February 12, 2013 Samantha Monteagudo Contributing writer

    The quartet that is The Orange Constant, which describes the band as the “epitome of a new age melting pot of sound,” derives its unique musical arrangements from its members’ diverse backgrounds. Despite their wide-ranging influences and musical preferences, the group has mastered and refined the technique of seamlessly incorporating a variety of genres into one song, creating a distinct and electrifying sound that leaves their audiences wanting more.
    The members of The Orange Constant — Andrew Brantley as singer and guitarist, Lee Guentert on drums, Nickalous Benson as backup vocalist and guitarist and James Ruch on bass — have only been performing together since September 2012, but they have already begun to build a strong following in the area. The foursome has also snagged a spot at the 2013 Statesboro Music Festival and will be performing right before the headliners, Perpetual Groove.
    As testament to the old adage “opposites attract,” the same can be said about the members of The Orange Constant. When asked about their musical influences, Brantley said the sounds and improvisations of the rock-jam bands such as Widespread Panic, Perpetual Groove and Phish serve as his inspiration, while Benson said he favors Kurt Cobain of Nirvana for his simplistic lyrics and word choice and Larry LaLonde of Primus for his guitar skills. Opeth and Blake Richardson from the band Between the Buried and Me are some of the musicians Guentert follows, and Ruch is partial to the sounds of the popular Red Hot Chili Peppers.
    “[We’re] inspired by different things,” said Benson. “Often the topic is something I wouldn’t have thought about.”
Despite these differences, the members’ individual tastes complement each other in an unusual yet distinct way. They also value teamwork and friendship, which aids in their song-writing process.
    “I just start playing some chords, and I’m like, this is a cool groove,” said Brantley.
    From there, the song is shaped by Benson and arranged by Guentert.
    “Every song is different,” said Guentert. “Each of us has a strong attention to detail, and we’re really good communicators.”
    “That’s what keeps us on our toes,” Brantley said.
    “[There’s] a teamwork element because there’s more improvisation,” said Guentert.
    “[We do] what’s right for the song and music,” said Brantley. “You have to put your ego to the side. We actually have a song called ‘Ego Chatter’ that reflects that. We don’t take it personal.”
    Though the group favors playing original pieces, they incorporate the occasional cover such as “Fly Like an Eagle” and “Simple Man” to ensure they appeal to the whole audience.
    Although the group is still relatively new, they have a number of shows under their belt. From playing at house parties to shows at local bars in Statesboro, Valdosta and Swainsboro, they are on the fast track to establishing a solid foothold in the regional music scene.
    For more information on the band’s upcoming shows, visit The Orange Constant on Facebook, and listen to the group’s latest songs here.

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