One thing you learn from interviewing indie-rock bands is to expect
the unexpected. The Boston band The Beatings is no
exception.

Repeatedly compared to The Pixies, singer/guitarist Eldrige
Rodriguez understands why reviewers make this comparison.

“It’s the easiest reference point for people to use,” Rodriguez said.
“We’re just trying to do what we do.”

This 2-year-old alternative indie-rock band is comprised of Erin
Dalbec on bass and vocals, Tony Skalicky on guitar and Dennis
Grabowski on drums.

In regard to its name, Rodriguez said, “I don’t remember who
came up with it. It’s sort of poking fun at The Beatles.”

Rodriguez’s aversion to The Beatles stems from his
childhood.

“I personally hate The Beatles,” he said. “I didn’t grow up listening
to them.”

Along with Guided By Voices and Cudgel, Rodriguez cited such big
name influences as Lou Reed and Iggy Pop.

“Everyone in this band is a huge fan of them,” Rodriguez said.

Before a show, The Beatings has a fairly simple warm-up
routine.

“We do absolutely nothing really,” Rodriguez said. “Drink a couple
of beers and then plug in.”

Rodriguez had only kind words to say about Athens, while
remembering the last time The Beatings visited the Classic
City.

“Everybody has been really great to us in Athens,” he said.

Rodriguez mentioned Orlando, Fla., New York and Louisville, Ky.,
as other favorite cities to tour as he displays an uncommon zest
for touring.

“I dig it. You get to go around the country and meet people and do
what you do,” Rodriguez said. “It’s cool meeting people who listen
to your schmeg. I love America and all of its little cities.”

The Beatings can be seen driving from town to town in its big
green tour van aptly and lovingly named “The Hulk.”

Beaming like a proud parent, Rodriguez described the inside of
the van as being equipped with a TV, sleeping arrangements and
room for their equipment.

Regardless of what it may sound like, The Beatings are not an
angry band, Rodriguez said.

“We have no particular message or agenda. We just play music
that we like to hear,” he said.

When Rodriguez writes his music, he said he just writes what he
is thinking about at the time.

“I didn’t get an epiphany and drop to my knees. I just wanted to get
songs out of my head,” Rodriguez said.

Recently releasing an EP titled “6hz,” The Beatings have an album
coming out in February or March.