The Drones (Australian band)

The Drones were an Australian rock band, formed in Perth in 1997 by Gareth Liddiard, Rui Pereira, and James McCann. The band was known for its intense, sprawling live performances and its unique blend of blues, punk, and garage rock influences, often infused with elements of Australian gothic.

Originally named "The Dronesmen," the band relocated to Melbourne in the early 2000s, where they honed their distinctive sound and gained a dedicated following. The core lineup consisted of Gareth Liddiard (vocals, guitar, piano), Fiona Kitschin (bass, vocals), and Dan Luscombe (guitar, vocals). Over the years, the band's drumming position saw several changes.

The Drones released six studio albums: Here Come the Lies (2002), Wait Long by the River and the Bodies of Your Enemies Will Float By (2005), Gala Mill (2006), Havilah (2008), I See Seaweed (2013), and Feelin Kinda Free (2016). Their critically acclaimed album Wait Long by the River and the Bodies of Your Enemies Will Float By is widely considered a landmark Australian album and helped solidify their reputation for raw, confrontational songwriting.

Lyrically, The Drones explored themes of Australian identity, history, and social issues, often presented through narratives filled with dark humor and a distinctive Australian vernacular. Liddiard's songwriting style was notable for its complexity and literary allusions.

The Drones received numerous accolades throughout their career, including several Australian Independent Record (AIR) Awards and nominations for the Australian Music Prize. They toured extensively both in Australia and internationally.

The band effectively dissolved in 2016, with members pursuing various solo projects and collaborations. While the band is no longer actively performing, their music continues to be influential and respected within the Australian music scene.