Roo AOTD #96 Cults

By Daniel Karasek | May 9, 2025

All aboard the hype train for Bonnaroo 2025! Only 34 days until we are all on the Farm again, can you believe it? It’s coming up fast and we can’t wait to be dancing with all of you at Bonnaroo! Today’s Artist of the Day is the one and only Cults. Learn more about the artist below. Don’t forget to check out all of our artist spotlights! Thank you for reading these posts!

Artist Biography

Cults, the indie pop duo hailing from New York City, have spent over a decade carving their niche in the world of atmospheric, experimental pop music. Made up of vocalist Madeline Follin and guitarist Brian Oblivion, the band’s sound is a blend of vintage 1960s melodies and modern indie sensibilities. Their self-titled debut album Cults (2011) introduced listeners to their dreamy vocals and infectious hooks, capturing the essence of hazy, nostalgic pop music. It was a breakthrough that solidified their place in the indie music world.

Following up with Static (2013), the duo continued to experiment with their sound, refining their style while still embracing their love for lush, cinematic arrangements. Offering (2016) saw them dive deeper into production, layering intricate textures and developing a more refined aesthetic that pushed the boundaries of their sound.

Their 2020 album Host marked a dramatic shift. With live instrumentation and a darker, more experimental edge, the duo ventured into new territory. The record’s raw, emotional energy conveyed a sense of vulnerability not seen in their previous works.

The band’s most recent release, To the Ghosts (2024), is yet another evolution in their musical journey. It channels the dark, innovative spirit of British producer Joe Meek, with tracks like “Eat It Cold” serving as a testament to their willingness to explore new sonic landscapes. Cults continues to push the envelope with each new release, constantly reinventing themselves while staying true to the haunting melodies and thought-provoking lyrics that have made them such a standout in indie music.