One of Oklahoma City’s newly formed acoustic rock duos, The Stir, has wasted no time in diving head first into the local music scene. Performing a laid back but edgy style of acoustic rock, The Stir began appearing regularly at Musashi’s Japanese Steakhouse for their Wednesday night patio shows as well as “Bike Night” performances at Bourbon Street and The Cross Eyed Moose and their most recent performances at The Paramount and JJ’s Alley in downtown OKC. Stir members, John Randolph and Steve Bran incorporate dissonant harmonies, 12 string guitars, and solid original material into their live performances which has been received well by both venue owners and audience members.
Currently working on material for an upcoming EP release in April 2015, The Stir’s original material tends to center around themes of mental illness such as depression, addiction, and substance abuse, subject matter that both members have experienced in their own lives. Randolph and Brann hope that part of the function of The Stir will be to raise awareness about mental illness and contribute something positive to a serious issue that is still very stigmatized. The EP will also feature tracks of a more upbeat nature surrounding some of the more universal themes of love, hope, and the yearning for acceptance and understanding in the world.
The Stir was officially formed in July 2014 after Randolph and Brann decided to change things up a bit for themselves by starting a duo project. Up until that point, Randolph had been performing as a solo acoustic artist after the breakup of his band in late 1998 and in July of 2007, he released a self-produced CD project called “Shadows,” his only release to date. Brann had seen a bit of success as a member of “Warren Peace,” a popular Oklahoma City band that was on the verge of being signed to a major record label. However, after the lead singer decided to move to South America without any warning, the band was dropped from the roster and the deal fell through. Both Brann and Randolph are optimistic about their current project together and have high hopes for its success.The Stir brings polished and professional performances for their live shows, creative interpretations of their cover material, and solid songwriting skills for their original material.
Finally!!! After a few delays we were able to get the final tracks laid down and the rest of the tracks mixed and finally mastered and ready for the big EP release party coming up soon. We decided to go with a total of eight tracks with full band versions but of course, we'll be performing them live acoustically. Stay tuned for the announcement of the EP release as well as upcoming show dates on our Facebook page and Reverb Nation page as well.
Last night Steve and I laid the final tracks down for the upcoming EP. 8 original songs that we have been working on this past winter and they have been sounding amazing in their full blown versions. Track line up includes; A Distant Voice, The Thoughts of You, Needles, Speed of Sound, Don't Fear, Only Love, Shadows (The Stir's version), and Holding On. The EP release Party date will be announced soon as well as well as some Texas show dates. Stay tuned kids!!!
With the upcoming EP release, we figured that maybe it would be a good idea to throw a huge party to celebrate it's release. Sort of a giving birth to a brand new musical project type celebration without the disturbing home video images that come from other type births. Anyway, as soon as we finish up, we'll let you know the details so keep an eye out on social media.
Steve and I will be mixing the tracks that will be on the upcoming EP that will be released later this month. We spent this past winter writing and recording some original material that we hope you will enjoy. Some of you may even be surprised at what we've come up with...I know we were at times. We'll let you know of the official release date and where you can find it on the web. See you soon!
4315 N. Western Ave. Oklahoma City, OK 73118
(405) 602-5623
108 E. Woodson St. El Reno, OK 73036
(405) 345-8120
4900 N. Harrison
Shawnee, OK 74804
405-275-4404
4315 N. Western Ave.
Oklahoma City, OK 73118
405-602-5623
212 E Sheridan Ave, Oklahoma City, OK 73104
(405) 605-4543
100 E. California Oklahoma City OK. 73104
(405) 232-6666