Anticipation Grows for New OurAfter

Combine soothing but sometimes edgy vocals, superior live shows, meaningful lyrics and an amiable relationship with fans…the finished product: OurAfter, an alternative rock band from Scranton, Pa.

While still riding the momentum from their successful debut album, Perfect Day, which was released in 2006, OurAfter has mastered and meshed important ingredients together to become a staple in Northeast Pa.’s thriving music scene.

John Phillips (vocals, rhythm guitar, keys), Jason Macheska (bass), Mike Dudley (lead and rhythm guitar), Steve Husted (lead and rhythm guitar, vocals) and Ed Hludzik (drums and percussion) have combined their musical talents to create an authentic sound which does not conform to typical rock ‘n roll boundaries. Although experimental and original, their music still satisfies fans of mainstream rock.

OurAfter is preparing to enter the studio to record their second album, titled “Tabula Rasa,” which means “clean slate.” Phillips explains that this upcoming release has “gone a little darker…it is a little angrier than the last album due to some life experiences both personal and global. We have a lot to say and hope that fans and future fans relate.”

“Tabula Rasa” is due to hit the streets in October and anticipation for the album is already building. The band wholeheartedly believes in their project and will be financing the project personally. According to Phillips, “it is an exciting time to be an independent artist because the world is at your fingertips with the power of the internet and media.”

Although releasing and selling albums is vital to keeping a band or artist afloat, live shows and exceptional stage presence keep fans coming back for more. OurAfter have proven time and time again that they have what it takes to put on an enjoyable live rock show. They have opened for many national acts, including Flyleaf, 10 Years, Red, The Exies, Yellowcard and Smile Empty Soul. They frequent venues such as The Sterling Hotel (Allentown), Crocodile Rock Café (Allentown), Tinks (Scranton) and The Chameleon Club (Lancaster).

After the release of “Tabula Rasa,” OurAfter plans to tour the United States extensively. However, they will not be touring in the traditional sense. “We will tour a week every month in different areas of the country and do maybe three weeks out towards March or April,” explains Phillips. Touring nationally will give them an opportunity to build a national fan base.

Even though they are expanding across the country, gaining recognition regionally for their musical endeavors is a huge success story in itself. In Phillip’s opinion OurAfter has already “hit it big.” He explains that they “have a good name for ourselves in a regional area, we have touched people’s lives, and we have created something that we hope has made a positive impact.” And the only difference between OurAfter and a band who has sold millions of records? “The size of the impact, not the actual concept.”

Success and national recognition are definitely in the cards for OurAfter. But whatever the future may hold, Northeast and Central Pa. won’t be forgotten. Phillips insists that “staying true to our roots is a necessity. You should never forget where it is that you came from, because it is what has made you into who you are.”

OurAfter’s upcoming album, “Tabula Rasa,” can be preordered in several different packages on their official website at www.ourafter.com. To listen to tracks from “Perfect Day” and for more info on the band, including tour dates, visit their My Space page at www.myspace.com/ourafter.