Combining elements of horror-film soundtracks, psychedelic doom metal, and atmospheric noise, NYC/Portland-based instrumental duo Insect Ark is comprised of Dana Schechter (bass, lap steel guitar, synthesizers) and Ashley Spungin (drums, synthesizers). 

Insect Ark’s uncommon sound is in part the amalgamation of these two women’s passions: Schechter’s sinister bass lines and unconventional use of lap steel guitar (and her complete omission of electric guitar), and Spungin’s lucid, exacting drumming and synth work with her own hand-built analog noise pedals (Ormus Electronics). 

From its inception, Insect Ark has been about creating music that transports, both physically and psychologically. Both women make work with no borders – they are DIY makers, multi-instrumentalists, gearheads, and visual artists.

In addition to their roles in the Insect Ark, Spungin does live sound, studio recordings and programming; Schechter composes music for film and is a video maker/animator for Film/TV. 










Photo by Rennie Elliot