The Driver Era has carved out a unique space in the music industry, blending nostalgic rock influences with contemporary pop sensibilities. Formed by brothers Ross and Rocky Lynch in 2018, the band has rapidly gained a devoted fanbase thanks to their eclectic sound and authentic lyrics. From their early beginnings to their latest releases, The Driver Era has consistently pushed musical boundaries while staying true to their artistic vision.
The Origins of The Driver Era
Before The Driver Era, Ross and Rocky Lynch were already familiar names in the entertainment industry. Ross Lynch had become a household name through his acting career, particularly with his role as Austin Moon on Disney Channel’s “Austin & Ally.” The brothers were also part of the pop-rock band R5, along with their siblings Riker, Rydel, and friend Ellington Ratliff. R5 enjoyed considerable success, particularly with younger audiences, and released several albums that highlighted their pop-rock sound.
However, as Ross and Rocky matured, so did their musical aspirations. They wanted to explore new sounds and themes that reflected their growth as artists. This led to the formation of The Driver Era in 2018, a project that allowed them to experiment with different genres and delve into more personal and mature subject matter. The name “The Driver Era” itself symbolizes a journey, one that isn’t confined by the traditional boundaries of genre or style. It’s a name that reflects movement, exploration, and a commitment to evolving as artists.
Album Reviews
X (2019)
The Driver Era’s debut album, X, was a bold introduction to their new sound. Released in 2019, the album is a fusion of synth-pop, funk, and rock, showcasing the versatility of Ross and Rocky Lynch. The album’s lead singles, “Feel You Now” and “Low,” set the tone for what fans could expect—catchy melodies layered over introspective lyrics, with a production style that blends organic instruments with electronic elements.
X is a journey through the complexities of love and self-discovery. Tracks like “Scared of Heights” and “Welcome to the End of Your Life” explore themes of vulnerability and existentialism, wrapped in infectious rhythms and smooth vocals. The album was met with critical acclaim, with many praising its refreshing take on pop-rock and the duo’s ability to craft songs that resonate on both a personal and universal level.
Girlfriend (2021)
In 2021, The Driver Era released their sophomore album, Girlfriend. This album marked a significant evolution in their sound, with a more polished and mature approach to songwriting. The title track, “Girlfriend,” is a dreamy, retro-inspired love song that captures the essence of fleeting romance. It’s a song that feels like a warm embrace, with its lush production and heartfelt lyrics.
Other standout tracks on the album include “#1 Fan” and “Fade,” which highlight the duo’s ability to blend upbeat anthems with introspective ballads. Girlfriend explores the complexities of love and relationships, delving into the highs and lows that come with it. The album received widespread praise for its cohesive sound and the Lynch brothers’ growth as musicians. It’s an album that feels like a conversation between old friends, familiar yet always revealing something new.
Summer Mixtape (2022)
Released in 2022, Summer Mixtape is a collection of tracks that perfectly capture the essence of summer. The album is filled with vibrant, sun-soaked tunes that range from the energetic “Malibu” to the laid-back “Turn the World.” This album is a celebration of life, love, and the joy of music. With its catchy hooks and feel-good vibes, Summer Mixtape became the soundtrack to many fans’ summer, solidifying The Driver Era’s place in the contemporary music scene.
The album showcases the band’s ability to create music that’s both timeless and of-the-moment. It’s an album that feels like a road trip with friends, windows down, and the music turned up. Each track offers something different, yet the album as a whole feels cohesive and intentional. It’s a testament to the duo’s skill as songwriters and their ability to create music that resonates with listeners across generations.
Get Off My Phone (2024)
The Driver Era’s most recent single, “Get Off My Phone,” released in February 2024, marks another step in their musical journey. This groovy, funky track takes listeners on a ride through the emotional aftermath of a breakup in the digital age. Stylistically, “Get Off My Phone” is a departure from their previous single, “Rumors,” which was released in 2023. While “Rumors” was influenced by the upbeat, synth-driven sounds of 80s pop, “Get Off My Phone” ventures into the realm of distorted 80s-90s pop-rock with a modern electronic twist.
