Drain, a hardcore trio, brings upbeat attitude and a fresh album to House of Blues

Twelve years later, Drain continues to embody a sense of constant movement, showcasing high energy, scrappiness, and unexpected joy. Established in 2014 by vocalist Sammy Ciaramitaro, guitarist Cody Chavez, and drummer Tim Flegal, this Santa Cruz-based trio has spent nearly a decade defying the notion that hardcore music must be serious and stagnant. Instead, Drain’s longevity can be attributed to their light-hearted approach.

Early hits like California Cursed and the subsequent Living Proof set the stage for Drain’s unique blend of hardcore punk and thrash metal overlaid with a surprising dose of positivity. However, with their third studio album, …Is Your Friend, released through Epitaph Records, Drain doesn’t reinvent the wheel; they set it ablaze and sent it careening downhill.

According to Ciaramitaro, the band’s evolution on this latest release is a result of honing in on what resonates with their audience, tailoring their music to what fans love to hear. The album features ten raw and intense tracks, recorded live without the use of a click track or excessive digital manipulation, highlighting the authentic sound of real amps and an undeniable camaraderie among band members.

From the thrash-heavy guitar riffs of Cody Chavez to Tim Flegal’s commanding drumming on tracks like “Scared of Everything and Nothing,” Drain’s musicianship shines through. However, it is not just technical prowess that sets Drain apart; it is their unmistakable connection and chemistry as a band. As Ciaramitaro states, “Drain is your friend”—a mantra that symbolizes the band’s welcoming and approachable demeanor in a genre often associated with aggression.

Songs like “Stealing Happiness From Tomorrow” showcase Drain’s ability to deliver heavy, bass-driven tracks while Ciaramitaro’s distinctive vocals convey a mix of aggression and vulnerability. With their infectious sound and dynamic stage presence, Drain has carved out a niche in the hardcore scene, attracting audiences from intimate venues to massive festivals.

Embodying a blend of raw emotion and energetic fervor, Drain’s music transcends traditional hardcore boundaries, appealing to a diverse fan base drawn to the band’s authenticity and unapologetic approach. Through their unwavering dedication to their craft and commitment to creating music that resonates with listeners, Drain continues to make waves in the music industry, solidifying their position as a force to be reckoned with in the hardcore genre and beyond.