JMS

This week’s “needle”—four-piece rock band Misions—was discovered in Henryetta, Oklahoma. The band plays soft but upbeat music all over their local scene. And with over 100 shows under their belt, they certainly aren’t rookies. Misions focus on creating music that’s melodic and emotional, and despite their young age they tend to have a mature sound—one that would appeal to fans of Incubus and Coldplay. The group themselves describe their music as “asymmetrical”, and they use “volume-variant” song structures, which is a nice change from a lot of rock music. With plans to release a full length album and a supporting tour in the mix, Misions have a lot to talk about this week. We’ll be sure to get the scoop.

In the meantime, download and listen to the free track they’re offering in the player below. The song is called “Same To Me” and we think you’ll dig the soothing lead vocals. Let us know your thoughts in the comments. - Ben, OurStage

This week’s “needle”—four-piece rock band Misions—was discovered in Henryetta, Oklahoma. The band plays soft but upbeat music all over their local scene. And with over 100 shows under their belt, they certainly aren’t rookies. Misions focus on creating music that’s melodic and emotional, and despite their young age they tend to have a mature sound—one that would appeal to fans of Incubus and Coldplay. The group themselves describe their music as “asymmetrical”, and they use “volume-variant” song structures, which is a nice change from a lot of rock music. With plans to release a full length album and a supporting tour in the mix, Misions have a lot to talk about this week. We’ll be sure to get the scoop.

In the meantime, download and listen to the free track they’re offering in the player below. The song is called “Same To Me” and we think you’ll dig the soothing lead vocals. Let us know your thoughts in the comments. - Ben, OurStage

Just outside of Tulsa, Oklahoma in the small town of Henryetta, resides 4 piece rock band Misions. Their music is soft yet upbeat and they have a "small history, but a big future" ahead of them. Find out more about their love of disc golf and the pros and cons of the small town music scene.

Who are Misions?
Misions consists of Williams Staudt who is our drummer, Robert Stubbs who handles the bass guitar, and myself, Jeremy Smith, and I play piano, some guitar, and attempt to sing a little. We are all right at the ages of 20 and 21 and still, we act about an year younger than what we already are.

Where did the group name come from?
Misions is actually a combination of two words: musical vision. It also explains in the meaning of the word "Mission" that means, "a group of people sent to do an important piece of work, usually from a religious faith". I was sitting in my room when I had thought,"Hey, that's the perfect meaning for any band. What a band should be for. And our "important pieces of work" would be the music that we make. I derived the meaning of Mission with the combination of musical vision and thus, came Misions. It's what we have, and basically, what we are.

How does it feel to be the MTV Music’s Needle In The Haystack?
Well, I'd be lying if I said we knew what we were doing, exactly. I never thought of even getting close to something like this. Our chances that we get of being exposed to anything greater than what we could limit ourselves, it's really and truly a great honor AND privilege to be chosen for this. And from the bottom of my 102 bpm heart, as well as Robert's and William's, we all thank you.

What is "Same To Me" about?
Same To Me is about giving in. I've learned a lot about the media, peer pressure, avoiding the paths and just making my own trails. I have a lot of big dreams and what most would call "long shots" (like winning a Grammy), but I never seen every day as "just another day". In that song I hoped to find something new out of each day, because when I was in high school I was always seeing students that felt they should be like someone else or feel like they had to do what others did or wear what they wore. Just because everyone else did something, others thought that was the thing to do. The same applies in the real world. Just encourage people to not follow what you always hear or see, to try new things, find an adventure, make a new friend, and make your own path.

First song you remember really affecting you?
That one's easy. "Beautiful Day" by U2. I heard it for the first time in 2002, and even just hearing what Bono (or back then, "that man") was saying in his lyrics and uplifting sound of the song itself, I must say it's stuck with me ever since. I thought he might have sensed somebody someday will need to have an acknowledgment for what he's struggling for; the intense desire of wanting to be loved, though sure? he knows that he'll never have it unless he has loved and accepted himself for what he is and what he is not. It's what I felt at that time anyways. Great song. Amazing band.

How do you describe your music?
First word that comes to mind: Alive. It's also loud noise that's put together a little better as it's played more and more. There's also sleeping genres of music inside whatever you might think we are now. So an alive, loud sound that's just thrown together over time.

What is your creative process like?
Oh man, here we go. I hear music through feeling. But there's also a mirror to that which defies music to the pinpoint. I might be really uplifted one day, but decide to write a song with a sad sound, maybe because I'm usually alone when I write. But with a recent engagement to my wonderful fiance Alexandrea, now it's just off of influences. Hers, situations in life, wonders, fears, hopes, and struggles. The creative process should come from within, and as long as it does completely, I think that's what makes a song a good song. And also defines your creativity.

