DITCH!, a rising local band consisting of frontman Joey McNair, bassist Tobi, and drummer Bailey, has just released their debut album Right Now.
When it came to naming their debut album, DITCH! found the perfect title in an unexpected moment of clarity. "I was with one of my dad's old buddies," said Joey, one of the band's members. "He's part of the 'Council of Uncles.' They're the guys I go to when I need advice."
In this conversation, Joey asked for suggestions for the album name, and his friend's answer was simple yet impactful: "Right now." Joey elaborates, “It kind of stopped me. And he said, ‘What am I missing?’ And I said nothing. That was it — "right now". "Ditch - Right Now"."
Album artwork and the hidden symbolism
The album's cover also holds deep meaning for DITCH!. The band’s name is represented by hydro poles, designed by Bailey’s girlfriend, Taylor. "She had this crazy ‘aha’ moment around 1:00 AM," Bailey recalls. “She was like, ‘Wait, what if we do this?’ And that was it.”
The album artwork incorporates a small metal horse statue, which holds significance for the band. “It’s our totem,” Bailey explains. “It’s a significant piece for us.” Taylor, who is also the artist behind the album cover, traces the horse to add a personal touch to the design.
The power of music and the band’s creative drive
For DITCH!, music is more than just a passion—it’s a way of life.
Tobi, the bassist, describes the act of writing music as a craving. "I write music because I want to listen to good music,” he says. “It’s like craving a nice meal. I cook food to enjoy it, and I write music to enjoy the sound."
For Bailey, finding his place in music was transformative. “Music has always been a little elusive for me, especially when it comes to playing it,” he admits. “When I found drums, it just clicked. It showed me my part to play in music.”
The band is also inspired by the idea that “music is how humans decorate time.”, a quote from lead singer Joey McNair.
DITCH! Live performance at Rocks Bar and Grill
Ditch is gearing up for a show at Rocks Bar and Grill in Morden on June 27th, to promote their debut album Right Now. The music will begin at 9:00 PM, and while final poster details are still being worked out, the band encourages fans to arrive early.
"You’ve got pool tables, VLTs, and great food,” The band shares, highlighting the venue's features. “The tempura shrimp with pineapple curry dip rocks. It’s fire.”
Joey adds a bit of humor, offering $20 in VLT play to anyone who mentions hearing the band on the radio. “But you have to share the winnings with me,” he jokes.
Fans can look forward to a fun and exciting night of live music, food, and community.