Destroy Rebuild Until God Shows (D.R.U.G.S) are finally back after 11 years with their sophomore album, Destroy Rebuild. Original lead singer, Craig Owens, is back, along with some new bandmates including Jona Weinhofen on guitar (formerly of Bring Me The Horizon), Aaron Patrick on bass (formerly of All That Remains) and drummer Aaron Stechauner. The band originally formed in 2010 and quickly gained popularity with just one album! They went on headlining tours and played the main stage for the entirety of the 2011 Vans Warped Tour. In 2012, Craig Owens had rejoined his old band, Chiodos, which unfortunately led the band towards a complete breakup. In early 2020, though, an Instagram account was made for the band, which leaked info about a new song, signaling a band reunion!
We had the honor of seeing their big reunion show at Blue Ridge Rock Festival in September of last year! Since then, D.R.U.G.S. has been on a couple of tours, supporting acts like Crown The Empire on their Fallout Tour and Scary Kids Scaring Kids on the Velocity Records Tour.
D.R.U.G.S made their comeback to the scene with the release of their first song “Destiny” on February 2nd.
They also dropped a new song monthly until the release of their album last June 17th! As Craig Owens says, “This album is my first step forward without thinking of running back. I hope it can leave a mark and grow with people.” The album gives a uniquely nostalgic D.R.U.G.S. sound that we’ve been craving, but also exploring new territories, making this release a perfect progression and exciting new chapter for the band.
During the recording process, Owens collaborated with A-List producer Howard Benson, who has worked with My Chemical Romance and The All American Rejects in the past, heavily influencing the modern alternative rock world. Benson’s recording talent helped shape the structures and harmonies of the album; Owens found this collaborative process freeing and embraced his newfound flow of creativity. Owens’ ability to create honest lyrics stands out, while touching on topics like destiny, perspective and redemption on Destroy Rebuild. With more heartfelt lyrics, it provides the opportunity to connect with fans by sharing life experiences. He is hoping the album will help fans cope with whatever experiences and situations they are dealing with.
My personal favorite off the album is “GOLD”, a slower, cleaner track that includes some pretty insane vocal range from Owens. There’s something about this song that just really stuck with me and I think it’s the power behind the lyrics: “You must be new here // This part of my mind // There’s doorways and spaces // I’d rather you not find // I gave you a warning // These pure intentions weren’t by design.” It’s all up to personal interpretation, but I think this song is about falling in love with somebody and letting your guard down… inviting somebody in — even if you didn’t mean to — and letting them see parts of you that you wanted to keep guarded. Go listen to Destroy Rebuild and let us know what you think!
Purchase or stream ‘Destroy Rebuild’ album:
Track listing:
- DESTINY
- Satellites In Motion
- GOLD
- Brighter Side
- Outcasts VS Everyone, feat. Brennan Savage
- Supercalifragilisticexistentialcrisis
- The Longest Road
- (Are we not drawn onward to) NEW ERA
- What’s the Code for Heaven’s Gate?
- Gravity (My Ever Ghost)
- Waiting On You
- The Arm
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Disclaimer: All views presented in this album review are those of the reviewer and not necessarily those of Top Shelf Music.
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