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Priest Feast - Feb/March '09 European Tour

April 30 2009 - What A Long Strange Trip It's Been - by Tracey "MegaBlonde" Wiedeman [Tour Manager]

Often times I stop to simply say, “Thank You.” I realize how lucky I have been to travel the world. I appreciate that I have been to places some people will never see. I owe this greatly in part to Dave Mustaine. If there had been no Megadeth, there would not be so many wonderful memories.

Now that the European Priestfeast tour has come to a close, the launch of the new Dave Mustaine Signature Marshall cabinets took place in Frankfurt at Musikmesse and the Revolver Golden God Awards have come and gone it gives me time to reflect of our time on the road.

Although I feel very blessed for all that I have experienced, life on the road is not easy. Most people think it’s all parties and play. Don’t get me wrong, we find a way to have a good time wherever we go, but being on the road is a lot of hard work, sleepless hours and is very strenuous on all relationships whether it be with your mate, your family or even your friends. On the road, all we have is each other. Fortunately, the Megadeth camp is a true family. There is always someone there to offer you support if you are having a bad day. There was one day in particular I was going through some personal issues and Dave knew I was going through a rough time and he came in to production just to see if I wanted a hug. It’s these little things that make all the difference as we roll down the heavy metal highway.

On this last tour, we had the unique experience to witness the continuation of work on the new album. Our crew would set up a mini studio in the dressing room, in the top front lounge of our bus or in Dave’s hotel rooms, etc. Fans will not be disappointed in what’s soon to come. The lyrics are compelling and the riffs are strong. It will surely be everything we have always loved about Megadeth.

Dave’s intelligence and sense of humor still never ceases to amaze me. Dave continues to always teach me something new and on a daily basis and every day out of nowhere he would crack a joke that would make me bust out laughing out loud to which he would always reply, “you like that one?”

There could not be a better group of band guys to Tour Manage. James Lomenzo is always full of wisdom and funny one liners, Chris Broderick is either working out or practicing on his guitar and Shawn Drover is humble and a good listener after a long, strenuous day. Overall, they sure help make my job a lot easier! “Thanks guys!”

As always, the fans were amazing in Europe. They are extremely loyal and supportive. We had meet and greet contests for fan club members at every show and they were all so very kind, appreciative and hospitable. It was a pleasure to get the opportunity to meet some of the fans in each city and a great big thank you to those of you who brought gifts, which is always unnecessary but thoughtful. It was also a delight to once again have the pleasure of working with all of our International reps from Roadrunner records. They are always so professional and helpful. It’s always nice to see them again.

I am frequently asked what my favorite part of the tour has been. It is always so hard to choose just one event, as there are so many great things that happen to us along the way. However, on this tour, we were privileged to run into so many of our friends along the way such as Lamb Of God, Children Of Bodom, Mikkey Dee from Motorhead (who showed us true blue bona-fide rock star VIP treatment in Stockholm – Thanks!), Dimmu Borgir, Evile, and new friends Turisas. However, I would have to say my favorite day of the tour was thanks to Moonspell in Portugal.

The day started with Mike and Ricardo meeting us at our hotel in Lisbon. As we all began to gather, I asked Dave if he wanted to join us at the beach. Without hesitation…of course! So Dave begins to tell us about his favorite beach community in Portugal called Cascais. Wait a minute…I then tell him that is where we are going! The look of excitement that took over Dave’s face and demeanor was priceless as he said, “Well then let’s get out of here!”

So we grab James Lomenzo, Chuck & Tiffany Billy and members of our crew and we are off! Cascais is a former fishing village on the Portugal coast that is now a hip beach community that is a popular vacation spot. Along the way, Mike took the longest coastal route he could so we could enjoy the view, which was quite beautiful. It actually reminded me a bit of driving along the PCH in California except quite a bit more history as we passed forts and castles, etc. Mike pointed out all the historical marks along the way.

Upon arrival into Cascais and after a quick view of the community, there was only one thing to do…satisfy our parched throats! As we turn the corner, I see a sign that says “Rock ‘N Shots” with a quaint little bar and patio seating. Perfect! After a few refreshing Sangrias and Caiprahinas we were off to explore the village. Cascais has such a phenomenal vibe and energy that I could easily see why it is such a popular destination spot. It was very comfortable and friendly. As the evening comes upon us and tummies are growling we decide it’s time to feast and feast we did! Under the Cascais stars we gorged on grilled steak, pork, chicken, shrimp and an assortment of local fresh fish and of course more Sangrias. It was simply scrumptious. After a quick walk on the beach and tease of the toes in the ocean, it was time to get back to Lisbon to enjoy the nightlife.

The evening hours brought us the enjoyment of hanging with Fernando and Pedro. As we traversed through the stone streets from bar to bar, we laughed and reminisced about old touring stories. The evening ended at the ohhh so unique and interesting Pavilhao Chines. I cannot even begin to explain this place so with the help of Frommers, this description sums it up: “Replicas of everyone from Buddha to Popeye decorate the joint, along with bronze cupids, Toby tankards, baubles and beads, and enough Victoriana to fill half the attics of London.” Fernando and I were cracking up to the sounds of something to the effect of “Jazz and 90s” playing in the background….so much so…Fernando has ordered us each a copy! It reminded me very much of one of my favorites, Richard Cheese, except with a female singer and more jazzy vs. lounge. I am excited to receive my copy for more quick giggles!

The next day was show day and brought us the addition of Aires and various fun friends of Moonspell. It was also St. Patrick’s Day, which is not really celebrated in Portugal. However, we were lucky enough to find a pub just a quick walk down from the venue where we were able to indulge in cider, Guinness and car bombs before bus call. It was a great way to celebrate St. Paddy’s Day.

While I was in Frankfurt with Dave for Musikmesse, one of those promo hotel channels came on and what do you know…they were talking about Lisbon! It was such a killer feeling to be watching and thinking, “I’ve been there! Wait, I’ve seen that! Ohhh, I saw that too! That is where we were at!” All I could think was, “Thank you Moonspell!” A great big huge “Thank You” goes to Moonspell! There will always be fond memories of Portugal and I sincerely hope I have the opportunity to visit again one day soon.

There are so many places I hope to visit again. So many people have been so fantastic to us along the way. All the hospitality we have received has been tremendous. Thank you to everyone we have worked with and met along the way. Thank you to James Lomenzo, Chris Broderick and Shawn Drover. Great big thank you to a tremendous crew without whom I could never get through a single day. But most of all, an enormous thank you to Dave “The General” Mustaine.

Until the next adventure, keep it metal!

MegaBlonde