Solid Gold

Solid Gold

Solid Gold is a Minneapolis-based electronic group active since 2005. The group forms in Madison in 2000 after Zach Coulter and Matthew Locher meet at the University of Wisconsin and begin the project on the basis of shared interests in futuristic art and architecture, old-school dub and groove-based music.

Line-up and formation

The group begins with Coulter and Locher, later joined by guitarist Adam Hurlburt. After a drummer leaves, the band continues to develop its sound around slow, trance-like dance rhythms, keyboard textures, guitar lines and hip-hop-influenced beats. The verified line-up gives the group as Zach Coulter, Adam Hurlburt and Matthew Locher.

In 2005, the band relocates from Madison to Minneapolis. The move becomes part of the group’s identity, and Minneapolis remains the city most closely associated with them.

Sound and style

Solid Gold’s music combines indie, new wave and electronic elements. Their arrangements use guitar licks, distorted or unusual keyboards, programmed beats and layered effects. The songs often centre on breakup, escape and emotional uncertainty, with lyrics that favour repeated phrases and mood over straightforward narrative. Coulter describes his writing as avoiding forced storytelling.

Debut album

The band’s debut album, Bodies of Water, is developed over several years before being completed in the studio by Coulter, Hurlburt and Locher. The record contains songs about breaking up and leaving, and it reflects the group’s blend of ironic pop surface and more melancholy subject matter.

Performances and touring

Solid Gold spends several years touring, including showcase appearances in London and New York. The group also plays festivals in Texas and Sweden and returns regularly to Minneapolis for local shows.

Context

The band name has no connection to the television programme of the same name. Solid Gold is the name of the band rather than the long-running countdown show.