By: Lucy Mazzucco

This week, I got to sit down and chat with Eleanor Shore, a band consisting of television show actors Eric Osborne and Ehren Kassam from Degrassi, along with Connor DuPont and Sean McAlister.
“We essentially all met in high school, except for Eric and Connor who grew up together,” said Ehren, who plays the role of Jonah Haak, Degrassi’s newest addition to the cast. “Through our shared interest in music we formed a band.”

The name of the band, Eleanor Shore, has left fans curious about whether or not she is a fictional character, or a real woman who inspired the name. Eric, who is best known for his character Miles Hollingsworth on Degrassi, answered this by explaining that the idea for the band name came to him in a dream. “We had a hard time choosing a name for our band, but it is loosely based on a dream I had which involved a woman named Eleanor. The rest remains a mystery,” said Eric.

The band describes themselves as “indie/folk,” and they are known for experimenting with a variety of sounds during live performances, along with frequently switching up the roles of who plays what instrument. Usually, the band’s formation includes Eric on guitar, Ehren on piano, Connor on trumpet and Sean on the bass or drums, but they like to rotate and give everyone the chance to play different instruments throughout the writing and performing process.

“We cover every genre and we like the sound of brass instruments because it makes our acoustic songs unique,” said Connor. “The trumpet, which is my instrument, adds to the overall folk vibe of our band.” As far as experimentation goes, Sean believes they have found the sound which best suits them. However, they continue to incorporate different elements in hopes of standing out. “Our sound could be described as vintage,” said Sean.

In the new year, the boys hope to record and release an EP, along with playing more shows. “We hope to bring forth the indie/alternative genre and stand out to a younger generation,” said Ehren.

For more info on Eleanor Shore, follow them on Twitter, or visit their YouTube channel.