Get ready to dive into the world of Drowning Pool's guitarist, C.J. Pierce, as he spills the beans on his musical ventures! In a revealing interview, Pierce discusses the potential release of a solo album and his passion for exploring side projects.
But first, let's talk about the elephant in the room: Drowning Pool's massive success. The band has been making waves since the release of their iconic album 'Sinner' in 2001, with the hit single 'Bodies' becoming a cultural phenomenon. And after a 13-year gap, they reunited with singer Ryan McCombs for the powerful track 'Revolution (The Final Amen)' in 2024. With their 25th anniversary approaching, the band is gearing up for a tour and a brand-new EP in 2026, marking a significant milestone in their career.
Now, back to C.J. Pierce's solo aspirations. He admits that while his focus is currently on Drowning Pool, he hasn't ruled out the idea of a solo album. But here's where it gets interesting: he has a side project called AS ABOVE / SO BELOW with his brother, Jacob, which they started back in 2012. They've even completed a full-length record! However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the project was put on hold. And now, with Drowning Pool's busy schedule, it remains on the back burner. But Pierce hints at a possible revival, saying, 'I would love to put that out... I just don't have that kind of time at all right now.'
And that's not all! Pierce also collaborates with his wife on a project called ELECTRIC VELVET, covering a range of songs, including A PERFECT CIRCLE and TOOL. They even have original material ready to be released, showcasing his wife's unique vocals. But with Drowning Pool's upcoming tour and EP, it seems these side projects will have to wait.
So, what do you think? Should C.J. Pierce prioritize his solo endeavors or continue to focus on Drowning Pool's success? Is it possible to balance both? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and let's discuss the challenges and opportunities for musicians in today's industry.