Ryan Baxley
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In a world where Turnstile are soundtracking Taco Bell adverts and getting fits off on the Grammys red carpet, there is keen anticipation in the hardcore world as to which, if any, bands from the scene will follow them overground. Drain, the California trio whose cartoon-like aesthetic and chaotic, grin-inducing live show has already made them cult heros, have got to stand somewhere near the front of the line. That may put undue pressure on their new song "Evil Finds Light" but you wouldn't tell to listen to it. This is pure, unadulterated fun from the very first riff.
That's not to say there is no depth to Drain's music. Any good party results in an anxiety-inducing comedown and Drain acknowledge both sides of the blade as Sammy Ciaramitaro wrestles with his inner monologue over a cascade of drums and thrash guitars. "Man I just woke up, And my minds already ruining my day" he spits as the rhythm section do their best to rally his waning spirit and guitarist Cody Chavez fires off metallic licks into the ether. "I just bottle it-bottle it up," he says, loosening the screw top. "I can’t let my feelings show."
Describing Drain as merely a party band undersells their unique appeal. This is feel-good music for people who perpetually feel pretty shitty. The joy comes from the release and right now, Drain look ready to unload.
