Formula Indie Sessions _ Interview with ØRD
The foundation was laid in the summer of 1989. Ralf Stuckenbrock and Thomas Knüpffer agreed to make music together and put this plan into action with Ralf’s then-roommate on drums. Some detours and several lineup changes later in 2002 a Band called [‘eks]turd was born. Alongside Ralf and Thomas, Winni Reers and Andreas Langen were also on bord. They had several Gigs and recorded two Albums: 90 Dollar Chorus in 2005 and Wheezle in 2008 – check www.ex-turd.de for details. In 2015 Winni left the Band for professional reasons and this finaly leads to „Ørd” in its current formation. „Ørd“ is a classic rock trio consisting of electric guitar, electric bass, drums, and vocals. Everything is very direct, simple, and straightforward—without wild effects, complex gear, or elaborate setups. True to the motto: “A good song can even be played on a comb…”. The Band only play what they personally enjoy. Since the musical tastes oft the three menbers are quite diverse and wide-ranging, they sometimes create style cocktails that are hard to categorize. However, rock and rhythm are always present. This often makes some songs sound very catchy, but there’s usually something a little “surprise” built in. Visit www.ord-band.de for more. And to share it with the whole world: You can get the big “Ø” by holding the Alt key and typing “0216” on the numeric keypad. Have fun, Ørd.
What is your earliest memory connected to music?
It was the magic that arises when you play together with others for the first time. Learning an instrument in my day was real hard work. Jam tracks, play-alongs, or other modern-day technological options didn’t exist. It was amazing to play with others and discover how notes clashed or harmonized.
How did your passion for creating music begin?
Right from the start, when my first band was formed. A school band. We were all complete beginners, but by pooling our different ideas, the first songs were born.
What’s the story behind your current music project?
The school band didn’t last. We had three or four songs and a single gig at graduation. After that, everyone went their separate ways. I haven’t seen some of the band members since. But I really wanted to keep making music. Through a few coincidences and connections, I found out that a friend of my brother’s also played music. He lived in a shared apartment with a drummer, and they jammed there occasionally. Eventually, we met up, and that’s how it all started.
How would you describe your sound to someone who has never heard your music before?
It’s very simple but very emotional rock music. We don’t focus on messages or profound lyrics. It’s primarily the energy of the various emotions that the songs carry. We don’t want to preach with our music, we want to touch people.
What is one thing you’ve learned that completely changed the way you make music?
My childhood and teenage generation grew up with almost exclusively English-language music. We never really understood what was being sung. At most, we’d catch a few snippets of words, which we then interpreted into some kind of meaning. Nevertheless, the songs were connected to something. They were the soundtracks to life events: the first party, the first kiss, the first girlfriend, and much more. Only later, with increasing English skills, did some of the lyrics become clear. But that was sometimes disheartening because the content of the lyrics didn’t match what I had associated with a song at all. It was clear that music touches people through emotions and therefore needs a human voice—but not necessarily a clear, literal meaning.
What tools, instruments, or software are essential in your creative process?
It’s the human connection within the band. We once played at a festival where the organizer said, “You don’t need to bring anything, it’s all here” (he meant the PA system, not our instruments). So there we were, having to borrow instruments from other bands. And it was still really good. As for me as a guitarist, though, there’s one guitar that’s been with me since my school band days. A Stratocaster copy from the former East Germany: a Musima Leadstar. It wasn’t expensive, nor is it a premium instrument, but it was and still is always with me.
Which indie artist or song are you loving right now?
I can’t really pick just one. There’s so much great music out there, and thankfully, so many ways to find and listen to it. If I had to name someone off the top of my head, I’d say “Cherry Cinema” from Oslo, Norway.
How have your personal experiences influenced your music and artistic vision?
I think it’s important to realize that it’s not about wanting something, but simply doing it without constantly questioning whether it’s good, well-received, or whether anyone likes it. Our songs are good if we’re convinced of them ourselves and enjoy playing them. If someone else likes them, that’s great, but ultimately secondary.
What emotions or messages do you hope listeners take from your work?
Let yourself be swept away by emotions while listening to music, and don’t look for a message. What’s right or true these days is impossible to discern anyway. Listen to music with your heart and soul, not with your head and intellect.
What’s the most important lesson music has taught you so far?
Truly great music is created by “we,” not “I.” It’s a team effort where it’s not about what an individual musician can do, but about what emerges from the collective.
What is a dream venue or festival you would love to perform at?
Anywhere, really. I’m happy for every opportunity to play live. It’s always a huge joy for me to interact with the audience and play our songs. That genuine connection with the audience is what makes it special. My bandmates sometimes get annoyed by the banter between songs, but whatever, they have to put up with it.
If you could collaborate with any artist, past or present, who would it be and why?
To be perfectly honest: When composing and performing our own music live, I’d ideally work with the artists who are currently ØRD. For concerts, festivals, or tours, I’d love to collaborate with anyone who wants us, as ØRD, to join them.
Where can our listeners follow and support your music?
Website: https://ord-band.de/
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/intl-de/artist/1CrOtJtoZgzlFWl7Z50U4H
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ord_rockband/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8Jcc7OhLwB5iq7oWTUkcTA
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ord.rockband/
Looking toward the future, what’s your dream for the next chapter of your musical journey?
When our music finds its way into the world and we play more live shows.
What do you hope listeners will discover about you along the way?
That we’re a band that passionately makes honest, emotional music. No AI, no flashy effects, and no technical wizardry. And that the capital “Ø” is simply a really cool letter.
