Cults, an American indie pop duo formed in New York City in 2010, has become a notable presence in the indie music scene with their distinctive sound and compelling performances. Comprising Madeline Follin (vocals) and Brian Oblivion (guitar and vocals), the band emerged from the vibrant NYC music scene with a sound that blends dreamy, nostalgic elements reminiscent of 1960s girl groups with a modern indie sensibility.
The band’s journey began with the release of their debut extended play, Cults 7″, which they initially distributed through their Bandcamp page. This early work showcased their signature style of ethereal vocals paired with jangly guitars and infectious melodies. Their breakout track, “Go Outside,” gained significant attention and was accompanied by a visually striking music video featuring Emma Roberts and Dave Franco. The EP’s success led to a significant milestone when the band signed with In the Name Of, an imprint of Sony Music, a label run by English singer Lily Allen.
Cults’ eponymous debut album, released on June 7, 2011, further solidified their place in the indie music landscape. The album received positive reviews and was noted for its catchy tunes and nostalgic vibes. Tracks like “Go Outside” and “Bad Things” quickly became fan favorites, with the latter being sampled by American rapper J. Cole for his 2013 single “She Knows,” bringing additional recognition to the band. The album earned a “Best New Music” designation from Pitchfork, reinforcing their burgeoning reputation.
Their subsequent work reflected a growing complexity and evolution in their sound. In 2012, Cults performed at the Laneways music festival, where they hinted at a more aggressive and evolved sound. This period of growth culminated in their 2013 release, Static, which came amid personal changes for the band. Despite the duo’s breakup, the album received generally favorable reviews and demonstrated their continued ability to innovate and capture listeners’ attention.
In 2016, Follin collaborated with her brother Richie James Follin on a side project called Follin, releasing a single titled “Roxy.” The collaboration showcased her versatility as an artist while maintaining her unique style. Cults continued their musical evolution with the release of their third album, Offering, on October 6, 2017. The album continued to push the boundaries of their sound, incorporating new influences and experimental elements.
Their fourth studio album, Host, released on September 18, 2020, further demonstrated the duo’s artistic growth. The album featured a range of sonic textures and lyrical themes, reflecting their ongoing exploration of new musical territories. One of their standout singles from this period, “Always Forever,” achieved significant commercial success, being certified gold by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) on August 17, 2021, and later achieving platinum status on July 18, 2022.
Cults’ captivating live performances, marked by Follin’s ethereal vocals and Oblivion’s dynamic guitar work, have garnered them a dedicated fanbase and established them as a prominent force in the indie music scene. Their evolution from their early, jangly pop roots to a more complex and experimental sound reflects their artistic growth and commitment to pushing musical boundaries. With each new release, Cults continues to cement their place as a key player in the contemporary indie music landscape.