Emerging as a staple of New York’s vibrant indie music scene since their formation in 2013, Sunflower Bean—comprising Julia Cumming (vocals and bass), Nick Kivlen (guitar and vocals), and Olive Faber (drums)—has undergone a remarkable evolution.
Initially known for their unique blend of dreamy psych-pop and grunge influences, the trio has boldly transformed their sound, marking a significant shift towards heavier rock and metal influences, and showcasing the band’s versatility and willingness to push boundaries.
With the release of their self-produced EP, “Shake,” this New York-based trio has demonstrated a commitment to artistic independence. Their journey from their early albums like “Show Me Your Seven Secrets” and “Human Ceremony” to their latest EP showcases a band unafraid to explore new territories while staying true to their core sound.
“Shake” marks a significant departure from Sunflower Bean’s earlier work, embracing a heavier sound inspired by classic rock and heavy metal. The influence of bands like Black Sabbath is evident throughout the EP, yet Sunflower Bean manages to put their own modern spin on these classic influences.
As Cumming explains, “Shake was inspired by our first years as a DIY band… We wrote, recorded, engineered, and produced these songs so nothing was filtered through anyone else’s idea of us.” This level of artistic integrity is increasingly rare in an industry often driven by commercial pressures.
Directed by Isaac Roberts, Sunflower Bean has also released a 14-minute short film alongside the EP. This visual companion piece interprets each track through the lens of five elements: earth, wind, water, fire, and metal. By bridging music and film, Sunflower Bean solidifyies their reputation as innovative and forward-thinking artists in the indie rock scene.
Sunflower Bean has built a reputation for blending meticulous craftsmanship with spontaneous improvisation; a philosophy that permeates their entire approach to live performance, allowing them to create unique, shared experiences that can never be exactly replicated.
As guitarist Nick Kivlen notes, “You can play in the dirtiest, worst sounding room in the world and the crowd can transcend you to feeling right where you’re supposed to be.” This sentiment underscores the symbiotic relationship between the band and their audience, where the collective energy of the room becomes an invisible fourth member.
Sunflower Bean’s “Shake” serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring appeal of raw, authentic rock music. It’s a testament to the band’s growth as artists and their willingness to take risks, push boundaries, and stay true to their vision.