C.J. Pierce, guitarist of Drowning Pool, is reminding fans that the band’s resurgence isn’t his only creative outlet — he’s also expanding into side-projects and even considering solo work. While Drowning Pool is focused on new music, touring, and celebrating their legacy, Pierce is actively balancing band life with individual artistic pursuits.
Since reuniting with Ryan McCombs in 2023, Drowning Pool has released songs like “Revolution (The Final Amen)” — their first full track with McCombs in over a decade. Pierce says the band is working on a full-length record, aiming to finish several songs before upcoming tours and possibly roll into a 25th anniversary edition of their debut album Sinner.
At the same time, Pierce has taken on new roles outside of Drowning Pool. He’s collaborating on a side-project with his brother called As Above / So Below, honing songs at his home studio. He’s also helping local bands in Dallas — mixing, recording, producing. Teaching has become part of his rhythm too, stepping in to mentor students at a music school when he has breaks between shows.
Regarding the possibility of doing a solo album: Pierce remains open. While nothing is officially finalized, he has been writing ideas outside band settings — riffs, demos, concepts — that feel personal in a way band work sometimes can’t. Such ventures allow him to explore beyond the expectations of what fans anticipate from Drowning Pool.
Pierce also reflects on how the music business has shifted. He expresses both excitement and frustration: happy with the new freedom to release independently, yet aware how unfair and challenging the business side can be. Ownership of past records, masters, and control over creative output are recurring themes in what he says.
For longtime fans, this feels like a gift: new era Drowning Pool material plus opportunities to see more of Pierce’s authentic self — both in the band and beyond it.
