The origins of Gold Dust are tied to this sense of exploration. From the blistering hardcore of Ampere to the towering shoegaze of Kindling, much of Pierce’s work has thrived on sounds that are distorted and loud, a fact that might belie his passion for folk rock. “Psych rock and folk rock were the first detours I ever took from punk music,” the Easthampton, MA-based musician explains. “It never fails to amaze me just how much is out there to find, if you’re looking. Read more on