UnknownComponent

THE BAND

Your music has been described as lively folk rock. How do you describe your style and approach to making music?

I’m not sure how you would describe it exactly, I tend to write frequently and can sort of feel when it’s time to sit down and write something. I try to incorporate different styles.

Do you have a particular musical philosophy?

Not really, I like to stay as open minded as possible.

Growing up, did you want to be a musician?

Once I hit 17 or so, that was the goal from then on.

Did you come from a musical family?

Not really, there are a few musicians in my extended family, but no one does it for a living.

How do you define good work?

Musically, if it moves you, I think it’s good. It really depends on what you’re looking for and what you’re trying to get out of it.

What might larger, more established bands learn from your approach?

I guess it depends on the band. I think it’s important to write and play the music you enjoy.

You are from Iowa. Do you have a favorite local place to play shows?

I like to play a few places in the area, The Picador and The Mill are usually good places to play.

Without bandmates to help you out, How are you able to handle all of the different work that needs to be done?

As far as playing live, it’s not a problem, I play acoustic versions of the songs. It’s actually easier for me to write and record without a band, it allows me to concentrate more on writing.

Is there a thread to the work you do?

It’s always changing, I guess that would be the thread

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THE PROJECT

The album is called “In Direct Communication”. Why?

I like titles that can be interpreted in different ways. I think it’s interesting how the same words can be interpreted as communicating directly or communicating indirectly. It allows the reader or listener to create their own meanings.

What was the overall tone you were going for on this record?

I guess this record is a bit more positive than my previous albums. But there is still a bit of melancholy on this one as well. I don’t know if there is an overall tone to it.

Were you inspired by anything specific while you were making this record?

Not that I can remember, I’m sure there were experiences here and there, but they usually tend to get lost somewhere in the song.

How have people been reacting to it so far?

The critics seem to like it. The live audiences have also been responding positively.

What was the most challenging part of this project?

The most challenging part of releasing an album is organizing all the promotion and publicity that goes along with an independent release.

BEING AN ARTIST

In writing, how do you know when a song is done?

It depends on the song, usually it’s a matter of being satisfied with the feeling of the song.

Top 3 bands or records that inspired you to start a band?

I started off listening to Mellon Collie and The Infinite Sadness by The Smashing Pumpkins and the Nirvana Unplugged in New York album, later I moved on to Radiohead and Dylan.

What is the most important aspect of being a musician?

I have no idea.

What is one of the defining moments of your career so far?

Probably being chosen for ‘The 4th Life’ film soundtrack directed by Francois Miron who designed the cover for the Arcade Fire album ‘Neon Bible’.

What are your thoughts on being an indie band and putting out records today, especially considering today’s changing environment?

I think it’s a great time to be an independent musician, in the past it’s been difficult to get any exposure unless you were signed to a label, but now with the technology of the internet, blogs and sites like Myspace and Facebook, it’s much easier to get the word out.

What have been the challenges in growing your fan base?

It’s easier now to grow a fan base, but it’s more difficult to perform in a location where all those fans are able to experience a live show. I think that will change in the future with live broadcasts via the internet.

THE GEAR

Can you tell us about your touring instruments?

I usually just perform with an acoustic guitar

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Do you use any specific instruments in the studio?

Piano, drums, guitar and vocals. I’ve got different effects for each instrument.

What can you tell us about your -

Strings: Acoustic
Tunings: Normal / Capo
Picks: Medium
Slides: Metal and Plastic
Effects/Pedals: Boss
Who has influenced your playing style most?

Recently I’ve been depending less on influences and focusing more on creating my own style.

Do you have any superstitions?

Not yet.

NEW MUSIC

What do you think of the new records you have heard so far this year?

I actually haven’t been focusing on anything other than writing.

Have you noticed any trends in the work?

Electronic sounds.

Any CDs you’re listening to now that you would bring attention to?

I just picked up an album called “Invisible Baby” by Marco Benevento.

RANDOM

What is one thing we would find on your nightstand?

A book of some kind or another

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Do you think it is possible for creativity to flourish in a major label?

I think it’s possible, but more difficult.

Anything else you would like us to know?

Free songs are available @ www.unknowncomponent.com