When did you realize you wanted to make music?
When I was told I was good at what I did I guess. First it was my piano playing ability when my brother gave me my first Yamaha keyboard. Then while I took choir classes I decided to sing high one year. My vocal teacher said I should stay high when I sing. It's been history ever since.

Henryetta music scene likes?
There are plenty of talented bands and musicians here. Finding out the place to catch them is the tricky part. Some bands we personally enjoy are The Afterlights, Ty Mayfield and Progress In Color.

Dislikes?
The lack of shows their are in the area I suppose. Or maybe that's just me looking for bands I'm waiting on to play shows. Maybe that's the shallow side of me. Maybe that's too many maybe's. Maybe...

Any good secrets to reveal?
There might be another round of brand new music coming. And my fiance and I's dog, Ralphie, has peed so much in our apartment that it's probably soaked in, even though we - MTV Music

Just outside of Tulsa, Oklahoma in the small town of Henryetta, resides 4 piece rock band Misions. Their music is soft yet upbeat and they have a "small history, but a big future" ahead of them. Find out more about their love of disc golf and the pros and cons of the small town music scene.

Who are Misions?
Misions consists of Williams Staudt who is our drummer, Robert Stubbs who handles the bass guitar, and myself, Jeremy Smith, and I play piano, some guitar, and attempt to sing a little. We are all right at the ages of 20 and 21 and still, we act about an year younger than what we already are.

Where did the group name come from?
Misions is actually a combination of two words: musical vision. It also explains in the meaning of the word "Mission" that means, "a group of people sent to do an important piece of work, usually from a religious faith". I was sitting in my room when I had thought,"Hey, that's the perfect meaning for any band. What a band should be for. And our "important pieces of work" would be the music that we make. I derived the meaning of Mission with the combination of musical vision and thus, came Misions. It's what we have, and basically, what we are.

How does it feel to be the MTV Music’s Needle In The Haystack?
Well, I'd be lying if I said we knew what we were doing, exactly. I never thought of even getting close to something like this. Our chances that we get of being exposed to anything greater than what we could limit ourselves, it's really and truly a great honor AND privilege to be chosen for this. And from the bottom of my 102 bpm heart, as well as Robert's and William's, we all thank you.

What is "Same To Me" about?
Same To Me is about giving in. I've learned a lot about the media, peer pressure, avoiding the paths and just making my own trails. I have a lot of big dreams and what most would call "long shots" (like winning a Grammy), but I never seen every day as "just another day". In that song I hoped to find something new out of each day, because when I was in high school I was always seeing students that felt they should be like someone else or feel like they had to do what others did or wear what they wore. Just because everyone else did something, others thought that was the thing to do. The same applies in the real world. Just encourage people to not follow what you always hear or see, to try new things, find an adventure, make a new friend, and make your own path.

First song you remember really affecting you?
That one's easy. "Beautiful Day" by U2. I heard it for the first time in 2002, and even just hearing what Bono (or back then, "that man") was saying in his lyrics and uplifting sound of the song itself, I must say it's stuck with me ever since. I thought he might have sensed somebody someday will need to have an acknowledgment for what he's struggling for; the intense desire of wanting to be loved, though sure? he knows that he'll never have it unless he has loved and accepted himself for what he is and what he is not. It's what I felt at that time anyways. Great song. Amazing band.

How do you describe your music?
First word that comes to mind: Alive. It's also loud noise that's put together a little better as it's played more and more. There's also sleeping genres of music inside whatever you might think we are now. So an alive, loud sound that's just thrown together over time.

What is your creative process like?
Oh man, here we go. I hear music through feeling. But there's also a mirror to that which defies music to the pinpoint. I might be really uplifted one day, but decide to write a song with a sad sound, maybe because I'm usually alone when I write. But with a recent engagement to my wonderful fiance Alexandrea, now it's just off of influences. Hers, situations in life, wonders, fears, hopes, and struggles. The creative process should come from within, and as long as it does completely, I think that's what makes a song a good song. And also defines your creativity.

When did you realize you wanted to make music?
When I was told I was good at what I did I guess. First it was my piano playing ability when my brother gave me my first Yamaha keyboard. Then while I took choir classes I decided to sing high one year. My vocal teacher said I should stay high when I sing. It's been history ever since.

Henryetta music scene likes?
There are plenty of talented bands and musicians here. Finding out the place to catch them is the tricky part. Some bands we personally enjoy are The Afterlights, Ty Mayfield and Progress In Color.

