Indie Rock Hit Parade Live Session: Cults

Joining us in the studio for this Indie Rock Hit Parade Live Session is the New York-based band Cults. Formed in 2010 by singer Madeline Follin and keyboardist/producer Brian Oblivion, Cults are no strangers to our building; they’ve visited for assorted sessions and Free at Noon concerts over the years. This time around, they bring material from their newly released third album, Offering. Recorded after the band took an extended break, the record explores influences that weren’t so apparent on the group’s earlier recordings. Heavy electronic rhythms and spacey textures are coupled with the core duo’s signature pop songwriting to create a sound that’s both fresh and familiar. Follin and Oblivion are joined by longtime touring members in this session: guitarist Gabriel Rodriguez, drummer Cory Stier and bassist Max Kamins.

The session begins with the album’s title track. “Offering” has that classic Cults bounce and soaring chorus, but with added embellishments and atmosphere. The next song, “I Took Your Picture,” is a multi-part mini-epic, veering from throttling drums to dreamy synths and back again. The closing song, “Talk In Circles,” is a more pensive number, showcasing the band’s more intimate side.

Listen to Cults‘ full performance on the Indie Rock Hit Parade below and check out some photos from the studio: