Q&A: John Douglas of Ten Story Relapse; CD Release Party @ The 183 Room at Legends, February 13

Stylistically diverse Atlanta rockers Ten Story Relapse have chosen a unique way to celebrate the release of their fifth CD, the intriguingly-titled Buddha & The .38. They’ve decided to combine that achievement — which also happens to coincide with the band's 10th anniversary — with a one-night-only art exhibit hand-picked by Atlanta legend Fay Gold and a benefit for The C5 Youth Foundation of Georgia. TSR’s dynamic vocalist John Douglas sat down with Atlanta Music Guide to discuss the band’s interest in the C5 organization, the new CD, and the secret of playing with the same musicians for 10 years.

How did you become involved with The C5 Youth Foundation of Georgia?

I found out about them about a year and a half ago through a mutual friend and I was just so impressed with the work they do, I wanted to help out in some way. I’d worked with some charitable organizations before, but I’d never seen the dedication these guys have.

What does C5 do, essentially? 

They have a five year program that gives kids opportunities and tools to overcome challenges and obstacles that would otherwise be difficult to overcome. About 300 kids are nominated every year and only 70 get accepted, but they have a 95-percent college acceptance rate, which is pretty amazing.      

So, what can people expect musically from Buddha & The .38?

Musically, it’s all over the map; it goes everywhere but it still sounds like “us.” I really think we’ve hit our stride in terms of collaborating as a five-piece and that’s what I’m really excited about. Thematically, a lot of the songs seem to be about being “in the moment” and trying not to get so bogged down with all the external stimuli out there.

Has it been difficult staying together as a band for 10 years?

Not really, because our only real goal has always been simple: can we make interesting music together and still be friends? If the answer is yes, then we’re happy. 

$25 general admission tickets for this all-ages event, sponsored by Agave Restaurant, Fay Gold Gallery, Zip Car Atlanta, Cuervo Liquors, and Paste Magazine, are available at Ticket Alternative (the $50 V.I.P. tickets are sold out!) and include admission to the show and an autographed copy of Ten Story Relapse’s brand new CD, Buddha & The .38.