English rock band Band of Skulls formed in Southampton in 2004. The original lineup consisted of Russell Marsden (guitar, vocals), Emma Richardson (bass, vocals), and Matt Hayward (drums). Initially performing under the name Fleeing New York, the trio rebranded as Band of Skulls in 2008, marking the beginning of their rise on the indie rock scene.

Early Years and Breakthrough:
Their debut album, Baby Darling Doll Face Honey (2009), blended blues rock, garage rock, and indie influences. Standout tracks like “I Know What I Am” and “Death by Diamonds and Pearls” showcased gritty guitar riffs, dual vocals, and raw energy. The album earned critical acclaim and placements in TV shows, movies, and video games, significantly expanding their audience.

Sweet Sour (2012):
Their sophomore release, Sweet Sour, represented their UK breakthrough, offering a more polished but equally intense sound. The title track “Sweet Sour” and “The Devil Takes Care of His Own” highlighted their dynamic range and songwriting prowess. The album received strong reviews and solidified their place in the international alternative rock scene.

During this era, Band of Skulls toured with Muse, Queens of the Stone Age, The Red Hot Chili Peppers, and notably The Black Keys in both the U.S. and U.K. They also made their first appearance on The David Letterman Show.

Himalayan (2014):
Produced by Nick Launay (Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds, Yeah Yeah Yeahs, Arcade Fire), Himalayan marked a shift toward a more refined yet experimental sound.
Tracks such as “Asleep at the Wheel” and “Hoochie Coochie” showcased infectious hooks and high-voltage rock energy. The record’s success led to major live appearances including Glastonbury and an invitation to perform on BBC’s Later… with Jools Holland.

Recent Years:
Band of Skulls have continued to evolve, releasing several more albums and maintaining a strong presence both live and across film and TV placements.
In early 2024, the band performed a homecoming show in Southampton, celebrating their journey and hinting at new material to come in 2025.

Upcoming Projects:
Russell Marsden introduced a new lineup and announced plans for a 2025 box set chronicling the band’s early years. The deluxe release will feature the first three albums (Baby Darling Doll Face Honey, Sweet Sour, Himalayan), along with rarities, demos, B-sides, and never-before-seen photos and memorabilia from the band’s archives.

Legacy:
Through relentless touring, acclaimed songwriting, and an enduring creative spirit, Band of Skulls have established themselves as a dynamic force in modern rock, continuously captivating audiences worldwide.