Episode 329 - Kent Hilli

·32 min·3 clips

Bill Alge ran home at lunch to interview Kent Hilli after discovering Perfect Plan's unreleased album Brace for Impact.

The episode begins with host Bill Alge explaining how he discovered Perfect Plan's new album Brace for Impact and arranged the interview. Kent Hilli introduces the band's third album, noting its heavier sound compared to previous work while retaining melodic hooks. Hilli reveals he started singing at age 32 after a semi-professional soccer career in Sweden, forming Perfect Plan years later. He lists vocal influences including Giant, Europe, Whitesnake, Jimi Jamison, Lou Gramm, and Michael McDonald. The discussion shifts to how music consumption has changed from vinyl/CDs to streaming, making it harder for artists to stand out. Hilli talks about being grateful to make a living from music in his 50s through Frontiers Records. He analyzes Kelly Hansen's success replacing Lou Gramm in Foreigner by being authentic rather than imitative. Hilli reflects on fan interactions after his first live show in Milan, finding it strange to be on the receiving end of autograph requests. He discusses the personal meaning behind songs 'My Angel' (about his daughter) and 'Stop the Bleed' (about social media hate and global conflicts). The conversation touches on vinyl collecting, aging rock stars like Mick Jagger, and the creative drive behind making new music. Hilli explains the financial challenges of touring the US and hopes to open for bands like Foreigner or Journey. The episode concludes with Hilli sharing where to find Perfect Plan online and through Frontiers Records.

As heard by us

A relaxed Ages of Rock conversation about Perfect Plan, Brace for Impact, and the memories old rock records can unlock.

Bill Alge leads a focused Ages of Rock conversation with Kent Hilly of Perfect Plan, sparked by his discovery of the band through singles from Brace for Impact.

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Why you'd press play

Press play when a new Perfect Plan record, Brace for Impact, sends you digging through the rock memories you thought were shelved.

Read the full recommendation in PlayNext →

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