The basis of Okapi's work was conceived by the creations of Woodstock, IL native Scott Gorski. Being a self-taught bass guitarist since the age of fifteen, he trudged through several musical genres with curiosity before forming a definitive style with confidence and comfort. 

Please list all of your band members and their roles in the band:

Scott Gorski (Upright Bass, Voice) + Lindsey Miller (Cello)

For starters, what bands were you guys a part of prior to Okapi? How long has the band been around?

Lindsey studied at the Conservatory in Chicago, and had performed in a few cabaret and rock bands before forming Okapi with Scott. Scott has been part of various math rock and post rock bands, but had been developing something different. Both of them decided to stick strictly to their acoustic instruments. Scott and Lindsey have been playing together nearly 6.5 years. They have been taking their acoustic approach for 3 years.

What’s the origin of that name and have you changed the band’s name before?

We've held the same name for the whole duration. As a cryptid, the Okapi was thought to be a hybrid animal of a giraffe and zebra. Since Scott and Lindsey come from different musical backgrounds and approaches to meet in the middle, they thought the name was suitable for them.

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?

Scott begins the songs, writing the bass parts, structure, lyrics, and vocal melodies. He usually has some rhythmic ideas for cello, but Lindsey write her parts to his foundation, and they work together to make things gel. Our lyrics perpetuate the power of the individual, and the consciousness of one's self and surroundings. I believe these topics will continue to evolve, yet remain along the same track conceptually.

What bands are currently inspiring the music that you’re making?

We don't listen to new music very much, but are lately more inspired by visual art, nature, and experiences. Our musical tastes vary drastically, and with our group, we work together to bring in all the things we like about various genres, to create the melting pot that we wish to be in.

Was there a particular band/artist or concert that inspired you to start a band?

Nirvana, King Crimson, NIN, Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds, Dirty Three, Dresden Dolls, Charles Mingus, Ornette Coleman, Dmitri Shostakovich, Bela Bartok, Paul Hindemith, Tosca Tango Orchestra

What do you do to prepare for a show? Any flexing, exercises, ect …

Small meal, lots of water, light stretching, focusing on not focusing

What has been the biggest highlight of the band’s career so far?

Being appreciated for our uniqueness that we've worked so hard to articulate and hone in on.

If you could tour with any bands, past or present, who would they be and why?

Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds, PJ Harvey, Happy Apple, Shellac, Andrew Bird, Bonnie Prince Billy, Xylouris White. All of these artists we very much respect, and have encouraged us to be ourselves to our full potential, and so it would be great to share a musical experience with them, as well as illustrate our appreciation of them personally.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Nope.