I was excited to begin working on this project with Shawn and Ashley. It was a way to explore another creative outlet in a synergistic environment. To be able to highlight my favorite location that I have experienced while we did it, made the experience that much more enjoyable. Yosemite has had a profound effect on my life. To be able to capture this on film was incredible.
In the initial conversation with Shawn about the film, we discussed what was needed as far as a soundtrack was concerned. I had previously written “With You”, and “Polaris”. “Welcome to the Outside” is a tune written by a band I played with in 01-02 called The Rufus Maneuvers. I have always enjoyed playing this song and it fit the idea of the movie perfectly. I believe that we decided that we would need a total of 7 songs for the finished product. Writing for a specific idea was new to me, but I took the challenge head on. “One More Day” came first, while “Feel This Way” and “Lucky Strikes” came later. The band jams came from improv sessions over the course of a year. Thanks to Todd and Chad for their creative energies.
Acting in front of a camera was a whole different beast for myself. At times a struggle and always a learning experience one of the toughest challenges was acting normal. I gained so much respect for the art of acting and filmmaking that it has caused me to watch movies in a new way.
To see the progression of an idea turn into a reality in a very short period of time is truly an inspirational experience. I thank both Shawn and Ashley for their hard work and dedication.