Bear vs. Shark
| Company type | Band |
|---|---|
| Industry | Music |
| Founded | 2001 |
| Defunct | 2005 (initially) |
| Fate | Disbanded in 2005; reunited in 2016 for limited performances |
| Headquarters | Highland, Michigan , United States |
| Products | Music albums, EPs |
| Website | https://www.facebook.com/bearvsshark/ |
Bear vs. Shark is a post-hardcore group originating from Highland, Michigan, United States. Established in 2001, the band produced one EP along with two full-length albums under the Equal Vision Records label before disbanding in 2005. They reunited for a limited number of performances in 2016.
Formation
The band members, who have known each other since childhood, came together during their college years while participating in different musical projects. Ashley Horak took over drumming duties from the original drummer Brandon Moss. Their musical style incorporates elements of classic rock and punk, drawing inspiration from bands such as The Clash, Fugazi, and the Motown sound.
After sending a demo to Equal Vision Records, the band secured a contract with the label promptly. Their debut full-length album, Right Now You're in the Best of Hands..., was followed by extensive touring throughout the United States. They both headlined shows and supported prominent bands like Coheed and Cambria. The group gained recognition for their lively live shows, particularly frontman Marc Paffi's engaging stage energy, as well as their practice of frequently switching instruments during performances. Although some speculated that their name referenced Michigan’s shape, John Gaviglio clarified that it was chosen simply because it sounded “super badass and interesting.”
Break-up
On December 21, 2005, Bear vs. Shark announced their dissolution without providing specific reasons. In a 2006 op-ed for Alternative Press, John Gaviglio discussed the difficulties associated with extensive touring. The band also voiced frustrations regarding the conditions they experienced while on tour.
Reunion
The band revealed plans for a reunion show on May 22, 2016, organized to support Flintkids.org in Flint, Michigan. This was followed by a short run of additional concerts. Equal Vision Records re-released both of the band’s full-length albums together on vinyl.
On May 27, 2017, Bear vs. Shark appeared at Bled Fest.
Post Bear vs. Shark
The group contributed the track "Victoria Iceberg" to the Masters of Horror soundtrack.
Marc Paffi leads Bars of Gold alongside former member Brandon Moss.
Mike Muldoon and John Gaviglio teamed up with Mark Maynard to form the Brooklyn-based project Cannons.
Friction Records reissued Right Now You're in the Best of Hands... and Terrorhawk on vinyl. The re-release of the former included two unreleased songs: "California Hot Seat" (originating from the 1653 EP) and "June 7". A limited picture disc edition of Terrorhawk showcased artwork created by Jeff VandenBerg.
Marc Paffi contributed vocals to "1999" on If He Dies He Dies’ album Conquistador, also released through Friction Records.
Paffi, Muldoon, and Moss collaborated again to form Champions of History.
Brandon Moss performs with Wildcatting and plays horns in Don't Stand So Close To Me, a jazz/fusion group known for covering songs by The Police.
John Gaviglio has performed with Matthew Dear’s project Big Hands.
Band members
- Final roster
- Marc Paffi – lead vocals, guitar, keyboards
- Derek Kiesgen – guitar, bass
- Mike Muldoon – guitar, bass, keyboards
- John Gaviglio – guitar, bass, backing vocals
- Ashley Horak – drums (2003–2005)
- Former members
- Brandon Moss – drums (2001–2003)
- 2016 roster
- Marc Paffi – lead vocals, guitar, keyboards
- Derek Kiesgen – guitar, bass
- Nick Jones – guitar, bass, keyboards
- John Gaviglio – guitar, bass, backing vocals
- Brandon Moss – drums, percussion
- Ashley Horak – drums, percussion, piano, backing vocals
Discography
- Albums
- Right Now, You're in the Best of Hands. And If Something Isn't Quite Right, Your Doctor Will Know in a Hurry (2003, Equal Vision Records)
- Terrorhawk (2005, Equal Vision Records)
- Extended plays
- 1653 (2001, Self Released)
- Compilation releases
- Right Now, You're in the Best of Hands/Terrorhawk Joint Vinyl (2016, Equal Vision Records)
Music videos
- Catamaran (2005)