The Veils: The Grit and Grandeur of Alternative Rock

The Veils are a New Zealand-born, London-based alternative rock band known for their intense, emotionally charged sound. Fronted by the distinctive voice and songwriting of Finn Andrews, the group has built a dedicated international following across a career spanning over two decades.

Early career

The Veils formed in London in 2001 around the core of singer-songwriter Finn Andrews, son of XTC keyboardist Barry Andrews. After signing to Blanco y Negro Records, they released their debut album The Runaway Found in 2004, which introduced their dramatic, literary brand of rock.

Breakthrough

The band's critical and commercial breakthrough arrived with their second album, 2006's Nux Vomica. Released on Rough Trade Records, the album was met with widespread acclaim for its raw power and Andrews' visceral vocal delivery, solidifying their reputation as a formidable live act.

Key tracks

Not Yet — This early single from their debut album established their signature blend of melancholic melody and explosive dynamics.

Advice for Young Mothers to Be — The lead single from Nux Vomica became a fan favorite and a staple of their live set, showcasing their darker, more aggressive side.

Jesus for the Jugular — A relentless track from Nux Vomica that exemplifies the band's ability to channel chaotic energy into compelling songcraft.

Axolotl — From their 2011 album Sun Gangs, this song highlights Andrews' evocative storytelling and the band's evolving, textured soundscapes.

Total Depravity — The title track from their 2016 album marked a collaboration with producer El-P and a venture into more electronic, industrial-tinged territory.

The band's lineup has shifted over the years, with Andrews remaining the constant creative force. Their later albums, including 2013's Time Stays, We Go and 2021's ...And Out of the Void Came Love, have continued to explore themes of mortality and transcendence within their alternative rock framework.

Fans of The Veils' intense narrative style and dynamic range may also appreciate the work of similar artists. Nick Cave shares a similar command of dark, literary rock drama. The National explores a comparable terrain of sophisticated, brooding indie rock. Mitski delivers a parallel intensity of emotion and vocal performance. Arcade Fire operates on a similar scale of grand, anthemic alternative rock ambition.

The music of The Veils is a regular feature on alternative rock radio stations and independent music radio stations that champion guitar-driven, artistically ambitious bands. Their songs, from early anthems to later experimental work, fit seamlessly into playlists dedicated to thoughtful and powerful rock music.

Listeners can discover the compelling discography of The Veils through the alternative and rock radio stations available on onairium.com, where their music is frequently featured in regular rotation.