Dr Danny

photos by Sophia Ragomo words by Jaycee Rockhold

Dr Danny - aka Danny Ayala - hasn’t had a quiet moment in a while. Besides touring with Sunflower Bean and previously playing as a part of the Lemon Twigs, he’s also released a full-length and EP with his own project. Ayala has been playing shows around the world - joined by Jonathan Ceballos, Andy Ballereau, and Thomas Murphy. The Long Island-born multi-instrumentalist talked with us about his next album, his sound, and the New York music scene.

How long has Dr Danny been around? How did you get to this point?

Our first show was June 20, 2017 at Pianos NYC, which means we are a little over two years old. Through vigorous rehearsal and extensive DIY tour planning we have quite the resume for a band who’s just starting out. We have three full tours (one being a UK tour) under our belts and two releases with our sophomore full length on the way.

Your music has an old-soul sound. Is this influenced by the music you grew up with / the music you listen to now?

My sound comes from a long phase of 60s and 70s pop/glam rock introduced to me by The Lemon Twigs. But it is also influenced by modern day bands and artists that I’m into such as Portugal.The Man, Oh Wonder, and Muse. This blend will be more apparent with my upcoming second full length record.

You have toured with a few different bands, do you find your music being influenced by being on tour?

There’s always a bursting scene of spreading new music to your band mates so there’s always a nice blend of ideas floating around.

While you’re on tour, how do you find time to work on your own music?

I bring a portable set up on tour these days. It’s extremely helpful in getting ideas out because you got all these long drives and flights to think about it. Technology is crazy!

Are you a part of any local music scene in NYC? If so, how would you describe it?

The indie rock/ pop rock scene in NYC isn’t what it used to be. There’s a lot of bands and not enough opportunities to separate yourself from the rest. Hoping for more events that aren’t just shows but showcases for bands to really have a moment to fully portray their full picture.

What are some of your favorite places to play in New York?

Baby’s All Right is the venue and has been for a long time. It’s the perfect venue for bands to put themselves out there. It’s the perfect milestone for a small up and coming band.

What are some places in New York that have contributed to your music career?

I’m actually born and raised on Long Island NY and I met all of my musical friends (now musical legends) on Long Island. There’s definitely something in the water over there.

Who are some of your favorite New York based bands? What other non New York-based bands have you been listening to?

Some bands that I’ve been into lately:

Fleet Foxes, (Seattle WA) Oh Wonder (London UK) Cigarettes After Sex (formed in El Paso TX)

Are you working on a new album? If so, how do you think your sound has progressed since the last album you released?

I just finished my second full length record and I am very confident and pleased with how it came out. It’s very to the point and sounds coherent and will be easily understood. Looking forward to its release.

Who plays in your live band? Are you looking to play more live shows later this year / next year?

Andy Ballereau on guitar and backing vox Thomas Murphy on bass and backing vox Jonny Ceballos on drums Danny Ayala keys and lead vox We have a show at Muchmores Brooklyn Oct. 11.

Sunflower Bean and The Lemon Twigs are the two best bands in NYC in my complete unbiased opinion.