Groove – Episode #108: Shaun Cooper

Shaun Cooper of Taking Back Sunday is as a formidable figure, with his bass lines etching deep grooves in the landscape of punk rock music. Shaun’s bass playing odyssey is as dynamic as the genre he’s helped shape.

Joining Taking Back Sunday in the early 2000s, he became a part of the emo/pop/punk wave that was sweeping through rock music. His entry into the band coincided with their seminal album, Tell All Your Friends (2002), marking the beginning of a new era for the band and for Shaun himself. In those early days, Shaun’s style was raw and emotive, mirroring the fervent energy of the scene. His ability to blend melodic harmonies with the aggressive undertones of punk rock set him apart. His bass lines were not mere rhythmic backbones… they were integral to the narrative of each song, driving the music forward with intensity and purpose.

However, Shaun’s journey with Taking Back Sunday was marked by evolution and transformation. He temporarily parted ways with the band in 2003, only to return in 2010, a period which saw him mature as a musician and an individual. This break allowed him to explore other musical endeavors and refine his bass playing style. Upon his return, fans witnessed a more nuanced and sophisticated approach in his bass lines. Albums like New Again (2009) and Happiness Is (2014) showcased this evolution, with Shaun’s bass playing offering a more intricate and layered sound, adding depth and complexity to the band’s music.

Taking Back Sunday’s latest album, 152, is a testament to Shaun’s journey. Shaun’s bass on 152 is not just an instrument; it’s a storyteller, narrating the band’s journey through its ups and downs.

Shaun’s story stands as an inspiring tale of growth, adaptability, and persistence. From the energetic baselines of the early 2000s to the refined harmonies of today, Shaun has not just played bass, he has lived it, breathed it, and transformed it.

Enjoy the conversation…