Richie Straub

Location (Philly Neighbourhood): Germantown

Hometown: Bayville, NY

Current Project(s)/Band(s): Darla and Steady Hands

Past Project(s)/Band(s): WC Lindsay and SHMNS

Instrument(s) you play: Drums

What else do you do in the Philly music scene? I work as a label manager for Drexel’s Mad Dragon Records and Phil Nicolo’s label, Phil’s Records. I also run the business operations of Darla’s production company, Darla Hood Productions.

Location of Photo(s): The Darla House and Wissahickon Park by Kitchen’s Lane

What do those location(s) mean to you?: Darla has been operating out of our house in Germantown for the past two years. Two of the rooms on the second floor act as our personal studio. It’s great to have such an accessible space to practice, record demos and jam out new ideas. Since moving to this area, I’ve found myself trying to make it to Wissahickon Park a couple times each month. It’s easy to forget that you’re still in Philadelphia when you get into the thick of the park. I love going there to clear my head and soak in the beauty of the area. 

Favourite Place in Philly: Wissahickon Park

Favourite Watering Hole/Coffee Spot: Dunkin 

Favourite Restaurant: Chubby’s

Favourite Pizza Spot: Zestos

Favourite Philly Venue: Bourbon and Branch

Recording Space: I couldn’t settle on one. Studio 4 and Miner Street Studio are both incredible studios

Favourite Philly Band(s):  Muscle Tough, Out of The Beard Space, Trap Rabbit, Three Man Cannon, Caracara and Museyroom

Best show you’ve seen in Philly: In recent memory, Andy Shauf at Boot and Saddle was absolutely breathtaking.

What are you listening to now: I’ve been getting nostalgic lately with Third Eye Blind and Manchester Orchestra and I always find myself listening to Sigur Rós in the winter. Other than that, I’ve been getting into Steely Dan lately. I don’t know how I’ve slept on Aja for so long, but it’s been a game changer.

If you could sum up in one sentence what Philly / Philly music scene means to you, what would it be? The Philly music scene is full of some of the most genuine and supportive people I’ve ever met; I couldn’t be more honored to be a part of it.

Life motto: Never settle

Random Fun Fact: I started playing drums seriously after a series of concussions prevented me from playing sports anymore. Ironically, playing drums was one of the few things that helped with my headaches.

Childhood Dream Job: Playing drums. I can’t complain!

Future plans: This year, Darla is going to be working towards finishing our next record. Both Darla and Steady Hands will be playing around. I’m just looking forward to playing as many shows as possible!