Opensouls - Opensouls Newsletter Interview
01 Aug 2009 // An interview by Shade
Thanks to Jeremy for answering these questions:
What is the best gig you have ever performed at, and why?
I haven’t played it yet, still waiting for my invitation to play at half time for the Warriors.
What is your favourite NZ venue?
The Wine Cellar in Auckland is great, small room, bands sound really great in there.
What NZ musicians or bands would you like to see more of, and why?
David Kilgour, great songs, love the new album with Sam Hunt, he has an undeniably brilliant back catalogue.
What is your favourite type of guitar and why?
Fender Jazzmaster. It is the slacker rock weapon of choice, they sound so great, perfect blend of lo-fi and hi-fi.
How did you come up with the name Opensouls?
When we were thinking of a name I had a mixtape from the rapper Cyphanetik. In one of his raps he said “going toe to toe with an open soul.” I really liked that line.
How do you describe your music?
Soul music influenced by 50’s and 60’s music but with a modern approach. Thats what is sounds like today, tomorrow it could be completely different.
What can we expect to see from the Opensouls over the next year?
You will hear us more on the radio, we will be touring more frequently and refining our live stage show.
What has been the best moment in making the new record 'Standing In The Rain'?
I have two, 1. recording the vocal parts with Tyra was awesome, a great learning experience for me as a producer and engineer. 2. Mixing the album in Los Angeles with Dave Cooley. He brought his on ideas to the record and was great to see him work the songs.
About Opensouls
Since their musical journey began in 2001, Opensouls have been busy winning over music lovers with their fresh, infectious energy. Infused with elements of soul and old-school RnB, the band’s unique sound is due to a collaborative effort from its seven talented members, each bringing their own personality, flair and musical taste to the mix.
The core members comprise vocalists Tyra Hammond and Bjorn Peterson, and a live band with Jeremy Toy (guitar) Julien Dyne (drums), Chip Matthews (bass), Isaac Aesili (trumpet) and Harlin Davey (MPC).
Jeremy and Julien are the original architects of Opensouls. Both had been members of live Hip-Hop group 5th Floor, but after it dissolved they decided it was time to start something new. And, after a careful hunt to find the right people to carry on the sound they were looking to create, Opensouls was born.
Visit the muzic.net.nz Profile for Opensouls