-I think I'm pretty normal when it comes to my childhood. Born and raised
in sunny Southern California. One sister a mom and a dad. My dad wasn't
around too much (that's another story in itself!) but had lots of love and
encouragement throughout my life. When I first got into punk, or actually
just music, I was about 15. That was 1980. Bands like: Adam and the Ants,
Blondie, Devo, The Dickies, Pat Benetar, XTC and soon afterwards more
aggressive stuff like: Black Fag, Circle Jerks, The Cheifs, Adolescents,
etc..I was first introduced to punk by my buddy Glen. He had an older
brother who was into it. I went to my first gig with Glen. It was the Dickies. Still my favorite
band. It was insane! We were just kids alone at The Whiskey in Hollywood.
I remember first walking in there and having a cocktail waitress ask if I
wanted a drink. It was a whole new world.
My parents, or I should say my mom, was pretty cool about my music. Her
only concern was when she saw a 999 lp of mine. She said, "Well as long as it's
not 666 I guess it's alright". She was, and IS so oblivious! Still has no
idea what type of music I listen to.

2. How did you get into the whole Punk Rock thing? Was there a defining
moment when you realized that the world of Punk was the one for you?

- Like I said above, I honesty wasn't even into music before I listened to
New Wave/Punk Rock. Of course as a kid I listened to what was on the
radio; Jackson Five, Osmonds, Three Dog Night, all the "hits" but never really
found a connection until Punk Rock. It was, and is, so much more than
music. It truly is a way of life. It's a way of thinking and a way of living. Ask
ten people what punk means to them and you'll get ten different answers.
That's one thing I like about it. At first there was a feeling that
something was "wrong" with it. By that I mean you kind of had to keep it
undercover to a degree. Back then punk was NOT acceptable in the least.
Most people thought you were out to destroy the government. But only after you
killed your parents and fucked your dog! Times have changed a whole lot..

3. How long ago was it that you started the distro? Were you involved in
the Punk scene in anyway prior to that? Were you ever in a band or
writing a zine? What made you choose a distro over those other options? What was
the reaction toward you as a new distro back then - were you treated with
caution, or with open arms?

- Actually this month marks the 15th year of the Dr. Strange Records mail
order and 14 for the label. I started the mail order catalog, specializing
in rare and out of print punk rock, just for the fun of it. I was buying
and trading records with people from the U.K. and had noticed that these same
records I could get for say, $5.00, stores in Hollywood were selling for
three times or more that amount. I figured why not give it a try. My first
catalog was one page long and had lp's and 7"s on it. I had a stack of
fliers in my car and any time I saw a punk or a car with punk stickers on it I'd put a flier on
it. I also placed a couple ads in MRR and Flipside. It was the greatest
feeling in the world to get my first order in the mail. Actually it's
still a great feeling even today.

My only involvement in the punk "scene" was just going to gigs with my
friends. I never did a zine, never played in a band. Hell we were too busy
ditching school and drinking!
I'd say that all my friends and all those that bought records from me were
very cool and encouraging. I think the punk scene then was more close nit that it is today. We all
had a common "enemy"; Society!

4. What made you start the record label? Was it with the idea of a
specific release, maybe only a single release? What hopes and aspirations
did you have for the label originally, and how have they changed as the
label has progressed?

- I stared the record label a year after the mail order just because one
day I was making a list of goals in life. You know, things to do before I
died.
I originally only planned on doing one release. A band that went to my
high school in the early 80's called Manson Youth. I met the singer when he
moved
in to my apartment complex (he didn't go to my school, the others did). So
I said, okay, let's go for it. It took such a long time to do.
The first time you do anything usually sucks and this was no exception.
But once I had that record in my hands it made all the headaches worth it. A
true accomplishment!
I then told my distributor that I was buying records from for the
mailorder; Mordam Records about it. They asked me if I wanted them to be my
distributor and said, "Sure, I guess". I didn't know then what I know now. It's so
difficult to get a good and honest distributor. Because of Mordam and
their honesty, I decided to release another and then another and another. Now
I'm working on my 102nd release!

My hopes and aspirations for the label and mail order are pretty much the
same now as back then. I just want to pay rent and buy pizza anytime I
want it. Simple but true.

5. Let's do a bit of label history - when did you start doing the Dr.
Strange record label? Did you have any knowledge of releasing records
prior to that of your debut release, the MANSON YOUTH 7"? Did you have anyone
on hand to help you through it, or did you seek advice off any other labels?

