The first time I heard the single, “Enjoy the Ride,” was in my car on KTG. I almost wrecked trying to get home to Google the lyrics. When I couldn’t find the song per lyrics, I proceeded to e-mail Mr. Pat Ballard, only to find out that this was a local band. If you like organic Southern rock, then you’ll love Steppin’ Stone. Visit www.myspace.com/steppinstone4 to hear more.

N4U: Where did you get the band's name, Steppin' Stone?

SS: Jeremi originally came up with the name but then for various reasons we vetoed it, Daze of Freedom is what we eventually decided to go with but after playing out at various clubs, no one could seem to get the name right, so we decided to go with Steppin’ Stone. Each of us has been in different bands with the other members and felt that those bands were all stepping stones to this band. Plus, “steppin stone” is in several songs by various artists that have influenced us.

How did you mold your earthy, classic sound?

It just evolved naturally from the various musical styles that each member brought to the table, Steve with the folk/alternative sound, Gary with the blues/funk, Jeremi with the classic southern rock, and Andy with the hard rock/old school metal.

What is song “Enjoy the Ride” about? Any specific incident the lyrics talk about?

First, it was just an idea that me [Steve] and my dad had about taking a road trip up to Sturgis. We had family that lived in Colorado and we were going to route our trip to include a visit to them. But, then I had some friends that actually took the trip and they got caught in a big storm and had to spend the night underneath a bridge, so the next morning they took off for the next town hell bent for leather so that they wouldn’t get caught in the next storm that was chasing them into the town. When I sat down to write it, the words and the music just flowed.

Tell me about your band members.

Jeremi (lead guitar) plays a 76 Gibson Les Paul, named Elizabeth Marie Winstead, and is a Cancer born on the 4th of July. He’s a firecracker ready to go off in your hand. Steve (vocals/guitar/harmonica) plays a Gibson SG, named Juanita. A Virgo, Steve enjoys the hokey pokey and twisting the night away. Andy, the beatmeister, (drums) plays a 2000 Pearl Export kit, Zildjian series. Andy is a Sagittarius who likes to beat the skins, beat the video games, and beat the…well you know. Gary, the groove mechanic, (bass) plays a Geddy Lee Fender Jazz bass. He’s a Virgo and is a bartender/musician who likes to serve drinks, notes, and jokes.

How long have you been together?

About four years.

Do any of you ride motorcycles?

Steve pushes one a lot.

If so, what kind?

83' Harley Sportster

I've heard your stuff on the radio. What was it like first time you heard yourselves? It was really exciting and very surreal.

Who writes your songs and where do they get inspiration?

Steve comes in with the lyrics, melody, and chord progression and then everyone adds their own input into what can make it complete.

What's up with Madisonville? Lotsa hot girls there?

Hell, we don’t know we’re married but I’ve heard tell that there are a lot of hot women.

Tell me about your latest album?

We recorded part of it at Barrick’s Studio where Black Stone Cherry & Kentucky Headhunters have recorded albums. One of the boards was used to record Dark Side of the Moon by Pink Floyd

What are your future plans?

For our music to be heard around the world.

Crazy road stories?

What happens on the road stays on the road… (Have we mentioned our lovely wives?)