Jason Martin is Starflyer 59, plain and simple. Performing with a supporting cast that has steadily changed over the years, Martin has continued to amaze critics with his talents as a songwriter, musician, and producer. His personal version of the "Wall of Sound" has pleased Indie fans for years (a great example being the 1997 album Americana). While not being known for giving lengthy interviews, Martin is definitely known for letting his music do the talking. XMFan recently had a chance to briefly speak with Jason about all things SF 59.


XMFan: From what I understand, The Smiths pretty much changed your life.
Jason: Yeah, they were a big influence on me. I got the Queen is Dead album when I was 14 years old, and basically wore it out.

XMFan: Any other influences, musical or otherwise?
Jason: My faith and my family have always been most important in my life.

XMFan: You have released ten albums in the past ten years with SF59. Though the styles of the songs have changed here and there over the years, the songs are still unquestionably "Jason Martin." Is there a method to your songwriting?
Jason: Well, I don't really have a method. I just keep writing, and when I have 10 or 12 songs I will record them and put them out.

XMFan: Would you tell us a little about your new album, which will hopefully be released in December?
Jason: I'm not really sure about the exact sound as of yet, but it will be much different from the last album, I Am the Portuguese Blues.

XMFan: Aaron Sprinkle, who has produced albums for bands like MxPx and Kutless, as well as yourself, will also be producing your new album. What does Aaron bring to the table?
Jason: Aaron becomes like a member of the band, which is definitely a good thing. We grew up listening to the same music, so if I am trying to go for a certain thing he understands that, and will help achieve the final goal.

XMFan: What are three bands, past or present, you would like to see live?
Jason: The Smiths, Joy Division, and Compulsion.

XMFan: Could you tell us the guitar setup you are using these days for your live shows?
Jason: I use a Fender Twin Amp, a Vox V810 Valve-Tone Overdrive, and an Electro-Harmonix Memory Man.

XMFan: What's one of the stranger gigs you have ever played?
Jason: On the ramp of a skate park, with kids doing tricks to our songs.

XMFan: Is there a story that comes to mind that a fan may have told you about your effect on their life?
Jason: Some people have been really in to the band over the years, which is nice to see that the records have meant something to people.

XMFan: What is your favorite scripture?
Jason: I don't really have a favorite scripture; it changes as to what I am reading through at the time. I am currently reading the Book of Acts.

XMFan: As an artist involved in the Indie scene for fifteen years, how would you sum up what you have experienced?
Jason: Personally, there have been highs and lows and you can't make too much out of either. One will always replace the other.


Starflyer 59 can be heard on XM Channel 31, The Torch.