Howler

Howler emerged from Minneapolis in 2010 as a central figure in the early 2010s garage rock revival, quickly gaining international traction through Rough Trade Records. Led by Jordan Gatesmith, the band's sound identity is defined by a 'scuzzy' production aesthetic that blends surf-rock tremolo with post-punk urgency.

Their debut, America Give Up (2012), was a critical darling, particularly in the UK press, positioning them alongside contemporaries like The Vaccines and Palma Violets. Historically, they represent the tail end of the NME-driven 'indie sleaze' era, transitioning from the polished indie of the 2000s back toward a more primitive, lo-fi garage sound. Their influence web connects back to The Replacements and The Stooges, while their peer group includes the 'B-Town' scene and other Rough Trade signees of the era. Critical consensus often highlights their ability to mask tight, professional songwriting with a veneer of reckless, youthful abandon. Though the project became less active after their second album, World of Joy, they remain a touchstone for the 2010s indie rock explosion.