Dripht interviewed by Neville Borg in INSITE - November 2004 Issue
http://www.insite.org.mt/

"Dripht"

By Neville Borg

Arguably the most successful local band over the past year, Dripht are riding a wave of enthusiasm that has seen them gain a considerable fan base, and even press admiration. Their debut EP, the self-titled Dripht, sold out almost instantly and produced a highly successful single in Mark Barnsley.

Dripht formed in 1998 but have undergone various line-up changes – the latest being new guitarist El Flambó, who joined, Nick Morales (vocals), Mike Briguglio (drums) and Fre (bass), nearly a year ago. The name Dripht, which later became a moniker for Dub Reggae In Punky Hip-Hop Tempo (which is an apt description of their style), was originally invented by a friend for a band that never really formed.

The members of the band are each influenced by different types of music, ranging from Mike’s classic rock background, to Nick Morales’ liking of electronic music. However the two common influences within the band are The Clash and Rage Against the Machine. These inspirations are evident within Dripht’s music – Mark Barnsley’s punky, ska-tinged beat and guitar lines reminiscent of the former, and Continental Drift’s political theme evocative of the latter.

In fact, one of Dripht’s distinguishing factors in the local music scene is their willingness to pen overtly social and political lyrics. In a market full of clichéd, unadventurous pop-rock, this rebellious outlook provides a refreshing change. Having met each other by means of various NGOs such as Moviment Graffiti and MOVE, the political lyrics are a natural extension of their everyday lives. The band themselves, however, prefer to play down this facet of their music.

Mike: We write what we feel and believe in. Some people like writing love songs, while we like writing political songs. If it raises awareness, then that’s great, but we don’t want to preach to anyone.

Fre: The main aim is to have fun though. Good lyrics without good music and atmosphere is useless, so the music is always the main focus.

The success of Mark Barnsley, which reached #6 in the local charts, has helped raise awareness of the Englishman’s plight, but also made them a live favourite for many music fans. In fact, the success of their live performances has allowed them the luxury of turning down certain gigs – a luxury few Maltese bands can afford. Playing live, they claim, is a much more rewarding experience than recording in the studio.

El Flambó: When you play live you also have to play the part of an entertainer, not only a musician. It’s fantastic when the crowd reacts positively to the band because it means you’re being successful on both counts.

Dripht also lay lavish praise on their fellow Maltese bands, who finally seem to be undergoing some sort of revival. Concerts have been common this past summer, with many underground bands gaining in popularity and status.

Mike: There’s been a revival of underground music that hasn’t happened since the early 90’s when death metal exploded in Malta. People are finally realising that Maltese bands are very talented. Unfortunately, certain styles and events – the Eurovision, for example – are still given much more coverage.

Nick: Maltese bands find it difficult to establish themselves because of a lack of money and the ‘island’ mentality. It’s difficult for foreign bands to establish themselves too, so Maltese bands aren’t really any worse off. It’s just down to a lack of willingness and drive, really.

Fortunately, this drive is something Dripht seem to possess in spades. With plans to release a full length album next year, Dripht have a tough task in proving that they are not simply one trick ponies and are capable of creating a diverse, consistent album. Their potential certainly indicates that they may well become one of the most accomplished local bands.