In August 2006, Dylan Rau (vocals/guitar) brought together Ted Feldman (guitar), Val Loper (bass) and TJ Orscher (drums) in a small NYC practice space. The original plan was to flesh out some demos Rau had been working on but each quickly saw and heard the potential for a band; a band that would be unique sounding yet widely accessible.

Focusing on the rhythm and percussion that Orscher and Loper bring, they strive to bring the driving beat to the foreground and to marry it with the contemplative lyrics of Rau and inventive guitar lines of Feldman. This musical creativity combines and combats ideas set forth by pioneers of the rock genre.

Press has been off the hook for their debut 4 song ep “Golden” which was produced by Andrew Schneider (Cave In, Pelican) and for their live shows. During their many gigs on the East Coast Bear Hands have been fortunate enough to share the stage with bands such as MGMT, Vampire Weekend, Ra Ra Riot, Ambulance Ltd, The Honorary Title etc.

“…… the group you wish you were in.” – NME

"Riveting, devil-may-care rock" -Spin.com

"For the past month, we've been telling everyone within earshot about Bear Hands, an unsigned up-and-comer out of Brooklyn that should be on the radar of every indie label." -Entertainment Weekly

"..While hints of lo-fi indie and post-punk v2.o float about on their debut, the songs catch fire from their own spark. No grungy depression or post-millennial anxiety, just solid tunes.." -Alternative Press (top 100 bands of 2008)

"Bear Hands proudly carry the "classic" indie-rock torch, but with respectful nods (headbangs, perhaps?) to the best — and catchiest — '90s alt-rock. Live, the young Brooklyn quartet enthusiastically trumps seasoned elders, forcing the most jaded NYC concertgoers to uncross their arms." –Flavorpill