ION INDIE MAGAZINE December 2016, Volume 31 | Page 33

INTERVIEW WITH TIM “AIRES” SULT OF CLUTCH Interview and Photography by Daniel “The Dagda” Johnson • www.facebook.com/DagdaPhotography The Worcester Palladium in Worcester, MA is a nostalgic theater that has seen the likes of Dylan, Garcia, The Three Stooges, BB King, and many others since its opening in 1928. The Palladium is a rite of passage for any band that hits the area and has aged as well--or as much as--the artists that have visited over the years. I was greeted by CLUTCH tour manager Oscar. He immediately brought me to the side entrance where all of the “stuff” was being brought in by the roadies and staff members of the venue. Oscar said that we could go right up to the green room and meet with Tim. Tim greeted us halfway up the stairs--black coffee in hand--and met with us in one of the smaller side rooms. They arrived to the area a short time ago from their stop in Albany, NY. I started to set up my gear and get ready, when Oscar came back and said, “We are ready for sound check”. I immediately thought I missed the opportunity, but Oscar said that we would be able to see him after they finished their sound check. I stuck it right out there and asked if I could watch…and bring my camera. Oscar agreed…and we walked back down the flight of stairs to the back of the stage. Sound check is a rare opportunity. I think I shook myself out of my extended jaw-drop in the middle of “Behold the Colossus” (no lyrics). Neal “Scorpio” jammed with the guys to the soundboard. Tim broke free while the others finished, and we walked back upstairs and sat down on one of the stools while he sipped his coffee.