shoe. [1] is Dustin Gardner. Since 2003, Gardner has surrounded himself with a revolving roster of seasoned Detroit musicians, who have aided him in the creation of Motown inspired indie pop. Currently backed by Shawn Corcoran on drums, Jamiel Dado on bass, and Nick Pirog and Mike Fiedler on guitars, Gardner’s newest compositions are driven by infectious melodies coupled with energetic instrumentation. The live shows are benefited by the entertaining antics and banter that Gardner so effortlessly brings to the stage.

 

For the past five years, Gardner has worked to evolve and hone shoe.’s sound. His experience with players from different genres has taken him on a journey through the rich musical legacy that is Detroit entertainment. The current line up showcases the best of the city’s offerings, coupling polished pop with a touch of raw garage rock. The resulting sound is mainstream marketable, while retaining an indie sensibility.

 

Apart from the years of live performances in and around New York, Chicago, and Detroit, shoe. has two prior collections of recordings; 2005’s pack me with your clothes and 2007’s self titled sophomore release. The latter of which was recorded with C. Laszlo Koltay at high bias recordings in Detroit. As of late, Gardner is back in the studio with Koltay, finishing an upcoming release.

 

Gardner is currently concentrating on showcasing the new incarnation of the band with a series of regional mini tours. With an eclectic mixture of high energy pop, and Gardner’s charismatic stage persona, these sets are not to be missed.