Northern California natives Dredg are one step away from becoming the next big thing. Critics have compared Dredg to Pink Floyd, Tool and even Brit-rockers Radiohead. Their music slides gracefully between hard rock, ethereal and emo. Dredg uses a variety of influences and instruments (slide guitars, horns and strings) to create their sound.

Dredge signed with Interscope Records earlier this year and are in the midst of releasing a new album entitled El Cielo. Their debut album, Leitmotif, uses heavier guitars and experimental noise, while El Cielo is more melodic and soft. Lyrically, both albums seem influenced by spirituality and philosophy. Vocalist Gavin Hayes explained that no one in the band has any great religious influences and create their music through improvisation. “Members of the band branch off from each individual idea.” said Guitarist Drew Violette.

On Sept. 11 at The Boardwalk, Dredg played to a modest but admiring crowd. On stage, band members often improvised and kept the energy flowing with waves of varying sound styles. Slide guitar and trumpet helped to create their eclectic sound. Props such as trees, clocks, paintings and teddy bears help to set the mood.

More on the band can be found at www.dredg.com. In addition to tour and album information, Dredg also presents paintings and artwork by the band members.