Drew Danburry is a person you’ve probably never heard of, even though he has played live music in almost every state and now calls Provo home.
Danburry has been independently releasing music and touring since 2002, but recently he took a few years away from the music scene. His music career took off in 2004 with the release of his first album, “An Introduction to Sex Rock.” Several albums followed, mostly self-released, which allowed Danburry to tour extensively.
“[Live shows are] vital,” Danburry said. “[They] improve and evolve music in the simple fashion that practice makes perfect.”
Although he loves making music and touring, Danburry grew frustrated with the industry and felt burnt out. After the release of two more albums in 2010, “Goodnight Dannii” and “Grad School Application,” he took a step back from music.
“I write all of my own songs, and I think it definitely presents a struggle, especially when your songs [sometimes aren’t] as good as the music-making juggernaut that is the music industry,” Danburry said. “It’s hard to compete with people who’ve spent their lives selling music to people and almost impossible to compete with [their] resources.”
With a wife and son, Danburry aimed to find another job he loved as much as music, and he was successful. He attended The Barber School in Midvale, where he was trained in 1950s barbering techniques. Then, in April 2011, he opened the Danburry Barber Shop.
“I love making customers happy by giving them a haircut they are excited about. I like being attentive to details, and I like being in control of my work environment,” Danburry said. “I [also] like not having a boss.”
However, Drew’s pull to music proved too strong, and he made his way back into the studio to record the album “Becoming Bastian Salazar,” which will be released Sept. 16.
“The new album essentially tells the story of how one person evolves from love to hate, hope to despair and altruism to egocentricity. So its tone and themes are constantly evolving,” Danburry said.
Each song on the album relies on an overarching story line and meaningful lyrics, both components sorely lacking in today’s mainstream music. That, combined with Danburry’s delightfully jubilant voice, allows the tracks to flow together seamlessly.
Having performed at Kilby Court in 2009 for the venue’s 10th anniversary, Danburry will return to the venue on Sept. 28 to play and to promote his new album.
“It was one of the biggest honors I could ask for. I love Kilby Court. It’s always been one of my favorite venues in Utah. I used to go there when I was in college just to hang out and see random bands play … it’s a very close environment. I’ve always loved that aspect about it,” Drew said when reflecting on his 2009 experience at Kilby Court.