Journal Sentinel Interview March, 2003 Gemma Tarlach at the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel MILWAUKEE JOURNAL SENTINEL Brothers McWilliam work, play together By Gemma Tarlach of the Journal Sentinel staff Last Updated: Feb. 20, 2003 Who's who Thomas McWilliam (bass and vocals), John McWilliam (guitar and lead vocals), Michael McWilliam (drums) How being brothers changes the band dynamic John: "We share a bond like no other. I think because of how well we know each other, we're capable of supporting each other's deepest dreams. On the flip side, we're also capable of completely devastating one another with one simple word. Not only did we grow up together, but in order to prioritize our music mission, we also work together on a daily basis painting houses. To keep the balance, unconditional love and great levels of forgiveness are part of our daily regimen." When formed Mike: "In January of 2001, we were called Sam Hill. We used a local Battle of the Bands contest as the impetus to put a live show together. We ended up taking second place in the finals out of the region's top bands." Web site www.onasun.com Most recent album Debut self-titled, four-song EP, June 2002 Who they say they sound like Coldplay, Jeff Buckley, Foo Fighters Who we say they sound like If Coldplay or Travis grew up listening to prog-rock Describe your look Lounge grunge. Sell yourself in 20 words or less Artistically explosive, emotional rock punch delivered by a one-of-a-kind, uniquely dysfunctional and synergetic family chemistry. Favorite food on the road Haggis - we buy it by the sack! Unofficial band beverage Mike: "Green tea." Tom: "Miller High Life." John: "The therapeutic waters of Lake Michigan." What other band could you take in a fight? Mike: "matchbox twenty, Creed." Tom: "Pink." John: "Hanson. We'll take on anyone, any time. No-holds barred thumb wrestling." Worst gig John: "We had a gig at The Globe just a few days after Sept 11. It was extremely difficult to justify performing while the world was still stunned." Tom: "Fortunately, at the last minute we turned the show into a benefit and raised some money for the Fireman's Association of America." Weirdest fan encounter Tom: "While performing at Shank Hall, we had a persistent stage diver springing off the stage into the audience - never once having anyone to catch him." Song you've written that you're most proud of John: " 'Divin' Down" lyrically questions the obstructions we encounter during our trip up the spiritual ladder. " Mike: "Musically, there is a section in the song where we regularly test our ability to stretch our limbs in the great outdoors of jamville." Favorite cover song in your live show (all agree) A song by Bjork called "Aurora." Biggest band achievement Mike: "Helping to raise $28,000 last October for the Milwaukee Empty Bowls program, which raises funds for local food banks, pantries and meal programs for the needy here in Milwaukee." Why do you do this? (all agree) Life, passion, fulfillment, genetic heritage. Where do you want to be in five years? John: "Perhaps abroad in the peaceful Middle East." Tom: "In the middle of my 250th case of Miller High Life. A version of this story appeared in the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel on Feb. 21, 2003.