Sky Larkin

Sky Larkin

Sky Larkin are an indie rock group from Leeds, formed in 2005. The band consists of Katie Harkin on vocals and guitar, Douglas Adams on bass and Nestor Matthews on drums.

Background

Katie Harkin and Nestor Matthews begin as long-time friends and schoolmates, rehearsing together in bedrooms and garages before Douglas Adams joins the line-up. The trio are based in Leeds, although they study in different places and travel regularly to meet for rehearsals and shows.

Recording and releases

Their debut album is recorded in Seattle, Washington, with producer John Goodmanson, whose credits include Sleater-Kinney, Death Cab for Cutie and Nada Surf. The album is described through its sharp guitars, heavy rhythms and strong choruses, with lyrics built around oblique references and detailed imagery. The Golden Spike is released in February 2009. The band’s first full single release is “Fossil, I”, and they also record a video for their debut single “Beeline”.

Live work and activity

Before and around the time of their debut album, Sky Larkin play with Broken Social Scene, The Gossip and Menomena, and tour with labelmates Los Campesinos!. They also perform with Hot Club de Paris and Those Dancing Days, and appear at festivals including Glastonbury and Latitude. The band are offered a deal with Wichita Recordings before going to Seattle to record.

Style and associations

Their music is compared with The Breeders, Violent Femmes and Yeah Yeah Yeahs, although they are presented as a band that resists being placed beside any single influence. Their work is described as having an international scope rather than a narrowly local identity.

Line-up change

In January 2012, Douglas Adams announces his departure from the band, though the group remains active.