Wavves

Wavves is an American noise pop and indie rock group from San Diego, California, associated with lo-fi, garage rock, indie surf, pop punk, psychedelic and beach punk styles. The project is led by Nathan Williams, who records and performs under the Wavves name and is based in Los Angeles.

Career

Wavves begins with Williams’ self-titled debut LP in 2008. The project attracts attention online and from outlets including Pitchfork and ABC News, then expands to live performance with Ryan Ulsh as touring drummer. Wavves tours in the United States and Europe and is originally signed to Fat Possum Records.

The second full-length album, Wavvves, follows in 2009. The third album, King of the Beach, appears in 2010 and includes a rhythm section made up of Stephen Pope and Billy Hayes, both previously part of Jay Reatard’s touring band. The group tours heavily after this release, and Billy Hayes later leaves for a break.

Jacob Cooper, formerly of The Mae Shi, then joins on drums. After Wavves plays major festivals, Williams starts the Ghost Ramp label and releases the Life Sux EP on it. In 2013 the fourth studio album, Afraid of Heights, is released on Mom + Pop. Cooper leaves the band the same year and Brian Hill, known for work with The Soft Pack and The Plot to Blow Up the Eiffel Tower, becomes drummer.

The fifth album, V, is released through Ghost Ramp and Warner Bros. Records. Later releases include You’re Welcome, Hideaway and Spun.

Line-up

The group’s members are Nathan Williams, Alex Gates and Jacob Cooper. Over time, the live and recording line-up also includes Ryan Ulsh, Stephen Pope, Billy Hayes and Brian Hill.