Current Joys: The Intimate Sound of Lo-Fi Indie Rock

Current Joys is the deeply personal solo musical project of American singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Nick Rattigan. Hailing from Reno, Nevada, the project is best known for its raw, lo-fi aesthetic and emotionally resonant songwriting, building a dedicated following through consistent album releases and viral moments online.

Early career

Current Joys began as a solo outlet for Nick Rattigan, who is also known as the drummer and co-vocalist for the surf-rock band Surf Curse. The project emerged in the early 2010s, characterized by a home-recorded, DIY approach that contrasted with his band's fuller sound. Early releases were often shared directly via online platforms, establishing an immediate and intimate connection with listeners.

Breakthrough

The project gained significant traction as its music found a natural home on streaming platforms and video-sharing websites. A key moment came when the song A Different Age amassed millions of streams, becoming a staple in the indie rock and lo-fi playlists. This organic growth was bolstered by the 2013 album Wild Heart, which remains a foundational release in the Current Joys discography.

Key tracks

Kids - This melancholic track exemplifies the project's signature blend of simple, repeating guitar lines and vulnerable, diary-like lyrics.

A Different Age - Often cited as a breakthrough song, its reflective lyrics on youth and change resonated widely, becoming a fan favorite.

New Flesh - A driving, emotionally charged song that showcases Rattigan's ability to build intensity within a lo-fi framework.

Following this online recognition, Current Joys continued to evolve, with later albums like Voyager (2021) exploring more polished production while maintaining the core emotional authenticity. Rattigan's work under this moniker often explores themes of loneliness, desire, and existential reflection, delivered with a palpable sense of immediacy. The project's consistent output and distinctive voice have cemented its place within the modern American indie landscape.

Fans of Current Joys' introspective style may also appreciate the work of Surf Curse, which shares Rattigan's vocal and songwriting contributions. The raw, emotional delivery is echoed in artists like Alex G, who also operates within a DIY, home-recorded sphere. The lo-fi bedroom pop sensibility connects with the music of Clairo, particularly in her early work.