Ocean Rivers On the Making Of “St Christine”
What was the creative process like for this particular "St Christine?"
With 90% off our songs, Dan our Vocalist writes the lyrics and comes in with the idea and a bunch of chords and melodies. From there it tends to be Dan and Ollie our drummer really getting a structure and rhythm nailed down. From there we tend to work as a full band on all aspects of the song. Jack on guitars brings his own unique flavour to the mix and Keiran is our chief Violin player and strings composer. He writes his parts last when the main body is there. We tend to bow to his superior knowledge and skills! Ha!
What was the initial spark or idea that led to the creation of "St Christine?"
St Christine was a song born out of lockdown during the pandemic. As with most of our songs, there is a story to tell in the first instance. Dan tends to concentrate on writing about real issues or experiences, whether it be personal or just something he's witnessed and wants to write about. The selflessness of this particular individual and her sacrifice was something that just sat and resonated, along with the loss. It was something that needed to be written about. Christine was not alone. Many others went bravely to work every day and gave their all.
What did you enjoy most about making this single?
The same as all the others we have recorded, to be honest. We get to hang out as a group of long-standing friends and make music! The whole process is fantastic from start to finish, but hearing the demo and then our finished mixed and mastered work is always a highlight at the end!
How did your band members initially come together?
We all met kind of serendipitously on the Leeds music scene over the last 20 or so years. Most of us go way back and have played in various bands and projects together before this one. Dan and Jack started jamming when flat sharing about 8 years ago and really started to refine the idea that became Ocean Rivers. With Ollie being the latest addition to the lineup and the youngest, fittest, and probably best-looking! He is also Dan's eldest lad and has been drumming since age 7 (16 at the time of recording).
What are your future goals or aspirations as a band?
To be able to reach a larger audience really. To have the ability to keep growing and making music together. Touring would be incredible too! We are a way off yet but as the fan base builds we'd love to get out there and meet some of our fans and see the world!
