Dave had already performed lead vocals on two of his own songs, released on a 7" single as early as 1980. But the Feelies side project Yung Wu truly brought him to the forefront as a lead singer and principal songwriter.

The lineup featured all the members of the Feelies, along with John Baumgartner (keyboards) from The Trypes and Speed The Plough, forming a configuration that was both familiar and newly focused.

In 1987, the group recorded and released Shore Leave on Coyote Records. The album favors a gentler, more pastoral sound, built around acoustic textures, layered keyboards, and understated rhythms. Weckerman’s original songs form the core of the record, complemented by three covers that reflect the band’s wide range of influences.

The LP received favorable reviews in the alternative rock press and was also praised by the New Musical Express in England. The band continued to perform live when possible, though appearances were limited due to the Feelies’ busy schedule at the time. Yung Wu played its final show in 1990 at Maxwell’s, opening for former Hüsker Dü guitarist and singer Bob Mould.