** Steve. Some of these were answered above so I'll continue with the last
part of the question

- No one was there to offer any advice to me in the beginning. It was a
lot of bumping against walls, paying too much and learning the hard way. That
is the main reason that I offer a list of "Where to Get Things Done". It'll
walk through anyone doing it for their first time step by step. Where to
get things pressed, mastered, labels made, anything and everything related to
pressing records and cd's. If anyone needs that list feel free to contact
me. Just ask for "The List".

6. What do you feel was the biggest obstacle originally? Why so?

- I guess the obvious one is money. I mean a lack of! I had and still do
the drive and determination to get it done. I don't let things discourage me.
If I want to do it, it WILL happen.

7. Do you find that, even after some 14 years of releasing records, that
you are still finding new things out about the whole process or releasing
records and, more specifically, the music industry?

-Maybe to some degree. I think it's actually a reaffirmation. Especially
on people in general and the way we think and act. I've been through a lot in
14 years of the label. I've met some great people and some REAL assholes.
It 's sad to see how many people are so easily corrupted by greed. Either
greed for money, fame and popularity or who knows what else. It's sad when you
see your one time friend throw it all away just to be "famous" and rich. Just
the opposite of what punk rock should be all about. At least to me..
The biggest downfall to the label is knowing too much. Let's say I really
like The Dickies for example. They release a new record out on a label I
have no respect for what-so-ever.
It kind of ruins the fun of buying the new release. I love the band but
don't want to support some real assholes that run the label.

8. What kind of qualities do you look for in a band who wish to release
something on Dr. Strange? Do you have any guidelines on what you will and will not
release - be that their lyrics, attitude, personality etc? Do you think
there is a defined Dr. Strange sound?

-My "requirements" for releasing something is still the same. If I like
it, you're in.
More and more though it is important to find a band that is willing to
work. By that I mean tour and support a new release.
Some do say that Dr. Strange has a certain sound to it. In my opinion that
"sound" is good solid punk rock. I've released bands from The Freeze to
Zoinks. There's a wide wide range in there. The bands I'm releasing now
are more true to my heart. Bands that I grew up with. I'm either doing
reissues or new material from older greats such as:
The Skulls, Mad Parade, The Freeze, The Cheifs, Broken Bones, Flux of Pink
Indians and so forth.

9. I guess you don't want to go into specifics as it changes from band to
band I assume - but what kind of deal do you offer bands? Do you deal in
actual written contracts, or is it all based on a handshake and your/the
band's word? Do you pay for studio time?

- That has changed a little over the years. After being screwed over a
couple times by doing the "handshake" deal I now have a very simple
agreement that is in writing.
It's less than a page long and simply says that I pay for all costs and
once the release breaks even, we split is 50-50. It's simple and very fair.
In the past, when releases sold well (they no longer do for anyone!) I
would pay for the recording costs. But now that is the one thing I no longer pay
for.

10. You've had some bands on the label that have moved on and done bigger
(but not necessarily better) things - some of those we shall come to
later. But, would you ever consider signing a band purely because you know they
would make you/the label a stack of cash?

- Yeah you're right about that. A few have moved on to bigger and shittier
things! Anyway, no I wouldn't sign a band in hopes of making a ton of money. I'll
only release something if I truly like it. If, by chance, a band does make
money then fine. But that's never the reason for signing a band. I've
turned down several bands that would have made a lot of money because I just
didn't like their music.

11. How many copies of each release do you press up? Does it vary
depending on the band? Do you have a favoured format in dealing with - CD
or vinyl? Do you repress much of your back catalogue?

- That totally depends on the band. Like I said above things don't sell
like they did in the "good old days". About 10 years ago or so anything I did
would sell 10,000 easily.
Now I'm lucky to sell 1,000. I think it has to do with people burning cd's
and having more "toys" to play with. Play Station, dvd's, etc..
My favorite format is still vinyl of course! And of course that is the one
format that doesn't sell at all. I still press vinyl but only in limited
pressings. Colored vinyl, silk screened sleeves, autographed and so forth.
That way it helps to sell some and it's fun as well. Here's an example; I
have a new Skulls/Texas Thieves split 7" coming out this month. It'll be
limited to 800 copies, hand numbered and comes on eight different colored
vinyl with eight different colored sleeves. Take that collector nerds!

12. I have read that you have been lucky from the start with distribution
as you go through Mordam - that correct? How did that deal arise and just
why do you feel that distribution is so hard for labels to obtain? Do you
do trades with other labels? Ever been ripped off - want to name names?

- I have been lucky and I have no idea why. I was dealing with Mordam when
I was buying records for my mail order. I didn't know until years later how
lucky that was. With Mordam there are no rip-offs. They have been ripped off before by
other distributors they sell to but they always pay the labels regardless. Very
cool of them. I do trade with other labels when I can. It's a good way to hear other
stuff and since it's just my releases it's no big deal and is cheap.

