Andrea Zermeno (PRISS, Hammer Of The Broads, ThundHerStruck) Interview

How old were you when you first started listening to music and what were the first bands/artists that you listened to?

Music was around the house all the time. My parents listened to Simon and Garfunkel, The Beatles. etc. I'd have to say that my favorites when I was young were David Bowie and The Who.


How old were you when you first started playing a musical instrument and what was the first instrument that you played?

I was in the first grade and it was a little keyboard that my Grandma had.


Why did you choose that particular instrument?

Well, my brother played the drums, so originally, I wanted to do that but since he was the drummer, the bass was a natural choice. Plus, I was always taken by Gene Simmons. He is so commanding with that thing.


As a musician, who are some of your influences and why?

Paul McCartney first. I love the Beatles. Paul is such a great songwriter and all around musician. Also, John Paul Jones, bassist for Led Zeppelin. No explanation needed there.


What were the circumstances by which you became the Gene Simmons of PRISS, your all female tribute to KISS?

I came in as a replacement for their former bassist. My bandmate Tina Wood from ThundHerStruck repairs Jen's (Lace Frehley) guitars and Jen asked Tina to ask me if I would come try out.


What are some of your favorite KISS songs to play and why?

"She" is my top favorite. It's so choice. Next is "Black Diamond" because it's got so many fun parts. And finally, "Christine Sixteen". I love to sing that one.


Has Gene given you any feedback on your portrayal of him and/or your performance? If so, what has he said?

Not yet!


Discuss Hammer Of The Broads, your all female tribute to Led Zeppelin, and your role in it.

The most challenging tribute so far. Every member of Led Zeppelin is a lead player, so the parts have to be spot on. The bass parts are very sophisticated.


What are some of your favorite Zeppelin songs to play and why?

"The Immigrant Song" because it rocks! And "Achilles Last Stand". It's such a big piece of music with so many demanding parts.


Discuss ThundHerStruck, your all female tribute to AC/DC, and your role in it.

AC/DC is a fun party band. Everyone lights up when they hear those songs. I've been playing
in that band a long time and the girls are all like family. We've been having a blast for many years.


What are some of your favorite AC/DC songs to play and why?

"Shoot To Thrill" and "For Those About To Rock" are my favs. They're just so fun to play.


Of those 3 tribute bands, do you have a favorite? If so, which one and why?

Oh, I like them all for different reasons and I can't pick a favorite. But if I had to, I would probably say PRISS. With a KISS tribute, the tendency is to push it as far as you can go. And that's way fun.


Do you play or have you played in any other bands (tribute or original)? If so, discuss.

Currently I play in The Paula Franceschi Band, an original project. The songs are a diverse mix of pop, melodic and rock & roll.


What are some of your favorite bands/artists besides KISS, Led Zeppelin & AC/DC and why?

The Who and The Beatles. Also, I love all the Motown stuff. They are timeless and I never tire of them.


Discuss your experiences (good and/or bad) both being a female musician and working in the entertainment industry.

Well, I'm very lucky to have come on to the scene when I did. By that time, females were pretty accepted. Being a female has opened more doors for me than if I was a boy.


What's your advice to young people (particularly girls) who are considering pursuing careers in some capacity in the entertainment industry?

Practice, practice, practice! And always strive to be better than the boys!


Feel free to discuss any of your other endeavors here.

To be a good person and play my ass off!