The band Work Drugs is a dream pop duo based out of Philadelphia, comprised of the musicians Thomas Crystal and Benjamin Louisiana. The group is self described as making music for "sexting, dancing, yachting and life." However they label their tunes, they have garnered a large following in the city and critics have compared their smooth sound to the likes of Steely Dan. I had the chance to get Thomas Crystal's quirky opinion on the Philadelphia music scene, his music and his favorite venues:
-What is the history of the groups origins?
The origins of the Work Drugs band name are somewhat shady at best. I think it was forged from a late night recording session on the beaches of the Cayman Islands. A little too much work and a little too much Red Stripe. Coincidentally this is where Ben and I originally met during sailing school. We started off on rival sailing teams but we ended up bonding over our love for the late 70's smooth sounds of Michael McDonald and Steely Dan.
-Describe your music/inspirations/writing process:
I believe our time at sea is always a big inspiration for our music. Secondly the city of Philadelphia has become a big inspiration in the songwriting process. The fact that we are both transplants from the Caribbean trying to deal with the cold and the fast paced live of the Northeast really works well with the music we like to make.
-Favorite song on the your album and where is It available for distribution?
It's hard to choose a favorite, but for me my favorite will always be "Third Wave." I think that song perfectly captures that moment in time in my own life. I'm glad other people seem to like it too. You can find it on our out-of-print first EP called Summer Blood or our new vinyl record called "Delta." Delta is pretty much a compilation of our favorite songs. You can check out Delta here... http://workdrugs.wordpress.com/barter/
-What is the ultimate goal for Work Drugs?
To stay smooth and enjoy the ride.
-Thoughts/Observations about music fans in Philadelphia? Do they live up to their name of being notoriously hard critics?
Philadelphia is definitely a tough town to win over, but once you do, they are some of the greatest and most loyal fans you could ever ask for. Just look at the rise of bands such as Dr. Dog and The War on Drugs.
-What is your favorite aspect of playing in the city? Favorite venue in Philly? Describe the city in three words.
Our favorite aspect is the ample parking for load in and load it. I'll tell you, have you ever tried to load in to a venue in San Francisco. Your van will be towed in no-time. All kidding aside, it's got to be all the great rooms in the city to play in. Our favorites our Johnny Brenda's and Kung Fu Necktie. These are home town haunts with a lot of memories. Three words? Hall and Oates.
-You recently release some new material on vinyl, tell me about the decision behind that and the reception you’ve had to that medium…
The reception to Delta has been fantastic. We have always been avid vinyl listeners so we decided to take a chance and put our favorite material on vinyl. It helps that it's a pretty sweet yellow color too.
-In conclusion best kept secret about the Philadelphia music scene
CSLSX
*When Crystal mentions CSLSX, he is of course referring to the Philly music collective with whom Work Drugs has collaborated with in shows. It’s refreshing to hear another artist jump at the chance to promote another Philadelphia band and his enthusiasm for the city’s fans is exciting! Be sure to check both groups out.
