Drinking Boys and Girls Choir (DBGC), the unapologetically fierce punk trio from Daegu, South Korea, have carved a niche for themselves by staying true to their roots. Comprising MJ on drums, Meena on bass, and Megan on guitar, DBGC’s sound is a raw homage to Daegu’s 90s-00s hardcore punk and indie-rock scene. Unlike many bands that gravitate towards the Seoul spotlight, DBGC are committed to nurturing their local scene.
The band's story took a dramatic turn in 2017 when MJ’s severe motorbike accident forced a hiatus. Yet, their comeback was nothing short of triumphant. In 2019, they self-produced their debut album "Keep Drinking," under the Damnably/Electric Muse label, showcasing a blistering 18-track testament to their resilience. Their energetic, unfiltered performances at SXSW, The Great Escape, and the Busan International Rock Festival, along with UK tours supporting Otoboke Beaver and Say Sue Me, cemented their reputation as a live powerhouse. Just before the pandemic shuttered the world, DBGC toured Europe with Otoboke Beaver, seizing the opportunity to record new material and engage in virtual festivals.
Their sophomore effort, "Marriage License," dropped in 2021 to critical acclaim. Earning spots on best-of lists from Spin, Paste, and MTV, and receiving spins on KEXP and CBC, the album serves as a bold rallying cry for LGBTQ+ rights in their conservative hometown. Their performance at the 15th Daegu Queer Culture Festival, under the protection of 1,500 police officers against homophobic protesters, highlighted their activism against societal injustices, including the infamous Nth Room case.
2023 saw DBGC back on the road with Otoboke Beaver for UK and Ireland shows, and again for their 2024 North American tour. A live session at KEXP in Seattle, following a 2021 at-home session, further solidified their standing. Their latest single, "History," teases a much-anticipated third album, set for release later this year.
Drinking Boys and Girls Choir's journey is one of defiance and dedication. They are more than a punk band; they are the relentless heartbeat of Daegu’s punk scene, unwavering in their mission to amplify local voices and global issues alike. Their forthcoming album promises to be another compelling chapter in their already impactful narrative.
10.29 Washington, D.C. Songbyrd Music House
10.30 Philadelphia, PA Johnny Brenda's
10.31 Boston, MA Middle East Club (Upstairs)
11.02 New York, NYC Mercury Lounge
11.05 Toronto, ON Velvet Underground
11.07 Chicago, IL Empty Bottle
11.09 Denver, CO Lost Lake
11.12 Los Angeles, CA The Echo
11.13 San Francisco, CA Rickshaw Stop
11.16 Portland, OR Mission Theater
11.17 Seattle, WA Madame Lou's
DBGC also play two shows with label-mates Otoboke Beaver this July
07.03 London, UK - Electric Ballroom
07.04 Amsterdam, NL - Paradiso