We sit down with Bruce Franklin of Trouble to trace a 40-year path from garages and Chicago clubs to international festivals, digging into tone, songwriting, and the business choices that shape longevity. He opens up about gear, Rubin-era lessons, the new record, and why Europe still shows up for heavy music.

• Trouble’s origins and early influences
• Building a signature tone with Marshall and Clone Theory
• Metallica sightings and scene myths
• Finding a drummer and auditioning with a click
• Recording shift from tape to Pro Tools at home
• New album direction across doom, groove, and prog-leaning tracks
• Lessons from Rick Rubin on structure and economy
• Onstage “oh shit” moments and recovery
• Setlist design across eras and fan respect
• In-ear monitors versus loud amps for feel
• Contracts, catalogs, and why a lawyer matters
• Leaving Deaf American and the one big regret
• Rehearsal habits and staying tight with age
• Europe’s festival strength and U.S. decline
• Defining Trouble for first-time listeners

https://www.troublemetal.com/

See Bruce's complete bio at franklinsgaragetostage.com

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https://franklinsgaragetostage.com