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Fidlar, stylized as FIDLAR, is an American punk and garage rock band from Los Angeles.[2] The band's name is an acronym for Fuck It Dawg, Life's a Risk, a skate mantra stolen from singer Zac Carper's former roommates.[3] Originally, FIDLAR went under the name 'Fuck The Clock',[4] as referenced in their song "Cheap Beer". To date, the band have released four studio albums: FIDLAR (2013), Too (2015), Almost Free (2019) and Surviving the Dream (2024). The band are mostly known for short, fast songs that deal with partying and narcotics. In 2013, Pitchfork wrote that the band "don't make music you'll grow old with, and they won't get an "A" for originality, but that's not really the point".[5]

Key Information

Some journalists consider FIDLAR to be among the greatest pop-punk bands of all time.[6]

History

[edit]

Founding members Zac Carper and Elvis Kuehn met while working at a recording studio in which Carper was employed as an engineer and Kuehn was an intern. The two started recording songs when the studio was empty and posting the finished products online.[7] The band began playing house shows, many of which resulted in authorities showing up.[6]

Three years after recording their first songs, they stepped on stage together with the Black Lips and went on tour with the Hives.[8]

In 2011, they released their debut EP, DIYDUI, produced by Lewis Pesacov. In 2012, FIDLAR were named one of Stereogum's 40 Best New Bands of 2012.[9] In October 2012, the band made their television debut on Last Call with Carson Daly, where they performed "Whore" and "No Waves" from their then-upcoming album FIDLAR.[10]

The band is currently signed to Mom + Pop Music in the US,[11] Wichita Recordings in the UK[12] and Dine Alone Records in Canada.[13]

Musical style and influences

[edit]

According to Jason Lymangrover of AllMusic, FIDLAR's music incorporates elements of "classic" skate punk, thrash metal, and "surfy" lo-fi indie rock. The instrumentation is described as "punchy, fast, loud." The band's influences include the Offspring and blink-182.[14] The band's first studio album contains "slacker subject matter" pertaining to topics such as substance abuse, surfing and skateboarding. Yardbarker stated that "the band paid homage to the pillars of rock ‘n’ roll: hedonism, drugs, and booze." Stylistically, the album has drawn comparisons to Angry Samoans, Fear, Surf Punks, the Ramones and Circle Jerks. The band's music has been categorized as pop-punk.[15][6]

Other projects

[edit]

Each member of FIDLAR has been involved in at least one side project. Carper has produced albums or helped co-write songs by such bands as Dune Rats,[16] SWMRS,[17] The Frights,[18][19] Sweet Thing,[20] The Goldberg Sisters,[21] Dirty Sweet,[22] and Tokyo Police Club.[23] Schwartzel also periodically performs DJ sets at Monty's Bar under the pseudonym of "DJ Basil".[24] Schwartzel & Max Kuehn are in a band with members of Together Pangea called Los Bolos.[25] Max Kuehn has released solo compositions online,[26] as well as being a member of The Squirmers,[27][28] The Diffs[29] and The Head Hunters[30] with his brother Elvis, The Small Wigs,[31] and Kitten, with Carper[32] prior to, and during their full time in FIDLAR.

Personal life

[edit]

Elvis Kuehn (guitar/vocals) and Max Kuehn (drums) are the sons of Greg Kuehn, keyboardist for Long Beach punk legends, T.S.O.L.[33][6] while Zac Carper (vocals/guitar) is the son of famed surfboard designer John Carper. Carper struggled with drug addiction and spent time in rehab for it, inspiring the song "No Waves".[34] Bassist Brandon Schwartzel was Carper's friend before joining the band, with the two bonding over drugs and homelessness. The four have been performing together as FIDLAR since 2009. Carper was born in Hawaii, while the Kuehn brothers were born in Los Angeles, and Schwartzel was born in San Diego.[citation needed]

Band members

[edit]

Discography

[edit]

