Booking SURF CURSE. Save Time. Book Using Our #1 Services.

Surf Curse is an American indie rock band formed in 2013, known for its surf punk and lo-fi sound, blending energetic beats with dreamy, melancholic undertones. The group originated in Reno, Nevada, and was founded by Nick Rattigan (vocals, drums) and Jacob Rubeck (guitar). The duo first began making music together in high school, but it wasn’t until they relocated to Los Angeles that they truly gained traction within the indie music scene.

Early Formation and DIY Beginnings

Nick Rattigan and Jacob Rubeck were childhood friends, and they started making music as a creative outlet during their teenage years. Drawing inspiration from surf rock, punk, and garage rock, they initially recorded and released their music in a very DIY manner, uploading tracks on Bandcamp and other online platforms. Their sound, characterized by fuzzy guitars, reverb-soaked vocals, and catchy melodies, struck a chord with fans of underground indie rock.

Their debut album, “Buds” (2013), was a lo-fi, surf rock-inspired project that quickly garnered a cult following. The album’s raw, unpolished feel appealed to listeners who were drawn to its emotional vulnerability and nostalgic atmosphere.

Breakthrough with “Nothing Yet” and “Heaven Surrounds You”

In 2017, Surf Curse released their sophomore album, “Nothing Yet”, which marked a turning point for the band. This record featured more polished production and a stronger emphasis on songwriting, while still maintaining the dreamy, surf-punk aesthetic that their fans loved. Songs like “Freaks” and “The Strange and the Kind” gained significant attention on streaming platforms, helping Surf Curse reach a wider audience.

The band’s third album, “Heaven Surrounds You”(2019), was a more ambitious project, thematically inspired by classic coming-of-age films. The album featured cinematic lyrics and a more expansive sound, blending dreamy indie rock with nostalgic nods to 80s new wave. Songs like “Disco” and “Midnight Cowboy” were well-received, and the band began to tour more extensively, performing at various festivals and gaining a reputation for their high-energy live shows.

– Hire Surf Curse for your festival or concert plans. – (t,s)

Viral Success and “Freaks”

Despite being released in 2013, the song “Freaks” from their debut album experienced a massive resurgence in popularity in 2020, thanks to TikTok. The song went viral on the platform, introducing Surf Curse to a new generation of listeners and leading to renewed interest in their earlier work. The viral success of “Freaks” helped the band achieve mainstream recognition and chart success, solidifying their place in the indie music world.

Musical Style and Influences

Surf Curse‘s music is often described as a mix of surf punk, lo-fi indie rock, and post-punk revival. Their sound is characterized by jangly guitars, punchy drums, and emotionally charged lyrics that often deal with themes of alienation, love, and introspection. Their influences include a wide range of artists, from surf rock pioneers like The Beach Boys to post-punk bands like Joy Division and The Cure.

Recent Projects and Current Status

Following the success of “Heaven Surrounds You” and the viral resurgence of “Freaks,” Surf Curse returned to the studio and released their fourth album, “Magic Hour” (2022). This album continued to explore themes of nostalgia and self-discovery, but with a more mature and refined sound, showing the band’s evolution as musicians.

Nick Rattigan, in addition to his work with Surf Curse, is also known for his solo project, Current Joys, where he explores more introspective and experimental sounds. Despite the side projects and individual ventures, Rattigan and Rubeck have maintained a strong collaborative partnership.

Legacy and Impact

Surf Curse‘s ability to seamlessly blend DIY ethics with catchy, emotionally resonant music has earned them a devoted fanbase. Their rise from a small, self-released act to viral success speaks to their cultural relevance in the digital age. Surf Curse continues to push boundaries within the indie rock scene, evolving both musically and thematically with each release. As they gain more recognition, the band’s influence on the indie and surf-punk genres continues to grow.