13. What has been the biggest selling release on the label? Is there one
release over all others that you are particularly proud of? Conversely,
are there any records you regret putting out, or bands you regret working
with? Are there any bands you turned down that you now regret? Who are the
bands that you would love to work with if the chance arose?

- The best selling release I've done is Voodoo Glow Skulls. Not only
because they're a good band but also because they play ALL the time. They're on
tour now. After 13 years they still tour the world. That makes all the
difference in the world.

I'm honestly proud of each and every release. It's kind of like being a
father and these are your kids. How do you pick just one? If I had to
though I'd say the most current release I'm working on are my favorites. Mostly
because it's new to my ears. I don't regret any of the releases I've done. Even the ones that didn't
sell. It doesn't matter. Of course I want them all to at least break even
but even if they don't that doesn't mean it isn't a good release.

14. If we can just talk about a few of the bands you have worked with
over the years, starting with FACE TO FACE. How did you see those guys change
from your initial contact with them up to the stage when they left the
label? Did they not say the reason for leaving Dr. Strange was, "Just
business"? What do you think of their output post-Dr. Strange? Where
would you place them in the mythical tree of Punk Rock credibility?

- I could write a book on them. Things started out great. They came to me,
I liked them and all was fine. Until the greedy bug infected them! These
were people I hung out with as friends. Went on vaction with. Went to dinner
with. They are a prime example of the weakness of mankind. Yes, they did
say "Sorry Doc it's just business".
As far s punk rock credibility goes, they have none. Not an ounce. They
don't have a clue what punk rock really is. I honestly haven't even listened
to anything they've done after my release with them. Which is, no denying, a
great release. They are dead to me and as I hear, dead to everyone else.
It's been years since anyone has asked me at the store
"Do you carry face to face?"

15. One of your most recent releases has been the awesome CHANNEL 3
album, 'CH3'. How did you hook up with those guys? Did you find them easy to
work with? Were you not worried they might turn in another hair-metal album?
Do you feel the new album does the band justice when compared with the early
classics such as 'I've Got A Gun' and 'After The Lights Go Out'?

-Yeah, that was really great. Kimm had sent me a 5 song cdr of their new
stuff to me. It was funny because it had a letter explaining who they
were, where they came from etc. I'm reading this thinking, you're kidding right?
Who the hell doesn't know who Channel Three are! After hearing the demo I
knew right away they were back on track with their punk rock roots. I
think it's an amazing release. Most bands that get back together after so many
years can't come close to their original "greatness". These guys haven't
lost a thing on record OR live. The last time I saw them was a couple
months ago with: Channel Three, The Skulls, Shattered Faith and D.I. Needless to
say it was a GREAT gig!

16. A band that has always seemed synonymous with the label -
particularly in the early years of Dr. Strange - is GAMEFACE. What attracted to you to
them all those years ago? Why did they feel the need to move on and were
you happy for them to go? I understand Jeff Caudill still does artwork
for you - how do you find working with him and what do you think of the recent
GAMEFACE album, 'Four To Go' - it seems to be a bit of a return to the
sound on 'Three To Get Ready'.

- Gameface was one of the few bands I really tried to sign up. I just
thought they were great. Why? Because they are I guess. Jeff is a good guy
(just spoke with him yesterday actually). He doesn't do much work for me
anymore. He has a very busy job at a production company making ads, dvd
covers, posters etc for big movies. Like Planet of the Apes, Hannibal and
a ton of others. I'm really proud of him. Gameface also now has Steve and
Guy from another Dr. Strange band; The Tank. Both great guys. I really like
them. And of course I can't forget Todd (guitarist). ALL of them are very
down to Earth and cool people.
I was very happy for them to move on. They did what they said they would
in regards to Dr. Strange and I thought (as well as they) that Revelation
would be a good move up.
They handled things the right and decent way.
In all honesty I haven't yet heard "Four to Go" yet. Just been so busy. I
heard that it was REALLY good though. Gameface is one off the many bands
that never got their fair shake at it. It happens. The odds of getting big
are always against you but their heads are in the right place and that's
why they're still out there more than 10 years later.

17. Another new signing is the SKULLS, who have just released their
second Dr. Strange album, 'The Golden Age Of Piracy'. Why did this cult band of
the early LA scene get back together and how did you hook up with them?
Is singer Billy Bones a pretty wild guy to work with? And just how did
former ADICT and Ipswich resident James Harding end up in the line-up?