Studio albums

[edit]
Title Album details
Fidlar
Too
  • Released: September 4, 2015[41]
  • Labels: Mom + Pop, Burger (US); Wichita (UK); Hostess (Japan)[42]
  • Formats: LP, CD, cassette, digital download
Almost Free
unplug
  • Released: August 5, 2023[45]
  • Labels: Self Published
  • Formats: cassette, digital download
Surviving The Dream
  • Released: September 20, 2024[46]
  • Labels: Self Published

Extended plays

[edit]
Title Extended play details
DIYDUI
  • Released: April 12, 2011[47]
  • Label: White Iris[48]
  • Formats: 7-inch, digital download
Don't Try...
  • Released: April 10, 2012[49]
  • Labels: Mom + Pop (US); Wichita (UK)
  • Formats: 7-inch, CD, digital download
Shit We Recorded in Our Bedroom
  • Released: October 15, 2012[50]
  • Label: Self-released
  • Format: Digital download
Don't Fuck With Vol. 01
  • Released: December 15, 2022[51]
  • Label: Self-released
  • Format: Digital download
That's Life[52]
  • Released: March 17, 2023[53]
  • Label: Self-released
  • Format: Digital download
Don't Fuck With Vol. 02
  • Released: May 19, 2023[54]
  • Label: Self-released
  • Format: Digital download
Don't Fuck With Vol. 03
  • Released: March 22, 2024[55]
  • Label: Self-released
  • Format: Digital download

Certified singles

[edit]
List of singles, with selected chart positions
Title Year Certification
"By Myself"[56] 2019

Music videos

[edit]
Year Song Director
February 2012 Wait for the Man[58] Ryan Baxley
Max Can't Surf[59]
Oh[60]
June 2012 No Waves[61]
October 2012 Cheap Beer[62]
November 2012 Gimme Something[63]
February 2013 Max Can't Surf (Fidlar Version)[64]
July 2013 Cocaine[65]
May 2015 40oz On Repeat[66]
July 2015 West Coast[67]
August 2015 Drone[68]
Leave Me Alone[69]
January 2016 Why Generation[70]
April 2016 Punks[71]
August 2018 Are You High?[72] FIDLAR
September 2018 Too Real[73] Jonathan Atchley[74]
January 2019 By Myself[75] Brandon Schwartzel
Can't You See Jonah Ray[76]
June 2019 Flake FIDLAR[77]
August 2022 FSU Alice & Ryan Baxley
October 2022 Sand on the Beach
November 2022 Taste The Money Ryan Baxley
February 2023 Centipede Ryan Baxley
June 2024 FIX ME Ryan Baxley & Brandon Schwartzel

Appearance in media

[edit]

The band also played on Jimmy Kimmel Live! in 2015, where they performed "West Coast" and "Why Generation" from their second album Too.[78] The band was also featured on Conan, in 2016, where they performed "West Coast”"[79]

