Dave Drobach (bass) Grabass Charlestons
What is your name and band/label/etc?
Dave Drobach : Grabass Charlestons- Bass / No Idea Records - Production Manager
What are your top five albums that were released in 2012? (In order 1-5)
- Mean Jeans - Life On Mars
- Classics Of Love - S/T LP
- Chris Wollard And The Ship Thieves - Canyons
- Treasure Fleet - Cocamotion
- Smith Street Band - Technology and Sunshine
What band did you discover in 2012 (can be a brand new band or an older band) that had an impact on your life? What made them significant?
Crusades - Perfect blend of aggression and musical ability, combined with the rare gift to craft an enjoyable song.
How will you remember 2012? (In terms of music)
Grabass recorded and saw the release of an album of which we are quite proud. Another year of keeping the FM airwaves in Gainesville in the hands of the people on WGOT. I got to sit down with great bands and discuss classic records for an archiving project here.
What can we look forward to from you in 2013?
In 2013, Grabass Charlestons will operate as The Careeners. Don't freak out, same line up, fresh name. Expect a new EP in the first few months.
What records are you looking forward to most in 2013?
I'm looking forward to new records by Big Eyes and The Tim Version.
Fundraising sites like Kickstarter and Indiegogo have made a strong impact on the ability of artists to release music. Do you think this approach is a trend, or will it continue to shape how artists produce their material?
Kickstarter has always fascinated me. People are in bands for themselves. Touring is a selfish act. I've never thought about using Kickstarter for any project I've handled. It's honestly easier for me to pick up shifts doing roofing than it is for me to beg people to send me money for a record that doesn't exist yet. It seems a little selfish to beg for money for your own band. When I am begging for money, it's for non-profits where I volunteer. There are so many places that provide community services that are in need of $1,000. My band is full of employed, healthy people in our 30s. Please donate money to shelters of people and animals, or shelters of ideas (alternative libraries / low-power radio stations). That said, bands do need to hustle however they can to get money to record, rent a van, get gas. The internet is a crazy place where you can find people to send you money. I know absolutely nothing about Indiegogo, so none of these comments are directed to them or their users.
