Casino Hearts

Casino Hearts is a Los Angeles-based trio consisting of Forest, Nick Minor, and Jacob Rubeck. Originally formed in Reno, Nevada, in 2013 by Rubeck and Minor, the band's early output was characterized by a prolific, lo-fi indie rock approach that established them as staples of the local scene.

After a period of hiatus following Rubeck's relocation to Los Angeles, the group reformed in 2021 with the addition of Forest, whose vocal presence and electronic influences shifted the band toward a more sophisticated dream pop and shoegaze aesthetic. Their sound identity is defined by a 'sonic quilt' approach, blending the wall-of-sound guitar techniques of My Bloody Valentine with the avant-pop sensibilities of Björk and the ethereal textures of 4AD-era dream pop. Critical consensus highlights their ability to maintain a DIY, bedroom-pop intimacy while achieving a cinematic, immersive scale. They occupy a unique space in the contemporary indie landscape, bridging the gap between the gritty emotionality of Elvis Depressedly and the polished, atmospheric pop of artists like Hana Vu.