So when I was thinking about a title for the record, it jumped out at me. I liked it for the reasons I mentioned, but also for another reason. And in fact, I don't think I ever really came out and told anyone this reason, maybe one or two friends. But, I also thought it appropriate because, in many ways, that is kind of the perspective I have. I feel like, for better or worse, that's how I view the world. Kind of naively, idealistically, and maybe still like a child.

Who are your musical influences?

Many, but a lot depends on the timing of things. And what I mean by that is, if I'm planning on spending an evening working on some songs and I hear a song earlier that day that strikes me in a certain way, then that's the style that will be in my head the rest of the day. And likely, that will influence my writing later on. So in that case, I kind of think that "timing" is my biggest musical influence.

If I had to name artists, I would start with a couple of people who aren't necessarily my favorites but who I do get influenced by. Dylan, because there have been so many times where I've heard a song of his somewhere, and it has made me just want to go home right away and write music. John Lennon is one because he basically wrote about himself and things that were important to him or things that affected him.

I also find influences in Neil Diamond, Neil Young, U2, and Oasis. Oasis comes up with melodies that at first I think are silly, but four listens later, I love. I guess what I'm saying is they humanize song-writing. And sort of make it okay for me to be human, or not perfect, or whatever in my song-writing.

If you would like to listen to Phil Ayoub’s debut album Schoolbus Window Paper Heart you can find it on Phil's website or at his MySpace profile. Or better yet just buy it at CDBaby. His poignant, honest lyrics and simple melodies are more than worth it!