Definitely Oasis Keep The Dream Alive

Oasis were, and in many ways still are one of the biggest bands in the world, selling out countless stadiums all around the world, as well as over 70 million album sales worldwide. A dominant force in the 90’s britpop scene and continuing well into the 00’s, the group left a lasting impression on the musical world.

These days, the brothers hate each other (allegedly) so much that an Oasis reunion seems unlikely for the foreseeable future. So, what do these legions of fans do? Where does the old school fan go to relive their glory days of getting mad with it, bouncing along to tunes that shaped their youth, or the newer fan, not lucky enough to catch the real deal the first time around? This is where Definitely Oasis step in.

Based in Livingston, Definitely Oasis are one of the busiest and successful Oasis tribute bands in the country. Racking about well over 100 gigs a year, the group have picked up where Oasis left off, entertaining the fans with classics and B sides, even re creating classic set lists the original group performed all those years ago. With an upcoming gig at Glasgow’s o2 Academy, it seems that they are doing something right, but what is it like going out on the road as another band? We caught up with bass player, Lewis Harrison.

Hey Lewis, thanks for talking with us, how the heck are you?

I have a mild hangover

Lewis onstage with Definitely Oasis

You’re the newest member of Definitely Oasis, how did you come to be in the band?

I answered an ad on gumtree auditioned, and somehow tricked the guys into employing me. A trick they no doubt regret!

There’s no shortage of Oasis material, how do you guys decide what songs are going into the evenings setlist?

Around 60% of the set is pretty non-negotiable, tunes that would instigate a riot if they were left out! The rest is really trial and error, we swap in songs based on how well the audience like them and rotate songs to keep the set fresh. We also do themed gigs based around iconic albums

.

You guys seem to take capturing the essence of Oasis very seriously, even down to your clothes and instruments, do you feel this helps create the illusion of the real deal?

Yeah, we are all proper oasis fans, not just cabaret artists who are exploiting a gap in the market. Its a labour of love to recreate the look as much as the sound. Sadly we will never be as cool as the Oasis boys!

Definitely Oasis stage setup

It seems like tribute bands are big business, with several Oasis tribute bands around the country. Is there ever any touring conflicts with other Oasis groups, how do you make sure there are no clashes?

It's something we have to take seriously. Keeping an eye on our rivals is important. We throw the lesser tributes our crusts (laughs) but seriously there are plenty gigs for all of us.

What separates Definitely Oasis from the other Oasis tributes, what makes you guys better than the rest?

I haven't seen many others to be fair, I've heard there are some great ones. We work hard, take jt seriously and most of all we love performing the songs, which definitely comes across on stage. The audience responds to that.

What’s it like pretending to be someone else up on stage, do you see it like that?

(Laughs) Sometimes it crosses our minds. I like it, it's fun and what is life without fun Paul?!

The group have had some impressive gigs this year, two nights at Glasgow’s Garage, with upcoming gigs at Edinburgh’s Liquid Rooms and even the o2 Academy. How did these shows come around, there must be a lot of hard work going into the band to secure these venues?

Our singer is a promotional powerhouse. He uses his huge list of contacts and talent for organizing tours and gets us some great opportunities. His optimism is infectious.

Thanks for taking the time to talk to us today, Lewis! Any last words?

Are you paying me cash or....?

Catch up with all the latest Definitely Oasis news here

Buy tickets to their upcoming shows, including Edinburgh's Liquid Rooms & Glasgow's o2 Academy here

Check out the band performing Oasis classic Cigarettes & Alcohol