The Growlers

The Growlers, a remarkable ensemble emerging from the United States, have notably carved their unique niche in the musical landscape since their inception in 2006. Originating from Dana Point, California, the band is piloted by the distinctive vocals of Brooks Nielsen and the creative guitar riffs of Matt Taylor. This duo, along with their bandmates, have not only produced music but have also shaped an entire cultural movement around their distinct sound and thematic concerts.

The Growlers' musical journey is a testament to their evolution and adaptability, navigating through various musical styles while maintaining a core essence that is distinctly their own. Their early work, including albums like "Are You In Or Out?" (2009), "Hot Tropics" (2010), and "Hung at Heart" (2013), showcases a blend of vintage surf rock and the somber tones of outlaw country, all wrapped in a reverb-infused package that feels both nostalgic and fresh.

With the release of "Chinese Fountain" in 2014, The Growlers took a bold step in a new direction, incorporating disco influences into their sound—a testament to their move to Los Angeles and their exposure to its eclectic music scene. This evolution continued with their 2016 album "City Club," produced in collaboration with Julian Casablancas of The Strokes. This album marked a significant shift with its angular melodies and edgy pop sensibilities, highlighted by the track “City Club,” which became their most popular song with over 39.2 million streams on Spotify alone.

Following "City Club," The Growlers released "Casual Acquaintances" in 2018, a raw and compelling collection of demos and outtakes from the City Club sessions. Despite its nature as a compilation of b-sides, it stands strongly among their discography, demonstrating the depth and consistency of their craft.

Their latest effort as of 2019, "Natural Affair," exemplifies the band's continued growth and self-production prowess. It presents a robust, synth-heavy sound while Nielsen's lyrics delve into astute social commentary and musings on contemporary love. This record solidifies The Growlers' place in the modern music era, balancing mainstream appeal with underground grit.

Beyond their studio records, The Growlers are renowned for their live performances, which have grown from intimate gatherings to headline-worthy shows at major arenas, particularly in their now-home base of Los Angeles. These performances are not just concerts but experiences, often incorporating elements that reflect the band's quirky aesthetic and Beach Goth ethos, a festival that they originated which celebrates their unique blend of music and cultural oddities.

The band’s influence extends across the global music scene, indicated not only by their Spotify streams, which exceed 59 million, but also by their devoted international fan base. This following isn't just drawn to The Growlers' music but to the community and culture they've fostered, a testament to their role as not just musicians but as trendsetters and community builders in the modern music world.

In conclusion, The Growlers, with their eclectic mix of sounds and unwavering commitment to authenticity, continue to redefine what it means to be a band in today's music industry. Their story is one of continual transformation, a perpetual surf on the waves of musical innovation, underscored by a deep connection with their roots and their fans.