USJTimes interview the members of Oakland. Javier Meneses (guitar), Diego Hernández (battery), Mario Funes (singer) and Jorge Pinos (bassist) tell us their music experience.
How did the idea emerge to create the band?
We formed Oakland just to give concerts for our friends and to have a good time, of course. All of us had a passion for the same groups and we wanted to make music like the groups we admire and also to play our own songs like any other group.
What was the beginning of the group like?
It was funny, because nobody had idea clue about how things had to work but we were full of hope and desire since the beginning and we still have it. I think the first moments are the best because you assimilate all that you hear, all the advice…you are with the group thinking all day about things that you could improve and suddenly you get a performance and you give the best of yourself, it’s a very special moment.
Oakland concert
How was your first concert? Would you repeat it?
Our first concert was a great success, an experience that we would repeat. It was the cultural week of Talamantes and people were amazing. Actually, we have played for 3 years consecutively in that cultural week.
You are more and more well-known, did you expect this success so soon?
Although in Zaragoza we are well-known, we haven’t accomplished anything yet. Now, what we have to do is go out of Aragon to try to play in other cities. Success is relative, we have had success where another groups have failed, but not success in the exact meaning. I mean, most people don’t recognize us yet, and this is our objective.
How far do you want to get with the music?
At the moment, music is our hobby. We all have an education and this is the main thing, but never say never, if a very good opportunity appears, we will take things more seriously.
I suppose Oakland is taking away more and more time, have you had to sacrifice something to keep up with the group?
Sincerely, we do the most difficult things to accommodate the hours when a concert is near. Now, it’s even more difficult because Jorge studies in Soria, and the studies come first. The group is the second thing and sometimes we have to sacrifice some beers with friends, sport training or moments with our family, but it’s ok because we love music.
Who are your musical influences?
I think we make a ‘California style’ and our influences go from the classics like Beatles or Queen to the new groups like Bad Religion or Green Day. Also punk-rock groups. I must say that we don’t only like rock and punk-rock but also rap music, because Jorge loves rap and he comes from a rap group. It’s something that we have used in a couple of songs.
You write your own songs. What’s your inspiration?
The day to day, the things that everybody can experience, especially people our age, because we share the same point of view. We take inspiration from the social relationships, feelings… inspiration is everywhere.
Lucía Segarra
USJ Times 