In Episode 317 of The Hear 2 Zen Podcast, we catch up with Rise Against guitarist Zach Blair ahead of the band’s highly anticipated November/December Australian tour alongside Dropkick Murphys.
Zach dives into the surreal feeling of playing on the steps of the Sydney Opera House and reflects on the monumental response to their previous tour opening for blink-182. The two talk through the realities of modern touring, the impact of the streaming era on musicians, and the rise of AI in the creative process. Zach also reflects on his Texas rock and metal lineage, shares his perspective on fan-favorite albums like The Sufferer & The Witness, and gives a sneak peek into what fans can expect from their upcoming headlining shows.
We get into:
- Australia Return & The Opera House: Zach breaks down the dates for the upcoming Australian leg, including Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, and a historic performance on the steps of the Sydney Opera House.
- The Reality of Modern Touring: A frank discussion on how streaming shifted the album’s role from a primary revenue source to a “flyer for the tour,” along with the hustle required to survive in today’s music industry.
- Texas Musical Roots: Zach shares stories of growing up in Texas, his early metal roots with Rigor Mortis, and carrying the torch of Texas guitar heritage.
- Discography & Setlists: Reflections on joining Rise Against during The Sufferer & The Witness era, navigating fan reactions to evolving soundscapes, and the track that still delivers an extra hit of adrenaline live.
- What to Expect Live: Details on extended headlining setlists, night-to-night show variations, and sharing the stage with Dropkick Murphys.
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