- I can't say enough good things about The Skulls. Truly one of the best
bands I've ever seen (and I've seen a LOT) and one of the best releases
I've ever been a part of. As far as I know they were going to get back together to play "The Class
of '77" gig. All the greats were there: Controllers, The Dogs, Agent Orange,
Runaways, TSOL, Circle Jerks, Weirdos, Screamers and of course The Skulls.
That was the first time I saw them. They were amazing! PURE ENERGY! A
buddy of theirs, Jean-Luc at Headline Records, put out a 7" of their old stuff
and a friend of a friend told them about me. They had some new songs and I
loved them and after meeting them (nicest guys in the world) the rest is
history. Billy Bones (singer) needs to write a book. He lived the earliest days of
the L.A. punk scene. Playing the Masque, sharing practice room with the
Go-Go's, rooming with Iggy Pop. Amazing life so far.

James Hardslug (adicts keyboardist) hooked up with them and offered to
play bass. Sean (Gears) was on drums and Kevin "The Kid" on guitar. This
line-up is by FAR the best thing out there and in all honesty the new Skulls stuff
blows away their old stuff. Same '77 L.A. style, just better. This is a
band that should own the world. Actually they're coming to Europe THIS month
and then are doing a West Coast tour with The Weirdos!
Trust your ole' Doc and see them.

18. Another band that I always thought typified the early Dr. Strange
sound was ZOINKS! What happened to those guys? Do you feel that via the likes
of them, GAMEFACE and RHYTHM COLLISION, the label developed a distinctly
Pop-Punk persona? You still in touch with any of the former members?

- Yeah, Zoinks were another great band and I guess that did typify the Dr.
Strange sound at that time. I still talk to them as well every once in a
while. Zac (singer) stopped by the store a month or so ago and I talk to
Harlan (Rhythm Collision singer) every once in a while. People move on,
have kids, get jobs etc.. but the love is still there.

19. One of my fave Dr. Strange releases was 'One False Move' by Boston
legends THE FREEZE. You must have a great Cliff Hanger story - everyone
who has had dealings with him has at least one! Can you tell us one? I
understand you are about to release their first two classic albums - 'Land
Of The Lost' and 'Rabid Reaction' - on one disc. You going to maybe do a
FREEZE back catalogue reissue series? Any chance of a new album, or
another album of out-takes like 'Token Bones'?

-Cliff! Yep, he's a character alright to say the least. A nice guy that
needs, let's say "guidance". I have a few stories but the one that
explains him the most and his problems best is probably when he was talking on the
phone to my wife "Crystal". That got his mind thinking...To make a long
story short he wanted my wife to buy him some Crystal Meth (Speed) and
mail it to him!
Yeah right!

I love "One False Move". I think it's one of the best Freeze releases yet.
It ranks up there with The Land of the Lost and Rabid Reaction. Cliff says
he does want to record some more stuff. Whether or not I'll do it, time
will tell. It'll be a while in any case before they can record.

20. Lately, you have released a lot of reissues in the form of the
GOVERNMENT ISSUE collection, STALAG 13's awesome 'In Control' from '84,
the 'Barricaded Suspects' comp and the collection of old Toxic Shock 7"s to
name a few. What's made you go down the reissue track so much of late? It
also seems that the label has almost ditched that former Pop-Punk tag and is
now thrusting itself into a more Hardcore direction - any specific reason for
that?

-Yes, that is on purpose. In the past I've held those bands that I was
into when I was younger as "sacred". I wouldn't want to release anything new
that tried to be the same as that great old sound that I grew up with. Mostly
because anyone new couldn't pull it off and secondly because sometimes
things should be left alone and not fucked with.
I've since changed my mind on that and have actively been searching out my
old favorites and looking new ones as well. I've actually found a NEW band
from San Francisco that pull it off GREAT. They're called The Texas
Thieves. They sound like across between: Zero Boys, MIA and The Faction. They have
a split wit The Skulls and a full length early next year. Very cool band!
I'm excited to be able to do something with them.

21. Having signed bands like SCHLEPROCK, VOODOO GLOWSKULLS, GUTTERMOUTH
and of course, FACE TO FACE, do you ever feel that some of the larger labels
have used Dr. Strange as a talent scout? You ever been personally
head-hunted or approached to work for a larger, corporate label?
Alternatively, have any bands approached you with the view of using Dr.
Strange as a short cut to mainstream acceptability?

-Yes, to both. When things were going nuts and selling really well I felt
that Dr. Strange was on the major labels scope. They would show up to
their gigs and try to "steal" them away. It was VERY frustrating especially when
there was little or nothing I could do.
In the end though, as long as a band does what they promise to me, then I
can't complain. It's just when they stab you in the back and lie to your
face that you get mad.

