Those qualities landed American post-rock band The Album Leaf on the soundtracks of The O. C. and CSI: Miami. I-S gets under the skin of Jimmy LaValle, the man who made it all happen.

How do you keep yourself constantly inspired?
My inspiration comes from my everyday experiences, feelings and the things that go on around me.

What’s the story behind the name “The Album Leaf?”
It’s very simple really; it was taken from a piece by Chopin that I liked.

What themes do your songs address?
I’ve never been one to have a message or make a statement through my music. It’s just something I make up, it’s actually less exciting than it seems.

How do you make your music?
This way of making music is all about listening closely and separating the music from the noise. Like, if it’s raining outside, I sit down and write a little song about the rain. I never sit there and look for it. It just happens. When I’m waiting to be connected to a conference call, I will be listening to the ringing tone and then thinking about how I can use it in my music.

Where are your favorite places in the world?
We’ve been touring for 15 years and have been across Europe more than 30 times, but we go in and out so fast. I was in Berlin for a while and really liked it there. I really enjoyed Phuket too. I also love New York, Mexico City, San Francisco and Chicago. If I’m fortunate enough, I get to spend more than a day in one place. Right now, I live in the mountains with my wife, I feel like I deal with so much stress while on tour that it’s nice to have some place to retreat to.

Describe one of your best gigs to date.
The last time when I was in Tokyo, it was such an accomplishment playing to a crowd that huge. Playing alongside Sigur Rós was also amazing.

What makes a musician successful?
I don’t know really, but a lot of hard work and dedication definitely helps. I feel very fortunate to be where I am now. It sounds clichéd but it’s true. Just keep at it until something catches.

Which music acts do you look up to?
Bands like Radiohead and Air are pretty great and inspirational. I don’t want to say that Lady Gaga is shit, but her music is pretty run-of-the-mill.

What do you do when you get stuck in a rut?
I just had a rut and I ended up getting my friends to finish recording. You try to look forward and not get frustrated and try to concentrate. Mostly I try to step away and not think about it until it comes to me. It can be extremely annoying.

Don’t miss an intimate night with The Album Leaf on Sep 9-10, 9pm at TAB, #02-29, 442 Orchard Rd., 6493-6952. $55 from TAB.