The Garden is an American experimental rock band formed by twin brothers Wyatt and Fletcher Shears in Orange County, California. Growing up in a musically inclined family, the brothers were exposed to a wide range of genres from a young age. Their father, who was a musician himself, introduced them to classic rock and punk music, while their mother, a visual artist, exposed them to avant-garde and experimental art. This diverse musical and artistic upbringing had a profound impact on the twins, shaping their unique approach to music and performance.
From an early age, the brothers were drawn to the DIY punk scene, attending local shows and immersing themselves in the underground music culture. This early exposure to raw, unfiltered music would later influence their own musical style and ethos. The brothers also cite a wide range of influences, from iconic punk bands like The Ramones and The Stooges to avant-garde artists like Yoko Ono and John Cage. This eclectic mix of influences laid the foundation for The Garden’s genre-defying sound and rebellious spirit.
The brothers’ upbringing in Orange County also played a significant role in shaping their artistic sensibilities. The suburban landscape and cultural climate of the area provided a backdrop for their creative exploration, influencing their lyrical themes and visual aesthetic. This early environment would later inform the band’s distinct blend of punk ethos and avant-garde sensibilities, setting them apart from their peers in the music industry.
Key Takeaways
- Early Life and Influences:
- Born and raised in a musical family, with influences ranging from classical to jazz
- The Garden: A Musical Journey:
- Started creating music at a young age and quickly gained a following for their unique sound
- Unique Style and Sound:
- Known for blending punk, electronic, and pop elements to create a distinct sound
- Collaborations and Side Projects:
- Have collaborated with a variety of artists and have also pursued solo projects
- Personal Life and Philosophy:
- Value authenticity and self-expression, and prioritize mental health and well-being
- Impact on the Music Industry:
- Have pushed boundaries and inspired a new wave of artists with their innovative approach
- Future Plans and Projects:
- Continuously evolving and exploring new musical territories, with upcoming projects in the works
The Garden: A Musical Journey
The Garden’s musical journey began in 2011 with the release of their debut EP, “The Life and Times of a Paperclip.” The EP showcased the brothers’ raw energy and unapologetic approach to music, garnering attention for their unconventional sound and dynamic live performances. Their debut full-length album, “The Life and Times of a Paperclip,” further solidified their reputation as boundary-pushing artists, earning critical acclaim for its genre-bending approach and thought-provoking lyrics.
As The Garden continued to evolve, they embraced a more experimental and avant-garde sound, incorporating elements of electronic music and art rock into their sonic palette. Their sophomore album, “Haha,” marked a significant departure from their punk roots, showcasing a more refined and eclectic approach to songwriting. The album’s lead single, “All Smiles Over Here :)” became an anthem for the band’s growing fanbase, capturing the essence of their irreverent spirit and infectious energy.
In 2018, The Garden released their third studio album, “Mirror Might Steal Your Charm,” which further solidified their status as innovators in the alternative music scene. The album showcased the brothers’ maturation as songwriters and performers, blending elements of post-punk, new wave, and electronic music into a cohesive and captivating sonic experience. With tracks like “Stallion” and “No Destination,” the album demonstrated The Garden’s ability to push boundaries while maintaining a strong sense of identity and purpose.
Unique Style and Sound
One of the most striking aspects of The Garden is their unique style and sound, which defies easy categorization. Blending elements of punk, electronic, and art rock, the band has carved out a niche for themselves in the alternative music landscape. Their music is characterized by frenetic energy, unconventional song structures, and thought-provoking lyrics that challenge societal norms and expectations.
The brothers’ distinctive vocal delivery adds another layer of intrigue to their music, with their unconventional phrasing and dynamic range captivating listeners from the first note. Their live performances are equally captivating, with the brothers’ magnetic stage presence and unbridled energy leaving audiences spellbound. Their visual aesthetic is also a key component of their artistic identity, with their DIY approach to fashion and stage design reflecting their rebellious spirit and avant-garde sensibilities.
In addition to their musical output, The Garden has also made a name for themselves as visual artists, creating striking visuals for their album artwork and merchandise. Their multidisciplinary approach to art and music sets them apart from their peers, showcasing their commitment to pushing boundaries and challenging artistic conventions.
Collaborations and Side Projects
| Project Name | Collaborators | Start Date | End Date | Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Side Project A | John Doe, Jane Smith | January 1, 2021 | March 31, 2021 | Published paper |
| Collaboration B | Emily Johnson, Michael Brown | April 15, 2021 | Ongoing | Product prototype |
In addition to their work as The Garden, the Shears brothers have also pursued various side projects and collaborations, further expanding their creative horizons. Fletcher Shears has released solo music under the moniker Puzzle, exploring a more introspective and experimental sound that diverges from The Garden’s high-energy approach. His solo work showcases his versatility as a songwriter and musician, delving into ambient textures and introspective lyricism.
