Spike and the Gandy Dancers Launch Debut Album "What You Gonna Be?"

Twin Cities release party on June 6 at The Aster Cafe

For those who have followed the evolution of the Twin Cities music scene, there is a specific kind of magic that happens when local legends and new voices collide. If you can remember the energy and mind blowing harmonies of Trip Shakespeare and the global rise of Semisonic to household names, the release of Spike and the Gandy Dancers‘ debut album, What You Gonna Be?, will feel like a true homecoming.

The John Munson Connection

What really makes this project immediately stand out is the involvement of Twin Cities music virtuoso John Munson. Known for his iconic work with Semisonic, Trip Shakespeare, and The Flops, Munson co-produced this record alongside songwriter Peter VanDusartz (aka Spike). The album was recorded at Munson’s own Minneapolis studio by a “village of seasoned musicians,” ensuring a production quality that is both polished and deeply rooted in the local sound.

Spike’s “luscious baritone” vocals, are “eerily similar” to Chan Poling of The Suburbs. It is a rare and “cool” comparison that bridges the gap between classic Minneapolis rock and this fresh, “delightful” collection of songs.

A Powerhouse Collective of Local Talent

To bring this album to life, Spike assembled a group of players who are true staples of the Minneapolis music scene. Meet the Gandy Dancers:

Peter VanDusartz (Spike) – Vocals & Acoustic Guitar: Known from his work with Pillaging Matt, Spike is the primary songwriter behind this dynamic project.
Kent Mortimer – Drums: A familiar face from J. Bell and the Lazy Susan Band.
Aaron Smith – Bass & Sousaphone: Coming from Phantom Fields, Smith provides the album’s unique low-end textures.
Jeff Neau – Electric & Acoustic Guitars: A veteran of Direct Assault, Neau delivers everything from delicate acoustic folk to “epic rock solos”.
Bill Turner – Keyboards, Accordion & Trumpet: Another standout from J. Bell and the Lazy Susan Band, Turner is responsible for the diverse “vibes”—from brassy horns to cinematic oompah waltzes.

Escape Hatches and Blissful Grooves

Released at the end of 2025, the album is a high-fidelity collection of 11 songs brimming with pop hooks, diverse melodies performed and recorded by true masters of the craft.

A few of our favorite tracks from the album include the opening track “Be Here Now”. This one really lands at a time we would probably all like to find an escape hatch; it is a perfect mantra to help us find peace in the moment. “Magic Carpet Ride” is our new let’s get in the car-n-drive song. That feel-good hit of summer—escape with me on a “dark twilight flight,” turn it up, let’s go! “Crazy Blue” just makes us want to hit the floor and dance with our crush in front of our favorite local band. The deeply nostalgic “Teardrops in Paris” makes us long just for one more chance to see the ‘City of Light’ and wonder again why anyone would ever leave it.

Perhaps our favorite track is the very Roxy Music-esque title track, “What You Gonna Be?”. With its art-rock textured brass driving the rhythm, it heavily mirrors Andy Mackay’s iconic saxophone work in early Roxy Music tracks. We could dance all night to Spike and the Gandy Dancers’ poetic, restless detachment and blissful groove.

The Celebration: June 6th at The Aster Cafe

The official album release celebration will take place on Saturday, June 6th, 2026, at The Aster Cafe in Minneapolis. For fans of the classic scene, if you’re in the Twin Cities, this is a “must-see” event:

The Toolmasters: The evening features a set from The Toolmasters, a dedicated Trip Shakespeare Tribute band, starting at 9:30 pm.
Special Guests: Rumors are already swirling that “special guests” will be appearing during the show, making it a night for potential surprises.
Event Details: Doors open at 7:30 pm, with music starting at 8:30 pm. Tickets are $15, and reservations are required for those planning to eat. Get tickets HERE.

Where to Listen and Buy

What You Gonna Be? is available on all major streaming platforms, and limited edition custom vinyl featuring full gatefold artwork will be available for purchase at the Aster Cafe event.

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