There’s instant appeal when a band like Copeland springs into the bigger picture. Rather than being catapulted to rock stardom by fashion moguls and styling their sound to attract the masses, Copeland are a fresh identity with a reputable do-it-yourself ethic.

Stemming from humble beginnings in Florida in 2001 with pop rock influences and delivering seven releases since (a mixture of EPs, albums and splits), it’s only natural that Copeland have been – until now – America’s best kept secret.

Slowly building the foundations for a loyal fanbase while under independent U.S label The Militia Group, Copeland inevitably caught the eye of Columbia for the release of their 2006 album Eat Sleep Repeat . Yet for a band that has achieved close to 200,000 record sales worldwide, they’re still flying under the radar in Australia. Luckily, Anberlin ’s upcoming Australian tour and special tour edition release of In Motion under Boomtown Records will give fans and punters to better experience Copeland. Guitarist Bryan Laurenson took the time to give FasterLouder an insight into the band’s inner workings.

2005’s In Motion is Copeland’s most successful release to date. It’s the epitome of the band’s lush pop soundscapes that delve into expansively textured sensibilities drenched by pop influences of decades past. For Copeland, it was the intrinsic choice for an Aussie tour edition souvenir with a twist. “Our record on Boomtown also comes with an EP of cover songs that we did a little while back. The EP was something we did in our off time and shows our take on some of the songs we grew up listening to as kids, stuff our parents listened to.” That extra disc is none other than Copeland’s 2004 covers EP, Know Nothing Stays The Same, where the band chose to cover classics from such greats as Rod Stewart , Phil Collins and Stevie Wonder . The decision to work with Boomtown in Australia only seemed obvious. “They approached us about releasing some music and they just seemed like the right people – great and supportive guys.”

Flagship album In Motion underscores Copeland as a band with a serious talent on their hands. And their song-writing reflects this. After listening to Copeland, there is an adamant strength permeating throughout their craft. Rich guitar orchestrations make way for powerful anthems dedicated to sincere harmonies and a grasp for documenting personal experience. It’s the result of amiable dedication and commitment. “The song writing process itself is plenty invigorating for us. It’s definitely the part that I enjoy the most. We have a hard time writing while we are on the road so when we have larger amounts of time at home it’s usually spent writing. Writing and recording records is my favourite part of being in a band, for sure.”

Despite being signed to a major label last year, Copeland have retained their DIY approach to their art. “It’s definitely important. We have always been very hands-on with Copeland. From the recording, to the artwork of the album, and right down to the design of each t-shirt we make. We like to have control on a lot of levels, and that is something Columbia has been very understanding of so far.” Retaining a DIY approach is one thing; constructing truly complex song-pieces with optimum creativity and aptitude is another. Copeland are achieving both with honouring results – a lesson for many bands in the current scene. “I would definitely say there is a lack [of sincerity and complexity] in today’s popular music. Unfortunately, it seems like the popular music scene is all about money and business; which record can sell more than the next. That definitely takes a lot of sincerity out of it. However, because music is easier and easier to record these days, there is quite an abundance of it. Even though there may be a lack of quality in the mainstream, it doesn’t take too much looking to find the good stuff.”

While some bands may be entrenched with the sole purpose of attracting fame, glory and cash, Copeland are focussed on creative integrity. “We were never too interested in getting big quickly – that is never a recipe for long term success. Most of the bands that become huge stars overnight usually aren’t around for more than a record or two. Our goal has always to just write quality music and to do things properly. We, like most artists, want as many people as possible to hear our music, but we aren’t looking to just be the next trend or fad.”

Copeland are obviously here for the long haul – already setting their sights on the next album. “We are going to start the writing process once we get back from Australia. However, we don’t have a set timeline yet for when the next record will actually be recorded.” Until then, Aussie audiences have Copeland’s live shows in June to encounter. “It feels amazing. We are all very, very excited about coming over there.” So are there any special surprises on the cards for your Aussie fans? “If I told you of any special surprises, they wouldn’t be surprises anymore!”

Catch Copeland on tour with Anberlin in June:

Friday June 8: Fowler’s Live, Adelaide
Saturday June 9: The Corner Hotel, Melbourne (12.30pm: Under 18s, 8.30pm: 18+)
Wednesday June 13: The Arena, Brisbane (licensed, all ages)
Thursday June 14: Cambridge Hotel, Newcastle (18+)
Friday June 15: Manning Bar, Sydney (licensed, all ages)
Saturday June 16: Amplifier Bar, Perth (18+)
Sunday June 17: Artrage Bakery, Perth (all ages)

In Motion Australian tour edition is out now through Boomtown Records/Shock.

For more info, head to www.thecopelandsite.com, www.myspace.com/copeland or www.boomtownrecords.com.au.