“It’s a new year and we’re anxious to see what up and coming bands and artists might make our top ten lists this year. We also realize a need to bring you more face-time with bands, not just giving you our opinions, but allowing the bands to make their case and let you decide if you want to hear more. So we’re launching “7 Minutes In Heaven with…,” an interview series dedicated to introducing new bands to you guys. It’s a really simple concept: 7 questions answered by the bands, telling you a little about who they are, their music, and what makes 2011 their breakout year. Think of this as your meet and greet–if you like the bands, let us know!” -Beth Yeckley, Head of Interviews for TheBlueIndian.com

Stepdad

Artist Website: http://stepdad.tumblr.com/

Facebook: http://facebook.com/stepdadmusic

Stepdad was formed in a sweltering Chicago apartment in the summer of 2009 when two songwriters turned roommates, ultramark and Ryan McCarthy, began writing songs together. The duo relocated to Grand Rapids, Michigan, where they finished their first EP called “Ordinaire”. Due to an overwhelmingly positive reaction from the 8 songs contained on this EP, the boys added long time friend and bassist Alex Fives and drummer Jeremy Malvin, and began performing their pop jams in front of many a crowd. . Oh yeah and during all of this the boys also wrote some theme songs for stuff (Axe Cop), shot some music videos, got arrested, & built a rather rabid fanbase.

1. Where are you from and how long have you been making music?

We officially formed in Chicago, but are currently based in Grand Rapids, Michigan. We’ve all been making music since we were lil’ kiddies, but started working together in the early autumn of 2009.

2. Describe your sound in 5 words.

One Two Three Four Pop.

3. Who would you say are your top 3 musical influences?

Brian Wilson, Roland Orzabal, Koji Kondo (In fact, that’s probably the best way to describe our sound too)

4. If you had to choose one song from your albums that our readers have to hear, what would it be and why?

Probably “My Leather, My Fur, My Nails” because that’s the one you can get for free from most places.

5. What were 5 of your favorite albums from 2010?

I think most of us are listening to older stuff most of the time (I’m hesitant to admit how un-hip we really are), but here goes:

Odd Blood – Yeasayer

One Life Stand – Hot Chip

This is Happening – LCD Soundsystem (of course)

Kanye’s thing was damn good

And uhh….. I’m going to say History of Modern by OMD, even though it was kind of disappointing it was awesome to hear new stuff from those     dudes.

6. Name a band that we might not have heard of yet but should definitely check out.

NIGHTLIFE (nightlifepop.com <http://nightlifepop.com/> ) These cats are hotter than a grease fire on Taylor Lautner’s nips.

7. What’s big and exciting for you in 2011?

We just got our debut LP Wildlife Pop in the can, Quite Scientific Records is releasing a remastered version of our Ordinaire EP in September, and Godzilla; he’s always big and exciting.