TONY MILLS (SHY)

Vocalist Tony Mills and SHY release their excellent new album, 'Sunset & Vine' (MTM Music) in February 2005. All this and a new solo album...

1. What are you currently up to?

Have recently finished working on HARDWAY album - rockers from Argentina for CARBON 13 records. Back in studio mixing second solo album currently.

2. Could you take us through some personal highlights of the new 'Sunset & Vine' album?

To be honest, writing the album was a very personal thing, had little contact with the other members of SHY during this, it was then great to get together and actually work with the engineers during the recording etc., getting feedback and swapping ideas, stuff like that. Getting together with engineer Andy Faulkner in Coventry was cool again.

3. How did you hook-up with MTM and what was your view of events over Z Records?

MTM came through an e-mail enquiry to my website. Things just snowballed from there really. As regards Z Records, things had gone as far as they could for us, and it was apparent that communication was poor, little in the way of statements etc., cheques bouncing...people cant carry on working like that really, so we called it a day.

4. You are also doing a new solo album. What sort of musical direction will this take and any tour plans to go with its release?

Dont be too shocked, the new solo album, 'FREEWAY TO THE AFTERLIFE' is cross between a soul and a gospel album. Why ? I hear you ask. Well, all I can say is, that I had to empty my heart and my head of some issues and that is exactly what came out. There's some great vocals and musicianship on the record and it made a real change from rock. Hell, I doubt I'll tour it !!!! I'd need a churchload of singers !!

5. What has been the reviwers and fans reaction to the Shy reunion & the excellent new album? Early reviews keep mentioning Journey (which I tend to agree with and no bad thing either!). Did you have musical style in mind for 'S & V' or did it just evolve naturally?

SUNSET AND VINE evolved naturally from the vibe that was UNFINISHED BUSINESS. THE reviews are good so far, as they were with its predecessor and selling well currently in Japan already.

6. Anything else you'd still like to achieve musically and/or anyone you'd like to write/record with in an ideal world?

There are various engineers / producers i would still be honoured to work with, probably too many to mention. As for other artistes, well, no not really, I love to work, with anyone really, as long as the challenge is worthwhile and I'm capable of the job!

7. Is the Internet helping your music or allowing too much to be heard free?

I think without a doubt, it is a great asset to our careers and our music alike.

8. What have been the most memorable live shows for you and why?

Wembley Arena with Meatloaf, great atmos, wonderful audience and big !! Hannover with Gary Moore , Michael Schenker watched the show from side stage, and thought it was awesome. NEC with BON JOVI, again a rich experience.

9. What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?

What spare time ?

10. Message to your fans?

I have been a fan of many artistes for years, but the devotion that I have been shown by so many people for the last twenty years can only inspire awe in someone. Thanks for being there. Follow me on www.tonymills.net You ever wanna talk to me, I'll always answer any letters you send in.