One or two have actually said they wanted to use Dr. Strange as a jumping
board and move on to bigger things. It's hard to keep a straight face when
you hear that. It's like saying, "I'm going to save up all my money and
buy a bunch of lottery tickets, I just know I'll hit the jackpot that way,
don't you"? You don't start a punk rock band when getting signed to a major is
your goal. It's crazy.

22. Moving on, you opened a record store also. When and why did you
decide to do that? What was the biggest problem in the set up of that? Do you
stock purely records/CDs - or do you go in for the whole Punk caboodle of
zines, shirts, trousers etc etc?

-That was a real challenge let me tell you. I always thought it would be
cool to have a REAL Record store and 6 years ago I did. The first year was
very tough but thanks to the mail order and label I was able to pull it
off. Now we get people from all over, driving over an hour just to come to the
store. It's the biggest selection for punk rock in all of California. We
sell: records, cd's, creepers, boots, leather jackets, posters, studs,
belts, patches, shirts, and a hell of a lot more. It's all on the web
site: www.drstrange.com I'm very proud of the store It's a cool building as
well. Built in 1906 it's a historical landmark and was the first Post
Office
in our city.

23. What's this I have read about the store having a 'Topless Tuesday'?
That happen even in winter? And 'Fecal Friday' sounds even worse!! Do
you really give stuff away to anyone who brings in a turd? Please, you gotta
tell us - what is the worst, most deformed stool anyone has brought in?
Anyone try to cheat and bring in a dog-turd? Do you not have in-store
live shows also? Any stories to tell about those?

- Well we gotta have fun right? It started out as a joke, we don't go
topless but in the summertime it's tempting. The "Fecal Friday" thing blew
my mind. One Friday some kid, maybe about 14 years old or so timidly walks
up with a brown paper bag in his hands, slowly puts his right hand in (no
glove) and pulls out a piece of shit!
I just stared opened mouth at this small piece of shit. (the shit not the
kid!). He said, "What do I win"? That was all he said, "What do I win?".
I didn't know what to say but jokingly I told him he was the second person
that day to bring in a shit and we had to award it to the largest one. My
buddy and long time right hand man Hot Dog Boy (he's crazy) was standing
next to me and quickly said, "I'll get the other one so we can compare".
I'm thinking, "Oh-oh, what's going on?".
He walks in the back room where the bathroom is, opens the door and comes
back about 3-5 minutes later holding a paper towel with, you guessed it a
piece of fresh shit from his ass! The good news is that it was larger than
the kids. The bad news is that it broke apart in two pieces and smelled
like death. True story I swear to God!

24. The store is in your home town of Cucamonga, which I understand is
one of the fastest growing cities in the States yeah? Tell us a bit about
Cucamonga and the surrounding area of the shop - I understand it is quite
a conservative area with a large Mormon population yeah?

- Cucamonga is a very nice place. It's about 40 miles East of L.A. and
sits at the base of Mt Baldy. The mountains get snow in the winter time and
it's hotter than hell in the summer. But I really love it! Nice people and it
still has a small town attitude. When I moved out this way about 30 years
ago it was the number one vineyard producing (wine) place in California.
Has the oldest Winery in California. So why is it that everyone I tell I'm
from Cucamonga laughs at me for 5 minutes? I think it's because Johnny Carson
and Bugs Bunny both have made fun of the name!
Now-a-days it's becoming a sea of homes, the 7th fastest growing city in
the U.S. and the 11th safest. Lots of Mormons, why I have no idea, and a good
mix of people from all aspects of life. Everyone is very cool and there's
a ton of kids. It's a city that's alive.
I wouldn't say it's conservative. Pretty much a typical city in the U.S.
The population is about 150,000, no tall buildings, lots of parks, suburbia at
it's best.

25. I understand the building has some architectural integrity too, being
nearly 100 yeas old yeah? Tell us the history of the building. As it's
such a historical building, did you get a lot of hassle off local
residents, or the local council because of your ideas for the shop? I have a quote
of yours about the local council which states, "At first they were dicks,
giving me a lot of crap in regards to what I wanted to do to the
building" - can you expand on that? Has that attitude changed at all?

- The building is great! I love old stuff and something in California that
is nearly 100 years old, is pretty old. I know that's nothing for you guys
in the U.K. but it is here. The street I'm on was the main drag, downtown for Cucamonga (Alta Loma
actually) and was once the General Store and the first Post Office.
Across the street is the first Fire Station. It's located in a residential area
and when we first moved in it was a dump! Took four months to fix up. The
neighbors love us! We keep good care of it, the grass mowed and respect
them. What more could they want?