Lyrically, “Get Off My Phone” explores the pain of trying to move on from a relationship while being constantly reminded of it through digital memories. The song’s protagonist is caught in a cycle of attempting to let go, only to be pulled back in by social media reminders of their past relationship. Ross and Rocky Lynch have crafted a song that perfectly encapsulates the emotional rollercoaster of modern-day breakups.
The verses, with their light guitar strums, reflect the facade of being “totally okay” after a breakup—a sentiment many can relate to. But the chorus, delivered through a megaphone-like effect, amplifies the underlying frustration and hurt. The lyrics, “Moved out of the Hollywood Hills / Where we fell in love damn, I feel it still,” evoke the lingering pain of places and memories that once brought joy but now serve as painful reminders.
“Get Off My Phone” is a testament to the complexities of 21st-century dating. It’s a song about setting boundaries, about the difficulty of truly moving on when digital traces of a past relationship are just a scroll away. The track’s bittersweet tone is balanced by its catchy melody, making it a song that listeners can both relate to and enjoy, regardless of their relationship status.
Upcoming Live Shows
The Driver Era’s live performances are known for their electrifying energy and emotional depth. As they embark on their upcoming tour, fans around the world are eager to experience their music in a live setting. Here’s a list of their upcoming shows:
- Thu, AUG 29 – Los Angeles, CA
- Sat, SEP 14 – LAV – Lisboa Ao Vivo, Lisboa, Portugal
- Mon, SEP 16 – Sala Riviera, Madrid, Spain
- Tue, SEP 17 – Sala Riviera, Madrid, Spain
- Wed, SEP 18 – Razzmatazz 1, Barcelona, Spain
- Fri, SEP 20 – Le Bikini, Ramonville-st-agne, France
- Sun, SEP 22 – Transbordeur, Villeurbanne, France
- Wed, SEP 25 – Eventim Apollo, London, United Kingdom
- Thu, SEP 26 – O2 Academy Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
- Sat, SEP 28 – Bristol Beacon, Bristol, United Kingdom
- Tue, OCT 1 – O2 Academy Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- Wed, OCT 2 – O2 Apollo Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
- Thu, OCT 3 – O2 City Hall Newcastle, Newcastle Upon Tyne, United Kingdom
- Sun, OCT 6 – La Madeleine, Brussels, Belgium
- Mon, OCT 7 – L’Olympia, Paris, France
- Tue, OCT 8 – AFAS Live, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Thu, OCT 10 – Astra Kulturhaus, Berlin, Germany
- Sat, OCT 12 – Batschkapp, Frankfurt Am Main, Germany
- Sun, OCT 13 – E-Werk, Cologne, Germany
- Tue, OCT 15 – Rockhal, Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxembourg
- Thu, OCT 17 – Fabrique, Milan, Italy
- Fri, OCT 18 – TONHALLE, Munich, Germany
- Sun, OCT 20 – SaSaZu, Prague, Czech Republic
- Tue, OCT 22 – Klub Stodoła, Warszawa, Poland
- Fri, OCT 25 – Falkoner Salen, Frederiksberg, Denmark
- Sat, OCT 26 – Fryshuset Arenan, Stockholm, Sweden
- Sun, OCT 27 – Sentrum Scene, Oslo, Norway
These shows promise to be unforgettable experiences, filled with the energy, passion, and musical excellence that The Driver Era is known for. Fans can expect a mix of old favorites and new tracks, including “Get Off My Phone,” performed with the intensity and emotion that only Ross and Rocky Lynch can deliver.
Get Ready For One Hell of a Ride
The Driver Era’s journey is one of growth, evolution, and relentless creativity. From their early days with R5 to their current status as pioneers of modern rock-pop, Ross and Rocky Lynch have proven that they are here to stay. With each album and single, they continue to push the boundaries of their sound, creating music that resonates on a deep emotional level while also being incredibly fun to listen to.
As they prepare for their upcoming tour, fans have much to look forward to—whether it’s hearing their favorite songs live, discovering new tracks, or simply witnessing the magic that The Driver Era brings to the stage. Their latest release, “Get Off My Phone,” is a testament to their ability to capture the zeitgeist of the modern era while staying true to their roots. As they continue to evolve, one thing is certain: The Driver Era’s music will keep driving forward, taking us all along for the ride.
