Driftwood – December Last Call

By: Jennifer Vintzileos

Q) How would you best describe your sound?

Dan: Always a tough question. It has changed a little bit over the years, and even changes from show to show. But essentially we have three singer-songwriters who take turns leading their songs. The sound a few years back was usually acoustic, folksy sort of stuff and still is at times. But there are a lot more electric guitars and rock feels happening these days. Always lots of harmonies, upright bass and violin.

Q) Who are your Top 3 musical influences

Everyone: [laughs] Another tough one. The Beatles, Bob Dylan, Red Hot Chili Peppers

Q) Tell us the story behind your current single “December Last Call.”

Joe: “December Last Call” came out of staying at a bar entirely too long, and I think it was after a show and being drunk to the point of not really remembering where or how or when that melody and chords came up. But luckily I pushed record in Voice Memos on my phone and woke up the next day and saw that there had been something recorded. I listened to it and I realized that it was me mumbling along with some chords. Then, after some time, I put some lyrics to it and turned it into what it is. 

Q) “December Last Call” is off of your recent album of the same name. Since its release, what has been the reaction from fans and listeners to the new album?

Claire: We have been really pleased with the reaction from our listeners. We took some chances on this album. A lot of the songs have a stronger “rock n roll” vibe and there are some extended jams as well. The feedback has been great! I think at the heart of it the songs are still very “Driftwood” in that they are about life and all its ups and downs. We’re proud of this project and glad that our fans are along for the ride. 

Q) “Stardust” has to be my favorite off of December Last Call. Which song was your favorite to write and record for the new album?

Dan: Actually “Stardust” was a really fun song to record. I recorded the initial vocal and guitar at my house and brought it to the studio where Sam [Fishman], Joe and I had a really fun first night with it. We recorded live around the initial vocal/guitar track and when the song was over we were really grooving and just kept going. We thought for sure we would be cutting the end jam but the more we listened, the more we loved it. It was so fun to work on and include an 11-minute song on an album. 

Q) What is your songwriting process? Do you tend to need music before you can craft lyrics? 

Dan: I don’t have a concrete method for writing. Sometimes it’s a guitar jam where I sing something, sometimes it’s a melody … I hum on a walk or when I’m cooking, and then I add music later on. In the last few years I’ve mostly been starting with the idea for the song or a title, humming a melody and then setting it to music. It may or may not take and usually I just keep working it – playing different chords, different keys, etc., untill I have something I like.  

Q) What do you hope fans and listeners take away from listening to December Last Call?

Claire: The album is a bit of a ride; there’s something in it for everyone. I think the big takeaway from this collection of songs is a sense of gratitude. I hope our listeners feel that way after listening to December Last Call, and I think they will. 

Q) In addition to a new album, you’re also set for a tour of the East Coast in the upcoming months. What are you most looking forward to with touring and promoting the new music?

Sam: I am most looking forward to performing! It’s all about the live show. There’s no better feeling than locking in as a band and creating a huge ball of energy to connect with the audience.  I also enjoy visiting different cities and exploring what they have to offer. Whether it’s disc golf courses, hiking trails or a bustling downtown, there’s always an adventure that awaits.

Q) Aside from the August show in Montana, are there any plans to expand your tour nationally?

Dan: Actually, on that run out west in August, we have two more shows in Montana, and five Colorado shows. There are lots more East Coast dates for the fall, possibly a West Coast tour in the winter, more Colorado dates and a Midwest tour next spring.

Q) Which song(s) is your favorite to perform at live shows?

Claire: “Every Which Way but Loose,” “December Last Call” and “Deputy Riley Hamm.” 

Q) Aside from the new album, I absolutely love your cover of Townes Van Zandt’s “Loretta!” What inspired you to cover the song?

Joe: I just always thought it was such a great song. Maybe not as well known as some of the other Townes songs. It’s just such beautiful imagery. I feel like everybody knows a Loretta. 

Q) What would you like to say to your fans and supporters of your music?

Joey: I am so grateful for our fans and supporters. It’s a privilege to perform for audiences that are receptive to our songs. Driftwood has developed quite a loyal fan base. It’s such a special feeling knowing that our music and lyrics have deeply touched people. After shows I often relate to fans about specific songs they comment on because like them, I admire my bandmates’ songwriting and am inspired by it. It’s such a blessing to be able to perform and travel with Driftwood, and that feeling is justified when people show up to enjoy the show.