City Hall on the other hand is another story. Because it is a Historical
Landmark I had to get approval for what was going to be done to the
building. I guess all City Halls are assholes. Always after money any way
they can get it and I was no exception. After a couple years they've
learned to live with Dr. Strange and I think they're happy about it.
I think they know I actually care about the city. Hell, more than they do!

26. Have you ever been robbed? Tell us you thoughts on that. Is there a
high crime rate or homeless population in Alta Loma/Cucamonga?

- No thank God. It is a fear of mine. A new freeway opened up about 7
months ago less than a mile away from the store and when it did (it connects to
L.A.) a LOT of places were getting robed. Banks, businesses and the like.
It hasn't happened yet and I hope it never does. The crime rate in Cucamonga
is low, it's just when the "bad guys" from L.A. come out...

27. How many people are employed under the name of Dr. Strange? Do you
like the position of being 'the boss' or is it one of those things that
you learn to live with? What makes a good 'boss' and what would you like to
think of as the main difference between yourself and, say, the head of a
chart-based, corporate record store/label?

- Let me just say that without the help of my friends (employees you could
say) I wouldn't be where I am today. I want to give thanks to: Chaddie,
Slappy, Thom-Ass, Ting, my wife Crystal who helps me very much, always there to support me
110% and special thanks to Hot Dog Boy who has been with me for about 9
years. They're all great people and I appreciate them more than they'll
know. It's a place that we keep fun.
Lots of laughs every day we work.

I hate being a "boss" and do my best not to be. Of course at times there
is no choice so I deal with it the best I can. But we're all friends first.
We go out for Pizza and Bowling as often as we can, gigs, etc..

I'm not sure what makes a "good" boss but I've had plenty of BAD ones so I
try not to repeat what they did to me on my workers. I try to treat others
the way I would want to be treated. Not only in a work atmosphere but in
life. The difference between me and a CEO of a big company is easy. I see the
people that work for me for what they are; PEOPLE. The CEO sees them as
replaceable "things" that can come and go on a whim.

28. I recently read something about a radio show you were involved with -
KUCR 88.3 FM Riverside. Is that a one-off broadcast or a regular item?
What are you thoughts on American radio? Is it something you would like
to get more involved with, maybe a web broadcast of some form?

- That was just a one time interview. It was a lot of fun and I always
thought it would be kind of cool to have a radio show of my own. I always
thought of doing part music (punk of course) and the other half a comedy
soap opera on the air skit like the early days before T.V.. Between me and
Hot Dog Boy we have a lot of fucked up ideas we could do. For example,
there 's Officer Leaky. The Policeman that shits and pisses himself
uncontrollably. One of these days...

29. Being an essentially successful businessman - have you had any
dimwitted accusations directed your way of 'selling out', becoming part of
the 'corporate machine' or any kind of other rubbish as that? What are
your views on such accusations? Seems like a lot of people who throw such
claims need to take a bit of a reality check in many cases. It's clear you have
constantly fought to maintain your integrity - do you feel that is an
intrinsic part of being a Punk?

-Honestly, I really haven't had many if any accusations of selling out. I
do have a good reputation and it really hasn't come into question. I don't
see that happening either. I think the fact that I have been around for 15
years people get to know me and who I am and what I believe in. I have a proven
track record to fall back on as proof.

30. Continuing the business theme, as you have a label which is
successful and a record store which is successful - does the economic state of
America ever worry/concern you?

- It did and still does to some degree but not as much. Punk Rock,
especially RARE punk rock hasn't been affected by the bad times as of yet.
As a business I've been through: Reagan, Bush, Clinton and now the other
Bush. Good times and bad and things are still going well. I have realistic
goals and I'm willing to work hard and wait for things. I think that has
helped me very much.

31. As a label AND a fan, what are your thoughts on downloadable music
off the Internet? This is particularly pertinent in the wake of the Recording
Industry Association of America attempting to sue 261 people who have
apparently violated copyright laws by swapping on-line files.

- I'm still a little mixed on it. I usually let the band decide on that
issue. Me personally, I don't mind if they take some songs from my
releases, I encourage it and offer it on my site, but when they take the entire
thing and don't buy the release it hurts not only me but the band as well. It
may wipe out a lot of smaller independent labels and thus a lot of good bands
may never be heard.

32. Do you feel the Internet is making record collectors/music fans lazy?
I mean, one of the greatest things has always been rooting through second
hand stores and bargain bins to find that long-lost gem. Now, you can
just type it into a search engine and hey presto - there it is. You feel
that's a positive or a negative - explain why?

- I agree with that. Half the fun is the hunt. Taking months or years to
find that certain record. Now it's available to the person with the
highest limit on his credit card.
It isn't the same and I don't think the appreciation is there quite as
much.

