From the New Order-like drum intro, to the off-kilter Alice in Chains-inspired vocal harmonies, to the crushing HxC breakdown, Drugs Like Me is an ode to self-loathing that occupies a space between punk, post-hardcore, and alternative metal/grunge. Even if the title is a bit of a tongue-in-cheek double entendre, the lyrics are sober and relatable: When I’m in this toxic state, consume at your own risk.
Some bands form easily and naturally. PICKAXE is not one of them. Conceived against the backdrop of a global pandemic and forged through trial and error, false starts, and frustrations, the Washington DC female fronted four-piece melds years worth of loneliness, tragedy, addiction, political upheaval and lost love into a provocative and punishing Post–Hardcore soundscape influenced as much by the storied punk scene of the band’s hometown as by the grunge and metal that dominated rock radio airwaves during the members’ youths.
Headed by Emily Rainey’s manic pixie scream girl vocals, Mercy Killing, the band’s debut single, offers a scorching two-minute DCHC-style introduction to the band’s aesthetic; to the band’s forthcoming debut four-song EP, Provocateur; and to the blistering, sweat-soaked live shows that have been drawing a cult following in the DC music scene — including a 600-person benefit for aid for Palestine at the storied Black Cat and packed shows opening for the UK’s Lambrini Girls and JOHN, LA’s Kate Clover and DC heroes Loud Boyz.
Upcoming Shows:
9/27 – Washington DC – Simple Bar
10/11 – Boyds MD. – The Garage
10/30 – Washington DC – EP RELEASE – DC9
11/19 – Philadelphia – TBD
11/20 – Brooklyn – TBD
11/21 – New Windsor NY – OCNY Veterans Center
11-22 – York PA – Skid Row Garage
Thoughts Words Action 