By Lindsey Hawkins

Dan Moreno’s black hair falls forward in his green eyes, and his body looks relaxed. He looks calm in a collared shirt, pea coat -which he places on the back of a chair – and jeans. Moreno is a freshman music industry major, a guitar player (he began playing in the seventh grade) and song writer for a band named “_” (Underscore). Moreno is down to earth and seems to be more contemplative than his easy going musician style implies.

The News: What are some of your influences?

Moreno: Jimmy Eat World, Cursive and Sparta.

The News: Are you into politics?

Moreno: I see politics as a glorified popularity scheme among adults. Politics are kind of like the high school drama for adults.

The News: What do you plan to do with your major?

Moreno: Actually, I really just want to play music. Music industry is sort of a fall back. I try to use the things that I learn in class to help myself as a musician.

The News: Do you write the lyrics for your band?

Moreno: Yeah, but I’ve always liked writing the music more than the words. But I know that the words are very important. I mean, in recording, they’re the loudest.

The News: How do you feel about the NU music scene?

Moreno: Well, it’s great being in the city; there’s music everywhere. I’m really happy here. But my music industry class is about the mainstream. The top 40 scene is not me. Though I try not to be closed-minded, I just don’t like that music.

The News: How would you describe your style?

Moreno: Unstructured. I like to wake up late and stay up late. I don’t like going to bed at night, or waking up in the morning and I try to go with the flow.

The News: What is one of your current goals?

Moreno: I am going to play at the Middle East, sooner rather than later.