Interview by Alli W.
September 21, 2009
http://www.myspace.com/ohthestory
Estrella: Let’s start with your name and your position in the band.
James: James Larson, vocalist of Oh, the Story!
Estrella: You recently released the music video for “The Astronomer”! How did that go? Who directed it?
James: The video was directed by Dylan Steinberg. Shooting the video was fantastic. Dylan was great to work with, we actually did all the filming in one day, and Dylan was completely on top of it. He’s a real professional.
Estrella: What is the story behind the new music video?
James: I guess that would be for Dylan to explain. Before we began filming I sent Dylan my ideas, and his interpretation is what you ultimately get to see in the video, with only minor similarities to my concept actually making the cut. If you’re asking what I get out of the video, I’d have to say it tells the story of a young boy who sets out on his own path and finds that there’s reward in taking the road less traveled.
Estrella: Is there a story behind “Sea of Stars”, how did you come up with that name?
James: “Sea of Stars” is a story. Hopefully the title is fairly straight forward, comparing space to a star-filled ocean, that which separates the story’s main characters. This distance is ultimately what they must overcome.
Estrella: What is your favorite part/least favorite part about being a musician?
James: My favorite part of being a musician is actively expressing my thoughts and ideas, be it in studio, or on stage. Nothing is better than the synergy created between the audience and myself. It’s really the reason why I’m involved in this genre of music.
James: My least favorite part is having to exist within a system that rewards musicians for conformity and simplicity. It’s confusing, overwhelming, and I just don’t like it.
Estrella: What is your “most played” song on your iPod?
James: “Pink Bullets” by the Shins.
Estrella: How do you feel about the music scene in Baltimore?
James: It’s the best scene and the best city in the country.
Estrella: Where does most of your inspiration come from when you write music?
James: My interest in human relationships and interaction. Relationships (all types) are, in my opinion, the only thing that really matter in life. And if the end goal in my music is connecting with people, what better place to draw inspiration than from human connections?
Estrella: Can we expect a full length soon? Any new music soon?
James: That’s up in the air right now. The original plan was to release a full length sometime late in 2010, but we’ve been tossing around the idea of releasing the songs in a different way. Regardless, we’ve written a ton of new material, and we’re itching to get back in the studio, so it wont be long.
Estrella: Recommend three bands to listen to.
James: Brighter Shades, The Everlove, The Graduate
Estrella: Is there anything else you’d like to say?
James: Check out our new MySpace, new press photos, new live photos, and of course; ‘The Astronomer’ Music video. And thanks!
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