Pets: The Indie Rock Anthem Crafters

Pets is an American indie rock band known for their infectious guitar hooks and introspective lyricism. Hailing from Portland, Oregon, the group achieved a significant commercial milestone when their sophomore album, "Domesticated," charted on the Billboard 200 and its lead single was certified gold.

Early career

The band formed in 2012 around the core songwriting duo of vocalist/guitarist Leo Vance and bassist Mara Chen. Their initial sound was a raw blend of garage rock and lo-fi pop, cultivated through a series of self-released EPs on Bandcamp. This DIY approach caught the attention of the independent label Fuzzy Logic Records, which signed the band and released their debut album, "Leash," in 2015.

Breakthrough

Pets' breakthrough arrived in 2018 with their critically acclaimed album "Domesticated." Released on the mid-sized label Canvas Records, the album debuted at number 87 on the Billboard 200, a surprise success for an indie act. The anthemic lead single Good Boy became a staple on alternative radio, eventually earning a gold certification for sales exceeding 500,000 units in the United States.

Key tracks

Good Boy — This gold-certified single propelled the band to mainstream alternative radio recognition and defined their signature sound.

Fetch — A deeper cut from "Domesticated" that became a fan favorite and a live set staple for its dynamic build and release.

Housebroken — The opening track from their 2021 album that showcased a more polished, synth-tinged production style.

Roll Over — An early EP track that demonstrated their foundational garage rock energy and clever songwriting.

Stay — A notable 2023 collaboration with producer William Fitzsimons that highlighted their evolving atmospheric direction.

Following their breakthrough, Pets toured extensively and released their third studio album, "Kennel Club," in 2021. This record saw them experimenting with more atmospheric production while maintaining their core guitar-driven indie rock identity. They have since collaborated with artists like producer and multi-instrumentalist William Fitzsimons, further expanding their sonic palette within the modern rock landscape.

Fans of the Portland indie rock scene will also appreciate the guitar-forward melodies of The Decemberists. The anthemic, emotionally charged songcraft of Death Cab For Cutie shares clear DNA with Pets' work. For a similar blend of introspection and energetic release, explore Modest Mouse. The driving rhythms and layered guitars of Sleater-Kinney also represent a key influence on the band's powerful core sound.

The music of Pets is a regular feature on alternative rock radio stations and modern rock FM stations across the network. Their catalog, from early lo-fi gems to their later polished anthems, receives consistent airplay, connecting with listeners who crave authentic guitar-based songwriting.

You can hear the dynamic indie rock of Pets on radio stations featured right here on onairium.com. Tune in to discover their key tracks and deep cuts as part of our curated rock and alternative music programming.