Embark on a musical journey with Robert Pollard, the visionary behind Wandering Oak, a progressive metal act hailing from Rochester, New York. From the band’s roots in Western Massachusetts to their evolution in the heart of New York, Pollard shares insights into their sonic exploration, creative process, and the inspiration behind their upcoming release, “Resilience.” Join us as we delve into the world of Wandering Oak through an exclusive interview with the songwriter and multi-instrumentalist, as a part of the “Progstravaganza: Harmony in Complexity” special.
Prog Sphere: Hello, Robert! Can you tell us about the origins of Wandering Oak and your personal entry into the world of progressive metal?
Robert Pollard: Hello! Wandering Oak began in Western Massachusetts, founded by yours truly. After a few lineup changes and a relocation to Rochester, New York, our musical trajectory shifted from folk and black metal towards a more progressive sound.
Prog Sphere: Let’s dive into the heart of it. Can you share the inspiration or story behind your featured track on the compilation, “Resilience”?
Robert: Certainly! “Resilience” was an attempt to blend up-tempo metal with an off-kilter edge, maintaining the drive and attitude of classic metal. The song encapsulates enduring hardship, both on a personal level for the band and as a rallying cry against the serious issue of fascism in the world.
Walk us through your creative process. How do you approach writing and composing music, especially in the context of your new album, “Resilience“?
The creative process has been consistent but refined over time. I’m the primary songwriter, and my approach involves letting parts come to me and building on them. For “Resilience,” we deliberately pushed the boundaries of composition and musicianship, fully embracing progressive elements that were hinted at in our previous works.
Moving on to influences, who or what are your major influences in progressive metal, and how do they impact your musical style?
RUSH, King Crimson, Jethro Tull, and a wide array from Fates Warning to Devin Townsend—all these bands have shaped our style. We draw inspiration from their ability to blend styles and push boundaries while maintaining a conceptual scope.
Facing challenges in the music scene is inevitable. What challenges have you encountered as an artist, and how have you navigated through them?
The challenges include a society that doesn’t adequately support the arts, day jobs interfering with musical pursuits, and industry figures who exploit artists. Overcoming these challenges has been tough, especially post-COVID, but we’re pushing forward.
Looking ahead, how do you see the progressive metal scene evolving, and what role do you believe your music plays in that evolution?
It’s hard to predict the evolution of such a volatile genre. Personally, we’d like to see a move away from hyper-clinical production and a focus on artists finding their unique sound rather than pursuing perfection.
Reflecting on your journey, what are some memorable moments in your musical career so far?
Opening for Negura Bunget on their US tour and touring with Wilderun in 2019 were surreal experiences, marking the height of the band’s activity to date.
Do you have a personal favorite among your compositions, and if so, which one and why?
There’s unanimous agreement that ‘Vespertine’ is something special—a cut above anything we’ve done. It hints at the band’s future direction.
What’s on the horizon? Can you give us a sneak peek into upcoming projects or collaborations?
We’re gearing up for the album release on February 2nd, with merch plans in the works. Some Northeast US shows in May, potential fall touring, and other band projects like Goblin Hovel, Hubris, and more.
Being part of this compilation, what does it mean to you, and how has the experience been?
We feel humbled and grateful to be part of the compilation. It’s an opportunity for cross-pollination of listeners, and the experience with the organizers has been positive.
Any message for fans discovering your music through this compilation?
Hello and thanks for listening! If you enjoy our music, follow us on socials and reach out. We’re eager to hit the road and play for you in person!
Quickfire Round! If you could collaborate with any artist, living or not, who would it be?
I’d love for Devin Townsend to produce an album for us. I understand he prefers not to do that anymore, but we’re dreaming here.
If you had to pick one instrument (besides your primary one) to master, what would it be?
Drums! I love composing drum parts but never put in the time to play at a high level.
Your all-time favorite progressive metal album?
Fates Warning – Awaken the Guardian. To me that was where the style really took shape. All of the elements were there and was still fun, dark and had this pulpy, hazy atmosphere which I think is missing in a lot of over polished modern prog metal.
Non-musical influences that find their way into your music?
We are heavily influenced by nature, literature, folklore, mythology, politics, art, you name it. For us, music is our way of expressing the way we view the world and how we process it.
Any final thoughts or reflections you’d like to share with our audience?
It’s been a rough road, but we’re stronger than ever, and we’re super grateful that people out there still want to listen to us. Thank you.
Where can our audience find more about you and your music?
Robert: Check us out on Bandcamp, Facebook, Instagram, and Spotify.
