Member Since: 9/11/2004
Band Website: myspace.com/thedrown
Band Members: See the 'Homage' video:
Influences: "More dreamy than disconsolate, the Drown’s heavy bass lines are indebted to the bleak underbelly of ‘80s New Wave, crossing the bridge between Echo & the Bunnymen’s mood-spinning psychedelia and Joy Division’s suicidal disco. However, the Drown dare to explore more styles than most of today’s New Wave revivalists." - cdreviews.com
"Words don't easily describe The Drown, which is a good thing. From wry commentary on the state of an artist and it's audience to intense from-the-outside-looking-in perspectives, this is a band that covers a wide range of styles, genres, and emotions. William Byron is a vocalist of rare energy and power, able to cut through the layers of sound with his british-esque intonations and impressive range . Brandon Van Spall might just be the next art-rock guitar god, with the way he makes his licks whine and moan over the most frantic of backings. All in all, a highly recommended listening experience." - Pink Isis 'zine.
"Discourse" is a killer track, fired by swirling riffs a la Echo & the Bunnymen and Joy Division-ish brooding bass. Synthesizers swish around in that classic Batcave fashion as the vocals float like a phantom over a crisp, throbbing rhythm section. Outstanding. "My Francoise" recalls Love & Rockets with its mellow psychedelia, and the live cut "Still" trembles like the Cure's creepiest moments. Nine stars out of ten!"- in regards to the 'Twins e.p', -whisperinandhollerin.com
"Having no lyric sheets, band photographs, and mostly indecipherable lyrics, the Drown tap into the enigmatic side of New Wave. Just listen to the disorienting, ethereal guitars and spooky, whispered vocals on "Discourse." The title alone has the single-word Joy Division flavor, open to a number of interpretations, probably none of which the group intended."- Ink #19.
"This is the kind of record that stoned college-radio DJs used to thrown on between sets of R.E.M. and the Replacements during the ‘80s. It’s very European in sound, even more so than other post-punk disciples like Interpol and She Wants Revenge. But it’s more artistic as well, giving this group increased street credibility." - thewigfitsall.com
Record Label: muted demeanor.
Type of Label: Indie