Metal Sludge — Michael Angelo-Batio recently did a new interview with our friend and journalist Ruben Mosqueda over at Sleazeroxx.

The Nitro guitarist says: “The label wanted people to either love us or hate us and it worked. They told us that if we did what they said, we’d ship 100,000 copies and they’d give tour support and we did everything they said [laughs]! And it worked [laughs]!”

The band Nitro was known for being outrageous, and during the 80’s, that’s saying something.

Angelo-Batio is widely known as the world’s fastest guitarist and vocalist Jim Gillette was known for his ability to break glass with his voice.

“So the label didn’t tell us to tone it down, it was the complete opposite. They wanted us to ramp it up, speed it up and be more outrageous. Everything was calculated from the look, the sound, everything about the band.” added Angelo-Batio.

“We even had Donny Osmond in the studio if you can believe that. It felt like we were the wonder kids in town. Even Gene Simmons wanted to sign us to Simmons Records at one point.” said Angelo-Batio.

Puppy Love between Nitro and The Osmonds.

Who knew?

To read the full interview, please visit Sleazeroxx.

Photo Credit: Christopher Carroll Rock Photography