Seattle Trio’s New EP Showcases Their Evolution and DIY Spirit
Seattle, WA
Shaker Bloomheart, the dynamic trio known for their electrifying live performances in the Pacific Northwest, is set to release their highly anticipated second EP, “Nobody’s Perfect and So Can You.” With this release, the band aims to solidify their position not just as a powerhouse on stage, but as one of the most innovative recording artists in the region.
Meet the Band
Comprised of Bradley Average on guitar and vocals, Mike Frost on bass and backing vocals, and Rebecca Beracce on drums and backing vocals, Shaker Bloomheart formed in an unconventional way. Mike and Rebecca, neighbors in Seattle, were the two musicians in their building. After several attempts at forming a band, they put out a Craigslist ad seeking someone “talented, creative, and not an asshole.” When they couldn’t find anyone fitting that description, they decided to bring Bradley into the fold, completing the trio.
Influences and Inspiration
The band’s sound is a rich tapestry of influences spanning across genres and eras. Major inspirations for their new EP include Titus Andronicus, Sunny Day Real Estate, Hüsker Dü, Pixies, Los Campesinos!, Elliott Smith, Lambchop, Domi and JD Beck, Frankie Cosmos, and REI Ami. This diverse range of influences is reflected in their eclectic and innovative sound.
Notable Performances
Shaker Bloomheart has made a mark with their performances at notable events such as the NW Folklife Festival and several headlining shows throughout Washington state. Their live shows are renowned for their energy and connection with the audience, earning them praise from fans and critics alike.
Recording the EP
“Nobody’s Perfect and So Can You” was a labor of love, recorded entirely in Bradley Average’s bedroom. This DIY approach allowed the band to experiment freely and take their time to perfect each track. Bradley took on the roles of engineer, mixer, and master, ensuring that the final product truly represents the band’s vision.
The Songs
While the band prefers to let listeners interpret their songs’ meanings, they reveal that the overarching theme of the EP is finding fellowship with fellow misfits in a challenging modern world. The EP features two contrasting tracks that highlight their range:
•“I Will Rupture and Die”: A 15-minute epic that journeys through punk, emo, trip-hop, lo-fi beats, and post-hardcore influences. The song’s complex structure includes multiple time signatures, layered guitars, driving bass, and ambient textures, making it a compelling and multifaceted piece.
•“Leftover Generation”: A sharp contrast to the first track, this 2.5-minute punky pop song is catchy and concise, designed to stay with listeners long after the music stops.
Notable Moments in Production
One of the standout moments during the recording process was the technical production of “I Will Rupture and Die.” The final mix included over 150 tracks, each processed uniquely, pushing Bradley’s DAW to its limits. The intensive production process paid off, resulting in a track that’s as intricate as it is powerful.
Quotes and Reviews
Shaker Bloomheart has garnered positive reviews and notable praise from various outlets. Some of the accolades include:
•“Post-punk, queer representation and a bit of quirk” – Rockchart.news
•“A musical force to be reckoned with” – Dulaxi
•“Melodies that dance between your eardrums and your soul” – hailtunes
•“Let Shaker Bloomheart become your new favorite musical obsession” – TJPL News
The Band’s Ethos
Reflecting on their journey and creative process, the band lives by the motto, “Do it again, but better.” This mantra, born from the least helpful advice they ever received in the studio, encapsulates their relentless pursuit of perfection and growth.
Looking Forward
With their new EP, Shaker Bloomheart invites listeners to join them on their journey of exploration and self-discovery. Their music is a celebration of imperfection and the beauty found in embracing one’s true self. As frontman Bradley Average puts it, “Shaker Bloomheart is here to make you feel good about feeling bad.”
