09/15/2026
It’s been nearly a year since we lost our precious friend Dylan Mackay. Many knew him as a sensational local drummer who, at one time or another, played for numerous local hardcore bands. Richly talented and extremely humble, Dylan’s peaceful presence has been missed so deeply this past year that it’s difficult to put into words.
Instead of focusing on our sadness, the awful manner of his death, or the painful prospect of further years without our friend, today I’m choosing to focus on the joy and laughter Dylan brought into my life and into the lives of everyone around him — anyone who took the time to truly know him. Appearing quiet and introverted at first, Dylan would reveal a hidden depth of character and sharp, vibrant creativity if you got him talking about something he was passionate about. Music, theatre, and community were among the things he valued most, always with passion and positivity. Never once did I hear Dylan speak an ill word about anyone. His kindness and dedication were unparalleled.
Today I’m choosing to remember:
Creating bizarre burger concoctions for “ The Buckingham Hardcore Burger of the Month” in the Vibes Test Kitchen.
Going to comedy shows where he showed his amusement by silently mock‑slapping his knee with a twinkle in his eyes — which made me laugh harder than all the comedians combined.
The energy and quiet brilliance he brought to the role of “Nurple” at Inter.Sect Fest.
Spending 11 hours in the emergency room after he face‑planted during the False Body set — a night that felt impossibly long at the time, but now, in retrospect, I’m thankful for every second of it. He didn’t complain once. He didn’t exaggerate his pain to the nurses. He just quietly waited his turn. These are only a few of the countless stories from the five years Dylan was in Vibes. I always thought he would go on to achieve greatness and tell the stories of Vibes as part of his early lore.
It’s now become the responsibility of all his friends and loved ones to carry his story, his laughter, and his commitment to art and music into the future.
Love always and forever — Mattie
