Q: Where did you get your start?
A: Melissa Wooden (piano and vocals): I started piano when I was 4 years old. It's like my best friend. I was just mesmerized by it, watching people's hands move up and down the keys. I've always loved how it sounded.
Q: Why the name?
A: Wooden: We wanted a two-word name. I was obsessed with trees, and we wanted to keep it simple, so Simple Tree.
Q: Would you say you have a classic sound?
A: Wooden: I would say we have a pretty eclectic sound, very rhythm-oriented because of the hand drums. It really gives us a tribal beat. It could be a rock song with classical overtones or it could have a hip-hop beat. Even driving Latin beats.
Q: How much music have you done so far?
A: Wooden: We have been together about eight years, so about 40 to 50 songs. We have done a five-song demo at Blue Note Recording. The first CD was "Playing for Cuddles," which was live at Galileo. We are working on our first full-length album.
Q: Do you sound better live or in the studio?
A: Wooden: I think we sound better live. But in the studio is fun. You get to add all the flavor and details.
Q: What radio station do you belong on?
A: Wooden: I guess 98.9 KISS FM would play our stuff.
Q: Any recording offers?
A: Wooden: No, a record label isn't something we are seeking, but maybe if we could get the rights to our songs. We are trying to be as independent as possible.
Q: Is that the best thing to do in this time period?
A: Wooden: Some people want to be famous. But for Simple Tree, I think that is the right decision for us. That way, we have full control over what we are doing.
Q: Where is your music going?
A: Wooden: Right now, we are planning a United States and Canada tour.
ï¾ Chris Colberg
