Cults
Cults is an indie pop group consisting of vocalist Madeline Follin and guitarist Brian Oblivion. The duo formed in 2010 in Manhattan, where both had gone to school. Their debut album, Cults, released in 2011 under the label In the Name Of.
Follin worked with a California-based punk band before meeting Oblivion. Their collaboration resulted in a compilation of romantic, trance-inducing songs. This theme is prominent in both their debut album as well as their second studio album, Static (2013). Oblivion’s guitar melodies compliment Follin’s soft singing, which is tuned for a unique, low-fi quality. Their dreamlike sound is synthesized to create textures that feel ethereal and light-hearted.
Their music also frequently includes both electric and classical instruments. My favorite track is “Never Heal Myself”, from their debut album. The lyrics express emotions of longing and pain that would follow a failed relationship, but much of the instrumental melody is spirited and effervescent. I enjoy the variation between the interwoven sounds present in each song as well as the soothing, fantastical feel for which the duo aims.
