Bands with a message are a rarity, especially if that message doesn't involve twerking or getting faded. The five guys in Rehab are instead spreading the word on a topic we can all relate to in some way: sobriety. Whether you have dealt with addiction or know someone who has, you know how important it is to have something to hold onto during the tough times. And for many, it's Rehab's music that keeps them afloat.
Known for its twisted mix of hip-hop and Southern rock, Rehab has earned a massive following. But the band recently decided to put a wrap on its journey. That doesn't mean writing music is over. While this will be their final tour, vocalists Danny Boone and Demun Jones are releasing solo records shortly. In the meantime, they're still at home on the road. Before they play Lake Worth for the third time this Friday, we spoke with Jones about how they found their unique sound, what they think of Lake Worth, and how they're working to make this last tour the best ever.
New Times: Sobriety is a big part of why Rehab happened. What is the main message of the band?
Demun Jones: Everyone isn't sober, but a lot of the music is based on stuff that is connected to addiction and substance abuse because most of us have dealt with it personally or with our families, and most other people have as well. It really relates to people when we stay 'round those topics.
How do you think growing up down South has influenced your sound?
We grew up around Southern rock 'n' roll and country, but also our parents listened to Motown and Michael Jackson, so we were kind of influenced by all kinds of things. And then when hip-hop came out, it made us want to go and create our own music.
Why this is going to be your last tour?
Danny and myself had been touring for over a decade. We have been doing the same thing, and creatively, it is kind of limiting. We are just to the point where we want to do some new things, so we felt it was best to let the Rehab thing breathe; people can listen to it all they want. We have some solo albums coming out in June, and that's where our focus is now.
You have been on the road so long -- what are some things that you are making sure to do on this tour since it's your last chance?
We have been doing a meet and greet at every show where we high-five and hug everyone and tell them to their face how much we appreciate them.
What kind of support have you been getting from fans during this last tour?
We have been playing seven days a week since February, and we have done some of the best shows we ever done. People are coming out weeknights; they are still coming out and supporting us. We got a lot of support and a lot of support for the new solo albums albums. People have already been preordering them. It's looking very promising.
What do you want people to know who haven't seen you live before? Why should they come out to this last show?
The show has something for everyone. It's high-energy, but there are some laid-back parts of it, and if you are a fan of live music, I would think you want to put a Rehab show in your collection. I have been a lover of music since I was a child, and I have been a fan of our show. We don't pay in big arenas, but I think out musicianship and energy level is on the same level.
Stoked to come back to Lake Worth?
This will be our third time playing Propaganda. We have always had a great time, and the local bands are awesome. The fans always show up early and stay late.
Rehab plays at Propaganda in Lake Worth on Friday, April 25, along with local support from Mykal Morrison, Red Burn Music, Web Three and FLA First, Last, Always. Tickets cost $12 in advance, $15 at the door. Demun Jones and Danny Boone will be releasing solo albums, available for preorder on iTunes starting April 29.
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