untitled (halo) are on the rise

Emerging from the vibrant DIY music culture of Los Angeles, untitled (halo) have unveiled their self-titled debut album, marking a significant milestone for the quartet. The band, comprising Ariana Mamnoon, Jack Dione, Jay Are, and Nicholas Noneman, has cultivated a distinct sonic identity that reflects their diverse backgrounds and shared connections within the city’s creative underground.

The formation of untitled (halo) is deeply intertwined with Los Angeles’s local scene, where friendships forged through radio stations, skate parks, and community venues laid the groundwork for collaboration. Mamnoon and Are initially connected at dublab, a nonprofit radio station known for nurturing emerging artists, while Noneman’s chance meeting with Mamnoon during the COVID-19 pandemic at a skate park highlighted their mutual appreciation for indie influences like Alex G.

Dione’s involvement followed a similar trajectory of fluid engagement with various projects before solidifying the current lineup. The quartet’s early interactions revolved around shared spaces and experiences, rather than formal planning, emphasizing the organic nature of their collaboration.

A pivotal cultural landmark for the band has been El Prado, a Silverlake bar steeped in Los Angeles’s musical legacy. Although not the site of their initial meeting, the venue inspired one of their early standout tracks, "el prado freestyle," encapsulating the gritty, communal atmosphere that the band associates with the city’s alternative scenes. This space resonates as a contemporary hub akin to historic venues such as CBGB, symbolizing a post-pandemic resurgence of in-person connection and artistic exchange.

Initially, untitled (halo) began creating music as a casual endeavor within the city’s DIY circles, seeking to reclaim a sense of community after the isolation of the pandemic. However, the positive reception from peers and local audiences led the group to pursue the project more seriously. The transition from informal collaboration to a professional pursuit underscores their commitment to evolving beyond previous solo efforts and side projects.

Artistically, the band draws inspiration from a broad spectrum of cultural references, including visual art and literature, aiming to craft music that challenges conventional structures. Their approach to songwriting involves deliberate experimentation with form and texture, striving to produce work that is both innovative and emotionally resonant.

Their debut album builds upon early experimental sounds developed alongside prominent figures in Los Angeles’s experimental pop scene, notably the producer known as urika’s bedroom. This partnership helped shape the band’s unique blend of influences, merging shoegaze’s atmospheric qualities with the energetic pulse of hyperpop. Tracks such as "easy rider" and "sex" exemplify this hybrid, delivering music that feels simultaneously familiar and fresh.

Positioned within a growing movement of forward-thinking Californian artists, untitled (halo) join peers like Mackeeper, Chanel Beads, and Brat Star in pushing the boundaries of contemporary indie music. Their sound, characterized by its adventurous spirit and depth, resonates with audiences seeking alternatives to mainstream trends.

The release of their debut album through Dirty Hit on November 6 signifies a noteworthy addition to Los Angeles’s music landscape. Untitled (halo) embody a new wave of artists who balance the intimacy of DIY origins with the ambition of broader recognition, offering a compelling snapshot of the city’s evolving cultural fabric.