Online interview with Ryan, lead singer for Of the Son
September 18, 2006

www.myspace.com/oftheson

In the fall of 2003 a random and unexpected conversation between friends resulted in a brief and even more unexpected phone conversation between complete strangers. A series of experimental practice sessions quickly lead to the formation of a three member ensemble; Ryan (lead vocals), Jon (guitars), Rob (drums). Almost unconsciously the three began the process of writing what would eventually become the December 2004 Wounded Records release “The Dead Will Rise”. After entering a local battle of the bands in March 2004 Ryan’s younger brother Nate was added to play bass and the current OTS roster was complete. After a year of touring to promote and support the release of “The Dead Will Rise”, a new record deal with Harvest Earth Records was inked. 

Dennis: I know bands usually hate this but how did you come up with the name 'Of the Son'?
Ryan: It actually wasn’t anything too crazy.  Jon and I decided to become a Christian band and went to the most logical source... The Bible.  We came across a verse in Revelation talking about a “Third of the sun”.  Long story short, discussion led to finally deciding on Of the Son.  It just felt right.

Dennis: You guys have had a busy summer with Cstone, shows and even a spot on the Warped Tour in Indy. If you had to pick your greatest show memory, other than meeting me at Cornerstone (laughs), this summer what would it be?
Ryan: Well yeah, meeting you was GREAT!  I think some of the greatest memories for me we’re really just getting great compliments from some people in other bands that we’ve looked up to or have influenced us.  It always makes you feel good to know a band that you like or look up to likes your band (laughs).  Other than that, lots of cool shows for sure.  We’ve met some great people this summer.

Dennis: You guys label yourself praisecore.  What differentiates you from other hard bands with a hardcore and metal nature?
Ryan: Well, I think we have a good mix of styles, but we’re still a metal band.  Obviously our attitudes and how outspoken we are with our faith makes us stand out more than anything.  That just seems hard to find, even in a lot of “Christian” bands.

Dennis: Criticism comes and goes for all of us but especially when we put ourselves out there in the public eye.  How do you deal with that and not allow it to be taken personal?
Ryan: That’s one thing that’s hard for all of us in the band.  Music is such a personal thing it’s hard not to take criticism personally.  We just try to remind ourselves that everyone has their opinion, whether good or bad.  We just have to learn from it and follow where we feel God is leading us and remember that He has a plan.

Dennis: I loved your ep with Harvest Earth.  Any news on an upcoming full length? Will it still be with HE?
Ryan: Yeah, we felt kind of rushed on the EP, but it is good for what it is.  We’re working now on a new full length and have about half of the material written.  Our options are completely open right now as far as studios, labels, etc.

Dennis: I had the chance to see you live this summer.  You are never afraid to share your beliefs with others about why you are on that stage. So many bands and others not on the stage seem like they are sometimes afraid to share their faith and tend to use the excuse that they don't want to offend anyone. I personally don't see how any Christian can think that telling others Christ loved them can be offensive; I find those saying that offensive.  What challenges, if any, do you face when letting others know about Jesus and what is your advice to those that may have fear about talking to others about Jesus?
Ryan: Really I don’t feel personally that I’ve had to face many different challenges when sharing my beliefs on stage.  I’ve gotten some negative attitude for sure, but I knew going into this that I’d have a lot of that.  I feel my biggest challenge is just opening myself up and just hoping that the crowd realizes that I’m genuine with what I’m saying, and not just “preaching” to them about what they should or should not do.
I would have to say to anyone who is afraid of talking to others about Jesus... STAY IN PRAYER, you can’t have a relationship with someone without talking to them, and LISTENING.  Spend time with other Christians, it will only build your confidence and help you be more comfortable in talking about God.  Expect some resistance, and realize that you don’t have to do the work, you don’t have to convince someone you’re right.  Just show love and share what God’s done for you.  He will work on his own time.

Dennis: I had 3 messages today from people that wouldn't add me on my space because they said they noticed I was a Christian.  Seems like Christians face many negative stereotypes.  What do you think the church can do more effective to shed some of these images?
Ryan: This question could go on FOREVER, but I’ll just try to focus on a couple of things.  I think that first of all “the church” needs to get over the idea that they are better than anyone else.  We’re all human, we all sin, and God loves us all.  Also, they need to open their minds and realize that it’s great to have church services and worship God, but the real ministry takes place OUTSIDE the church.  That’s where we need to be.

Dennis: With so many bands out there...why should someone listen to Of the Son?
Ryan: I hope that they might find something even remotely different in us that would make them want to listen to us.  I feel that our next album is really going to put us on a whole new level and I can’t wait to get it moving.  We really pride ourselves in our brutal live show and hopefully we can get that across in this record.  Plus you know... who doesn’t like a little Praisecore every once in a while.