Ottawa’s DOLL Unleashes New Single “Bear Claw” Following 2025 Comeback Album
New Single Premiere
Ottawa-based alternative rock band DOLL kicks off 2026 with an electrifying new single, “Bear Claw,” which premiered today exclusively on New Noise Magazine, accompanied by a vibrant lyric video. This track marks a significant continuation of the band’s artistic revival after their 2025 album, “Better Days, Better Times.”
Continuing the “Animal Crackers” Trilogy
“Bear Claw” is the second installment of DOLL’s intriguing “Animal Crackers” trilogy, which commenced earlier this year with the widely praised single “Shark Bait,” also featured on “Better Days, Better Times.” The band reflects on the positive reception of their first animal-themed release:
“We received such amazing feedback for ‘Shark Bait.’ Although we initially planned to release three animal-themed songs, that encouragement really inspired us to finalize the next piece of the trilogy, Bear Claw.”
Musical Innovation and Nostalgic Artwork
DOLL is confident that fans will resonate deeply with this new addition:
“This is undoubtedly our best effort to date. We infused elements of our classic DOLL sound with the hardcore influences we explored in ‘Shark Bait,’ pushing our creative boundaries with the vocals and lyrics. We’re excited to see how it’s received—whether you love land or sea animals!”
The artwork for “Bear Claw” pays tribute to the iconic Smokey the Bear posters, all while being reimagined through DOLL’s gritty and playful perspective. Mark Kidd, the artist behind the concept, brings to life a bold character design that captures both nostalgia and rebellion.
“We aimed to breathe new life into the artwork we cherished growing up. While we embraced the classic Smokey-the-Bear aesthetic, we added our unique twist, transforming him into ‘Grungey.’ He’s got an attitude and a chip on his shoulder,” the band shares.
Musical Elements and Production
In “Bear Claw,” DOLL blends their signature sound with new explorations. The track features distinctive guitar leads, heavy wah-wah effects, and Christina’s signature vocal bends, accented by rapid strumming. The chorus delivers a hardcore punch from Pete, powered by drop-tuned guitars that enhance its weight and urgency.
The band also focused on crafting an atmospheric experience, incorporating a breakdown recorded with a low-fi setup to create a suspenseful moment before crashing back in with the powerful PRS MT100. The result is a compelling fusion of old-school grit and modern heaviness, all achieved through raw instrumentation without relying on keyboards.
Creative Vocal Exploration
“Bear Claw” showcases DOLL’s most innovative vocal delivery to date, with Christina experimenting in ways the band hasn’t explored before. They aimed for the song to be enjoyable, filled with light-hearted lyrics while remaining true to the raw rock style that defines DOLL.
Watch the “Bear Claw” Lyric Video
Experience the new single by watching the “Bear Claw” lyric video, premiering on New Noise Magazine HERE.
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Recording Credits
- All songs performed by: DOLL
- All songs written by: DOLL
- Produced by: Josh Hart
- Mixed by: Josh Hart
- Mastered by: Josh Hart
- Single Artwork by: Mark Kidd
- Member of SOCAN
- Canadian Content (MAPL)
Band Line-Up
Pete Kasper, Christina Kasper, Josh Hart
About DOLL
After a lengthy hiatus, DOLL made a triumphant return in 2025 with their album “Better Days, Better Times,” reclaiming their position as one of Ottawa’s most compelling alternative rock bands. Originally formed in Ottawa, Ontario, DOLL gained recognition with their debut album, “Inside The Dollhouse,” in 2009, followed by “The Ragdoll Diaries” in 2011. Their music has been featured on platforms like MuchMusic and MusiquePlus, and they have shared stages with renowned acts such as Three Days Grace, Lacuna Coil, and Halestorm.
Conclusion
With the release of “Bear Claw,” DOLL continues to build on their momentum, offering a track that is fierce, fun, and unmistakably theirs. Fans can look forward to the remaining chapters of the “Animal Crackers” trilogy, as the band pushes their creative boundaries while staying true to their roots.
FAQs
What is the theme of the song “Bear Claw”?
The song continues DOLL’s “Animal Crackers” trilogy, incorporating themes related to animals and showcasing a mix of fun and raw rock elements.
Where can I listen to “Bear Claw”?
You can listen to the single on platforms like Spotify and watch the lyric video on New Noise Magazine.
Who are the members of DOLL?
The band consists of Pete Kasper, Christina Kasper, and Josh Hart.
What is the significance of the artwork for “Bear Claw”?
The artwork pays homage to classic Smokey the Bear posters while incorporating DOLL’s unique and rebellious style.
