Who are Ostraka?
Ostraka’s touchstones are always: riffs, hooks, melody, invention.
The band is as indebted to art, literature, history, cinema and the cultures of other countries as it is to other bands, and each of these find expression in nooks and crannies of their music.
Historically speaking, “ostraka” were pieces of broken pottery used by ancient Athenians to cast their votes in democratic ostracisms - the casting out of one citizen from the city - and this classical reference implies the group’s engagement with politics and grass-roots campaigning.
Made in Angus
Jamie Butler has known Colin Cramb since childhood, and although Jamie played in various bands around Dundee, Colin pursued other interests and became a film technician. By circuitous routes, both ultimately became teachers, Jamie of high school History, and Colin as a primary teacher.
While working at Monifieth High School, Jamie met George Connor, a teacher of Classics, and Gavin Duncan who also teaches History.
Despite the proximity of the four, it took the better part of a decade to realise they had the component parts of a band, but all good things come to those who wait…
The first rehearsal for the four came in late 2022, in Jamie’s garage, and it was clear from the off that they had something special. In that first meeting, the core of Eating Leeches was written, and the songs have continued to flow ever since.
The Magistri EP (2025) is their first official release.