The Dambuilders

**The Dambuilders** were a 1990s alternative rock act known for their energetic mix of indie grit, violin-driven hooks, and sneaky danceable grooves. Hailing from Boston, this crew carved out a quirky niche by blending distorted guitars with electronic beats and strings, thanks to founding members like violinist Joan Wasser (who later gained fame as Joan As Police Woman). They dropped cult-favorite albums like *Encendedor* (1993) and *Ruby Red* (1994), bouncing between major-label buzz (Elektra Records) and indie DIY ethos. Tracks like “Shrine” and “Drive-by Fetus” became college radio staples, while their live shows crackled with chaotic charm. Though they called it quits in 1997, their recent remastered releases (*Encendedor [Remastered]*) and new singles (*“Against the Stars”*, 2023) prove their scrappy sound still resonates with fans of 90s alt-rock nostalgia.