In 2014, David Letterman hosted a little known pop trio from Baltimore on his late night show. Frontman Samuel T. Herring, short, squat, semi-bald, looked more like a Sopranos supporting character than an indie-band leader. Bobbing and weaving across the stage, he sang the synthy and sad “Seasons (Waitin’ on You)” with captivating seriousness. The four-minute clip went viral, and the unknown breakup tune became a breakout hit—Bono raved about it in his Rolling Stone cover story; Debbie Harry reached out to the group and ultimately sang a duet with Herring. Future Islands is now a mainstay of indie pop, turning out singles that are as sweet and sorrowful as “Seasons” but with new melodic edges and lyrical themes, a sound that builds on their first hit without sticking them in the lost land of one hit wonders. The group’s first show of 2020 streams live from its hometown. —C.J.F.
The Arts Intel Report
A Cultural Compass
For the World Traveler
For the World Traveler
A Cultural Compass
For the World Traveler