Wolfgang Van Halen Talks MAMMOTH II - Playing The 'Frankenstrat' on the New Album & Much More

Earlier this week, Wolfgang Van Halen sat down for an exclusive chat with Guitar Interactive Magazine editor Jonathan Graham to discuss the new record from MAMMOTH WVH. Titled Mammoth II, the upcoming album from the band helmed by Wolf, is the follow-up to 2021’s self-titled effort, and is scheduled to be released on 4 August 2023 via BMG.

In this interview, Wolf gives us some incredible insight into the making of the new record, including which track he used the original Frankenstrat and Van Halen 1 "rig" for—recording at 5150 studios—how his uncle features on MAMMOTH II (but it might not be who you think)—and even shares his thoughts on the likelihood of a tribute concert for his Dad, Edward Van Halen.

Chapters:
Introduction - 00:00
The Unique Challenges of MAMMOTH II - 00:32
Wolf Discusses "Take A Bow" - 02:31
"Take A Bow" Rhythm Tones - 03:05
Crafting the "Take A Bow" Solo - 04:52
Using the Frankenstrat and Van Halen 1 Rig on the "Take A Bow" Guitar Solo - 05:41
Could we Hear Alex Van Halen Somewhere on MAMMOTH II? - 06:45
Wolf Would Have Loved to Have EVH Feature on an Album - 08:07
Is Wolf Inspired by Steve Lukather and Satch? - 08:05
Love for the Guitar Playing of Aaron Marshall & Plini - 09:18
EVH Guitars from the current lineup - 10:10
Nerves before a performance, a good thing? - 10:54
Could an Acoustic Section of the Live Shows be Added?- 12:10
Recording MAMMOTH II at 5150 Studios - 12:42
Does Wolf Remember the first thing he ever recorded at 5150? - 12:54
Feeling Fan support of the new material - 14:29
The Hidden Unreleased Treasures of 5150 - 15:06
Could a Tribute Concert for Edward Van Halen Still Happen? - 15:41
Looking forward to Download 2023 - 16:23
Supporting Metallica on the Road - 17:30
Next Single to Support MAMMOTH 2 - 18:15
Albums Tracks That Grow on You Over Time - 19:56

MAMMOTH II Track List:

1. Right?
2. Like A Pastime
3. Another Celebration At The End Of The World
4. Miles Above Me
5. Take A Bow
6. Optimist
7. I’m Alright
8. Erase Me
9. Waiting
10. Better Than You

Mammoth II is set for release on August 4th via BMG. The upcoming album was recorded at the legendary 5150 studio, the album was produced by friend and collaborator Michael ‘Elvis’ Baskette. Pre-orders are available now and can be purchased here.

For more information on MAMMOTH WVH, like their official page on Facebook. #guitar #guitarist #guitarplayer #guitarinteractive

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[FenderTeleDeluxe]

Wow! Great, great interview! Cannot wait to hear the tune he played with his dad’s original Frankenstein, head, and cabinet. So amazingly cool.

[Jeff_H_the_Guitarist]

The dude's loveable. Not just sayin' that because I love his dad, but you can see his heart's in this and he's surely makin' his pop proud.

[bretviola]

Gotta love Wolfie!!! Much respect to a supremely talented dude! Van Halen was the soundtrack to my youth, and I have to say that your dad was, is, and will always be the greatest of all time!!!

[dmind]

Wolfie - if you're out there - I love your music - I love the production - the first album was pure genius, and I can't wait for the 2nd album to drop. And make no mistake, though we all love your Dad - you are unique.

[stevetech]

this man is Ed and Val's greatest masterpiece. Wolf is the absolute best. He has proven that he is his own musician and has his own vibe and drive. I was jamming to his dad in the 70's and 80's and now my daughter (and me) are jamming to Wolf! It truly is a blessing to have them in our lives! Thank you Wolf! You're the best man!

[williamfoster]

What a nice kid Wolfgang is. His parents really raised him well. I'm a huge fan and am always amazed how nice he is.

[tvv]

What a fantastic interview. Wolf is such a talent and so down to earth.

[pepsiyummie]

He sounds so genuine and humble. He really earned his place. He is kind and so talented. Mom and dad did a wonderful job!

[WadeyCS]

This young man is something special. I’m glad I’m able to be around to enjoy watching and listening to his journey. ❤

[vintagetrk]

I really dig Wolfgang he's such a genuine guy. I love that he's the kings son but he will not be forced to be EVH Jr. He does his own thing and I so respect him for making his own music. Hes every bit as talented as his Dad and Uncle.

[axeman]

Good job Wolf, getting so much better and more comfortable with the interviews, and cant wait for the new album! The first one is still on heavy rotation in my day to day!

[Allguitarinfo]

Wolf Thanks Dude for the music you pour from YOUR heart and soul .

[Gerald]

So always happy to hear your interviews Wolf, it really brings out the fact how well your Mother and Father raised you, I still remember that day on the radio when the DJ on 97X of the quad cities announced your birth, and now watching you play so very very very remarkable!!!

[mattmckay]

We have seen him live twice. Very talented guy. So humble.

[junkyarddog]

His humour and humility are just as impressive as his talent and pedigree. An incredible young man and a credit to his parents.

[isarose]

That solo is SICK!! And I KNEW it sounded special!

[jeffsheridan]

What an amazing guy. So talented and so humble. He’s gonna be around for a long time

[danielabilez]

It is good to see this young man making his own way. His dad got him a step through the door. The rest is on him and he does not disappoint. good luck and see you down the road

[johnabbottphotography]

I love what a respectful man Wolfgang is.
Awesome musician. Great songwriter.
Just a good guy.

[allanmakela]

Such a likeable person, and normal, wish him all the best in his muse