Debut Album Takes Us To 'Denny Way'

There is something exciting about a band that isn’t afraid to let its music get a little messy. Seattle indie rock outfit Denny Way brings plenty of energy, personality, and unexpected turns to its self-titled debut EP released today. Across four original tracks, the band delivers a mix of alternative rock attitude, distorted guitars, creative rhythms, and powerful vocals. There is a familiar 90s rock influence running through the record, but Denny Way isn’t interested in simply revisiting the past. These songs have their own personality and plenty of life.

The band came together in a Seattle garage back in 2023. Apparently, their first attempts at original music were loud enough to attract some neighborhood complaints. That garage-band spirit remains an important part of their sound. Fronted by vocalist Ana Dratz, Denny Way features Michael Cross on guitar and vocals, Caroline Olivier on lead guitar, Manuel Reyes Gomez on drums, and Simran Pujji on bass. Their influences range from the punk energy of Green Day and Paramore to the indie rock swagger of Arctic Monkeys. The result is an energetic alternative rock sound that doesn’t sit comfortably in just one lane.

The EP opens with “Nosedive,” immediately grabbing attention with an interesting drum pattern from Manuel Reyes Gomez. It establishes a strong foundation before distorted guitars and Ana Dratz’s soaring vocals take over. There is a definite 90s alternative rock feel here, with a raw edge that gives the track plenty of character. Dratz delivers the vocals with conviction, adding an emotional intensity that matches the instrumentation. It’s an effective introduction to the band and sets expectations for the musical twists ahead.

“Anymore” takes things in a slightly different direction. A catchy groove provides the backbone while competing guitar sounds create an interesting tension throughout the track. The band plays with changes in tempo and style, keeping the listener engaged without losing the song’s momentum. There is a cool guitar solo that adds another layer of excitement. Dratz turns up the intensity as the song progresses, delivering a powerful vocal performance that helps push everything forward. It’s a strong example of how this group balances melody with a heavier alternative rock approach.

We get an intriguing change of pace with “Goodbye Sunshine”. It begins with an almost lullaby-like melody, giving the listener a moment to settle in before the arrangement takes an unexpected turn. The guitars shift into a funkier rock groove, supported by inventive beats and rhythmic changes. Denny Way seems comfortable experimenting with different sounds and approaches. That willingness to keep listeners guessing gives the song its appeal. It also makes you wonder how much fun these guys must be to see on a stage. There is a loose, energetic quality to the performance that feels perfectly suited for a live setting.

The self-titled “Denny Way” closes the EP with a full-bodied display of the band’s musical chemistry. Swirling guitars create a wall of sound, while the rhythm section keeps everything moving underneath. Dratz delivers another emotionally charged vocal performance, bringing the various elements together with plenty of energy. The production allows the instrumentation to fill the speakers, with sounds coming from different directions and giving the track a particularly immersive feel. It’s a fitting closer that leaves a strong impression of what this band can accomplish together.

The timing of this release is important to the band. Michael Cross, who wrote most of the songs, describes the EP as a reflection of a world at a tipping point. Its four tracks explore themes of self-reconciliation and finding a place to call home in an imperfect world. Caroline Olivier also deserves recognition for creating the hand-painted artwork. The EP was recorded at MKULTRA Studios in Puyallup, Washington, with Matt Kristiansen handling production, engineering, and mixing.

Denny Way is a promising introduction from a band with plenty of personality. The four songs offer enough variety to keep things interesting while maintaining a consistent alternative rock identity. Their willingness to experiment with different rhythms and arrangements is particularly refreshing.

The band celebrates the release with a November 8th show at Seattle’s Sunset Tavern. The performance will also benefit Mary’s Place, a nonprofit supporting families experiencing homelessness. It’s a fitting way to introduce this debut to their hometown community.

Artist: Denny Way
Album: Denny Way
Release Date: October 30, 2026
Genre: Indie Rock / Alternative Rock
Label: Independent