The Allure of Homemade Quality in Drop Nineteens’ EP

Recording Process: A Personal Touch

The homemade quality of Drop Nineteens’ EP adds a distinct charm that resonates with listeners. Drummer Roof recorded the drums at his parents’ house, while the rest of the band tracked their parts in his dorm closet. This intimate setting contributes to the raw authenticity of the music.

Track Highlights

Mayfield

“Mayfield” bursts forth with an intensity comparable to a runaway Arctic train. The 2025 mix enhances its energy by eliminating a flanged drop-out section, offering a more relentless drive. Vocalist Paula Kelley intricately weaves dark melodies around Ackell’s melancholic lead, while layers of guitar create a soundscape reminiscent of proto-blackgaze.

Kissing the Sea

The second track, “Kissing the Sea,” presents a dreamier vibe, showcasing Kelley’s ethereal vocals over shimmering guitar textures. As the rhythm section joins in, the imagery evokes classic shoegaze themes—dreams, water, and the comfort of hiding—but Roof and bassist Steve Zimmerman manage to keep the tempo lively, akin to a steady dogpaddle.

Snowbird

“Snowbird” follows suit, amplifying the dreamy atmosphere with a more grandiose approach. Here, Zimmerman and Roof dynamically alternate with Kelley, leading everyone confidently into a musical squall that captures the essence of the EP’s sound.

The Formation of Drop Nineteens

Ambition Meets Happenstance

The story of Drop Nineteens’ rise in the UK music scene is a blend of ambition and serendipity. Ackell’s trip to see his college girlfriend in England turned into a promotional opportunity as he packed his luggage with demo tapes. Handing them out at shows and sending them to influential London labels like Creation, Fiction, and 4AD, he fortuitously caught the attention of Melody Maker, leading to a pivotal call from 4AD upon his return to Boston.

Establishing the Band

At that time, Drop Nineteens had yet to perform live and were still in the early stages of formation. Kelley was the only member with previous experience in Boston’s punk and DIY scenes, treating the project as a side endeavor. Following the success of “Mayfield,” Ackell recognized the need for further exploration, both in expanding their sound and solidifying the band’s identity.

The Summer Session EP

A New Direction

After the initial success, the band decided to continue recording without Kelley, who was busy touring with another act. Hannah Yampolsky stepped in for the Summer Session EP, which was quickly penned but played in a languid fashion. The band focused on maintaining atmospheric moods while showcasing the dynamics they had developed in their earlier work.

Standout Tracks

Tracks like “Daymom” and “Song for J.J.” reveal a woozy synchronization between Yampolsky and Ackell, while “Back in Our Old Bed” attempts a lo-fi homage to My Bloody Valentine’s sensory overload. Roof’s aggressive drumming and Yasue’s guitar work create a sonic blizzard, culminating in the contemplative “Soapland,” where Yampolsky’s voice glides over a minimalistic Bo Diddley beat.

Conclusion

Drop Nineteens’ EP represents the raw energy and creative spirit of its time, encapsulated in a DIY aesthetic that resonates with fans of shoegaze and dream pop. The band’s unique blend of melodic intricacies and atmospheric soundscapes continues to captivate listeners, showcasing their evolution from a side project to a significant musical entity.

FAQs

What is the significance of the EP’s homemade quality?

The homemade quality adds an authentic charm and personal touch to the music, making the listening experience feel intimate and relatable.

Who are the key members of Drop Nineteens?

The key members include vocalist Paula Kelley, guitarist and lead singer Ackell, drummer Roof, and bassist Steve Zimmerman, with Hannah Yampolsky joining for the Summer Session EP.

What themes are explored in their music?

Their music often explores themes of dreams, nature, and emotional introspection, typical of the shoegaze genre.

How did Drop Nineteens gain attention in the UK music scene?

Drop Nineteens gained attention through a combination of strategic promotions by Ackell during a trip to England and the subsequent interest from influential labels like 4AD.

What can listeners expect from the Summer Session EP?

The Summer Session EP offers a more languid sound while maintaining the atmospheric qualities of their earlier work, showcasing the band’s evolution and experimentation with dynamics.