Awards

[edit]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Fidlar

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
FIDLAR (stylized as FIDLAR) is an American punk rock band from Los Angeles, California, formed in 2009 and known for blending skate punk, garage rock, and thrash elements with lyrics exploring themes of partying, addiction, heartbreak, and personal growth.[1][2] The band's name is an acronym for "Fuck It Dog, Life's a Risk," a phrase drawn from skateboarding culture that encapsulates their raw, carefree ethos.[3] Originally a quartet consisting of Zac Carper on lead vocals and rhythm guitar, Elvis Kuehn on lead guitar and vocals, Brandon Schwartzel on bass, and Max Kuehn on drums, FIDLAR gained initial traction through DIY releases and energetic live shows in the Los Angeles underground scene.[2][4] Their breakthrough came with the 2013 self-titled debut album on Mom + Pop Music, which captured their high-energy, hedonistic style with tracks like "Cheap Beer" and "No Waves," earning critical praise for revitalizing skate punk influences from bands like Black Flag and NOFX.[5][6] Following extensive touring, the band signed with Dine Alone Records for their 2015 sophomore album Too, produced by Jay Joyce, which expanded their sound with more polished production while delving deeper into sobriety and regret, highlighted by songs such as "40oz. on Repeat" and "West Coast."[2][7] In the years since, FIDLAR has evolved from their early party-punk roots toward more introspective and experimental territory, incorporating electronic and soft-rock elements amid lineup changes.[4] Elvis Kuehn departed in 2023, leaving the band as a trio of Carper, Schwartzel, and Max Kuehn, who released their 2019 album Almost Free—a reflective work addressing recovery and relationships, produced by Ricky Reed—and the 2023 EP That's Life, produced by David Sardy.[4][8][9][10] Their fourth studio album, Surviving the Dream, self-released on September 20, 2024, marks a return to raw, live-oriented punk aggression while maintaining their signature irreverence, recorded at Balboa Recording Studio in Los Angeles.[4][3] Throughout their career, FIDLAR has influenced a new generation of punk acts with their DIY spirit and unfiltered songwriting, continuing to tour extensively and connect with fans through high-octane performances.[3][4]

History

2009–2012: Formation and early releases

Fidlar was formed in 2009 in Los Angeles as a recording project by Zac Carper (rhythm guitar and lead vocals) and Elvis Kuehn (lead guitar and vocals), who met while Carper worked as an engineer and Kuehn interned at producer Rob Schnapf's studio.[11][12] The duo drew inspiration from Los Angeles skate culture and punk scenes, with the band's name—an acronym for "Fuck It Dog, Life's a Risk"—originating from a skate mantra Carper learned from roommates.[11][13] Elvis's younger brother, Max Kuehn, joined on drums, while bassist Brandon Schwartzel, whom Carper had met through earlier hip-hop collaborations around 2008, completed the core quartet by 2010.[11][14] The band began playing early live shows at Los Angeles DIY venues and house parties to build an underground following, including a benefit gig at a local skate shop that had fired Carper.[11] Their debut EP, DIYDUI, was released in April 2011 via White Iris Records, featuring raw, lo-fi tracks such as "Wake Bake Skate" and "Blackout Stout" that captured their energetic, hedonistic style.[15][16] In 2012, Fidlar embarked on their first national tour supporting The Black Lips, which helped expand their reach beyond the local scene.[17][18] That same year, the band uploaded the free mixtape Shit We Recorded in Our Bedroom to Bandcamp in October, a self-produced collection of demos including "West Coast" that gained viral attention and further solidified their DIY ethos.[19][20] By late 2012, Fidlar secured initial distribution deals with Mom + Pop Music for the United States and Wichita Recordings for the United Kingdom, setting the stage for wider exposure.[21][5]

2013–2015: Debut album and mainstream breakthrough

In early 2013, FIDLAR released their self-titled debut studio album on January 22 through Mom + Pop Music in the United States, following a Canadian release on January 1 via Dine Alone Records.[22] The record captured the band's raw skate punk energy with short, high-octane tracks centered on themes of partying and youthful excess, solidifying their transition from underground EPs to a full-length project.[23] It debuted at number 5 on the Billboard Heatseekers Albums chart and number 2 on the Alternative New Artist chart, marking their initial commercial foothold.[24] Building momentum from their 2012 EP Don't Try..., which previewed the album's chaotic sound, FIDLAR capitalized on pre-release buzz with their television debut on Last Call with Carson Daly in October 2012, performing tracks that highlighted their live intensity.[25] The band signed with Dine Alone Records to expand distribution in Canada, enabling broader North American promotion and international accessibility. This period saw the group shift from supporting acts—such as their 2012 tour with The Hives—to headlining, including a spring 2013 co-headlining U.S. run with Wavves and a fall tour with The Orwells.[26][27][28] By 2014, FIDLAR's touring schedule intensified with headlining dates across the U.S. and Europe, fostering a dedicated fanbase through relentless live performances that emphasized their DIY ethos and stage antics.[29][30] Festival slots at events like SXSW in 2013 amplified their exposure, drawing crowds with sets featuring album standouts like "Cheap Beer" and "No Waves," which resonated with audiences seeking high-energy punk revival sounds.[31] These efforts positioned FIDLAR for mainstream breakthrough, transitioning them from niche punk scenes to wider alternative rock recognition without compromising their unpolished style.[32]

