text + photos by Jorge Perezchica
The Flusters returned to the stage on Wednesday, October 20th after a year and a half hiatus due to the pandemic. The quartet performed an intimate show for a group of friends and fans at Little Street Studio in Indio, CA. Changes to the band were subtle but evident, with new drummer Ethan Banas replacing Daniel Perry, who decided to pursue voice-over acting full-time. The latest Fluster music was loud, energetic and pulsating with a more rock-driven sound.
The retro/new wave band from Coachella Valley gained popularity in 2016 when they were added to the Coachella lineup. Later in 2016, The Flusters released their debut EP “Extended Play No. 1.” Building on momentum, The Flusters went on a National Tour in 2017. The band spent the next year playing shows and recording their debut LP, “Dreamsurf” released in 2019. The current iteration of the Flusters are: singer-guitarist Dougie VanSant, guitarist-vocalist Danny White, bassist-vocalist Mario Estrada and drummer Ethan Banas.
After their first show in the pandemic, Coachella Magazine reached out to lead singer and guitarist Dougie VanSant to talk about their new music and attitude.
Coachella Magazine: What’s it like to be on stage again?
Dougie VanSant: It’s extremely fulfilling to be taking the stage after a year and a half. We all felt that a part of us was missing that the stage gave us back.
CM: What can you tell us about your new drummer?
DVS: Our new drummer is Ethan Banas. He is from Joshua Tree and brings a flavorful and technical style that has really elevated our sound.
CM: How would you describe your new sound?
DVS: Our oldies but goodies will always remain but we have definitely been hitting on some other influences (rock, new wave, synth pop) that have been on the tip of our tongue for some time now. 2022 will be all new from music to attitude to look.
CM: You seemed more confident and comfortable on stage than before.
DVS: I felt extremely comfortable and in my skin
CM: Was that also from playing gigs with Meagan Van Dyke?
DVS: Meg and I have gig’d a ton over the past year and a half. Virtual shows and all. It’s definitely improved my singing and made me a more confident performer.
WEB: TheFlusters.com