Rising Star - Five Star Iris

A damn fine rock band for those who like bands like the excellent Collective Soul. Over to band member Alan Schaefer...

What are you currently up to? (E.g. touring/studio, etc.)

playing shows and working on a new full length album

Brief history of how you got into the music business and the style of music you play…

as with many others, the business chose me. i didn't choose it. in terms of style...we are a song oriented rock band trying to create music of enduring substance

How do you hope to get heard above all the other bands and singers vying for attention out there?

at shows and online we are just trying to connect with one person at a time

How do you view the current live scene in the US as regards new bands getting exposure?

there are great new avenues popping all the time. there is still a lot of crap for music consumers to sort through which makes it tough at times.

How has the Internet helped spread the word about the band? Do you think downloading is helping or killing music?

the internet has helped a great deal. we have solid fans from all over the world. that wouldn't be possible without the internet. i think downloading is helping consumers find more great music and it's helping some bands gain exposure. at the same time, it is really really hurting songwriters, bands, managers and labels in terms of diminishing royalty checks and sales.

What bands/artists do you admire and/or are an influence?

U2 is a huge influence musically. great band continuing to make great music while doing things to make the world better. Ed Roland of Collective Soul has also been a big influence/inspiration in terms of my songwriting.

What have been the highlight(s) and lowpoint(s) of your career to date?

highlights have been playing Europe twice. winning the rock category for the 2005 UK songwriting contest as well as playing Iceland, Spain, Italy were highpoints. can't really recall any specific lowpoint.

What ideally would you like to achieve by this time next year?

i'd like for us to be touring ALL over the world.

What’s the most rock ‘n’ roll moment you have had so far?

hard to say...there have been a lot.

What CD's do you currently have available and where can they be purchased from?

we have an EP that is available on most online retailers and our website at website

Message to your fans...

we feel extremely fortunate to have so many great fans and friends who continue to show their unwaivering support. I am hopeful that 2006 will be the year that we get to connect with all of our fans in far away places. for those who are new to 5SI, feel free to write us anytime. we PROMISE to write you back.