Cathedrals: The Ethereal Sound of Dream Pop

Cathedrals was an American dream pop duo that emerged from San Francisco in the early 2010s. The pair, consisting of vocalist Brodie Jenkins and producer Johnny Hwin, gained critical attention for their atmospheric blend of synth-pop and soulful vocals before their dissolution in 2016.

Early career

Cathedrals formed in 2013 when Jenkins and Hwin, both active in the Bay Area music scene, began collaborating. Their initial sound was crafted in home studios, merging Hwin's textured electronic production with Jenkins's powerful and emotive voice. This DIY approach led to their first official release, the self-titled Cathedrals EP, in 2014.

Breakthrough

The duo's breakthrough arrived later in 2014 with the single Harlem. The track's lush, reverb-drenched production and Jenkins's captivating vocal performance resonated online, building a significant following on platforms like SoundCloud. This buzz led to a deal with the independent label Bodan Kuma Recordings, which re-released their EP and positioned them for wider recognition within the indie electronic scene.

Key tracks

Harlem — This breakthrough single defined their signature ethereal sound and became their most streamed track.

OOO AAA — Featured on their debut EP, this song showcased their ability to craft dark, danceable synth-pop anthems.

Unbound — A later single that highlighted a refined production style and Jenkins's expansive vocal range.

Try to Fight — This track demonstrated the duo's knack for blending melancholic lyrics with uplifting, shimmering instrumentals.

Despite their promising trajectory, Cathedrals announced an indefinite hiatus in 2016 after playing their final show in San Francisco. They left behind a concise but influential catalog that continues to attract new listeners to their brand of moody, romantic dream pop. Fans of the genre often seek out their limited releases, which capture a specific moment in the 2010s indie electronic landscape. For listeners who connected with Cathedrals' atmospheric style, similar artists include Phantogram for their blend of electronic rock and haunting vocals. Purity Ring shares a focus on glitchy, ethereal production and intimate lyrical themes. The moody synth-pop of CHVRCHES also offers a comparable energy, while Alina Baranetsky explores similar dream pop territories with a modern sensibility.

Cathedrals' music maintains a steady presence on various online radio streams and independent music radio stations that specialize in indie electronic and alternative pop genres. Their tracks are frequently curated into playlists focused on atmospheric sounds and 2010s indie discoveries, keeping their legacy active for dedicated fans and new audiences alike.

The music of Cathedrals can be heard on select radio stations featured on our website. Listeners can discover or revisit the duo's evocative dream pop catalog through the variety of radio stations available on onairium.com.