33. I understand you travel abroad on record hunting trips! Is travel
something you enjoy? How do you think travel aides the make-up of an
individual person? Where are your favourite places and which places are
high on the list of those you still wish to visit?

- Crystal and just got back from our first record collecting trip in
years. We went to Sweden and Holland. Traveling is a great experience. It's
something everyone needs to do. It does nothing but broaden your horizons
and gives you an appreciation and understanding of the world. I like all
the places we've been. The U.K., Scotland, and Sweden/Holland.
They've been full of nice people and great things to see. I always come
back with a greater appreciation of my own country as well. Especially our
food!
Sorry, but it's true.

34. How much has the Dr. Strange website increased business since it has
been up and running? How essential do you feel a webpage is to the
success of any venture today - be it band, label, shop, zine?

-More than I would have thought and there's still a lot of room to grow.
The web site is a part of the reason I'm able to keep releasing cd's. The
label actually loses money and is just for the fun it. Because the web site does
well I'm able to continue with the label. Maybe not a smart "business"
move but a fun one. Depending on what type of business you're doing, it's
pretty crucial to have a web site. Now, anyone in the world that has a computer
has Dr. Strange. What a great thing! Like my slogan says,
"Destroying Society One Mind at a Time".

35. Coming off music for a while - where do you lay politically? I have
another quote of yours; "When I first started voting, I voted the Peace
and Freedom Party; but I came to realize that it was a wasted vote." Is any
vote a wasted vote? What do you put voting apathy down too - is it just
laziness, or is it because there is genuinely nothing there to endorse?

- I'm a registered Democrat but I still believe that they're all a bunch
of fuckers and for the most part only concerned with getting re-elected. Sad
but true. I've voted since I was 18. The first election I voted in was
against Ronald Reagan (the worst piece of crap there was in my opinion).
I think to be strong as a country, as a whole, we need to be sure those
who are less fortunate are helped out. I all honesty I don't think that is
"right", I just think things run better when they are. Otherwise crime
rates go up, unemployment rises etc.. Just like it is right now. I understand
and agree with the idea of working hard and earning what you have. If you're
not willing to do that, that's YOUR fault and you shouldn't be bailed out. You
live with it. I agree with that but like I said, that just doesn't seem to
work. I still vote in every election. Many have died for my right to do so and
if I don't vote, I can't complain.

As for others, especially in the U.S. many people don't vote. I think
mostly because they think it won't make a difference, or they just don't care or
things are generally "okay" with their lives.

36. What are your views on the Bush administration? Do you think he'll
get his second term and if so, what does that mean for the state of America?
Who do you feel is the best person to tackle his Presidency? Michael
Moore seems to have a lot of faith in General Wesley Clark - what do you know
about him? Hell - should Michael Moore run for it himself??

- "President" Bush is not my president. I didn't vote for him and the
majority of Americans didn't vote for him. He is the most embarrassing
president in recent history and my biggest fear is that most of the world,
especially the U.K./Europe, actually thinks he represents the majority of
the people living in the United States. He does NOT. He will NOT be
re-elected. I think Clinton was the BEST president the U.S. has ever had (or at least
top 5). Look at his record. It's that simple. Things were great for everyone when
he was there. Not true today. Bush destroyed so much hard work in so little
time. It's hard to believe.

Who can beat Bush? Well, if you read the recent polls pretty much any of
the Democrats. There's a long way to go still and time will tell. I haven't
made up my mind yet on any of them. As long as Bush goes down I'll be happy.
And as far as Michael Moore goes, he's on the same scale as Bush to me.
Never cared for that guy. He's a self righteous blow-hard looking for a
bigger and better movie deal.

37. What are the best and worst aspects of life in America and American
culture itself? Explain those answers if you can.

- Well it's tough to say. I'm biased of course. I love the United States.
I sincerely believe we have one of the best countries in the world. Even for
all our faults. The people here are kind, generous and caring. It's a
place where the only limit to success is yourself. If you have the drive and
determination there is nothing you can't achieve. I am a perfect example
of that. Had an idea, was/is a workaholic and presto, here I am!
I wouldn't live anywhere else but here.

38. What is the best conspiracy story/theory that you have ever heard?

39. If you had not found Punk Rock, what would you be doing now? Take a
guess at what your vocation in life would be.

- That's a great question! Well, my second love is Star Trek so I guess I
would be at
a Star Trek convention in some bum-fuck city somewhere! In between
conventions I'd be eating donuts while watching The Simpsons. Wait, I
already do that now..

