Robbie Morfitt was one of the two foundation guitarists of Econoline Crush (the other was Hack, who left shortly after Purge). He co-wrote most of the songs (before Brand New History) with Dan Yaremko and Trevor Hurst.
His skill both on individual lead guitar (e.g. Affliction) and as part of a two-pronged guitar attack (with Ziggy on The Devil You Know) won him many fans and followers. Famous for his constant use of sunglasses, he left the band circa 2000.
Questions in YELLOW
Answers in GREEN
How did you go about joining EC?
Trevor called me at my home in Seattle, Washington, in October 1992 to ask me whether I'd be interested in playing with EC. At the time EC had only played one show. He had said that the line-up had not been solidified and that after playing their first show they had wanted to bring in some guys who brought a little more to the party as the band lacked showmanship and a defined image.
I had been recommended to Trevor by a girl, with whom I'd previously booked a North American Tour for UK punk legends the UK SUBS. She was handling the bookings for EC at the time and knew I was interested in playing with a band as I had mentioned only a few weeks prior that I'd be interested in hooking up with a group. Trevor mentioned to her in passing at the end of a meeting they'd had whether she knew of any guitarists. She was like I have the perfect guy for you and hooked him up with my digits.
What did it feel like to be recognized as a member of EC?
It felt good as we always working hard to achieve goals and constantly had a buzz surrounding whatever we were up to.
Are you proud of what you brought to the band?
Most certainly. I stand behind my collaborations with the members of EC. I'm happy with the goods I delivered.
Would you like to see EC reform for a final goodbye since we didn't get a last show for EC. Almost somekind of closure for the band and fans?
Well a lot has changed since my involvement with EC. Dan, Trevor and I have spoken a couple of times over the past few years about entertaining the idea. If I were to be involved and interested in such an event we'd have to sort out some things. If we were able to get our collective vision jiving together anything would be possible
Around 2000, you left the band. Many fans, including myself have wondered why you left. I wanted to know if it was creative differences, grew tired of the road or conflict within the band?
Believe it's fair to say that Trevor no longer wished to have me involved in EC, you'll have to ask him the reasons as it was at his discretion that this happened, so he went about making moves to have me leave the building so to speak. He did not fire me and I did not quit he just went about things without me and so began a year of legalities to sort out how it was going to be.
In the end, we reached an agreement that resulted in me longer have any involvement in EC. There was no real conflict to speak of. My involvement was deemed no longer necessary or integral to Trev's future at the time and so he went about his business without me.
Do you think it's great to see that the band still has a great following after all these years?
It is pleasantly surprising to hear from younger fans like yourself who were mere children when we were playing together finding our music interesting today.
Would you like to see the music videos and rarities be released? As Muchmusic doesn't play EC anymore.
Yes, that would be cool to be involved with. We have spoken about it a few years back.
Are you still in contact with any of the members of the band?
Yes, I see many of them. Since there were over 30 members during the band's history it's not hard to end up bumping into one of them from time to time.
What is your favourite Econoline Crush song and why?
Sparkle & Shine or Surefire. I think these tracks showcase the raw energy and diversity of our influences in a clear, concise, and focused manner. There are many others that I enjoy but I'm particularly fond of how these turned out and come across live.
What is the one moment that you will always remember about your time playing with EC?
There are many, first show, first night we ever played with KISS in Winnipeg, Edgefest, touring Europe, getting a record deal, travelling on our first tour in school a bus, I could go on and on.
Robbie, why did you constantly wear sunglasses during your stint in Econoline Crush?
They are prescription.
Anything you'd like to say to the fans out there?
Dreams do come true!!!
Where are they Now?: Robbie is currently inactive in music. He is working on film projects now.