Cigarettes After Sex

Cigarettes After Sex is an American dream pop band formed in 2008 by Greg Gonzalez in El Paso, Texas. Their sound is characterized by an ethereal blend of shoegaze, slowcore, and indie rock, featuring lush reverb, minimalist instrumentation, and Gonzalez’s signature androgynous vocals. The band’s music evokes a sense of intimacy and melancholy, with themes often revolving around love, longing, and vulnerability.

The band’s journey began with the 2012 EP I., which was recorded in a stairwell at the University of Texas at El Paso. The EP’s track “Nothing’s Gonna Hurt You Baby” initially went under the radar but later went viral, propelling the band into the spotlight. Their self-titled debut album, released in 2017, further solidified their place in the dream pop scene. In 2019, they followed up with the album Cry, continuing their exploration of ambient soundscapes and emotional depth.

In 2024, Cigarettes After Sex released their third studio album, X’s, which continues to delve into themes of love and longing. The album received positive reviews for its continued exploration of romanticism, and the band’s style of subtle yet evocative melodies has resonated with listeners, especially those from Gen Z. Their music has become a mainstay in mood-based playlists across streaming platforms.

With millions of streams and sold-out tours, Cigarettes After Sex has carved out a unique space in contemporary music, known for their ability to stir deep emotions through their minimalist and introspective approach.