Midwestern natives Oceanlux are an Indie Pop duo formed in Indiana by vocalist Daisy Draper and multi-instrumentalist Brandon Weaver. Eccentric and captivating, they combine pulsating beats and melancholy lyrics. They hold nothing back describing heartache, sex, and self-turmoil all while maintaining upbeat and unforgettable melodies.
Please list all of your band members and their roles in the band.
Brandon Weaver - Mostly music and and some lyrics.
Daisy Draper - Mostly lyrics and some music.
For starters, what bands were you guys a part of prior to Oceanlux? How long has the band been around?
Brandon Weaver: “ I was the keyboardist for ‘Foreveratlast’ out of Indianapolis, IN for two years. Then I started a pop duo project called ‘When We Were Enemies’ for a few years before it turned into ‘Oceanlux’.”
Daisy Draper: “ ‘Oceanlux’ is the first band in which I have been involved.”
What’s the origin of that name and have you changed the band’s name before?
Daisy Draper: “ I just love the ocean. I like the beach and the sun and climate. It just makes sense to me that I would use that word in the name. That and lux translates to light. The name just fell into place. This has been the band’s name from the beginning.”
Who writes your songs? What are the main themes or topics for most of your songs and do you think these topics will change over time?
Brandon Weaver:
“We operate one of two ways:
Daisy will write lyrics and send them to me and I will attempt to put music over the lyrics.
I will record a song and send it to Daisy and she will pull lyrics out of her phone and just start singing over the music.
On a rare occasion we will get together in person and write. This method usually doesn’t work because we just joke around and get distracted.”
Daisy Draper:
“Our song are typically about relationships and personal experiences. Most of my songs are about overcoming an obstacle and just learning to become a stronger person. These topics will most definitely change. As we grow as people and as a band it is inevitable.”
What bands are currently inspiring the music that you’re making?
Daisy Draper:
“Walk the Moon, One Republic, Fickle Friends, 1975, Stevie Nicks”
Brandon Weaver:
“Panic! at the Disco, Loote, Troye Sivan, Charlie XCX”
Was there a particular band/artist or concert that inspired you to start a band?
Daisy Draper:
“Avril Lavigne. She inspired me to become a rockstar.”
Brandon Weaver:
“Kids in the Way and Fall Out Boy.”
What do you do to prepare for a show? Any flexing, exercises, ect …
Daisy Draper:
“I find a quiet space to warm up my vocals with a Spotify playlist. Then I practice the troublesome parts of our set to make sure I can hit the notes.”
Brandon Weaver:
“I like to stretch. Spend a few minutes to myself and make sure I have plenty of water with me on stage.”
What has been the biggest highlight of the band’s career so far?
Brandon Weaver:
“We were able to open a show for Zealyn and for Patternist. That was exciting opening for bands that talented.”
Daisy Draper:
“Playing with new bands and just making friends in the business is exciting! Also getting mentioned by Huff Post.”
If you could tour with any bands, past or present, who would they be and why?
Daisy Draper:
“Twenty One Pilots, Ellie Goulding, Halsey, Stevie Nicks and Tove Lo. These are artists I highly respect and look up to.”
Brandon Weaver:
“Fall Out Boy or Panic! at the Disco. They are both bands that I enjoy listening to and both have learned to change their sound with the times and weren’t afraid to jump genres.”
Is there anything else you would like to add?
Brandon Weaver: “I hope you enjoy ‘Hurt Me Harder’ and we will be releasing new music sooner than you think!”