Review Fix chats with singer/songwriter Drea Marilyn, who discusses her new album, “Sad Songs You Can Dance To.”
About Drea & The Marilyns:
Drea & The Marilyns release an introspective new album, “Sad Songs You Can Dance To,” out on July 13, 2023. Fronted by Seattle-based musician Drea Marilyn, the project was an opportunity to return to creating music between friends, resulting in an album that centers around grief, struggling with mental health, and the importance of play. It was a three-year project that struggled to find its footing throughout the pandemic and finally came together in the latter part of 2022. Recorded at Blue Flame Studio by Matt Clifford, Monroe, North of Seattle, it features the band’s quintessential layered vocals and a unique mix of jazz, ska, and indie pop, crafting a perfectly impressive representation of the musicians themselves.
Review Fix: What makes “Sad Songs You Can Dance To” special?
Drea Marilyn: This is the first recording project I’ve had where I had a good understanding of what I wanted and also a team of friends to help accomplish that.
Review Fix: How do you blend all these genres together?
Marilyn: I think what made it easy was everyone brought something unique to the table. Toni is a brilliant jazz vocalist and amazing violinist and pianist, Nate has solid roots in rock and roll, Omz is great at listening to what the bassline needs, Britton Bangs and Bryan Lash worked their magic on the drums, Christiana has a strong background in musical theatre and a keen ear for harmonies, and Bjorn knows my vocals pretty well and what they’re capable of doing.
Review Fix: How did Drea and the Marilyn’s get started?
Marilyn: Drea & the Marilyns was originally a band I started in Daejeon, South Korea with other expats from all over. When I moved to San Diego, then to Seattle, it kind of became my solo project but backed with my friends who are all amazing musicians.
Review Fix: What has the journey been like?
Marilyn: Long. Lots of disappointment, heartache, and despair, but lots of moments of joy and pride. Honestly, I try to take time to recognize the progress we’ve made and how far we’ve gotten.
Review Fix: Did COVID make the band stronger?
Marilyn: I really spent covid to work on my craft. We took the pandemic pretty seriously and didn’t socialize or rehearse much.
Review Fix: What are your goals for this album?
Marilyn: For people to listen to it and hopefully find a song they like.
Review Fix: What do you feel is the standout track on the album?
Marilyn: I thought it was going to be Paper Boats. I still think it’s a good stand out track. One that caught me by surprise that ended up being a standout track was Motions. Matt Clifford recorded extra guitar parts, Bjorn Watkins recorded my vocals, and Bryan Lash on drums. I’m also very partial towards the re-release of Sun & Moon. Phil Peterson on cello really tied the piece together.
Review Fix: How do you want your work to affect people?
Marilyn: I hope my songs are relatable. I hope that all the hard feelings that come around anxiety and regret are portrayed. Sometimes when I listen to other artists, there’s a line that sticks out in their writing that I feel summarizes such a large feeling and I hope I have that effect on others.
Review Fix: Away from work work- what’s your favorite sad song to dance to?
Marilyn: If I Ever Feel Better by Phoenix.
Review Fix: Any fun plans for the rest of the year with it?
Marilyn: This year was turbulent and busy. I’m hoping to get settled in my new place. I scored a short film last year called David Se Va and I’m hoping to attend one of the premieres. I’d love to be able to spend time with friends & family
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