Alt Rock Band Blue October Plays the Strip, Talks New Album

Alternative rock band Blue October is an inspiration, at least to author Stephenie Meyer, who allegedly listened to the band while writing her final Twlight novel. Distressing and cathartic all at once, hits like “Hate Me” and “Dirt Room,” and the #1 VH-1 smash, “Into The Ocean,” all play on dark and light, reeling new followers in one album at a time.

The group, made up of front man Justin Furstenfeld and his brother Jeremy on drums, with bassist Matt Noveskey, Ryan Delahoussaye (violin/viola, mandolin and piano) and guitarist Julian Mandrake, formed in 1995. They were discovered by Kid Rock’s manager Michael Rand at Houston’s Atchafalaya River Cafe.

The band rolled through West Hollywood last week to bestow their angst-ridden rock upon The Sunset Strip’s beloved . It was a show that included a dose of fan favorite songs, as well as a variety of tracks off their latest album, Any Man in America, released Aug. 16, which is a concept record that tackles the personal experiences of Furstenfeld’s recent divorce and grueling custody battle.

Patch caught up with Noveskey to discuss the new album, the group's surreal touring moments, and writing songs on pizza boxes.

West Hollywood Patch: Any Man in America is Blue October's sixth album. How is this one different than past releases?

Matt Noveskey: This is more of a conceptual piece. Instead of surrounding several ideas, there is a central theme, which happens to be autobiographical for Justin. The album follows the chronological events of his bitter divorce and subsequent custody battle.

Patch: Tell us about some of the guest performers that you had on Any Man in America.

Noveskey: Ashleigh Stone and Ray C are local friends of ours, both very talented. And Steve Schiltz is a musical hero to us - formerly the lead singer/guitarist for indie act Longwave and currently for Hurricane Bells - a great person and friend.

Patch: What have most of your shows been like on this tour?

Noveskey: A mix of newer and older material, with the emphasis of highlighting the story behind our new album.

Patch: What is your favorite song to perform live?

Noveskey: “Quiet Mind” or “Dirt Room.”

Patch: What is the strangest thing you have ever written a song with?

Noveskey: Justin actually wrote the lyrics to “Ugly Side” on an old pizza box that was littering the floor of our van.

Patch: What has been the most surreal moment of being in Blue October?

Noveskey: Definitely opening for The Rolling Stones

Patch: Who are you favorite bands out today?

Noveskey: Iamdynamite and Band of Horses

Patch: Do you guys have any pre-show rituals?

Noveskey: We always joining hands in a circle and say a short motivational speech followed by us counting down to yelling.

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