Getting to Know: Blues Rockers, Blue Plasma Orb Band
In today’s Getting to Know, we meet California blues rockers, Blue Plasma Orb Band, a collective that came together through little planning, but lots of passion. If you are in an up and coming band that would like to partake in a Getting to Know feature, contact editor@riffyou.com to receive the questionnaire and instructions. Thanks!
Band Name: Blue Plasma Orb Band (BPO)
Band Members: Billy Bishop (rhythm guitar), Bone (bass, vocals), Greg Peters (lead guitar), and Rich Smith (drums, vocals).
Years Active: 2
City of Origin: Laguna Beach, CA.
Who are you and what do you do?
“We are a blues flavoured classic rock band formed in late 2012 as result of the members desire to revisit the raw, straight out of the amp music pioneered by the legends of rock. BPO’s debut 12-track album was released on 7-7-14.”
In 100 words or less, tell us how your band has gotten to this point.
“In the beginning, there was no plan to form a band. In late 2012 Billy Bishop sought out long-time friend Greg Peters to help him get back up to speed on his guitar skills after a long hiatus. After a few months, Billy and Greg started experimenting with original riffs and developed four songs. Shortly thereafter, Bone was brought on board to handle bass and vocals, and it was then decided that we would move forward with a full-length album. We then needed a solid hard hitting drummer and Rich Smith was brought in to fill that need.”
What is your latest release and how would you best describe it to someone who hasn’t heard your band?
“It is our Self-Titled debut. We would describe ourselves as having the ability to appeal to fans of classic rock, blues, hard rock and reggae rock.”
When making an album, which aspect of the process do you put the most time into and why?
“Without a doubt, we put the most time in the song writing aspect of the production process. That way we could predict the amount of rehearsal time and reduce the time needed in the studio.”
What is the best part about your band and why?
“We enjoy each other’s company and have had a lot of fun participating in the production of the album.”
What makes your band unique from the rest?
“Although maybe not particularly unique, an early goal of the band was to be able to play the studio produced music live without any behind the scene processing. We believe we have accomplished that goal.”
How does your band survive the challenges of touring/gigging?
“We have not finalized tour plans as yet. But, we expect detailed planning and research prior to a tour is the only way to make it survivable.”
Would you rather be critically-acclaimed; rich and famous; or an under-the-radar band with a dedicated fan base?
“We would be perfectly happy being an under-the-radar band playing for the people that enjoy our music.”
If you’d have to compare your band to another one out there, living or dead, who would it be and why?
“We really can’t compare ourselves to any of the bands or music out there. We can probably find similarities or influences, but we will leave that determination to others.”
Which band/musician would you like to share many drinks with? What would you talk about?
“Probably The Rolling Stones because of their long and storied career. Just being in their company for a casual talk would be great.”
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