Duff McKagan has experienced just about every possible rock and roll situation. As a member of Guns ‘n’ Roses, and more recently Velvet Revolver, McKagan has made studio records that cost half a million dollars, graced the cover of the Rolling Stone, and played to jam packed arenas and amphitheaters around the world. He’s even put up with rock and roll pop culture divas like Scott Weiland and Axl Rose.



Closer to home, though, the Seattle native also shows a keen ability to “keep it real.” As the leader of Loaded — McKagan’s punk rock garage band that also consists of bassist Jeff Rouse, drummer Geoff Reading and guitarist Mike Squires — McKagan remains firmly grounded in what’s important: the music and the craft. Hell’s Kitchen will get yet another taste of Loaded with two shows Friday, Aug 22.



“It’s a completely different thing,” says McKagan of Loaded’s appeal. “I’m really fortunate to be able to come back and be in a true indie rock band. I’m not saying that (Loaded) is better than (Velvet Revolver), but it’s really nice for me to have this band.”



“I’ve created a place where I can always come back to,” offers McKagan. “It really tests me, and puts me back in a position where musicianship matters. You’re judged strictly by your musicianship when you’re in a band like Loaded, and that’s what it’s all about for me.”

“I’m in it for the music, not the chicks and blow.”



While that may sound surprising to some, it’s a fact fans of McKagan and Loaded have known for a long time. After creating Loaded in the late ’90s as a somewhat personal project, the band — aided by Reading, Rouse and Squires — has turned into a rewarding and impressive collaborative effort. Sept. 8 the band will release a five-song EP, and early next year Loaded is set to drop a brand new full length. Both are reasons for fans of rock and roll to get excited.



“It’s a really inspired record,” says McKagan of the full length. “I’m not putting down Velvet Revolver, because I’m really proud of the chemistry I have with Slash and Matt (Sorum), but it’s probably the most inspired record I’ve done in a long time.”



[Hell’s Kitchen, Friday, Aug. 22: Duff McKagan’s Loaded, The Jet City Fix, Sirens Sister, 5 p.m., all ages, $10; Duff McKagan’s Loaded, The Cupcakes, Dirty Knockers, 9 p.m., $10; 3829 Sixth Ave., Tacoma, 253.759.6003]