What happens when the raw energy of Black Flag collides with the timeless spirit of Bill Monroe? That’s exactly the question Water Tower has been answering since 2005.
Founded in Portland and now thriving in Los Angeles, the band has built a reputation for their fearless DIY approach and genre-bending sound that seamlessly blends bluegrass, old-time, and punk rock. In this episode, Kenny Feinstein (lead vocals, guitar, fiddle, mandolin) and Tommy Drinkard (banjo, vocals) share how their unique musical DNA fuses tradition with rebellion, the impact of their move from Portland to LA, and how the band has evolved through different lineups and stages.
They also reflect on their collaborations with icons like Ron Reyes of Black Flag and Nick Hexum of 311, their journey from street performances to viral videos, and what it’s like adapting their sound for radically different crowds—from the Vans Warped Tour to the Telluride Bluegrass Festival. Along the way, they reveal the passion and persistence that continue to drive Water Tower as they carve out their own path in modern music.
If you love music that breaks rules while honoring its roots, this conversation is for you.
