Biography

Any musician you talk to about Shellshag uses one word to describe these DIY stalwarts: Inspiring. Over the years, the duo has grown into Brooklyn’s answer to Dead Moon, transcending the simple label of “a band” and becoming an institution in their own right. They are true out-and-out lifers, in it for the long haul, a reminder that perseverance is key in any artistic endeavor. While many of their fans were too young to have even heard about “punk” in the 90s, Jen Shagawat was already running the infamous Starcleaner Warehouse in SF CA, an integral part of the city’s independent music scene, and playing in many bands. Meanwhile, John “Shellhead” Driver was touring the country with his band 50 Million and penning songs for his stripped down acoustic project, some of which would later be re-worked as Shellshag staples and crowd favorites. The duo continue to run Starcleaner Records. After meeting in the Mission in 98, the two have never parted. 1000+ shows later in Japan, UK USA and Mexico, Shellshag have proven that they cannot only survive in a changing music industry, ethics intact, but can thrive as underground musicians without compromise. Their songs are about turmoil, love, hate, longevity, regret and hope, from 2 people who know the subject matter intimately. Seeing Shellshag live is an experience unto itself—2 people giving it their all, free of pretense, whipping up a sweaty maelstrom of fans singing along to every word. Intense and yes inspiring. - Zach G. (DGR)