An inspiring musician, Drew Danburry is the exception to the stereotypical, alcohol-abusing rock artist. Keeping his morals close to his side, he represents the way an artist should behave by simply being himself. He is an honest, hopeful, and caring young man toward whom others gravitate because they find his qualities so endearing.
Through his music, Danburry subtly sings his soulful message of hope to others. He has released three full-length albums, one live compilation, and one EP since 2004. According to Erasing Clouds’ art reviews (www.erasingclouds.com), Danburry's albums showcase him as a songwriter with a great sense for pop melody, a willingness to bare his heart in song, and also a playful attitude about music. Surprisingly, music was not a major part of his youth, but he played saxophone and eventually wrote songs for fun.'
Danburry insists, “I’m not the kind of person who can sit there and say music has been my life. I was an active, normal kid. I had an all-American youth.”
The soft-spoken musician grew up on the shores of Huntington Beach, California, but claims his home is Utah because he has no roots in the sunshine state. His parents raised him Mormon in a family of 11, although two of his siblings died at birth and one passed away recently. Religion plays a major part in how Danburry views the world and how he sees other people, but he rarely jumps upon the subject in conversation:
“I don’t ever want to bring it up,” states Danburry adamantly. “I don’t want to say, ‘I’m a religious person; I’m a religious singer’ because I’m not perfect. I’m not looking to be a role model or put myself out there. I’m doing the best I can, but when someone says, ‘hey I’m of this religion,’ automatically others are more critical of that person. Judgement can be made when it’s unnecessary. I’m not the prophet of the church. I’m just a member.”
Even for those skeptical of religion, the most striking aspect of Danburry is that he is a good person regardless of his faith. When comparing Danburry to other modern-day musicians, he lives an exceptionally moral life.
Perhaps the most “unique” aspects of Danburry’s performances are the lines of words sung from his lips. He creates scripted scenarios that make people think about life; he literally pulls listeners out of their perspectives and forces them to objectively step away from what is familiar.
According to his brother Gordon, Danburry sees the reality of American consumerism and idealism and decides to take a strong look at whether such ideals are for him. He then acknowledges that all humans are equal—on the same playing field—and treats them lovingly.
For his latest EP entitled, Mother, Danburry is working with Apples and Cats Promotion. When his new album hits in the summer, they will be doing full radio promotion. Getting signed is his next task, although he is not shooting for a major label. According to Danburry, Apples and Cats Promotion calls their clients individually and cares whole-heartedly about what they do.
Danburry manages to garner excitement at every show on tour; his goal is to have the best show he can possibly have every night. According to The New Hampshire, Danburry could easily fit in on a bill with Saddle Creek heavy-weights Bright Eyes or even Cursive. Danburry will be playing at The Collective A-Go-Go at 266 Olean Street in Worcester, Massachusetts on May 8th. For more information, visit Danburry at www.myspace.com/drewdanburry.
-Jen Brown
