In a recent interview with the Irish Times, Glass Animals frontman Dave Bayley shared a harrowing account of the band’s history, specifically reflecting on drummer Joe Seaward’s near-death accident in 2018. The incident, which nearly ended the band, marked a pivotal moment for the group known for their hit song “Heat Waves.”
Bayley recounted the day he received the devastating news. After landing in London, he got a call from Seaward’s father, revealing that Joe had been struck by a lorry while riding his bike in Dublin. The accident left Seaward with severe injuries, including a broken leg and a complex skull fracture. The collision had thrown Seaward into the truck’s trailer, causing significant trauma.
The severity of Seaward’s condition became evident upon Bayley’s arrival in Dublin. Seaward’s neurosurgery involved reshaping part of his skull, which had collapsed and compressed into his brain due to the truck’s weight. He also required general anesthetic for his leg injuries. This grim reality forced the band to cancel the remainder of their tour dates for that year.
During the challenging period, Bayley spent weeks in Dublin’s Beaumont Hospital, often sleeping on waiting room benches and surviving on vending machine food while Seaward underwent treatment. It was during these long, anxious hours that Bayley began to conceptualize what would become Glass Animals’ 2020 album, “Dreamland.” Reflecting on the experience, Bayley noted how the extreme stress and adrenaline influenced the album’s themes and creation.
Bayley described the period as emotionally taxing, with adrenaline levels constantly high due to the uncertainty surrounding Seaward’s recovery. The ordeal pushed Bayley and the band to confront the possibility of continuing without their drummer. However, Seaward’s determination to recover and the band’s supportive dynamic played a crucial role in their comeback.
The recovery process was not just physical but also a testament to Seaward’s mental strength and resilience. Despite the severity of his injuries, Seaward’s progress allowed the band to resume their musical journey, culminating in the release of “Dreamland.” The album, deeply rooted in the traumatic experience, showcases the band’s evolution and Seaward’s triumphant return.
Glass Animals’ journey through this adversity highlights the bond between its members and their commitment to their music and each other. The band’s ability to channel their experiences into their art has not only marked a significant chapter in their career but also resonated deeply with their fans.
Seaward’s accident and subsequent recovery underscore the fragile nature of life and the strength required to overcome such dire circumstances. The band’s story is a testament to perseverance, creativity, and the enduring power of music to heal and inspire.