Is it an easy place to play?

Ben: Yes, for people who are willing to put in the graft on the admin side, good promotion is vital just like anywhere I suppose but it seems to be essential on the Island. People rarely venture out to find something like in London they go out specifically to see a band or DJ. We love playing home shows; it always packs out and we just love celebrity status we receive.

John: Yeah its awesome playing home shows, fans show so much support back home it’s great. Its always fun playing to a crowd that sings along and isn't afraid to dance. Mind you we sold out our first headline show in London @ Camden Barfly earlier in February this year; that was a belter. It’s so much fun playing at a packed venue.  We've had some great shows here in London as well as back home.

What are the main influences on your sound?

John: Our sound is definately a mash up of various influences. I grew up listening to Pink Floyd, Genesis, Hall and Oates and various 'Dad' music. I later got into Motown, Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder, Michael Jackson, Jamiraqoui....... these artists definitely got me interested in playing bass. Ben and I tuck into the 'Level 42' rhythm section, reppin the Isle of Wight there. We all really tuck into our dance music though; Justice, Daft Punk etc and we're also really in to Kings of Leon. I think you could say they are the main influences of our sound.

Your live set has a visual element which you have developed with VJ Fizzy D.  How did this come about?

John: We always want to bring as much to our live show as possible. Our good friend Danny (VJ Fizzy D) has some good skills, and since girls like guys with good skills we wanted to get him on board asap. Danny has come up with some great visuals for our live shows, and when you play a decent size venue it’s great.  It really sits well with the dancey side of our sound. 

What music are you listening to at the moment?

Ben: Frank Musik

John: Empire of the Sun

What’s been the highlight so far?

John: For me it was hearing our single 'B-Line' on the radio. Headlining the Bandstand on the Thursday night at the Isle of Wight Festival last year was also awesome. Playing late at night with a big crowd singing and dancing along, can't beat it. We're all really looking forward to playing the Big Top there this year. Supporting the Pigeon Detectives at Wight Air last summer was also a highlight.

What’s your dream collaboration?

John: Kate Bush?

Thanks guys, we’re sure that everything is going to go from strength to strength for you in the future. To hear more from The Operators check out:

http://www.myspace.com/theoperatorsrock

You’ll not regret it.