The Unconventional Journey of Dan Wriggins: From Maritime Jobs to Musical Creativity
Dan Wriggins’s career path is anything but conventional. Before establishing the alt-country ensemble Friendship, he spent time performing a variety of unusual roles. His early days included coiling ropes aboard a lobster boat off the coast of Maine, a physically demanding job that instilled a gritty work ethic. Later, Wriggins served as a groundskeeper for an opulent private estate near Philadelphia, a position that offered a stark contrast to his maritime experience. Today, as Friendship prepares to embark on a tour promoting their latest album, “Caveman Wakes Up,” Wriggins balances his musical pursuits with farm work, exemplifying a life rooted in diverse, hands-on experiences.
Balancing Agriculture and Artistic Expression
In a recent interview with The Post, Wriggins shared insights into his current farming endeavors, describing the flexibility it affords him. “This farm allows me to choose my workdays,” he explains. “I can inform my employer about the days I’ll be available and plan around my touring schedule accordingly.” This adaptable approach to work underscores his commitment to both his craft and his personal passions.
Inspiration Drawn from Everyday Life
The influence of Wriggins’s varied jobs is evident throughout “Caveman Wakes Up,” where the raw, textured songwriting reflects his real-world experiences. His lyrics often delve into mundane yet relatable scenes-pulling weeds, dealing with long DMV lines, or the quest for affordable cigarettes at a gas station. Songs like “Love Vape” and “Resident Evil” incorporate humor and vivid snapshots of daily life, creating a narrative that feels both authentic and humorous. Wriggins’s storytelling style invites listeners to laugh along, as if sharing a private joke.
Collaborations and Musical Evolution
Wriggins’s distinctive vocal style is complemented by a talented group of Philadelphia-based musicians, whose contributions add atmospheric keyboards and layered guitars. The band’s roots trace back to high school friendships in Yarmouth, Maine, where Wriggins first connected with drummer Michael Cormier-O’Leary and guitarist Peter Gill. The trio relocated to Philadelphia in 2015, eventually forming Friendship with bassist Jon Samuels, who completes the lineup.
Over time, the band has shifted from a primarily Wriggins-led project to a more democratic collective. “We’re embracing collaboration more than ever,” Wriggins notes. This shift has enriched their sound, evident in tracks like “Free Association,” driven by Samuels’s bass, or the dynamic guitar work on “Tree of Heaven.” The band’s collective input fosters a more nuanced and layered musical experience.
Studio Innovations and Live Adaptations
During the recording of “Caveman Wakes Up,” Friendship worked with renowned sound engineer Jeff Zeigler, known for his work with The War on Drugs. They experimented with adding orchestral elements such as flutes, violins, and clarinets to achieve a richer, more textured sound. However, Wriggins emphasizes that live performances often strip back these layers, focusing instead on raw energy. “In the studio, I prefer not to think about how it will sound live,” he explains. “Some parts will be interpreted differently or omitted altogether, allowing us to deliver a more straightforward rock experience on stage.”
The Band’s Evolving Dynamics and Side Projects
Wriggins describes Friendship as a “reverse supergroup,” highlighting how his bandmates have diversified into other musical projects. Guitarist Peter Gill leads 2nd Grade, a playful power-pop band that is opening for Friendship on this tour. Meanwhile, Cormier-O’Leary founded Dear Life Records in 2019, which has released acclaimed albums by bands like Florry and Fust this year. Bassist Jon Samuels is also active, touring extensively with MJ Lenderman, a prominent figure in the alt-country scene.
Despite these side ventures, Wriggins affirms that Friendship remains their “home base,” and he celebrates their collective growth. “It’s inspiring to see everyone pursue their passions,” he says. His dedication to crafting gritty, winding rock music continues unabated, with “Caveman Wakes Up” poised to resonate with audiences wherever they perform.
Looking Ahead: Touring and Future Projects
Wriggins remains committed to touring and sharing his music, even as he juggles multiple roles. “We’ll keep pushing forward,” he states, humorously noting that it requires meticulous planning-“lots of Google Calendar entries in advance.” As Friendship gears up for their upcoming shows, fans can expect a blend of raw emotion, storytelling, and energetic performances rooted in Wriggins’s rich life experiences.
Upcoming Show Details:
Date: July 16 at 9 p.m.
Venue: Comet Ping Pong, 5037 Connecticut Ave. NW
Tickets: $19.78
More info: cometpingpong.com