Biography
Brooklyn-based indie pop outfit Dinosaur Feathers fuses African, Brazilian, and retro-pop elements into luminous, sun-drenched textures. Launched in summer 2008, the endeavor originated as a solitary venture for vocalist, guitarist, and drum-machine operator Greg Sullo, who sought to reinterpret the Beatles and Os Mutantes through contemporary production tools. The lineup expanded once keyboardist and singer Derek Zimmerman—Sullo’s former college a cappella colleague—stepped forward to supply vocal harmonies, after which bassist Adam Fetcher completed the roster before Ryan Michael Kiley eventually assumed that role. The group steadily cultivated connections and listeners, issuing its first recording in 2009 via the Family Records single “Know Your Own Strength.” That August saw the self-released Early Morning Risers EP appear as a free download on the band’s site. Its stacked vocal arrangements, glowing guitar work, and worldwide rhythmic inflections, paired with an intensive slate of New York-area shows, placed the act in the spotlight and prompted earfarm.com to bestow the title “hardest working band in Brooklyn.” The self-released debut album Fantasy Memorial followed the next March, coinciding with the band’s inaugural U.S. tour and appearances at SXSW, CMJ, Sasquatch!, and Treefort. Later that year the addition of live drummer Nick Brooks updated the ensemble’s sonic approach, leading the members to Oakland the subsequent year for sessions with producer Eli Crews, whose résumé includes Deerhoof, tUnE-yArDs, and Thao and Mirah. The start of 2012 proved difficult when instruments and gear were stolen, yet a benefit mixtape eased the setback. That April the follow-up LP Whistle Tips emerged on the Ernest Jenning Record Co. imprint. The third album, Control, surfaced in late 2014, its soul-infused pop songs shaped by an intense period of admiration for Janet Jackson.
Albums