The story of Droog is one of friendship and perseverance. The word droog itself comes from the made up Nadsat language in Anthony Bugesses’ A Clockwork Orange meaning “friend.” What better way to describe the trio of friends Andrei Osyka, Brett Griffin and Justin Sloe who have been building a steady repore in the industry since their beginnings eight years ago. All from different corners of the world, they met through dance music forums online and eventually began to play together. After some encouragement from a friend (and daytime movie producer), the boys kicked off their mission to take over the town.
Based out of L.A., the group first started gaining recognition for their respected weekly at the world-famous Avalon Hollywood. The party was legendary for hosting some of the biggest international house and techno talents. From 2007 to 2011, Droog had held down a residency at Avalon rooting themselves as a trusted source for truly innovative underground music.
In 2009 the gifted triplet journeyed into a different realm of the music industry by launching the label, Culprit, hosting and array of music from friends, seasoned veterans, and of course, themselves. “The idea is to have a balance between the truly local, homegrown — not necessarily indigenous to L.A., but people who are based in L.A.,” says Droog’s Andrei Osyka, “and people who come from outside of L.A. but have a special affection and connection to the vibe that is happening right now in L.A.”
Currently, you can find the collective producing original and remixed material for revered labels like Crosstown Rebels, Noir Music and Get Physical. Go in stores or online to grab your tickets to see techno mainstays Droog perform at this year’s Sun City Music Festival.
