Though Billy Howerdel, the frontman of ASHES dIVIDE (yes, it’s commonly spelled out in this typeset), has taken some time to step away from his work as a guitarist, songwriter, and producer for A Perfect Circle, Howerdel has not forgotten his roots.

ASHES dIVIDE is commonly referred to as Howderel’s “solo project,” but he was never alone. Howerdel collaborated with APC’s John Freese on drums, former bassist Pez Lenchatin, cellist Devo Keenan (son of APC vocalist, Maynard James Keenan), vocalist Johnette Napolitano of Concrete Blonde, and vocalist Matt Skiba of Alkaline Trio.

“When I was starting, there was no real professional music community at hand in my local community. The dream of being a musician and making a living from it didn’t seem realistic at all,” said Howerdel. “That’s one of the reasons why I ventured into working for bands that were as close enough to New York City, to get into the big game, but I never really felt a part of it because I wasn’t raised in that culture. But there was something alluring from listening to music on a record and then going to the shows.”

Now this self-made man of many musical talents will be releasing ASHES dIVIDE’s album Keep Telling Myself It’s Alright, out tomorrow!

Unfortunately, Howerdel’s success did not come without its share of struggles. After working as a guitar tech for the likes of Fishbone and David Bowie, his first endeavor into the recording industry with A Perfect Circle was a bumpy road.

“When we signed to Virgin Records, we were taken care of incredibly by Virgin Records in the beginning while we were signed. One of the key people was let go, and then others followed,” he explained. “We found ourselves in a foreign family, to where we started to feel uncomfortable, and things started to become counter-productive and the lack of intimacy made the business side of the band suffer.”

Later that year, things became more comfortable for Howerdel as he began to see his new career on the horizon. “In the late fall of 1999 when we were finishing Mer De Noms, things felt like they were actually going to happen. My pragmatic side was overcome by my optimistic side.”

A Perfect Circle went on hiatus in 2006 and Howerdel focused all of his energy toward ASHES dIVIDE. However, his creative side has a mind and a sleep pattern all its own, and he waited until a special hour for the best inspiration to come forth. “Unfortunately, late at night. I’m trying to change that, but for now, the creative hour is around 2 a.m.”

In late March, Howerdel announced the musicians whom will be joining him to form the ASHES dIVIDE tour line-up: Andy Gerold (lead guitar,) Matt McJunkins (bass,) and Jeff Friedl (drums.) In July, the band will tour with acts such as Linkin Park, Chris Cornell, and The Bravery as part of their 2008 Projekt Revolution Tour.

“I’ve always wanted to tour with Depeche Mode or U2. I think both of those bands have done incredible by staying relevant and making great music decades after they started,” said Howerdel. “It’s not just about getting the product out, but also something that is relevant and full of compassion. They have made great art.”

While Howerdel has had some great experiences on the road, he’s found that being up close and personal with the fans can be an odd one.

“A girl came up to me and said ‘Oh my God, you are so much shorter than I thought!’ and I said ‘What? I’m 6’3'"

Outside of his musical genius, Billy Howerdel is just another normal guy who is following his passions. He’s a self-proclaimed good cook who enjoys Japanese and Indian dishes. He enjoys spending time with his family and misses them while on the road.

Above all, Howerdel is positive that the world encompasses an abundance of musical talents. “I still think that some of the great talents are sitting in their bedrooms right now, writing music and staring at the wall, saying the same thing I was, ‘I don’t want to bother anyone with this because I will probably just get shot down.’”

Now that he has risen up through the ranks of the music industry, worked in the business, and is now running a unique solo project, Howerdel has some advice for these bedroom dwellers.

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