Kilauea’s Pierce Bivens is already one of the most in-demand performers on Kauai. And he’s 16 years old. Bivens’ new album, recorded and produced at Bandwagon Music Center in Lihue, will be released today. His collection of 10 original songs,
Kilauea’s Pierce Bivens is already one of the most in-demand performers on Kauai.
And he’s 16 years old.
Bivens’ new album, recorded and produced at Bandwagon Music Center in Lihue, will be released today.
His collection of 10 original songs, entitled “Shining,” is the first full-length album for the young virtuoso. The production showcases his passionate vocals, guitar skills and insightful lyrics.
“The album is really good and has taken a ton of effort and time,” Bivens said. “Anyone who likes rock music should check it out, because it’s a lot of fun and is full of cool new musical ideas.”
The project was produced and recorded by Na Hoku and Grammy Music Teacher Award nominee, Jeremy Hartshorn, and is the first full-length album to be recorded by a member at Bandwagon Music Center.
“Bandwagon is a huge part of why my album is out,” Bivens said. “They’ve been very helpful and supportive, and Jeremy is doing a really good thing for the island by providing an easy way for kids to learn how to play music in a supportive environment with good teachers.”
The music center provides a supervised environment of music equipment where youth, ages 8 to 17, can explore playing instruments and learn about the recording process.
“I kinda helped him get started on that path of becoming a song writer instead of just a shredder,” said Hartshorn, Bandwagon Music Center director. “I can’t take credit for teaching him how to play though.”
Bivens won praise for his role as Dewey Finn in Hawaii Children’s Theatre’s production of “School of Rock.” His song “Make It Through” was also featured in an anti-suicide, public service announcement created by Pono Players.
When he was 12, he released his first CD, “Listen to Me.”
He plays several times a month with his band, The Search, and is a regular on the music team at Kauai Christian Fellowship, where Hartshorn serves as worship pastor. Bivens is sponsored by Kamoa Ukuleles, in addition to Bandwagon Music Center, where he recently accepted an internship.
“His new album is a lot of fun, it’s a decidedly retro kind of sound on this album,” Hartshorn said. “There’s lots of classic rock influence with a little bit of ’80s new wave in there as well. It’s pretty impressive, because there’s some great all-time riffs on there that I think are up there with the best.”
“Shining” will drop at an album release party 6 to 8 tonight at Bandwagon Music Center. There will be pizza, drinks, ice cream and live performances by Bivens and friends.
The album will be available for purchase at Bandwagon, Ha Coffee Bar, Kauai Music & Sound, and Hanalei Strings as well online streaming services.
