Hired Gun

Fran Strine's documentary allows longtime musical sidemen (and women) to have their say, with a few big-name artists also dropping by to offer their thoughts. Although these session musicians have played familiar beats and riffs, most people don't know their names, which include Liberty DeVitto (Billy Joel), Nita Strauss (Alice Cooper), and Rudy Sarzo (Ozzy Osbourne). The players pride themselves on their ability to learn quickly and to cede the spotlight to the stars. Jason Newsted remembers joining Metallica as a hired gun for $500 a week. They had just lost bass player Cliff Burton, and had tour dates. Newsted, who won out over dozens of competitors, was happy to fill in, and the following year he became a full-fledged member (Brad Gillis tells a similar story about replacing Randy Rhoads in Ozzy Osbourne's band). According to Newsted, Alice Cooper, and Rob Zombie, chemistry is as important as musicianship. DeVitto, who played with Joel for 30 years, has contributed to songs such as "Only the Good Die Young" (Joel had intended it as a reggae number until the drummer talked him out of it). But over the years, Joel would end up firing every member of his original band. Guitarist Jason Hook also talks about steady gigs ending suddenly, such as when This Is Us cast member Mandy Moore pivoted to acting. As for pianist David Foster, he felt that the grind was a dead end, so he transitioned to producing. Although there is no history about hired guns prior to the 1970s, the engaging anecdotes here make this an entertaining watch. Extras include a film festival Q&A, additional interviews, and a music video. Recommended. Aud: P. (K. Fennessy)