Patterson Hood has long regarded Drive-By Truckers as a political band, but as the pandemic disrupts the music industry, he now sees them as a “personal band.”
“It’s personal,” Hood states. “I’m without a job, stuck at home, unable to do what I love – which is performing live rock & roll. With no shows to play, our band has released two albums this year that we can’t tour behind.”
In 2020, Drive-By Truckers released not one, but two significant albums: the poignant “The Unraveling” in January and the essential “The New OK” in October. The latter features infectious tracks like the title song, “Tough To Let Go,” “Sea Island Lonely,” and “Watching The Orange Clouds.” Fans can purchase the album at drivebytruckers.com.
The band includes lead vocalist and guitarist Hood, co-founder and guitarist Mike Cooley, drummer Brad Morgan, multi-instrumentalist Jay Gonzalez, and bassist Matt Patton.
Recently, Hood, who hails from Muscle Shoals, connected from his home in Portland, Oregon. Here are some of the key points from their conversation.
Hood believes that the Truckers’ sustained vigor over 25 years comes from a commitment to challenge themselves and their audience, unlike many bands that grow complacent. Many fans don’t initially resonate with their music, often growing to appreciate it over time.
He remarked on how the band’s internal dynamics foster honesty and improvement, adding that their love for music binds them together. However, the current reality of the pandemic is challenging that fundamental connection.
