So, what does Straight Arms sound like?

That's a good question. I know every band has a little trouble describing their sound. The first thing I'd describe would be the lyrics. Darin, the song writer, picked up a guitar because he heard "Positively 4th Street" by Bob Dylan when he was 16 years old (Hell, the band even covers "Subterranean Homesick Blues" from time to time). And he's a big fan of Lou Reed (especially the Velvet Underground stuff). He tries to write intelligent pop music with strong and unique lyrics.

But what does the band sound like?

There's definitely an indie rock sound to the band. The Shins are another of Darin's favorite bands. And Sean, the guitarist, is a fan of Yo La Tengo. The drummer, Aaron, has sited The Flaming Lips' drummer (Kliph Scurlock) as an influence, but a lot of people hear Mo Tucker from the Velvet Underground (again) because he relies on the toms more than the cymbals (sometimes he doesn't even bring any cymbals other than his hi-hat to shows or practices). And we've had some songs that have been influenced by Dressy Bessy and The Hold Steady when they were written.

So you're in an indie band with what you would describe as good lyrics?

Well, there's a little more to it than that. Alt country would also be an influence., whether it's older stuff like Graham Parsons or newer stuff like Wilco. And some of our new songs have morphed into sounding like a Cars song ("Bernie Got A Sex Change") or some bastardized Motor City Rock song ("Girls That Rock") or a good old school punk song ("Alley Sally"). The members also listen to more music than the influences we've already listed. Goldy, our bass player, graduated from the Cincinnati Conservatory of Music with a degree is orchestral bass performance. Aaron loves Debussy.

So you're a pretty eclectic band?

Yeah, we'd hope so. It's still just 2 guitars, bass and drums (except when Sharon Udoh sits in on keyboards), so it has a straight rock and roll feel, but with a wide arrange of influences. We hope it sounds eclectic. And keeps your attention. Maybe it makes you think, but it probably doesn't. Hopefully it's fun.

Decide for yourself. Come see Straight Arms play at The Madison Theater on Saturday, Sept. 30th. It's only $5 and it's an 18+ show.