Why the name?
We believe that music has the strange ability to free the soul—the expression of feelings through music is a means to liberate oneself and [the actor] Steve McQueen's portrayals of the anti-hero in iconic films like The Getaway, The Great Escape and Papillon make him the perfect symbol of anti-establishment.

How did the group come together?
A few of us were at the Java Jazz Festival earlier this year and were inspired by so many of the acts; so much so that we decided it would be fun to form a band and write our own music when we got back. We all knew each other through various music circles and when it came together, we just knew it was something special.

Has it been tough finding places to play in?
It’s a good gigging situation, but of course, we could always play more. We play at Blu Jaz at least once a month and at Marina Bay Sands twice a week. We have a bit of a following at these places.

What are some of the band’s musical influences?
Well, there are the neo-soul influences of D’Angelo, Erykah Badu and Maxwell as well as the more improvisational approach and sound of modern jazz instrumentalists like Robert Glasper and Darryl Reeves. Lump that together with soul and R&B icons like Stevie Wonder, James Brown and Bill Withers—you get the picture.

Where do you see yourselves five years from now?
Touring and stuffing ourselves endlessly with cuisines from all over the world.

The Steve McQueen Band perform Nov 14 at Blu Jaz, 11 Bali Lane, 6292-3800 and every Fri-Sat at Jazz @The Shoppes, 10 Bayfront Ave, 6688-8868. Free.