Doomed Confessionary: James, Austin & Patrick (Drune)

Drune is an American stoner/doom/sludge metal band with members based in Denver, Colorado and Portland, Oregon. They just released their new EP »Hornn« on September 30th, 2024.
»Hornn« is the second EP released since Drune’s breakout self-titled full-length album in 2021. Following »Drown«, »Hornn« is a similarly formatted EP of two songs, each weaving in and out of dynamic movements of doom and sludge metal, punctuated by moments of quiet pause.
In »Hornn«, Drune stays anchored in their unique brand of alternative metal, while exploring elements of punk and noise, including a further reach into the use of synths.
Drune are James Cook (guitar, vocals, synth), Austin Pacharz (bass) and Patrick Haga (drums, percussion).
Can you say a few words about your band?
We Love all the sludge – I think that, as we’ve grown more into our own sound, we’ve been more comfortable trying different stuff that may be weird or unusual for bands in our scene.
What was the biggest challenge for the band?
Working remotely since the pandemic. We don’t get to play the songs together live as a band or be in the same room while writing. It’s challenging to get things done quickly when you want to know if a part works or not. It was a rough transition, but we’ve found a really good rhythm now.
What can you be most proud of so far?
The last two EPs. They really capture the sound that we’ve been hearing all along. Just the whole DIY nature of the band working together to make it all happen. Regardless of our geographic limitations, we’re still able to create something meaningful and cathartic for ourselves.
What was your biggest regret?
Not being more adamant about touring when we had the momentum for it.
What was the best concert/tour so far and why?
Larimer Lounge 2019. Our official release show for our first EP (even though my (Patrick) car got broken into!)
What was the biggest surprise on the music scene for you?
The Denver/CO heavy scene is one of the best, if not the best, in the country. Look at all the rad heavy bands that are spawned here. Portland (where James lives) has another huge scene. Heavy music is in a really cool place right now!
What is currently in your heavy musical rotation?
Jesus Piece – self-titled EP
Urfaust – Empty Space Meditations
Sif – Aegis Of The Hollowed King
Oromet – self-titled
bilmuri – American Motor Sports
State Faults – Children Of The Moon
What was the best advice you’ve ever been given as a musician?
Quit looking at your feet
What are your guilty pleasures?
Uh weed! Gardening naked? (Lol)
Can you say something more about current music scene in your city/state?
Denver is getting back to its pre covid self and that’s super encouraging. I’m not sure what Portland needs (or what I (James) need) but it’s been hard to break into the community. Maybe there’s a need for more local spaces, definitely for more affordable practice spaces. There are good bands here and they’re generally nice people.
Where can we see you live this year (concerts/tours)?
You can’t! Not in 2024, maybe 2025?
What are your plans for the future as a band?
Keep making music – Even though we just released an EP, we’re all pretty stoked to get back to writing the next project. Take our time, have fun, keep at it until we feel like we’re ready to be done.
How can people best support your band?
Buy merch or downloads – it all goes towards making more music and being able to press stuff on vinyl. Hell, maybe one day soon it’ll pay for us to plan a trip and play together.
Do you have any message for your listeners?
Thank you! A lot of you have been very supportive and all those little messages mean a lot to us.
Links:
Website | Facebook | Instagram | Bandcamp | Spotify | YouTube
Bojan Bidovc // music enthusiast, promoter, misanthrop and sometimes a journalist as well