Wyatt Shears has also ventured into solo territory with his project Enjoy, which explores a more melodic and dreamy sonic landscape. His solo output showcases his knack for crafting infectious melodies and introspective lyrics that resonate with listeners on a deeper level. Both brothers’ side projects offer a glimpse into their individual artistic sensibilities while complementing the sonic tapestry of The Garden.
The brothers have also collaborated with a diverse range of artists across different genres, further expanding their creative reach. From working with electronic producer TĀLĀ on the track “Holy War” to collaborating with experimental pop artist Soko on “A Message to Myself,” The Garden has proven their ability to seamlessly integrate into various musical contexts while maintaining their distinct identity.
Personal Life and Philosophy
Beyond their musical endeavors, the Shears brothers have cultivated a distinct philosophy that informs their artistry and approach to life. Their commitment to authenticity and self-expression is evident in everything they do, from their music to their visual aesthetic. They have been vocal advocates for individuality and self-empowerment, encouraging their fans to embrace their uniqueness and defy societal expectations.
The brothers’ personal lives are also intertwined with their artistic pursuits, with their close bond as twins serving as a source of inspiration for their creative output. Their shared experiences and perspectives have shaped their collaborative process, allowing them to tap into a deep well of creativity and understanding that informs their music and live performances.
In interviews, the brothers have spoken candidly about their struggles with mental health and the challenges of navigating the music industry as independent artists. Their openness about these topics has resonated with fans who appreciate their vulnerability and honesty. Through their music and public persona, the Shears brothers have become advocates for mental health awareness and self-care, using their platform to destigmatize these important issues.
Impact on the Music Industry
The Garden’s impact on the music industry is undeniable, as they have carved out a distinct niche for themselves in the alternative music landscape. Their fearless approach to genre-blending and boundary-pushing has inspired a new generation of artists to embrace experimentation and individuality. Their DIY ethos and independent spirit have also set an example for aspiring musicians looking to forge their own path in an industry often dominated by commercial interests.
The band’s influence extends beyond their musical output, as they have become cultural icons known for their bold fashion choices and unapologetic attitude. Their fearless approach to self-expression has resonated with fans around the world, inspiring them to embrace their own unique identities without fear of judgment or societal norms.
In addition to their impact on fans and fellow artists, The Garden has also garnered critical acclaim for their boundary-pushing music and electrifying live performances. They have been celebrated for their ability to defy categorization and challenge artistic conventions, earning accolades from industry insiders and tastemakers alike.
Future Plans and Projects
As The Garden continues to evolve, the brothers show no signs of slowing down. They have hinted at new music on the horizon, teasing fans with snippets of unreleased material that showcase a continued evolution of their sound. With each new release, they push the boundaries of what is possible in music, challenging themselves to explore new sonic territories while staying true to their artistic vision.
In addition to new music, The Garden has also expressed interest in expanding their creative reach into other artistic mediums. From visual art installations to multimedia collaborations, the brothers are eager to explore new avenues for self-expression and creative exploration. Their multidisciplinary approach to art and music positions them as innovators in the contemporary cultural landscape, offering a glimpse into the future of artistic expression.
As they continue to push boundaries and challenge artistic conventions, The Garden remains at the forefront of innovation in the alternative music scene. With each new project, they redefine what it means to be an artist in the 21st century, inspiring others to embrace individuality and self-expression without compromise. As they embark on this next chapter of their musical journey, one thing is certain: The Garden will continue to defy expectations and inspire audiences around the world with their fearless creativity.
One of the related articles to Fletcher Shears can be found on Little River Rage, where you can read about his latest music projects and collaborations.
FAQs
Who is Fletcher Shears?
Fletcher Shears is a musician and one half of the experimental punk band The Garden, along with his twin brother Wyatt Shears.
What is Fletcher Shears known for?
Fletcher Shears is known for his work as a vocalist, drummer, and songwriter in The Garden, as well as for his unique and eclectic fashion sense.
When did Fletcher Shears start his music career?
Fletcher Shears and his brother Wyatt formed The Garden in 2011 and have been actively creating music and performing since then.
What genre of music does Fletcher Shears play?
Fletcher Shears and The Garden are known for their experimental punk sound, blending elements of punk, electronic, and alternative music.
Has Fletcher Shears collaborated with other artists?
Fletcher Shears has collaborated with various artists and bands, including Mac DeMarco, Shintaro Sakamoto, and more, showcasing his versatility as a musician.
Where can I find Fletcher Shears’ music?
Fletcher Shears’ music with The Garden can be found on streaming platforms such as Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube, as well as on physical formats like vinyl and CDs.