would be fantastic to do some shows promoting this record. I’m currently awaiting the Bon Jovi tour schedule to identify available dates and see what opportunities arise.”
• Phil X discussed the creative process, highlighting the contrast between what he finds easy and challenging in music creation: “Developing riffs, melodies, and similar elements comes naturally to me. However, crafting themes, lyrics, and song titles is a more complex endeavor.”

Catch the Complete Interview in the Podcast Player Below

Phil X joined Loudwire Nights on Thursday, March 27. The show is available for replay online here, and you can listen live every weeknight at 7 PM ET on the Loudwire app. Additionally, check your local radio stations for availability and enjoy on-demand interviews.