**Night Things (band)**
**Definition:**
Night Things is an American indie pop duo known for their atmospheric soundscapes and emotive lyrics. Formed in Los Angeles, the band blends elements of synth-pop, dream pop, and alternative rock to create a distinctive musical style.
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# Night Things (band)
Night Things is an American indie pop duo originating from Los Angeles, California. The band is recognized for its lush, synth-driven sound and introspective songwriting, combining elements of dream pop, synth-pop, and alternative rock. Since their formation, Night Things has garnered attention for their evocative melodies and cinematic production, establishing themselves as a notable act within the contemporary indie music scene.
## History
### Formation and Early Years
Night Things was formed in the early 2010s by vocalist and guitarist Joe Keery and bassist and producer Mikel Jollett. Both musicians had backgrounds in different musical projects before coming together to explore a new sonic direction. The collaboration began as a side project, with the duo experimenting with synthesizers and electronic textures to complement their songwriting.
The name „Night Things” was chosen to reflect the nocturnal, introspective themes that permeate their music, as well as the atmospheric quality of their sound. Early demos circulated online, attracting a modest following and critical interest from indie music blogs.
### Breakthrough and Debut Album
In 2016, Night Things released their debut album, *Midnight Echoes*, which showcased their signature blend of dreamy synth layers and heartfelt lyrics. The album was praised for its cohesive mood and production quality, drawing comparisons to bands like The xx and M83. Tracks such as „Fading Lights” and „Silent Streets” became fan favorites, highlighting the duo’s ability to craft emotionally resonant songs with a modern indie pop sensibility.
The success of *Midnight Echoes* led to increased touring opportunities, with Night Things performing at various music festivals and intimate venues across the United States. Their live shows were noted for their immersive atmosphere, often enhanced by visual projections and lighting that complemented the music’s nocturnal themes.
### Subsequent Releases and Evolution
Following their debut, Night Things continued to evolve their sound, incorporating more organic instrumentation alongside their electronic elements. Their sophomore album, *Afterglow*, released in 2019, marked a maturation in their songwriting and production. The album explored themes of memory, loss, and hope, with a more expansive sonic palette that included live drums, strings, and layered harmonies.
Singles such as „Echoes in the Dark” and „Hold Me Close” received airplay on indie radio stations and streaming platforms, further solidifying Night Things’ presence in the indie music community. The band also collaborated with other artists and producers, experimenting with different genres while maintaining their core aesthetic.
### Recent Activity
In the early 2020s, Night Things adapted to the challenges posed by the global pandemic by focusing on remote collaboration and digital releases. They released a series of singles and EPs that continued to explore themes of isolation and connection, resonating with listeners during a time of widespread uncertainty.
As of 2024, Night Things is reportedly working on new material, with plans for a third full-length album. The band remains active in the indie music scene, known for their commitment to artistic growth and emotional authenticity.
## Musical Style and Influences
Night Things’ music is characterized by its atmospheric synth textures, melodic basslines, and emotive vocal delivery. Their sound often features a blend of electronic and acoustic instruments, creating a dreamy yet grounded sonic environment. The duo’s songwriting frequently explores themes of introspection, relationships, and the passage of time, conveyed through poetic and evocative lyrics.
Influences cited by the band include 1980s synth-pop acts such as Depeche Mode and New Order, as well as contemporary indie artists like Beach House and The National. Night Things also draws inspiration from film scores and ambient music, which informs their cinematic approach to production and arrangement.
## Band Members
– **Joe Keery** – vocals, guitar, synthesizers
– **Mikel Jollett** – bass, production, synthesizers
Both members contribute to songwriting and production, with a collaborative approach that emphasizes mood and texture.
## Discography
### Studio Albums
– *Midnight Echoes* (2016)
– *Afterglow* (2019)
### EPs and Singles
– *Nightfall* EP (2017)
– „Fading Lights” (2016)
– „Echoes in the Dark” (2019)
– „Hold Me Close” (2019)
– „Lonely Streets” (2021)
– „Silent Whispers” (2022)
## Live Performances
Night Things is known for their immersive live shows, which often incorporate visual elements such as projections and dynamic lighting to enhance the mood of their music. The duo typically performs with additional touring musicians to replicate the layered sound of their recordings. Their performances have been featured at notable indie music festivals and venues across North America.
## Critical Reception
Critics have generally praised Night Things for their ability to blend nostalgic synth sounds with contemporary indie pop sensibilities. Reviews often highlight the emotional depth of their lyrics and the cinematic quality of their production. While some critics note that the band’s sound can be derivative of 1980s synth-pop, most agree that Night Things brings a fresh perspective through their modern songwriting and atmospheric arrangements.
## Legacy and Impact
Though still relatively early in their career, Night Things has contributed to the resurgence of synth-driven indie pop in the 2010s and 2020s. Their music has influenced emerging artists within the genre and helped to popularize a style that balances electronic and organic elements. The band’s focus on mood and narrative has also inspired a renewed interest in concept-driven albums within the indie music community.
## See Also
– Indie pop
– Dream pop
– Synth-pop
– Los Angeles music scene
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**Meta Description:**
Night Things is an American indie pop duo from Los Angeles known for their atmospheric synth-driven sound and emotive songwriting. The band blends elements of dream pop and alternative rock to create a distinctive musical style.