Blue Meridian, a long time favorite in Orlando's local rock scene, is working on putting out another album. T.J. Davis, the Source's Assistant Features Editor, sat down with Donovan Lyman to discuss their recent successes.
Who are the members and what do they play?
Donovan Lyman: Lead Vocals/Guitar (Fender Telecaster, Jazzmaster, Matchless); Mike Greir: Lead Guitar/Background Vocals (Fernandez, Saldano)
Adam Sentz: Bass Guitar (Fender Jazz Modulous 5 String, Ampeg)
Kevin Kirkwood: Drums (DW Drums)
How did you come up with the name, Blue Meridian?
Lyman: I got meridian from the Tragically Hip song 100th Meridian, and I put blue in front of it and it sounded cool. The last few years, I've come up with some other answers to that question that are a little more profound, but I think you were seeking the truth.
How long has BM been a band?
Lyman: We formed about 7 years ago this past Aug 6
How has the bands style changed since you formed?
Lyman: We started during the peak of grunge, all the grunge was on the radio a lot, and it influenced us early on. You want your sound to reflect what's going on. Or maybe what's next.
What does music do for you?
Lyman: The reason I started was definitely because it was the thing that made me the happiest.
Who are some of your music idols?
Lyman: Elvis Costello, Brian Wilson, Paul McCartney
What are some future goals?
Lyman: We want to get as much exposure as we can, it's sometimes tougher for a band on an indie label to enjoy instant success. Our label has a good business plan, and I hope the songs can speak for themselves. The plan is to get on the radio as much as we can...and turn to those cities to build a fan base.
What's in store with the new album?
Lyman: We have a good idea of the songs, but we have another four weeks before recording. Each day is a chance to write a song that's better than what we currently have. We're working!
How's it feel to be signed?
Lyman: I thought it would be more like a milestone, like graduation, but I didn't get a sense of that. I suppose it might kick in when we start accomplishing things a local band doesn't.
T.J. Davis can be reached at tapdiscman@aol.com