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Over the years, we've touched on many kinds of music during these interviews, but this will be the first time we talk to someone who has opera training in their background. Ashtabula native Connor O' Brien morphed from there into a cappella and came out the rock and roll end of things. OhiOnline music correspondent Peanuts threw a handful of questions at O' Brien about his second disc release SOLILOQUY and here's what came back in response.
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| OO: |
What first got you into playing music? |
| CO: |
"I grew up as a classical violinist since the age of five. That obviously peaked my interest in music growing up. I was a concertmaster for several orchestras during my teen years and then discovered I could sing at a concert in high school. Subsequently, I was accepted into the Eastman School of Music in New York in 1997, majoring in vocal performance aka opera. After completing my training there, I left to begin my career as a performer, moving back to Ohio last year." |
| OO: |
How would you describe your music? |
| CO: |
"My music is a pop/rock blend, similar to that of Train, Matchbox Twenty and the Goo Goo Dolls. I try to write and perform music that is intelligent and interesting, but that has a great melody as well." |
| OO: |
With that in mind, who are your influences? |
| CO: |
"Edwin McCain is a big influence of mine, his style of writing an expression are incredibly in depth and intelligent. Aerosmith as well. They can write a song that will knock you right on your ass every time. You have to respect that." |
| OO: |
What national band would you match up with? Also, have you found any regional bands here in Ohio tht would be good to split a bill with? |
| CO: |
"I have a few candidates, but on top of my list is probably Aerosmith. I would probably pass out from excitement. As for bands from Ohio, I'd say Mike Farley, The Tony Lang Band, Three Miles Band and Shorty. I'd love to split a bill with Red Wanting Blue, Oval Opus and a few others." |
| OO: |
And SOLILOQUY is your second disc release? |
| CO: |
"The first was a self-titled disc that scored a #1 hit in France with the single 'Inside Out'. It was a proud achievement for me as a songwriter. The new disc is a huge step for me, I couldn't be happier with it." |
| OO: |
Where was the new disc cut? |
| CO: |
"Several studios around the country actually, including Mad Dog Studios in Burbank, Biseonhead Studios in Milwaukee, but the majority of it was pulled together in DreamState South Studios in Akron. Producer and engineer Jakob Ward was a big asset in getting the disc done right." |
| OO: |
You appear to like to sample studios. |
| CO: |
"Oh, I love the studio, it's always an adventure for me. However, it got kind of crazy in the last two weeks of recording when I was in there from literally 10 am until two in the morning nonstop. I got kind of sick of it towards the end there. But, I've always been electronics/computer friendly, so I like places like that, which is why I'm currently building my own studio as well." |
| OO: |
Where is your favorite Ohio venue to play? |
| CO: |
"Tower City Amphitheater in downtown Cleveland." |
| OO: |
Long term plans? |
| CO: |
"To become a local and regional success and then try to bring my music to a national audience. But, mostly to work hard doing what I love every day and just try to live life and be happy.." |
