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Interview With Justin Furstenfeld of Blue October
Posted: 22 February 2006
Contributed By: Chris


Photo by Lauren Vonepher
Blue October is:
Justin Furstenfeld - Lead Vocals; Guitar
Ryan Delahoussaye - Violin; Mandolin; Keys
Jeremy Furstenfeld - Drums
CB Hudson - Guitar
Matt Noveskey - Bass


Official Website
Tour Dates
MySpace
Universal Records

Blue October isn’t just your average, everyday rock band from Texas. Formed in Houston in the late ‘90s by lead singer/songwriter/guitarist Justin Furstenfeld, his brother, drummer Jeremy, and devil-horned, multi-instrumentalist Ryan Delahoussaye, the group’s epic live shows and exploration of subjects like mental depression, drug use, love, betrayal, forgiveness and cathartic transcendence have helped them amass a strong, loyal following through four albums. Blue October will release their fourth studio album titled 'Foiled' on April 4th. Thanks to Justin for answering the following questions.

TuneLab Music: It's been three years since 'History for Sale' was released, what have you guys been up too since then?

Justin Furstenfeld: Writing and recording 'Foiled'.

TL: With your new album, 'Foiled', still a month away from being released and the first single "Hate Me" currently one of the most added song to Alternative Radio, does that give you guys an added sense of accomplishment?

JF: Yes, but younever should expect anything. We're grateful for what we have ....we're blessed ...ya know.

TL: What sets 'Foiled' apart from your previous albums?


JF: There were specific rules given from the beginning that a vibe would not be disturbed, and if it was we were honest and upfront. Making a sound that we always were, just never been given the chance. It was like driving a 65 Lincoln top down on a highway.

TL: What went into writing the new album?

JF: Me going to LA and camping out at my dear friends pad for three months. He had an amazing studio and it was pure freedom and Imean pure freedom...beautiful....

TL: You originally signed to Universal in 2000 before getting dropped, then eventually getting re-signed. What's it like to have been dropped and re-signed by the same label?

JF: Well we werent selling ...I would have dropped us too.... then we were selling and they wanted us back. You know its a business. I've got nothing but respect for Universal Records.

TL: What made Universal stand apart from other labels that were interested in signing the band?

JF: Their attention to the right things. Their attendance at the showcase was a mindblowing 60 someodd people where everyone else it seemed like another three person meeting. It was family coming to break bread and get back in business.

TL: As a band, what do you hope to accomplish?


JF: I've accomplished all my musical goals. Everything else is a blessing and a miracle from God.

TL: In the past you've toured with Socialburn and Default. Are there any bands that you'd like to tour with?

JF: Peter Gabriel ....Morrisey... The Cure..... Elbow....Radiohead...Coldplay, U2... the list goes on and on...

TL: You're scheduled to play at South by Southwest, how do the large festival shows compare to the small venue shows?

JF: Stress factor, all stage equipment is throw and go....no time for any sound check ...its going into war blind.

TL: Are there any tour plans in the works for the coming months?


JF: Anything I can get a sound check at!

TL: That's all I have. Anything you would like to add?

JF: Thank you for caring enough to ask me some questions