By Jason Barnard
Rick Ventura, lead guitarist for Riot Act, talks about their new album ‘Closer To The Flame’, forthcoming UK tour and memories of his time in Riot.
Hi Rick – How would you describe the sound of Riot Act compared with Riot. How did the Riot Act line-up coalesce?
Riot was a high energy rock band, It’s just a continuation of my style of writing and playing and what I’m into. We’ll be trying new ideas.
Lou approached me after our induction into the Heart Metal Hall of History in 2019 about getting together. I was playing with Claudio & Paul at the time so we had an instant band. We were referred to Don through a friend of Lou’s and it all just came together!
What was the writing and recording process for the ‘Closer To The Flame’ album?
Very different since it was during the peak of Covid. I would send demos to Don and he worked on the vocals at home. There wasn’t a lot of rehearsing. We worked out most of it in the studio.
Your new album also features the final ever recordings of Lou Kouvaris – is your way of honoring his name?
Yes, the bonus album features Lou and I playing together for the first time and it’s a tribute to him.
How did you come to choose which of the original Riot tracks to remake?
A combination of both. There are a lot of songs that are just fun to play!
What led you to meeting Mark Reale and joining Riot?
He lived around the corner from me. I had seen him play locally, we met and hit it off. I was always hanging out with him and I watched the band evolve. When Lou left, he was the logical choice.
Riot have been labeled the unluckiest band in the world. What did you do after Riot split in 1984?
We did have our share of bad luck! I was always playing in different projects.
How much contact have you had with Riot V?
I made a few guest appearances with them after Mark had passed and performed the Fire Down Under album at Loud Park in 2016. Mike Flyntz guests on 49er on the bonus disc.
Riot’s sound resonated with the New Wave of British Heavy Metal. What should British fans expect when Riot Act tour the UK in August?
We had a blast and some memorable gigs. The fans were so supportive. We’re hoping for more of the same. We haven’t played in two years so watch out!
Further information can be found at: riotactband.com and facebook.com/riotactbandofficial
To purchase the debut Riot Act album ‘Closer To The Flame’: riotactctf.lnk.to/2022
