BEAR HANDS

Bear Hands’ new song, “Back Seat Driver (Spirit Guide)” finds the band and its lead singer, Dylan Rau, stretching out, maturing, and exploring new sonic territory. The track is dynamic and propulsive, but also reflective and measured, cautious of the impulse to move forward, driven only by momentum. “The song is about free will and finding yourself doing things that you don't feel you are in control of,” says Rau, “being drawn to something and not really knowing why.”

Musically, the song is inspired by influences as disparate as M83 and The Who. “I really love the arpeggiated synth work of Pete Townsend,” Rau admits. While writing and recording “Back Seat Driver (Spirit Guide)” Chris Chu of POP ETC, an accomplished songwriter and producer in his own right, served as a spirit guide of sorts. “Chris Chu produced the track and he wrote some instrumentals on it. He wrote guitar parts and helped with the arrangements. Really editing and providing outsider perspective. That really helps.”

Founded in NYC, Bear Hands quickly made a name for themselves and paid their dues by playing the boroughs many bars and sweaty DIY venues as well as touring with acts including Foals, Cage The Elephant, and GZA. The band, which includes Rau (vocals guitar, keyboards), Val Loper (bass), and TJ Orscher (drums), are currently working on their fourth full-length release which they plan to release in 2018.