2016–2022: Subsequent albums and lineup changes

Following the success of their debut album, Fidlar released their second studio album, Too, on September 4, 2015, via Mom + Pop Music. The record featured singles "40oz. on Repeat," released in June 2015, and "Dumb," which highlighted the band's raw skate punk energy with themes of excess and youthful rebellion. Touring in support of Too extended into 2016, solidifying their live reputation through high-energy performances across North America and Europe. The album debuted at No. 124 on the Billboard 200 and No. 1 on the Heatseekers Albums chart, reflecting their growing fanbase.[33] In late 2015, Fidlar made their network television debut on Jimmy Kimmel Live!, performing "West Coast" from Too, which captured their chaotic, crowd-surfing stage presence. The following year, they appeared on Conan in November 2016, delivering a frenetic rendition of "West Coast" that underscored their peak mainstream exposure during this period. These appearances marked a high point in their visibility, bridging underground punk roots with broader audiences. Fidlar's third album, Almost Free, arrived on January 25, 2019, also via Mom + Pop Music, recorded at Sunset Sound in Hollywood and produced by Ricky Reed. The album included singles "Alcohol," released in April 2018, and "Can't You See," issued in October 2018, both of which delved into introspective themes of sobriety and personal recovery amid the band's evolving maturity. Tracks like "Alcohol" reflected frontman Zac Carper's experiences with addiction and the challenges of getting clean, shifting from the hedonism of prior releases to more vulnerable lyricism.[34][35] Between 2016 and 2019, Fidlar undertook extensive world tours, including slots on the Vans Warped Tour in 2016 and headline shows across the UK and US, culminating in performances at the Reading and Leeds Festivals in August 2019. These tours showcased their relentless touring ethic, blending high-octane sets with fan interaction. In 2022, guitarist and co-founder Elvis Kuehn announced his departure from the band due to creative differences, reducing Fidlar to a trio of Carper, bassist Brandon Schwartzel, and drummer Max Kuehn. The transition to a trio format began during sparse pandemic-era shows from 2020 to 2022, with adjusted live setups emphasizing denser instrumentation and Carper's multi-instrumental role to maintain their signature intensity.[36][37][38]

2023–present: Surviving the Dream and continued touring

In June 2024, Fidlar announced their fourth studio album, Surviving the Dream, which was self-produced by vocalist and guitarist Zac Carper at Balboa Recording Studio in East Los Angeles.[4][39] The album was released on September 20, 2024, marking the band's first full-length project in five years and featuring initial singles "Fix Me" and "Get Off My Wave," which previewed its raw, high-energy punk sound.[40][41] Thematically, Surviving the Dream explores personal growth, reflection, and the challenges of adulthood, drawing inspiration from Carper's recent bipolar disorder diagnosis, which provided clarity on past behaviors related to substance use and mental health struggles.[40][42] Critics praised the record for its matured evolution, blending chaotic punk energy with introspective lyrics; Rolling Stone highlighted its bold return to form, while Kerrang! noted the balance of chaos and contemplation in the band's sound.[40] Following the album's release, Fidlar embarked on an extensive touring schedule, including North American headline shows in late 2024 and a European run in mid-2025 with performances at venues like Gorilla in Manchester and Le Trabendo in Paris.[40][43] The band also secured festival slots, such as Project Pabst in Portland on July 26, 2025, and the Ice Cream Floats cruise festival from February 5 to 9, 2026, where they performed alongside acts like Modest Mouse and Portugal. The Man, demonstrating the trio's adaptability in live settings since Elvis Kuehn's departure in 2022.[44][45] In March 2025, Fidlar issued a deluxe edition of Surviving the Dream, expanding the original 13 tracks to 15 with additional songs, including the new single "New Tattoo," which further emphasized themes of self-awareness and change.[46][47] No major lineup changes have occurred since 2022, allowing the core trio—Carper, drummer Max Kuehn, and bassist Brandon Schwartzel—to prioritize sustainable practices within the punk scene, such as self-production and independent releases.[4][39]

