Austin-founded indie rock band Those Who Dig have had a career that spans over 30 years; the band came to fruition in the Live Music Capital of the World in 1991 when all the members were college students at the University of Texas. From 1991 – 1993, the band made a name for themselves, experiencing immediate success locally and as a touring act, releasing EP’s “For Those Who Dig Those Who Dig” and “Mitochondria” in 1991 and 1993 respectively, and LP’s “Trouser Gallery” and “Those Who Dig released in 1992 and 1993. Having received acclaim from the likes of The Austin Chronicle, while playing 92 gigs over a 20-month span, they were fielding record contract offers when they decided to take a hiatus to pursue other careers.
While the band dispersed across the country, they never disbanded. Over the next three decades, Those Who Dig would occasionally come together to create music, however, it wasn’t until the COVID-19 pandemic when the various members took the time to slow down, reconnect and rediscover their love of making music together. Now the old friends and collaborators are ready to reintroduce themselves to the Austin music scene with their new full-length album, Begin Again, slated to be released spring 2024.
Those Who Dig create indie rock music with an eclectic twist, using elements of folk, disco, soul and guitar pop. A compelling and unique element the band employs is the fact that there are four distinct songwriters and vocalists, each contributing their voice to the band’s collective sound. The new album explores themes of renewal, wisdom, hope, and invokes a compassionate understanding that life isn’t straightforward and our time on this planet is limited.
Today Glide is offering an exclusive premiere of the band’s first single to be released from the new record on November 3rd. “Life Is What You Make It” reflects the album’s overall juxtaposition that life is challenging, yet exciting and brimming with opportunity. Musically, the song brings together energetic synths, big power chords, and a group chorus that immediately signals this fun anthemic tune is here to rock you. With lead vocals that bring to mind R.E.M.’s Michael Stipe, the band gives us the kind of tune that feels like a rallying call while also being bouncy and danceable. It’s also proof that, though three decades may have passed, Those Who Dig have continued to harness a sound that feels fresh, vital, and in the moment.
Rod Sherwood (vocals, guitar, synth, songwriter) describes the inspiration behind the tune:
“I was trying to write something simple and the phrase ‘life is what you make it’ popped in my head. Found out later from my sister that this is something my grandfather Popeye used to say. Which makes sense because I’ve always had a sneaky suspicion dead relatives are sending me songs.”
Matthew Hart (vocals, guitar, piano, mandolin, songwriter) offers his own thoughts:
“Life Is What You Make It” perfectly captures the contrasting lighthearted and serious energies of the band.
LISTEN:
One Response
OMG. … This … Brings me back 30 years, all the feels from all those TWD shows. The sound may have changed a little, but the vibe is the same. Makes me feel as good as it did 30 years ago. I want the album now, please and thank you.