Ironically, one of Lawrence’s most talented musicians was an English major rather than a “connie”. Alex Schaaf of Yellow Ostrich graduated from Lawrence in 2010 and has already made headlines in the music world as an indie artist to watch out for. After recording his debut album “The Mistress” in the Warch cinema, Schaaf decided it was time to take his music on the road. Since his move to New York City after graduation, Schaaf has played numerous shows around North America with well-known indie bands such as Beirut, Ra Ra Riot and Bishop Allen.
Last Thursday’s show marked Schaaf’s first homecoming performance to Lawrence after his graduation 2 years ago. Schaaf, a native of Prairie Du Chien, expressed his excitement about returning to campus: “It will be great. I haven’t been able to come and visit yet, so it works out nicely that I can visit while on a tour. I’ve only been back home to WI once since I graduated, so it will be great to see everyone again”.
To say Schaaf has been busy since his move to New York City is a massive understatement. However, his move to New York City wasn’t entirely easy.Schaaf explained that moving was more difficult than he anticipated, and finding a day job besides music “was a lot harder than [he] expected”. However, his hard work in the city paid off. Rather than having to move home right away, Schaaf was able to find a day job until he started booking gigs before eventually touring with Say Hi, in early 2011.
As a current Lawrentian, I was curious to see if Schaaf missed anything about the Lawrence bubble after following his dreams to New York City. Schaaf’s response? The cafeteria. “Having a place that’s open all day and has lots of food to choose from, and that you don’t have to pay for each time you go, is an amazing idea.” He added, “and all those different kinds of cereal! Now I have a near-empty kitchen that I have to replenish every few days. It’s depressing in comparison”. Needless to say, we should make sure to savor our ‘Marshmellow Mateys’ before we have to face the real world!
Lastly, I asked Schaaf his advice for aspiring artists at Lawrence. Schaaf wisely explained that the most important part of being an artist is to be continuously creating: “you should always be creating, whatever it is you do, just do it constantly”. He added, “Rather than sit and think about the possibilities of what you could do, or think that you’re not “ready” to make your own stuff yet, just make something. Be done with it and then go on to something new; it’s the only way you can have progress”. Lawrence is lucky to have such an inspiring, talented and genuine nice guy as an alumnus. We are excited to see your musical journey unfold.
Check out Yellow Ostrich’s bandcamp page http://yellowostrich.bandcamp.com/to stream “The Mistress” and their new EP “The Fade Cave” online.
Photo Credit: http://cdn.imposemagazine.com/__data/yellow-ostrich-saturday-night.1.jpg