Track Premiere: Dumb Waiter releases new single ‘Drip’

Richmond’s Dumb Waiter is known for their unique avant-garde noise rock sound. With their sixth record “Change,” the band has introduced vocals for the first time, a significant shift from their previous strictly instrumental approach. This change allowed the band members, Nick Crider, Nathaniel Roseberry, Tristan Brennis, and Keith Paul to express themselves in new ways and speak directly to their audience.

Their latest track, “Drip,” exemplifies this evolution. Featuring aggressive vocals from Crider and Roseberry, the song delves into themes of time passing and current events, showcasing a nuanced balance between raw vocal delivery and the band’s signature heavy sound. The addition of vocals has added a new layer of depth to Dumb Waiter’s music, allowing for a more direct and personal connection with their listeners.

In a recent interview, Crider and Brennis discussed the band’s decision to incorporate vocals into their music. They shared that after the release of their previous album, Gaust Gists, they felt a need to explore new territory and move beyond their instrumental comfort zone. The decision to add vocals was a transformative one, challenging the band to step out of their musical routine and explore new avenues of creativity.

For Crider, the evolution from metal vocals to more spoken, agitated tones was a conscious choice, one that required personal growth and vulnerability. The transition to vocal-driven music allowed the band to convey more personal and political messages, reflecting their feelings about the state of the world and their own experiences as they navigate the complexities of life.

The songwriting process for “Change” was a dynamic one, with the band piecing together various musical ideas to accommodate the addition of vocals. They reworked existing instrumental tracks and crafted new ones with vocals in mind, creating a cohesive and intentional album that seamlessly blended their signature sound with their newfound vocal delivery.

“Drip,” one of the standout tracks on the album, was initially written before the decision to include vocals. The song went through numerous revisions as the band adjusted their approach to accommodate the new vocal element. The lyrics of “Drip” delve into themes of indoctrination and societal change, reflecting the band’s desire to provoke thought and introspection in their listeners.

Overall, “Change” represents a significant shift in Dumb Waiter’s musical identity, one that embraces vulnerability, honesty, and directness. Through the inclusion of vocals, the band has transformed their sound, allowing for a deeper connection with their audience and a more nuanced exploration of personal and political themes.