Work Drugs
We interview a mysterious Philadelphia band.
Work Drugs are a band. On their Internet weblog they describe themselves as "Philadelphia's premier Bat Mitzvah and Quinceanera party band." I'm not sure how much of this is true, especially seeing as they have only released two songs, but I decided to interview band member Thomas Crystal anyway because I thought it would be funny. I was right!
Ariane: How did you meet?
Thomas: Ben and I first met in Mrs McDonald's kindergarten class, but it wasn't until when we attended sailing school together that we fortified our musical friendship. We bonded over traditional sailing shanties by the likes of Steely Dan, Kenny Loggins, Michael McDonald, Kool & the Gang etc. When we overheard our schoolmate Joan humming along to Boz Scaggs' 'Lido Shuffle', we had to invite her to work on some music with us - and thus Work Drugs was formed.
Tell us a story about the name of your band.
Well, our buddy Eduardo came up with the name while Ben, Joan and I were sailing last summer in the Baja of Mexico. I guess a lot of people think it's because we secretly work for a major drug company... or it's somehow derived from a premium American television series... or we're lawyers and we do a lot of coke? who knows.
Compose a haiku that describes the Work Drugs 'Sound'.
Summer breezes mix
Sound escapes, feels dangerous
Life proceeds to dance.
WORK DRUGS - 'DOG DAZE'
How has growing up in Philadelphia influenced you?
The birthplace of this country - what's more inspiring than that? I also have a feeling that the delicious cheesesteaks and the countless oil refineries along the Delaware River will have a significant influence on my health and well-being in years to come.
What are your favourite things to do when not making music?
Thomas: When I'm not out on the boat (or making music), I spend most of my free time as an amateur horticulturalist, particularly pomology. I also enjoy a weekend getaway to Grand Exuma to get my mind off the music? and the abandoned pier I live on.
Do you really live on an abandoned pier?
Thomas: Well I guess it isn't really abandoned since I live on it - but yes! Fortunately I am neighbored by the friendly Philadelphia Duck Boats and a plethora of imported fruit and chemical freighters. Some days smell better than others - but it sure beats the abandoned doll factory that I used to live in!
What are your top five favourite songs to listen to while boating?
1) Pablo Cruise - 'What'cha Gonna Do'
2) Kings of Convenience - '24-25'
3) Boz Scaggs - 'Lowdown'
4) Kool & the Gang - 'Too Hot'
5) Looking Glass - 'Brandy (You're a Fine Girl)'
If you were in charge of building a Teddy Pendergrass memorial, how would you go about it?
Easy, easy, got to take it easy.
WORK DRUGS 'THIRD WAVE'
Interview: Ariane Halls
Photography: Work Drugs
