Journey with Sun Satellite in the sky

Band releases first EP and plans to record debut album

By Guruchathram Ledchumanan

If you miss the way Incubus sounded when they first burst on the scene and have a soft spot for The Mars Volta, then Sun Satellite will be your new celestial band of choice. The Toronto-based group has just released a six track EP and will go into the studio on New Year’s Day to start work on their debut album.

Sun Satellite comprises Matt Moffit on lead vocals, Paul Davidson and Jesse O’Hara on guitars, Casey Clowater on bass and Neil Uppal on drums. The Muse caught up with this almost famous band before they get too big to talk to us.

The Muse: What exactly is a Sun Satellite?

Jesse: The band name is an analogy which expresses our discontent with contemporary music. The sun is the essence of all life, and we view our group as a satellite that searches for the sun. We search for signs of life in music.

TM: What are your approaches to songwriting?

Matt: We like to write songs as a group. One person usually starts with the initial idea but we all work on it and watch it evolve together. Nobody in this band wants to claim any song as their own, because we all contribute to the process and understand every individual person’s value and what they bring to the table.

TM: How does it feel like to finally complete your first EP?

Neil: Relieved! It’s been a work in progress for almost half a year because we’re all perfectionists, we just wanted to fix and add things. I think we’ve finally come to terms with the fact that the EP can only be so perfect in our eyes and so we’re ecstatic to finally be able to release it and begin the journey.

TM: You guys are going to record your debut in January. Who had a better first record, the Jimi Hendrix Experience’s Are You Experienced or Radiohead’s Pablo Honey?

Jesse: I don’t listen to much old music at all. It has always been the sounds and styles that develop from newer technology that most fascinate me. So, I know this sounds kind of lame but I’ve never really listened to much Hendrix. I’d have to side with Radiohead on this one. Sorry Jimi!

TM: Who are your idols and musical influences?

Matt: Our musical influences vary a lot, but a short list of them would include, Incubus, Quicksand, Thursday, Marvin Gaye, Snapcase, Dead and Divine and Tears for Fears.

TM: Has your family been supportive of your career choices or do they wish you were in law school instead?

Jesse: I actually studied Ethics, Society, and Law at University of Toronto. My parents thought I was headed down the path of legal practice. I postponed it for now because I would really regret it if I didn’t give musicianship an honest effort. Time is of the essence in the music industry, so I am acting on that now. My parents are typically supportive of any decision which is conducive to my happiness and overall well-being.

TM: What is the best concert you’ve ever seen?

Neil: Best concert was Dillinger Escape Plan at The Opera House; saw their singer do back flips into the crowd.

TM: Today we have Xboxes and iPods, but people still line up to see a band play, why is that?

Jesse: Recorded music is a substitute for a live band. Granted, the industry focuses on music sales, but those who excel at the art of music usually show proficiency and consistency through their live performance. Just as tourists travel to see the pyramids in real life rather than be satisfied with viewing pictures of them, music crowds show up to experience the real thing, to witness the art in its essence.

TM: How is the Canadian music scene?

Matt: The Canadian music scene is still alive, contrary to what a lot of indie bands believe. We are a hard working band and see the opportunity that’s out there. It’s definitely not easy but is entirely possible for any hard working talented band. People are finding new ways to market their music and finding new outlets to distribute all the time.

TM: What advice do you have for any kids who want to start their own band?

Neil: Make sure you’re in a band with people you can trust and you can see yourself being able to live with for months on end in a small touring vehicle. Don’t play what you think will make you popular for 15 minutes. Play what will make you want to keep playing for the rest of your life.

Share