Zebrahead

After a one off London date back in August, Zebrahead are embarking on a European tour and finally returning to U.K to give new album ‘Get Nice!’ the tour it deserves. Vocalist Ali Tabatabaee took some time out to discuss the album and what you can expect from their live shows.

What has the reaction been to the latest album 'Get Nice!'? 

Ali: We really put a lot of hard work into writing this album and you never know how people are going to react to your efforts. Fortunately things have been positive so far. We have some of the most dedicated fans around. 

Looking back over the past year, what are the stand out points and why?

Ali: I think for all of us, the way the fans have rallied behind this new album has been amazing. We played a few songs from Get Nice! during our sets during the festival shows and the reaction from the crowd was very positive. They were singing along and already knew all the words. That really stood out in my mind.

How do you keep things fun in the band after all this time?

Ali: We drink a lot.

You'll be touring Europe for over a month, what tour rules do you always abide by? 

Ali: Never drink flat beer. Never pass out with your shoes on. The monkeys are only allowed in the top junk bunks. And, always wear a condom.

How would you describe your live shows?

Ali: Anyone going to our show for the very first time, our drummer Ed will give them a 20 minute back rub at the merch booth using ketchup. Ben will challenge them to a beer drinking contest (loser gets naked). Greg will go home with them and clean their bathroom in a French maid outfit. And Matty and I will help them drive our tour bus to the next show by yelling obscenities at them the entire way. 

Will you be playing a lot of the newer songs on the European tour? 

Ali: We do have a lot of songs so usually before a show we lock ourselves in our dressing room and beat the crap out of each other. The last man standing gets to make the set list. If I win, we will be playing a lot of the newer songs. If Ed wins, we only play Jessica Simpson songs. 

How did you decide on the tour supports? 

Ali: They offered us the most money. I'm kidding! They are both good friends from back in the day and we are excited to spend an entire tour with them.

What new music are you listening to? 

Ali: There's this new band called Blink 182. I think they are from Iceland. They just released a new album and I've been listening to that a lot. 

If you could be in any other band who would it be and why? 

Ali: I would be in Take That...the most talented boy band ever! Either them or Slayer. 

What ambitions are next for Zebrahead? 

Ali: The same ambitions we have every night- to try to take over the world!