SHAPER Releases “Wrong Star” from New Hope’s Psych Noise Rock Scene
New Hope, Pennsylvania-based trio Shaper is making waves in the music scene with their debut single, “Wrong Star.” Comprised of songwriter and vocalist Yuri Gohen, bassist RJ Gilligan, and drummer Tony Dunst, the band is carving out a unique space for themselves in the noise and psych rock genre.
The origins of Shaper can be traced back to the dissolution of Meddlesome Bells, a long-standing psych rock project in which Gohen was involved. After taking a hiatus, Gohen found himself returning to his musical roots influenced by punk, hardcore, and noise rock. This reconnection with his early musical influences laid the foundation for the birth of Shaper in 2023.
The band’s first single, “Wrong Star,” serves as a manifesto for their sound. Originally written by Gohen on a slide guitar in open D with a folk orientation, the track underwent a transformation to fit Shaper’s industrial, jagged, and emotionally raw aesthetic. Drawing inspiration from bands like Fugazi and Melvins, Gohen describes Shaper’s sound as a blend of the two iconic groups.
Beyond the musicality, “Wrong Star” delves into deeper themes inspired by Maurice Sendak’s “We’re All in the Dumps with Jack and Guy.” Gohen draws parallels between the book’s narrative of anthropomorphic rats running an orphanage to the current socio-political landscape in America. The track serves as a commentary on society’s reliance on technology and the need for more substantial solutions.
Recorded, mixed, and mastered by Heavy Ritual and Coda Live Sound, “Wrong Star” encapsulates Shaper’s penchant for layered, rhythmically off-kilter heaviness. The visual art accompanying the release, created by Gohen under his woodworking persona, Gohen Woodworks, adds another dimension to the band’s creative expression.
Musically, Shaper’s eclectic influences range from Neil Young to African guitar legends Mdou Moctar and Ali Farka Touré. Gohen’s background as a professional woodworker is reflected in the band’s name, derived from his experience working with industrial machinery in his shop. This fusion of craftsmanship and musicality shapes Shaper’s distinct approach to their craft.
As Shaper looks towards the future, they aim to establish a presence in the regional underground scene while exploring new sonic territories. With plans for a series of singles leading up to their debut full-length album, the band is focused on honing their sound and engaging with audiences through their dynamic live performances.
Shaper’s dedication to their craft and passion for experimentation sets them apart in the vibrant music scene of New Hope, Pennsylvania, and beyond. With “Wrong Star” as a launching point, the band is poised to make a significant impact with their upcoming releases and live shows.