Exploding onto the stage with all the energy, intensity, and character you would expect from a unit of such perceivable passion and spirit; Hayley and the Crushers made their Nashville debut at Drkmttr on Thursday. Rocking a leopard print catsuit, Hayley radiated frontwoman brilliance while the Crushers had their signature looks such as a muscle tank and well-worn cowboy boots. Their DIY look and process sometimes contrast with their perceivably more commercial sounds, but it gives an unexpected charm and wit of a caliber not often heard. As they rocked and rolled through an exhilarating set of original music it was clear that the “Crusherverse” was not taking any prisoners and had no signs of stopping. Their lyrics can best be described as relatable, enjoyable, and fun, ranging from their enjoyment of after-hours activities to relationships. Performing with the intensity of an arena show and the dedication of veteran punks, Nashville was thoroughly welcomed to and engaged by the hard-hitting unit. Not one dull moment in a set pushing 45 minutes to an hour, a less than lively crowd was quickly excited with only a few songs and one-liners from the small stage.
The Crushers are a self-described “poolside glitter trash” and a “turbo-charged, glitter-bombed tsunami of bold, bad girl power” kind of band. They don’t want to pick a single sound or genre. They make no secret that they want their music to get played on the radio. In many ways, they are a group that is not afraid to push back against what you would expect of them and it is that authenticity that makes them great. Is there anything more rock n roll than a band that says "we’re doing things our way and couldn’t care less what you think?” Their EP "Unsubscribe From the Underground" released on September 10th of this year, has an interesting story on how it was made that I had the pleasure of hearing straight from the Crushers themselves. Hayley, on the recording process, “We did all the vocals in California while moving to Detroit” and the rest of the instruments were recorded in their new home, Detroit. Affectionately known by the band as “The Continental,” the location of their studio is, in actuality, a Detroit basement like nearly any other (except the other ones don’t rock this hard). After “bouncing tracks back and forth for like 6 months” they had their EP.
Music isn’t just a hobby or a passion for the Crushers and they were all speedy to make that clear. “Music keeps me sane” and they’re “forced to create.” If you’re considering catching a show or binge-streaming this act, you absolutely should. The Crushers want you to come and to “dance like no one is watching” you. Using genres like “hot sauces… some of all of them” any music lover would more than appreciate a deep deep dive into Hayley and the Crushers. They have character, charm, class for days, and almost certainly hits on the way. Are you ready for the Crusherverse Nashville? Because it’s ready for you!
-Harrison Eason
Photos Courtesy of Patrick Phongsa (For Bell Music Magazine)
