Single a dream come true for local band

CHILL VIBES: Whanganui band Drones, from left are Ethan Coleman (drums), Adam Robinson (rhythm guitar), Andrew Condon (bass) and Isaac Chamberlain (lead guitar).

It’s the day every new band dreams of — the release of their first single.

And for four young Whanganui musicians, three former WHS students; — Andrew Condon, Isaac Chamberlain, Adam Robinson and Ethan Coleman — that day has come.

Caged is an original song from city band Drones and is the feature of a release event at Mint Bar and Cafe next Saturday.

“It’s to celebrate our successes so far — we all love to play live,” bassist Andrew Condon said.

Gigs have been plentiful since Drones featured in this year’s Battle of the Bands — winning its regional final and making it all the way to the national final. “Although we did not place, almost everything we’ve done since has been a result of it.”

Drones has played at more than a dozen venues throughout the North Island since the contest and is enjoying a growing fan base. “A lot of people who we did not expect love our music — you could say we are unintentionally appealing.”

Mr Condon describes the band’s style as instrumental rock, “chill vibes, atmospherically clean” and a mix of “high energy and nice feelsy” material. They play without vocals, although the band is open to adding vocals later on. 

The Mint show will mark the band’s first year together and its first show at home since April.

The single will be available for download on various digital platforms and is accompanied by a video, shot at various city locations, and produced by friend Josh Dey (former WHS student).

Where to next for Drones? “Travel the world playing our own original music is something we dream of,” Mr Condon said.

Drones can be followed on Facebook and You Tube.

By Simon Waters
Wanganui Chronicle 7/11/16