SOILWORK - Panic Over North America: The Final Broadcast

SOILWORK frontman Björn "Speed" Strid has checked in with a recap of the band's recent North American tour in support of their new album, The Panic Broadcast:

"Hi there,

So, back in Sweden again, what a contrast from everything happening at the same time with a show every night and being social to nothing but a nice view and total silence. My ears are ringing like never before, I might have to look into that.

I'm back in my house on the south Swedish coast trying to relax, which is not always easy, especially after a tour. We had a great tour, great touring companions, from the super professional, young and talented MUTINY WITHIN to the super energetic DEATH ANGEL who kicked so much ass every night. I feel we've gotten closer to many of our fans by doing the VIP meet 'n greets. A lot of good people, a lot of questions, it felt great to give them full attention for a bit. Thank you for coming out, all of you!!!

The one memory that sticks to me the most on the tour is when we played Vancouver, in Hastings or more like Wastings. It might not be the nicest memory but a scenery that I simply can't forget: the day we rolled into Hastings, it was Welfare Wednesday and everybody could get free clean needles. I've never seen anything like it. HUNDREDS, shooting up on the street. There were so many needles in the back alley where we parked the bus that I almost wish we still had our endorsement with New Rock (Spanish gothic shoes with soles thicker than a rhino's skin). After tap dancing in to the venue with my newly 'stolen' Jaegermeister flip-flops it was all good... until I went out in the alley again and had to witness a chef getting a blowjob from a hooker on his 'break.' I didn't wanna see that.

Those things put it all into perspective when you're back home by the ocean, cutting your lawn while chit-chatting with your neighbor on the other side of the fence and getting the question: 'So, do you really get to see anything while you're on the road?' The answer is usually: 'Well, you do actually, just not a lot of things that tourists see.' I think I just got that vague answer confirmed more than ever on our little trip to Wastings. It really gives you insight, definitely more insight than a look at the statue of liberty or a stay at the Waldorf Astoria would. It's real.

On an ending note: Down Under, get ready because we're about to leave you breathless! See you soon!"

Cheers,

Speed