Moes Ark 1987 - 2026

Moes Ark was an experimental post-punk band formed in 1987 in San Diego (Mira Mesa) California.  The original lineup was Marty Sandman (of All Monster Revue and Bone Hoax) and Phil Esbenshade (Custom Floor). The band’s lineup evolved and changed over the next year to include guitarist Davin (Crankshaft) and Tod (Crankshaft) on bass. Drums were, at all times, by a Boss DR-55 “Doctor Rhythm” (The same drum machine used by the Sisters of Mercy). 

Moes Ark played a handful of shows over the years including a late night show at “The Hut” in San Diego, and the first and only show at the Del Mar Skateboard Ranch with Factory and Wailing Wall (later renamed “Rust”). Moe’s Ark was renamed “Scarecrow” for one show but quickly renamed Moes Ark again the next day. 

Moes Ark recorded three tapes: two 4-track demos and a live recording. The recordings were loose, unrehearsed, and spontaneous. Moe’s Ark played a total of 14 songs including covers of “Sweet Leaf” and Bruce Springsteen’s “Glory Days.” 

Thought to be lost, two original demo/live tapes resurfaced in 2026 and Moes Ark, now consisting of founder Phil Esbenshade and his son, Bass Player Max Esbenshade, began re-recording several songs using the exact same 1987 Boss Dr. Rhythm and several vintage instruments.