Insights from the Beardo and Weirdo Podcast: Chris Kael’s Musical Awakening

In the latest episode of the Beardo and Weirdo podcast, hosts comedian Craig Gass and Five Finger Death Punch bassist Chris Kael dive into Kael’s unexpected journey into the world of music and comedy. The episode reveals Kael’s newfound appreciation for the genius of Metallica and explores the parallels between performing comedy and rocking out on stage.

Kael’s Musical Beginnings

Kael shares stories of his close friendships and experiences that predate his rise to fame in one of the world’s biggest hard rock bands. Recounting his early days, he explains how he spent two months learning the bass before auditioning for his first band. “As soon as I picked up a bass, I’m like, ‘I’m gonna be in a band. I’m ready to be in a band,’” Kael reflects.

His big break came when he noticed a flyer at a record store looking for a bassist. “Will was in college, I was still in high school. He invited me to come to the dorm and do a little audition,” he recalls. The song they performed was none other than Metallica’s iconic “For Whom the Bell Tolls.”

Lessons in Musicality

Initially, Kael thought his role was straightforward: “hit the thumping moments of the opening and let it sustain while the guitar lead plays.” However, he quickly realized his misunderstanding when he discovered that the melody he was hearing wasn’t coming from a guitar. “I didn’t realize, because my ear hadn’t been trained, that [vocalizes melody]… I thought that was a guitar,” he admits, marking a pivotal moment in his musical education.

This realization highlights the lasting influence of Cliff Burton, Metallica’s late bassist, whose innovative approach to the instrument has inspired countless musicians. Burton’s ability to blend melody and rhythm in heavy music has set a standard that continues to resonate in the genre.

Bringing Rock Star Energy to Comedy

Kael draws a fascinating comparison between his experiences as a musician and a comedian. He humorously describes how he approaches comedy with the same confidence he exudes on stage with Five Finger Death Punch. “How great of a job do I have that I can just walk into a room like [spreads arms] and people are like, ‘Yes!’” he quips, acknowledging the intoxicating nature of performing live. Kael expresses his admiration for comedian Bert Kreischer, noting his aspiration to capture that same energy in his stand-up routines.

A Journey of Learning and Growth

While Kael embraces the thrill of performing, he admits he is still mastering the art of timing and delivery in comedy. “I’m still trying to figure out the nuance of getting that joke to land the way I intend,” he confesses, illustrating the ongoing learning process that both musicians and comedians experience.

About the Beardo and Weirdo Podcast

The Beardo and Weirdo podcast features comedian Craig Gass and Five Finger Death Punch bassist Chris Kael, who share laughs and personal anecdotes while addressing serious subjects such as addiction and recovery. New episodes are released every Thursday.

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Conclusion

Chris Kael’s journey from a novice bassist to a rock star and comedian illustrates the interconnectedness of music and humor. His experiences with Metallica’s influence and his passion for performance provide a unique lens through which audiences can appreciate both art forms. The Beardo and Weirdo podcast continues to offer insightful conversations that resonate with fans of rock and comedy alike.

FAQs

What is the Beardo and Weirdo podcast about?

The podcast features comedian Craig Gass and Five Finger Death Punch bassist Chris Kael discussing their experiences in music and comedy, sharing personal stories and tackling serious topics like addiction and recovery.

When are new episodes released?

New episodes of the podcast are released every Thursday.

Who is Chris Kael?

Chris Kael is the bassist for the band Five Finger Death Punch and also performs stand-up comedy, blending his musical background with comedic performance.

What song did Kael audition with for his first band?

Kael auditioned with Metallica’s “For Whom the Bell Tolls,” which played a significant role in his musical development.