(Artist Report)

Written by: Rex Harlan 

Thesaurus Rex formed in Brooklyn in 2021 when comedian and songwriter Calvin Rezen decided to put a real band together. After meeting guitarist Varun Jhunjhunwalla at a Berklee open mic on his very first day of grad school, the lineup filled out with drummer Dan MacDonald and bassist Ethan Marsh. By 2022, the four-piece was officially rolling.In their early days, Thesaurus Rex did what most young bands do, they played anywhere that would have them. They cut their teeth on the New York club circuit, grinding out show after show and testing every song in front of real crowds before ever stepping into a studio.

Their big breakthrough came in June 2025 with the release of their debut album Greatest Hits. The record was packed with clever songwriting and sharp indie rock, with standouts like “I Won’t Hold My Breath,” “Scam Song,” and “Ballad of a Horse Girl.” They kept the foot on the gas in 2026 with the release of Buy Your Time, showing real growth while keeping their signature wit intact.
What really makes Thesaurus Rex special is how they deliver live. They’ve built a name for themselves by blending sharp indie rock with genuine comedy, creating shows that are as funny as they are loud. Their sets feel more like an event than a regular gig.

One of their biggest nights came at Bowery Ballroom in 2025. The band sold the place out and threw what they called “The Thesaurus Rex Convention”; a wild, high-energy show that proved they were ready for bigger rooms.

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Written By: Rex Harlan

(Report)