Episode 4: Alex Skolnick (Testament, Savatage, Trans Siberian Orchestra)

Alex Skolnick is a world renowned guitar virtuoso most well-known for playing in the thrash metal band Testament from the age of 16. He has also played in Savatage, Trans-Siberian Orchestra, and his jazz outfit Alex Skolnick Trio. I spoke to him ahead of his appearance with metal supergroup Metal Allegiance 10th Anniversary Show on September 6th at Starland Ballroom. 

Alex spoke about a number of topics, including:

• how Metal Allegiance formed, the several dozen special guests on their albums, and what to expect at their 10th Anniversary show. 
• his time in Testament and his decisions on leaving and returning to the band.
• growing up in the Bay Area thrash scene, memories of Cliff Burton, and the biggest band to never make it from that scene (bonus Les Claypool story).
• joining Savatage after Criss Oliva's passing for "Handful of Rain" and the quirks of recording that album.
• how he joined Trans-Siberian Orchestra, how studying jazz has improved his ability as a guitarist, and his memories of Joe Satriani as his guitar instructor.
• a healthy discussion of KISS and other bands with longevity, plus much more!

Alex remains a soloing force in Testament, and is still involved in numerous other projects, metal and otherwise. It's hard to tell what he will get involved in next. Enjoy!