Rifleman is the new solo project from Superheist songwriter, founder and guitarist, Richie 'DW' Norton and a breath of fresh air for fans of the heavy rock icon.
With almost 30 years of ripping up the Aussie heavy rock scene, Richie's first solo effort is the album 'Silver & Gold', which is available now.
"Guitars are my drug. The look, the feel, the spirit of the guitar. it's a very special and magical thing," Richie says.
"To think that the sound they make has driven rock music forever. The extension of those who use them to deliver their art and emotion in the form of sound. A sound that emanates from the artists, through their hands and into the strings, from the strings to the pick-ups and out through a blistering amplifier. I ask you… is there anything more rock & roll than that?
"KISS said God gave rock & roll to us. I say no KISS. The devil gave us the guitar, who gave us rock & roll! Just ask Ralph Macchio in 'Crossroads'."
1. The Ibanez Destroyer II DT155 Phil Collen custom
As seen in my 'Keep The Story Alive' video. This has always been my dream guitar. They are hard to find in good condition. I bought mine about six years ago from eBay off some dude in the United States. Cost me an arm and a leg, but the best money I’ve ever spent.It came in pristine condition until one day I found my then two-year-old son smacking it with a pair of drum sticks. Ouch. Oh well. That’s rock & roll isn't it?
2. The Kramer 5150 Eddie Van Halen guitar from 1984
It was originally known as Frankenstrat, which was a bizarre custom-made thing Eddie had dreamed up that became his signature guitar. Kramer were the first to manufacture them.Just such an iconic and individual guitar; some of the best solos ever played were on that beast. I have the Fender EVH 5150 version, which will be seen at my live shows.
3. The Jimi Hendrix Fender Stratocaster
The one he set on fire at Monterey in 1967. I love my Strats too much to set them on fire. Probably why Jimi was soooo much cooler than me.4. The Jimmy Page double-neck Gibson EDS-1275
When I was a kid, seeing Jimmy strut around with that bad boy around his neck made me wanna play guitar.My school friend Dave Loader (who you may know as Hack Wanger of Guitar Gods and Masterpieces) had one or maybe it was a copy. But I wanted that thing so damn bad! Still... never had the pleasure of owning one. It’s still on the list.
5. Bruce Springsteen’s “Born To Run” Fender Telecaster Esquire
It’s the one he has on the front cover of the album and in the video for 'Born To Run'. That guitar around that man’s neck inspires me to no end.I have a Fender Telecaster because of Bruce Springsteen and when I play it and sing into that mic, I think of the Boss! One of the greatest performers and songwriters ever in the history of the world.
Rifleman Tour Dates
Sat 9 Dec - Prince of Wales (Melbourne, supporting Fuel)Fri 15 Dec - Enigma Bar (Adelaide)
Sat 23 Dec - Corner Hotel (Melbourne, supporting Mammal)
