“The Dambuilders make a comeback with new single “Shrine 2026″ and NYC tour”
Decades have passed since The Dambuilders graced the music scene, but the iconic Boston-via-Honolulu band has made a triumphant return. After nearly thirty years of silence, the band has re-emerged with their new single “Shrine 2026,” released under the Magic Door Record Label. This release signifies a long-awaited comeback, showcasing that their unique blend of emotional intensity and sonic creativity remains just as powerful as it was in the ’90s.
Once a cornerstone of the 1990s Boston music scene, The Dambuilders garnered a dedicated global fanbase and shared the stage with renowned artists such as Jeff Buckley, Weezer, and Lush. While the band’s original lineup featured the distinctive violin talents of Joan Wasser (now known as Joan As Police Woman) and the dynamic drumming of Kevin March (Guided By Voices), the 2026 lineup introduces a fresh evolution.
The revitalized band members include core founders Dave Derby and Kevin March, now accompanied by guitarist Sean Eden (Luna) and violinist Claudia Chopek (Dexys, Father John Misty). Together, they bring a new energy and perspective to the band’s sound.
“Shrine 2026,” the A-side of their latest release, is a reimagined version of one of their most beloved tracks from the 1994 album “Encendedor.” This song, notably ranked at No. 17 on MTV’s 100 Greatest Songs of the ’90s, has been carefully produced by Ray Ketchem and mastered by the renowned Greg Calbi, known for his work with music legends like Bowie, Lennon, and Springsteen. This new rendition maintains the original track’s raw passion while infusing it with a contemporary polish.
Accompanying “Shrine 2026” on the B-side is “I Hope We’re Not Too Late,” a track that emerged during the band’s reformation in 2025. This additional song serves as a testament to the band’s forward-thinking mentality and refusal to dwell solely on past successes.
After three decades off the stage, The Dambuilders are set to make a triumphant return to their East Coast roots with a series of highly anticipated shows in New York City and Providence, Rhode Island. Scheduled for late April, these performances will provide a rare opportunity for fans to witness the band’s electrifying live presence, alongside a lineup of special guest performers.
From Dave Derby’s continued creative endeavors in writing for television to the band’s enduring impact on the indie rock scene, The Dambuilders’ story is far from over. “Shrine 2026” signifies not just a nostalgic trip down memory lane, but a bold new chapter for one of indie rock’s most innovative acts.
As we celebrate The Dambuilders’ reemergence, we can also explore the rich legacy of British post-punk in our feature on the collaboration between Jah Wobble and Jon Klein in “Automated Paradise.” These two worlds of independent musical spirit share a common commitment to sonic exploration and evolution.