After more than a decade out of the spotlight, Open Window are back; louder, tighter, and more determined than ever. The Thousand Oaks-based four-piece, known for their high-octane blend of classic rock influences and modern grit, have just released 'Close Your Eyes', a stomping new single that marks both a reunion and a rebirth. With the original lineup reunited, Daniel E. Bautista (vocals), James S. Rutherford (guitar), Wayne Rothstein (bass), and John Aponte (drums) , the band are re-entering the scene with the kind of chemistry only time can forge.
Born out of a long-overdue writing session between Daniel and James, 'Close Your Eyes' began with a riff and evolved into a full-bodied anthem; part farewell letter, part emotional powerhouse. As the band explains, the track channels the feeling of parting from someone you love, possibly forever, and the emotional weight that lingers long after the moment has passed.
So with the new single available now, we sat down with them to find out more about their origins and what has been inspiring them most over the years.
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What was the first instrument you fell in love with?
(Daniel) Drums. Eventually becoming more capable on guitar, but I ultimately became a singer.
What kind of music did you love when you were younger?
(Daniel) Rock n Roll; Motown; 70’s AM Radio Hits.
What was the first album you remember owning?
(Daniel) Beach Boys – Endless Summer, or Beatles – Revolver. I do not recall the exact order.
What is the one song you wished you could have written yourself?
Ooh, great question! I (Daniel) don’t think I can answer that, but I shall try! In no particular order, Don’t Worry Baby (Beach Boys); While my Guitar Gently Weeps (Harrison); Imagine (Lennon); In My Life (Lennon/McCartney); Rock n’ Roll (Zep); Go Your Own Way (Buckingham); Little Wing (Hendrix); too many to list!
Do you have any habits or rituals you go through when trying to write new music?
(Daniel) No, not really, although I do have some tendencies. More times than not, I begin with a musical idea created by James, Wayne, or myself. From there I like to scat melodies and lyrical ideas until something peaks my/our interest. From there, I will woodshed the structure and lyrics – this is where the craft component comes in, I suppose.
Who are your favourite artists you have found yourself listening to at the moment?
(Daniel) I’ve liked the Killers for some time now and find them to continue to be relevant. I really think Yungblud has something cool going on. Post Malone is cool.
If you could open a show for anyone in the world, who would it be?
The Killers; Imagine Dragons; Def Leppard.
What do you find is the most rewarding part about being a musician?
Creating something from nothing with my brothers, then sharing it with the world.
And what is the most frustrating part?
Regarding creating, I find if you don’t hold on to specific expectations, outcomes, or results, there is little to be frustrated about. As far as performances, it can be frustrating if my voice is not responding in the manner I want it to. Sometimes, no matter how much preparation I put in, my body/voice has a mind of its own.
And what is the best piece of advice you have received as a musician?
A professional Jazz Singer once told me, being a professional vocalist is not about hitting 100% on occasion. It is about hitting 80% night after night.
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Open Window's new single 'Close Your Eyes' is available to stream now. Watch the new video for it in the player below.