Black River Drive
Black River Drive
Auckland based band Black River Drive (BRD) is on to a winner. This previously hidden gem burst onto the radio early 2009 with their debut single ‘Everywhere’ hitting #9 on the NZ Top 40. Originally starting off in 2008, singer/songwriter Sam Browne decided he didn’t have the right mix and decided to reform the band in 2009 with old friends. He is now joined by Matt Stone- guitarist/keyboard player, Rusty McNaughton- bass and Mike Tan- drums. Then in early 2010 with single ‘Bullet For Your Gun’ hit #1 on The Rock FM’s March countdown, combining razor sharp rock riffs with moments of calm clarity, BRD is the new sound of New Zealand rock.
With driving influences from bands like Nine Inch Nails and Smashing Pumpkins, BRD have been hitting the studio to release their debut album which will include their hit singles ‘Bullet For Your Gun’ and ‘Everywhere’. Constantly rehearsing their songs and writing new songs to play to the masses. They are currently preparing for their six week tour, hitting all the major NZ spots spreading their hit-making music nationwide.
We recently caught up with Sam through e-mail in between rehearsals and studio time for a few quick easy going question to help the masses learn more about them…
El Boneshaker: How long have you all known each other? How did you meet?
Sam Browne: We’ve known of each other for years through playing in bar bands around Auckland. We met through my brother, who used to play bass with Matt and Mike years ago but has since moved away from live music performing. Mike and Rusty met in jazz school.
EB: How has your music evolved since you first began playing together?
SB: It’s heavier now than when it began. I can see the industrial influence will grow with time too.
EB: What’s the direction your band hopes to take?
SB: All we want is to have a sustainable career here and overseas playing our own music. My goal is for Black River Drive to put out records that kick your ass and put on live shows that leave you feeling electrified. I don’t care about fame or fortune, I care about making and playing great music to as many people as possible.
EB: Any advice do you have for people who want to form their own bands?
SB: The sooner you start, the better. Get lessons. Play lots of gigs with any bands you can find that will have you. Go and watch every show you can and meet the band members afterward. If you’re not doing it for the love of it, you’re in the wrong business.
EB: What instruments do you guys rock on?
SB: We use Mesa Boogie and Marshall amps (Mark V for Matt, JCM800 for me). We both play Gibson guitars and I also use vintage Yamaha instruments. Rusty plays a Fender Jazz with an Eden bass rig. Mike plays Gretsch drums. We were extremely specific in putting the guitar rigs together for BRD – both amps were bought with BRD’s music in mind. I guess we could use anything but we like to use the equipment that best fits our sound, of course.
EB: How can fans-to-be gain access to your music and tour details?
SB: facebook.com/blackriverdriveband is the best place for keeping up with the band.
EB: Is there anyone you’d like to acknowledge?
SB: I am grateful to my band members and my manager, Ashley Page.
EB: Thanks for the your time Sam and have blast on the tour!
Any one wanting to see the next big thing in NZ rock look no further!
We’re expecting big things from this clique, keep an eye on their Facebook page (facebook.com/blackriverdriveband) and then go see them on their tour.
EBMF!
Cool interview. These guys are really fucking good! Saw them live a few weeks back and they blew me away. Definitely the next big thing in nz rock!!!
THis is one of the best new bands out there.. they get my seal of approval and I know they’ll just go from strength to strength.. I can’t wait to see what they come up with next,.