Band members and personal lives

Current members

Fidlar's current lineup consists of a trio that has been active since the band's reconfiguration in 2022 following the departure of guitarist Elvis Kuehn.[4] Zac Carper founded Fidlar in 2009 and remains the band's lead vocalist and guitarist.[13] As the primary songwriter, Carper has shaped the group's punk-infused sound across multiple albums, and he handled production for their 2024 release Surviving the Dream, marking a return to self-recorded efforts at Balboa Recording Studio in Los Angeles.[48][39] Brandon Schwartzel joined in 2010 on bass and backing vocals, providing essential stability to the rhythm section through his consistent presence in recordings and live shows.[49] Max Kuehn, who also joined in 2010, plays drums and infuses the band's performances with driving punk energy; he is the son of punk musician and producer Greg Kuehn, formerly of T.S.O.L.[50][49] This trio has driven Fidlar's post-2022 output, including the self-produced Surviving the Dream and subsequent tours across North America and Europe.[3]

Former members

Elvis Kuehn served as Fidlar's guitarist and backing vocalist from the band's inception, co-founding the group in 2009 alongside Zac Carper in Los Angeles.[51] He contributed guitar, vocals, and keyboards to all of Fidlar's releases through 2019's Almost Free, including significant songwriting on the debut self-titled album FIDLAR (2013) and follow-up Too (2015), where he penned tracks like "Hey Johnny."[52][2] Prior to Fidlar, Kuehn played in Los Angeles punk outfits such as The Diffs alongside his brother Max, drawing from a family legacy in punk—his father Greg Kuehn was a member of T.S.O.L.[11] Kuehn announced his departure from Fidlar in 2022 after over a decade with the band, stating he sought a break and no longer wished to tour extensively.[37] Frontman Zac Carper described the split as amicable, noting, "It wasn’t drama or anything like that," and expressing hope for future collaboration while acknowledging the natural evolution after 14 years together.[37] Kuehn's raw energy and melodic contributions were instrumental in defining Fidlar's early garage punk sound.[52]

Personal lives and side projects

Zac Carper, the band's lead vocalist and guitarist, achieved sobriety in 2014 following a severe battle with heroin and methamphetamine addiction that intensified during the promotion of FIDLAR's 2013 self-titled debut album.[53] His recovery process, which included rehabilitation, profoundly shaped the introspective lyrical content of subsequent releases starting with the 2015 album Too, where themes of regret and self-destruction emerged from his personal experiences.[54] Carper has maintained sobriety since, crediting it with allowing him to confront deeper emotional struggles, including childhood trauma, while continuing to draw from the chaotic LA punk scene's prevalent issues with substance use.[55] The Kuehn brothers, Max (drums) and Elvis (former guitarist and vocalist), grew up immersed in punk rock through their father, Greg Kuehn, a longtime keyboardist for the influential Southern California punk band T.S.O.L.[11] This familial connection to the genre's history influenced their early musical pursuits, including a pre-FIDLAR collaboration in the short-lived punk outfit the Diffs.[50] After departing FIDLAR in 2022, Elvis Kuehn pursued independent projects, co-producing and releasing the collaborative album Mikki & Elvis: Vol. 1 with Mikki Itzigsohn in 2023, followed by producing the self-titled full-length for his side band Small Wigs in 2024. In 2025, Kuehn released the solo single "Rose Eye" under the name Elvis K.[56][57][58] Bassist Brandon Schwartzel has maintained a relatively private personal life compared to his bandmates, with limited public details beyond his contributions to FIDLAR and shared ownership of the band's Mind Palace recording studio.[59] FIDLAR's exploration of substance abuse in their music stems from the gritty realities of the Los Angeles punk underground, where heavy drug and alcohol use mirrored the band's own early excesses and the scene's broader patterns of hedonism and hardship.[60] Carper's journey, in particular, reflects these collective challenges, informing the band's shift toward more mature, reflective themes in later work.