Dislikes?
The lack of shows their are in the area I suppose. Or maybe that's just me looking for bands I'm waiting on to play shows. Maybe that's the shallow side of me. Maybe that's too many maybe's. Maybe...

Any good secrets to reveal?
There might be another round of brand new music coming. And my fiance and I's dog, Ralphie, has peed so much in our apartment that it's probably soaked in, even though we - MTV Music

"They will provide you with a sound that is easily related to and warm. Jeremy’s music is a perfect reflection of the honest and pure soul he contains; It is an expression of the emotions that are within each of us. Prepare to be presented with music that may as well be the story to some portion of your life, because I have no doubt that this is what you will find. Listen, thoroughly enjoy, and let it release your inner nostalgia." - Soul Coughing Blog

"They will provide you with a sound that is easily related to and warm. Jeremy’s music is a perfect reflection of the honest and pure soul he contains; It is an expression of the emotions that are within each of us. Prepare to be presented with music that may as well be the story to some portion of your life, because I have no doubt that this is what you will find. Listen, thoroughly enjoy, and let it release your inner nostalgia." - Soul Coughing Blog

Imagine sitting in a crowd in which the sounds that come out of the speakers are both hypnotizing and energizing, calming but competent, and simplistic but sincere. It’s music that reaches into your soul, shakes its hand, and warmly says that it’s beyond pleased to meet you.

You would experience this tenfold if you were sitting in the crowd for a Misions show. And this music is a direct copy of the souls of people who make it, too.

So, who are those people, you might be wondering?

They are a band sewn together by four gentlemen: Jeremy Smith, Scott Jordan, Joel Chan, and Josh Arnold. They’re from my neck of the woods (Tulsa), and have some of the purest hearts that I’ve ever encountered. And not just that, but they have some of the purest talent I’ve ever encountered as well. Their true passion for their gorgeous music is evident and strong in all that they do… and it’s infectious! I could feel it while at their show this Saturday night, and even more so during our interview the day before. It was all a blast.

Click “Read More” to below hear all about it!!

* * * * * * * * * *

I officially met all members of Misions while standing in the middle of my sun-soaked driveway on Friday afternoon. After getting through traffic that tested their patience, they were just as happy to see me as I was them. I was reunited once again with lead vocalist and pianist Jeremy Smith, who I interviewed for the first time a year ago. His disposition was sunny as ever, and the other three members were exactly the same way. I understood now why they all fit together so well.

Reluctantly, we left the beautiful weather of outdoors to settle into my living room. I poured us all glasses of Kool-aid (classiest hostess ever, right?) and then we got down to the business of asking and telling. After some thought, they individually answered each question with eloquence and ease. I remained stunned by the beauty of each response every time one came spilling past their lips.

But before we get to that, let’s talk about their music. Each song is a soft composition, that is full-bodied and has depth. Jeremy’s calming vocals pair with his pleasant piano playing, while Josh and Scott’s guitar and bass skills weave together into a beautiful and effortless sound. Joel adds the last — but not least — bit of depth through drums that pulls it all together into something truly impressive. Lyrically, they are strong and use much imagery. They’re often compared to Deas Vail and Coldplay, and it’s easy to see why. It’s a beautiful and carefree sound that appeals to ears of all types, and is not disappointing whatsoever to hear live. It’s truly a projection of their souls into sound. Read some of the questions below, and you’ll understand what I mean.

The first question I asked was this:

How has your life changed since Misions has been at its forefront?
Drummer Joel Chan answered me first, his words articulate and well-rounded: “It’s really opened a new door for me,” he began. “For a long time I was just working with my photography and art projects. My drum kit remained neglected in my closet… but one day Scott suggested I pull it out and play again for a jam session. It’s gone on since then. I had such a love for music and then put it on the backburner, but now it’s back in my life 100%. Honestly, with our band, we’re best friends who are like brothers. And because we live together, it’s so easy to just come home and practice and get into a music mindset. There is no hauling of equipment. We just do what we need to do. We have a very positive message and strive to relate to others through our music.”
Guitarist Josh Arnold answered me next, with a beautifully passionate response. It would be the first of many. “I would say that the inner turmoil that I was feeling about music has ceased. I’m now focused on what I want rather than what other people want. Misions has opened up my eyes to endless possibilities, and it’s all thanks to them.” He smiles timidly over at the group on the couch — his group. Their group. They truly stand behind one another in all things, but specifically music endeavors. It was like witnessing a family.
Vocalist Jeremy Smith was the last to answer the question. (Bassist Scott Jordan smiled cheekily before saying that his answer would be the same as theirs, so he waited for the next question). Jeremy’s answer was also passionate, optimism shining through. “If I said I knew what we were doing right now, I’d be lying. Next weekend we could take off to New York City. But that’s the fun of it, anything can happen. We plan to be international in at least three years. Maybe not successful, but still international.”
Q2. What’s your biggest musical regret? Triumph?

