Smallpools

Smallpools emerged in 2013 as a quintessential product of the digital indie-pop explosion. Formed in Los Angeles, the trio of Sean Scanlon, Mike Kamerman, and Beau Kuther achieved near-instant viral success with their debut single 'Dreaming,' which epitomized the 'blog rock' sound of the era.

Their music is characterized by a maximalist production style that blends the melodic sensibilities of 80s synth-pop with the rhythmic urgency of 21s-century alternative dance. Historically, they represent the peak of the major-label interest in 'indie' sounds that were polished for radio and festival mainstages. Their career arc saw them move from HypeMachine darlings to touring staples alongside acts like Walk the Moon and Twenty One Pilots. Critically, they are recognized for their technical precision in pop songwriting, specifically their use of high-register vocals and complex, layered arrangements that maintain a deceptive sense of effortless fun. They occupy a cultural space between the art-pop experimentation of Passion Pit and the stadium-ready anthems of The Killers.