Welcome to the mesmerizing world of Cloakroom, an innovative trio hailing from the rich musical tapestry of Northwest Indiana! Formed in 2012, Cloakroom expertly weaves together the immersive elements of shoegaze and the emotional depth of stoner emo. Fronted by the dynamic Doyle Martin, who captivates audiences with his vocal prowess and guitar wizardry, the band also features the rhythmic backbone of Brian Busch on drums and the melodic support of Bobby Markos on bass.
Cloakroom has made a significant impact on the music industry with their groundbreaking sound that melds heavy, distorted guitars with ethereal melodies, echoing the influences of '90s indie rock bands like Hum and Red House Painters. Their unique style has not only carved out a niche within the vinyl culture, but their vinyl releases are celebrated pieces in the collections of both casual listeners and audiophiles alike. Prepare to be drawn into their atmospheric soundscapes that resonate deeply and linger long after the needle lifts off the record!
Cloakroom's genesis traces back to the summer of 2012 in the vibrant Indiana community. Each member brought diverse backgrounds and rich histories in music. Doyle Martin, the guiding force of the band, previously lent his energy to pop-punk act the Grown-Ups, while Brian Busch and Bobby Markos contributed their talents from other local bands. Growing up amidst this Midwest milieu, they were surrounded by a potent mix of cultural influences that nurtured their musical aspirations.
Their formative years were punctuated by childhood explorations of music through family gatherings and local shows, often experiencing the joy of records spinning in their living rooms. The tactile engagement of the vinyl format left an indelible mark on their hearts, establishing a solid connection that would later inform their own releases. Such early experiences ignited their passion for the sonic magic of captured sound--an affinity that remains central to Cloakroom's identity.
Cloakroom's sound reflects a rich tapestry of influences. Drawing inspiration from a diverse array of artists, the band showcases their admiration for pioneers like My Bloody Valentine and Hum. Each listen unveils a blend of sonic texture that speaks to the heart of alternative rock while celebrating the atmospheric qualities of shoegaze and the raw energy of emo.
This eclectic musical landscape is evident in tracks that feel both weighty and ethereal, offering fans compelling listening experiences that often find their way into vinyl collections. During their visually entrancing performances, one can easily trace the threads of nostalgia woven through the warm pops and crackles of their vinyl recordings, reflecting the aesthetics they so cherish.
The journey of Cloakroom into the music industry began humbly but with great determination. Their debut EP, Infinity, released in 2013 via Run for Cover, marked their official entry into the scene. The process wasn't without challenges, as they navigated the dynamics of recording and distribution, striving to capture the essence of their heavily textured sound on vinyl--a format they revered for its authenticity.
Through perseverance and continuous refinement of their craft, Cloakroom released their first full-length album, Further Out, in 2015, heralding their arrival in the alternative music spectrum. Tours and collaborations quickly followed, fortifying their presence. It was during this period that they solidified a relationship with their audience, experimenting with different sounds while staying true to a hallmark aesthetic that resonates deeply with fans.
Cloakroom's breakthrough came with their sophomore album, Time Well, released in 2017 via Relapse Records, which left an indelible mark on the music landscape, particularly within the vinyl community. The album was met with critical acclaim, praised for its intricate compositions and immersive production. Collectors reveled in the unique vinyl pressing and stunning artwork that accompanied its release, adding to its allure.
The success of Time Well laid the groundwork for their flourishing career and introduced them to larger audiences. They received significant recognition, including features in prominent music publications that highlighted their artistic growth and uniqueness. The transformative effect of this accolades only deepened fans' appreciation for their work, motivating Cloakroom to reach even greater heights.
The nuanced layers of Cloakroom's music are emblematic not only of their collective artistry but also of their individual experiences. Through moments of personal struggle, relationships, and triumph, their music transcends mere sounds to become an expression of their human experience. Themes of melancholy and introspection resonate through their lyrics, creating relatable narratives that draw listeners in.
Moreover, Cloakroom members have expressed their commitment to various causes, channeling personal struggles into the music in ways that inspire positive change. Their vulnerability, juxtaposed with strength, allows them to connect genuinely with their audience, fostering a supportive community that grows with each new release on all formats, especially vinyl, where art and music converge in tactile beauty.
As of 2024, Cloakroom continues to evolve and impress fans with their unique sound. Most recently, they released their 2022 album, Dissolution Wave, a concept record described as a "space western." The album has garnered enthusiastic responses not just for its innovative concept but also for its stunning vinyl representation that showcases the band's attention to detail and dedication to craft.
The band's impact reverberates through the music-forward communities, continually influencing emerging musicians eager to explore the boundaries of their genres. With each release, they seamlessly integrate into the vinyl culture, attaching themselves to a legacy rooted in authenticity and artistic expression. Cloakroom's body of work is not just a collection of songs but a testimony to the enduring power of music to connect and evoke, ensuring their lasting presence in music history.
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