The Dambuilders Return: 90s Indie Rock Icons Unveil “Shrine 2026”
by The Experiment
Dambuilders outside Wetlands mid 90’s. Instagram
After decades of silence, the legendary Boston-via-Honolulu collective The Dambuilders have officially re-emerged. Their new single, "Shrine 2026", released via Magic Door Record Label, marks the band’s first new material in nearly thirty years, proving that their signature blend of emotional intensity and sonic invention remains as vital as ever.
A Legacy Reimagined
Originally a cornerstone of the 1990s Boston scene, The Dambuilders built a devoted global following touring alongside giants like Jeff Buckley, Weezer, and Lush. While the "classic" lineup featured the iconic violin work of Joan Wasser (now internationally known as Joan As Police Woman) and the powerhouse drumming of Kevin March (Guided By Voices), the 2026 iteration sees the band evolving once again.
The revitalized lineup features core members Dave Derby and Kevin March, now joined by guitarist Sean Eden (Luna) and violinist Claudia Chopek (Dexys, Father John Misty).
From "Encendedor" to "Shrine 2026"
The A-side, "Shrine 2026", revisits one of the band's most beloved tracks from their 1994 masterpiece Encendedor—a song famously ranked at No. 17 in MTV’s 100 Greatest Songs of the ‘90s. This new version, produced by Ray Ketchem and mastered by the legendary Greg Calbi (who worked with Bowie, Lennon, and Springsteen), preserves the original’s raw energy while adding a contemporary, polished depth.
The release is accompanied by the B-side “I Hope We’re Not Too Late”, a track that emerged during their 2025 reformation, capturing the spirit of a band that is clearly not just looking back, but moving forward.
Back on Stage: NYC and Providence 2026
For the first time in 30 years, The Dambuilders are returning to their East Coast roots for a series of highly anticipated shows. In late April, the band will perform in New York City and Providence, Rhode Island, promising a rare opportunity to witness their dynamic live presence and a host of special guests.
From Dave Derby’s prolific career writing for TV legends like Sarah Silverman to the band's enduring influence on indie rock, the story of The Dambuilders is still being written. "Shrine 2026" isn't just a nostalgia trip—it's a new chapter for one of indie rock’s most adventurous acts.