40. What are your views on the Holidays In The Sun shows? You have
worked with a few of the bands that frequently grace such events - COCK SPARRER
and PETER AND THE TEST TUBE BABIES spring to mind at least. You see it as a
valuable history lesson for those who missed those bands first time round,
or as the very epitome of what Punk set out to destroy - an aging,
bloated, pedestrian dinosaur?

- Ha! A little of both actually depending on the band. Some bands can pull
it off and still have the "fire". Others on the other hand should have
called it quits years ago. It's up to you to decide where they fall. In
any event I think it's pretty cool having so many Punks of all ages together
at the same time. It's good for that reason alone.

41. Having been involved within Punk Rock for over 20 years, do you feel
all the changes it has undergone has made things better, or worse? I'm
thinking of particular quote of yours where you state, regarding the first
show you attended by the DICKIES back in '81, that "You had a feeling you
were doing something wrong. I miss that feeling nowadays." Can you
expand on that a bit? Do you feel that Punk is now another safe and profitable
commodity as opposed to any form of genuinely dangerous/alternative
movement? If so - how does that fit in with being a proverbial 'Punk Rock
Business Man'.

- Punk Rock isn't the same, there's no doubt about it. I do think things
were better then than now. To be a punk was to be something. It took guts,
it was a real movement and a real scene. People today don't have a clue. I
remember when you saw another punk you had an instant friend and ally.
When the cops were always after you , when people would laugh at you or try to
start fights for having a mowhawk or colored hair or pierced ears. Now you
can't do anything to make yourself stand out from the rest of society
short of cutting off your ear.
The main difference is the state of the world I guess. When I was a kid
there was a real fear of total nuclear annihilation with the Soviet Union.
It was so bad that my buddies and I even had a plan to meet at friends
house for one last beer when the missles finally came. It was something we all
thought of and talked about on a regular basis.
We, as punks, had a common enemy; Reagan, Thatcher and governments in
general.
For right or wrong it was a true movement. I don't think most of the
younger kids know that. How and why would they?

42. What are your next plans for the record label? I understand that
among your next releases is a split featuring the old UK Anarcho band FLUX OF
THE PINK INDIANS? How did you hook up with those guys - it IS new stuff I
assume? Any other old HC classics you are hoping to reissue?

- I got an e-mail from Kev of Flux of Pink Indians and became friendly
with him. He spoke with Colin and they gave the okay to release some of their
old stuff including the band that became Flux of Pink Indians; The Epileptics.
At the same time (this month) I'll release
The Freeze cd "Land of the Lost/Rabid Reaction" and this month; The
Skulls/Texas Thieves 7"ep., "split". Then soon after a new 7"ep., from
Broken Bones and then early next year; Broken Bones cd, The Cheifs cd,
External Menace, Texas Thieves, and a few more in the works.. All great
stuff, I can't wait!

43. Have you any plans to go into the realms of book printing or video?
Would you consider a video compilation of the Dr. Strange bands with
snippets of the Dr. Strange staff inter spread - much like the recent
Recess Recs video? What about the store - would you consider opening another
store, say on the East Coast? Do you think you would have to approach
setting up a store in say NYC or Boston in a different manner than that of
the current premises? What advantages and disadvantages do you see should
that happen?

-I'm working right now on having free videos on my web site. I have a lot
of footage.
I'm happy with the way things are in regards to the store. I couldn't
imagine opening another store. It's just so much work and I'm happy with
what I have. I think having another store would give me a heart attack!
And besides anyone with a computer can access the web site.

44. Lastly, have you any advice for anyone thinking of starting a label
or attempting to open a shop?

- Yes. Just go for it! What's worse? Trying to do something and failing or
never trying it at all? As long as you have a passion for something you
should go for it. Believe in YOURSELF.

45. Anything else you wanna add, tell us about, abuse, amuse or deplore?

- I just want to give a sincere "thank you" to you Steve for taking the
time to get all these questions together. It took a lot of time and thought
and I appreciate it. I've been asked to do interviews before but never one so
well thought out. People like you and Dave/Fracture are some of the
greatest things about doing what I do: the chance to meet other people with similar
ideas and values from around the world. Punk rock, even though it has
changed a lot in the past, still has a lot of close knit family ties and
zines like Fracture and people like you are examples of that.
Thanks to all of you who have taken the time to read this. Punk Rock will
never die..

46. That's it Doc - thanks for that!! Just make a point of listing any
web/postal/e-mail addresses you want listed, OK??

To contact the Doc please check out the web site at:

www.drstrange.com

or e-mail him directly at: drstrange@drstrange.com

Dr. Strange Records
P.O. Box 1058
Alta Loma, Ca. 91701
USA