Music Existence Because of Music, We Exist
“‘Breakdown’ just seemed appropriate for what I was going through at the time,” explains multi-instrumentalist and ALKALINE TRIO drummer DEREK GRANT of his debut BREAKDOWN, which is set for a January 20, 2015 release via Red Scare Industries. “My relationship had fallen apart and I was dealing with it in some very unhealthy ways,” he adds. “The upside was I started writing lyrics for the first time in nearly a decade.” Breakdown is now available for pre-order through Interpunk: https://www.interpunk.com/item.cfm?Item=224565
These eight tracks were written in Los Angeles, Portland, Chicago, Detroit, and New York City while Grant was going through a divorce and dealing with life’s other demons, such as substance abuse. Recorded on a laptop at various friends’ houses and random motels throughout 2008-2009, this collection of songs was an outlet to express feelings, provide therapy, and kickstart the healing process, which would later aid with his recovery, especially since Grant translated his emotions through every instrument on the recording.
With hints of haunting rock, dashes of Americana, and a trace of ’80s New Wave, Grant has created one of the most diverse albums to come out of the underground music scene in quite some time. From uncertainty (“Waiting For The End of The World”) to depression (“Love Is A Bad Dream”) to temptation (“Lucy”), to substance abuse (“You Don’t Know”), he wears his heart on his sleeve. Breakdown ultimately documents his divorce as it unfolds.
Derek Grant is an iconic drummer in the punk rock world. He has been the man behind the kit for Alkaline Trio since 2001 and has also played in The Vandals and The Suicide Machines. In addition, he has even filled in on guitar for Face To Face and The Gaslight Anthem. His debut album Breakdown will be released on January 20, 2015.
A few record release shows are in the pipeline. Stay tuned for dates!