Josh Arnold: “For a long time I was playing music for what I now realize are the wrong reasons. I did it just to prove myself and prove that I was better than other people… to gain technical skill. I had a completely - Ashley-Jayne Osborn, Vinyl Sea Media

Imagine sitting in a crowd in which the sounds that come out of the speakers are both hypnotizing and energizing, calming but competent, and simplistic but sincere. It’s music that reaches into your soul, shakes its hand, and warmly says that it’s beyond pleased to meet you.

You would experience this tenfold if you were sitting in the crowd for a Misions show. And this music is a direct copy of the souls of people who make it, too.

So, who are those people, you might be wondering?

They are a band sewn together by four gentlemen: Jeremy Smith, Scott Jordan, Joel Chan, and Josh Arnold. They’re from my neck of the woods (Tulsa), and have some of the purest hearts that I’ve ever encountered. And not just that, but they have some of the purest talent I’ve ever encountered as well. Their true passion for their gorgeous music is evident and strong in all that they do… and it’s infectious! I could feel it while at their show this Saturday night, and even more so during our interview the day before. It was all a blast.

Click “Read More” to below hear all about it!!

* * * * * * * * * *

I officially met all members of Misions while standing in the middle of my sun-soaked driveway on Friday afternoon. After getting through traffic that tested their patience, they were just as happy to see me as I was them. I was reunited once again with lead vocalist and pianist Jeremy Smith, who I interviewed for the first time a year ago. His disposition was sunny as ever, and the other three members were exactly the same way. I understood now why they all fit together so well.

Reluctantly, we left the beautiful weather of outdoors to settle into my living room. I poured us all glasses of Kool-aid (classiest hostess ever, right?) and then we got down to the business of asking and telling. After some thought, they individually answered each question with eloquence and ease. I remained stunned by the beauty of each response every time one came spilling past their lips.

But before we get to that, let’s talk about their music. Each song is a soft composition, that is full-bodied and has depth. Jeremy’s calming vocals pair with his pleasant piano playing, while Josh and Scott’s guitar and bass skills weave together into a beautiful and effortless sound. Joel adds the last — but not least — bit of depth through drums that pulls it all together into something truly impressive. Lyrically, they are strong and use much imagery. They’re often compared to Deas Vail and Coldplay, and it’s easy to see why. It’s a beautiful and carefree sound that appeals to ears of all types, and is not disappointing whatsoever to hear live. It’s truly a projection of their souls into sound. Read some of the questions below, and you’ll understand what I mean.

The first question I asked was this:

How has your life changed since Misions has been at its forefront?
Drummer Joel Chan answered me first, his words articulate and well-rounded: “It’s really opened a new door for me,” he began. “For a long time I was just working with my photography and art projects. My drum kit remained neglected in my closet… but one day Scott suggested I pull it out and play again for a jam session. It’s gone on since then. I had such a love for music and then put it on the backburner, but now it’s back in my life 100%. Honestly, with our band, we’re best friends who are like brothers. And because we live together, it’s so easy to just come home and practice and get into a music mindset. There is no hauling of equipment. We just do what we need to do. We have a very positive message and strive to relate to others through our music.”
Guitarist Josh Arnold answered me next, with a beautifully passionate response. It would be the first of many. “I would say that the inner turmoil that I was feeling about music has ceased. I’m now focused on what I want rather than what other people want. Misions has opened up my eyes to endless possibilities, and it’s all thanks to them.” He smiles timidly over at the group on the couch — his group. Their group. They truly stand behind one another in all things, but specifically music endeavors. It was like witnessing a family.
Vocalist Jeremy Smith was the last to answer the question. (Bassist Scott Jordan smiled cheekily before saying that his answer would be the same as theirs, so he waited for the next question). Jeremy’s answer was also passionate, optimism shining through. “If I said I knew what we were doing right now, I’d be lying. Next weekend we could take off to New York City. But that’s the fun of it, anything can happen. We plan to be international in at least three years. Maybe not successful, but still international.”
Q2. What’s your biggest musical regret? Triumph?

Josh Arnold: “For a long time I was playing music for what I now realize are the wrong reasons. I did it just to prove myself and prove that I was better than other people… to gain technical skill. I had a completely - Ashley-Jayne Osborn, Vinyl Sea Media