Cults

Released in 2011, the self-titled debut from Cults (Madeline Follin and Brian Oblivion) arrived as a defining artifact of the 'indie sleaze' and blog-pop era. Recorded throughout 2010, the album expanded on the viral success of their early singles by perfecting a '60s-meets-2010s' aesthetic. Sonically, the record is characterized by its use of vintage gear, heavy reverb, and a signature blend of 'girl group' vocal harmonies with distorted indie rock foundations. A notable and controversial element is the inclusion of vocal samples from Jim Jones and the Peoples Temple, which adds a layer of macabre irony to the otherwise sugary arrangements. The album was a critical success, appearing on year-end lists for Pitchfork and NME, and its tracks have since become staples in film and television syncs. Its legacy is cemented by its influence on the 'dream-pop' revival and its frequent sampling in hip-hop, most notably by J. Cole.