Making Up The Rules
2025
Capital Cities
132.7K Listeners
Artist Bio
Introduction & Current Status
Capital Cities, the Los Angeles-based indie-pop duo, burst onto the scene with their infectious earworms and a knack for crafting undeniably feel-good anthems. While they might not be dominating the Top 40 charts every single week, their debut album *In a Tidal Wave of Mystery* remains a certified indie-pop classic, and their music continues to soundtrack everything from TV commercials to TikTok trends.
Ryan Merchant and Sebu Simonian, the masterminds behind Capital Cities, are proof that staying power comes from more than just fleeting viral moments. They've cultivated a dedicated fanbase through their unique sound, catchy melodies, and live performances that are basically a concentrated dose of serotonin.
Their influence can be heard in a new generation of indie-pop acts. They've cemented their place as purveyors of upbeat vibes and quirky, danceable tunes, and are still very much active, touring and teasing new music for their loyal followers.
Early Life & Background
Ryan Merchant and Sebu Simonian's paths crossed in the most LA way possible: Craigslist. Both were working as jingle writers when they decided to join forces, a move that would ultimately lead to the birth of Capital Cities. Merchant, with his background in music theory and production, brought the technical finesse. Simonian, blessed with an ear for melody and a distinctive vocal style, added the crucial pop sensibilities.
Before the bright lights and festival stages, both musicians had diverse musical upbringings. Merchant dabbled in various genres, soaking up influences from classic rock to electronic music. Simonian, of Armenian descent, grew up surrounded by a rich tapestry of musical traditions, which subtly influenced his own songwriting.
Their shared love for artists like The Postal Service and Phoenix hinted at the indie-pop direction they would eventually take. This shared sensibility, combined with their unique individual backgrounds, proved to be the perfect recipe for creating something fresh and exciting.
Career Beginnings
Capital Cities wasn't an overnight sensation. Like many artists, they put in the work, honing their sound and building a following through local gigs and online releases. Their early material showcased their knack for catchy melodies and quirky electronic production, but it was their debut single that truly put them on the map.
"Safe and Sound," released in 2011, became an unexpected viral hit. The song's infectious blend of indie-pop, funk, and electronic elements resonated with listeners around the world. Suddenly, Capital Cities were playing sold-out shows and fielding offers from record labels.
The success of "Safe and Sound" wasn't just luck. It was a testament to their hard work, their unique sound, and their ability to tap into a collective desire for feel-good music. It served as the perfect launching pad for their debut album and propelled them into the international spotlight.
Major Albums & Discography
*In a Tidal Wave of Mystery*, released in 2013, solidified Capital Cities' place in the indie-pop landscape. The album was a vibrant collection of catchy tunes, showcasing their signature blend of electronic production, infectious melodies, and quirky lyrics. Tracks like "Kangaroo Court" and "One Minute More" became instant fan favorites, further cementing their reputation for crafting undeniably danceable anthems.
The album's success wasn't just limited to the indie blogosphere. *In a Tidal Wave of Mystery* cracked the Billboard 200, proving that Capital Cities had mainstream appeal. Critics praised the album's originality and its ability to seamlessly blend genres, solidifying its place as a modern indie-pop classic.
While they haven't released a full-length album since, fans eagerly anticipate new material. Their continued touring and sporadic single releases keep the flame alive, hinting at a possible future full-length project. The impact of *In a Tidal Wave of Mystery* continues to resonate, influencing a new wave of indie-pop artists.
Hit Songs & Signature Tracks
"Safe and Sound" is undoubtedly Capital Cities' signature track. Its infectious melody, funky bassline, and Sebu Simonian's distinctive vocals made it an instant earworm. The song's global success was fueled by a viral music video featuring synchronized dancers and quirky visuals, perfectly capturing the band's unique aesthetic. It became an inescapable earworm.
Beyond "Safe and Sound," tracks like "Kangaroo Court" and "One Minute More" also resonated with listeners. "Kangaroo Court" with its driving beat and singalong chorus, became a live show staple. "One Minute More," a slightly more introspective track, showcased the band's ability to blend catchy melodies with thoughtful lyrics.
These tracks, along with the rest of their debut album, cemented Capital Cities' reputation for crafting feel-good anthems that are both danceable and memorable. Their ability to blend genres and create undeniably catchy tunes has made them a mainstay on playlists and soundtracks around the world.
Collaborations & Features
While Capital Cities is primarily known as a self-contained duo, they've also dabbled in collaborations, showcasing their versatility and willingness to experiment with different sounds. They've worked with artists across genres, adding their signature touch to a variety of projects.
One notable collaboration was their work with Swedish electronic duo Galantis on the track "We Are Born to Play." The song showcased Capital Cities' ability to blend their indie-pop sensibilities with Galantis' signature big-room sound, resulting in a high-energy dance anthem.
These collaborations demonstrate Capital Cities' openness to experimentation and their desire to push the boundaries of their sound. They're not afraid to step outside of their comfort zone and work with artists from different genres, resulting in some truly unique and memorable musical moments.
Awards & Achievements
Capital Cities' success hasn't gone unnoticed. They've racked up a number of awards and nominations, recognizing their impact on the music industry and their ability to connect with audiences around the world. Their signature song, "Safe and Sound," earned them significant recognition.
They've also been nominated for multiple MTV Video Music Awards, recognizing the creativity and visual impact of their music videos. Their innovative and quirky visuals have become a signature part of their brand, further solidifying their place as a unique and influential force in the music industry.
Beyond awards, Capital Cities' biggest achievement lies in their ability to create music that resonates with people on a global scale. Their songs have become anthems for a generation, soundtracking countless moments of joy, celebration, and self-discovery.
Personal Life
While Capital Cities is primarily known for their music, both Ryan Merchant and Sebu Simonian maintain relatively private personal lives. They prefer to let their music speak for itself, focusing on their creative output and their connection with their fans.
They've also used their platform to support various charitable causes, aligning themselves with organizations that promote social justice and environmental awareness. This commitment to making a positive impact on the world reflects their values and their desire to use their influence for good.
Musical Style & Influence
Capital Cities' musical style is a vibrant blend of indie-pop, electronic music, and funk, creating a sound that is both danceable and memorable. They've been compared to artists like Phoenix and The Postal Service, but their unique blend of influences sets them apart. Their music is characterized by catchy melodies, quirky lyrics, and a heavy dose of electronic production.
They've influenced a new generation of indie-pop artists, inspiring them to embrace experimentation and to blend genres in unexpected ways. Their success has proven that it's possible to create commercially successful music without sacrificing artistic integrity. Their impact on the indie-pop landscape is undeniable.
Capital Cities' legacy lies in their ability to create music that makes people feel good. Their songs are anthems for a generation, soundtracking countless moments of joy, celebration, and self-discovery. Their music continues to resonate with listeners around the world, solidifying their place as one of the most influential indie-pop acts of the 21st century.
Recent Work & What's Next
While it's been some time since their debut album, Capital Cities haven't disappeared from the music scene. They continue to tour, playing festivals and headlining shows around the world. They've also released a steady stream of singles, showcasing their continued evolution as artists.
Fans eagerly anticipate a new full-length album from Capital Cities. While there's no official release date set, the band has hinted at new music in the works, promising a fresh and exciting sound that builds upon their existing catalog. Their future direction remains open, but one thing is certain: Capital Cities will continue to create music that makes people feel good, pushing the boundaries of indie-pop and inspiring a new generation of artists.
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