Indie rock favorite The Dambuilders emerges from its decades-long hibernation to return with  “Shrine 2026”(Magic Door Record Label), its new single in years, with B-side “I Hope We’re Not Too Late”  emerging with their 2025 reformation. A cornerstone of the 1990s Boston scene, the band built a devoted following over the years, driven by Dave Derby’s songwriting and vocals, the drumwork of Kevin March (Guided By Voices), and the unique violin work of Joan Wasser (Joan As Police Woman). 

“Shrine 2026” revisits The Dambuilders’ past while preserving the band’s emotional intensity and inventive sound, carried forward by a revitalized lineup that includes guitarist Sean Eden (Luna) and violinist  Claudio Chopek (Dexys, Father John Misty). Recorded and produced by Ray Ketchem at Magic Door Recording in Montclair, NJ, and mastered by award-winning engineer Greg Calbi (Lennon, Bowie, Springsteen, Talking Heads, Patti Smith, Tom Petty), this release previews late April shows in New York City and Providence—their first in 30 years—underscoring the band’s enduring vitality.