Name/Band:
“JK-RUFF.”
Define your genre in five words or less:
“Psychedelic folk rock.”
Someone is walking past as you guys are playing, they then go get a beer and tell their friend about you… what do they say?
“‘In this musical landscape of disposable gimmick pop, these guys have re-instilled my belief in rock!’ (fan – Espy April 27, 2011).”
How long have you been gigging and writing?
“The band’s song writing trio, Jordan Koster, Kristian Laemmle-Ruff and Johnny Grant have been writing together for over six years. The band JK-RUFF, with drummer Anthony Murray and bassist Owen Downie, has become the outlet of this song writing powerhouse over the past two years.”
What has been your favourite gig you’ve played to date?
“Our favourite gig is undoubtedly album launch last year at The Toff In Town – the energy between everyone in that room was incredible… this beautiful young lady called Tren threw her undies on stage during our last song!”
Which band would you most like to have a battle/showdown with?
“Pink Floyd and others like Neil Young would definitely be up there, but for the pure, outrageous joy of it we would have to go with Yes – those geniuses really push the possibilities of progressive rock.”
What inspires or has influenced your music the most?
“Being in a band full of highly musical people is certainly part of the sustaining inspiration of JK-RUFF. We all bounce off one another, planting melodious seeds in each other’s minds. We know how powerful music is both socially and personally. Being influenced by the great bands from the ’70s, we want to give in the same way they did – we want to give our music to the people – to spread that magical experience when you are completely taken by the music.”
What do you think a band has to do these days to succeed?
“You have to be true to the times, to be creatively honest to the world around you. The most unsuccessful thing in our eyes in when an artist follows a formula by emulating the previous ‘cool’. To be boldly original in style and lyricism will always be noticed and rewarded.”
Do you have any record releases to date? What? Where can I get it?
“Our album Oceans Arms is available in independent record stores in Melbourne and can be purchased on iTunes. We also have some free songs for people wanting a taste on our Sound Cloud, Myspace and ReverbNation websites. Keep an eye out for our new EP later this year!”
Why should everyone come and see your band?
“Your soul with be soothed, your mind will be mesmerised by the haunting imagery painted by three-part harmonies… you’ll be refreshed into a new context for rock!”
When are you playing live/releasing your album/EP/single/etc?
“We’re playing at The Toff In Town Sunday May 22! Having launched our debut album Oceans Arms there last year we return for a flamboyant performance – supported by the wonderful Simon Phillips and Oceanics.”