Musical style and influences

Core characteristics

Fidlar's foundational sound is anchored in skate punk, incorporating influences from garage rock and thrash metal to create a high-energy blend that captures the raw spirit of Los Angeles youth culture.[1] Their music features fast tempos in many tracks, often ranging from 140 to 180 beats per minute, which propel short, explosive tracks designed for immediate impact.[61][62][63] Distorted guitars form the sonic backbone, delivering aggressive riffs infused with surf-inspired melodies that evoke beachy California vibes, while maintaining an intensity primed for mosh-pit chaos reminiscent of early 2000s punk scenes.[1] The band's vocal style alternates between shouted gang vocals and melodic hooks, often multi-tracked to amplify a sense of communal disorder and urgency.[64] This approach ties into broader lyrical explorations of personal excess and rebellion, enhancing the tracks' anthemic quality. Instrumentation follows a standard rock quartet configuration—guitars, bass, drums, and vocals—with a strong emphasis on bass-driven grooves that provide rhythmic propulsion and drum fills that echo the kinetic flow of skateboarding.[65] Early production reflects a raw, DIY ethos, embracing lo-fi aesthetics through unpolished recording techniques that underscore the gritty, authentic punk attitude at the band's core.[66] FIDLAR's influences include classic punk bands such as Black Flag, Dead Kennedys, and the Germs, as well as skate punk acts like NOFX and pop-punk groups including the Offspring and Blink-182.[67][65]

Evolution and lyrical themes

Fidlar's musical evolution began with their self-titled debut album in 2013, characterized by high-energy party anthems centered on excess, drugs, and skate culture, as exemplified by tracks like "Cocaine" that celebrated hedonistic escapism through raw, lo-fi punk riffs and shouted vocals.[68][23] This phase captured the band's youthful abandon but drew initial critical labels of "fun punk" for its straightforward, unpolished aggression.[69] By their second album, Too (2015), Fidlar incorporated indie rock experimentation, expanding beyond the debut's uniformity with varied dynamics, tighter chord progressions, and introspective tracks like "Sober," which reflected frontman Zac Carper's early sobriety struggles post-rehab.[70][2] Lyrically, the focus shifted slightly toward personal consequences of addiction and emotional vulnerability, blending garage-punk roots with winding guitar solos and folk-tinged elements for a more mature sound.[71] The band's third album, Almost Free (2019), marked a deeper turn toward introspective sobriety, addressing recovery from heroin and alcohol addiction, gentrification, and societal disillusionment in songs like "Get Off My Rock" and "Too Real," influenced by Carper's sobriety since 2014 and personal tragedies.[72][73] This evolution was praised for its emotional depth, moving away from hedonism to themes of growth and regret, while sonically experimenting with psych-rock and broader punk influences.[70] In their 2024 release Surviving the Dream, Fidlar further matured into reflective skate punk, integrating genre experiments and bold production choices like aggressive synth-tinged hooks and varied tempos to explore mental health—such as bipolar disorder and depression in "Fix Me"—alongside damaged relationships and the lingering effects of past substance abuse in tracks like "Break Your Heart" and "Down N Out."[64][69] Critics noted this as a progression to "mature skate punk," highlighting less demonstrative lyrics with greater emotional resonance compared to the band's earlier "fun punk" era.[74][69] While sharing catchy, hook-driven structures reminiscent of peers like The Offspring, Fidlar distinguished themselves through a rawer, less polished edge that emphasized authenticity over commercial sheen.[70]

Discography

Studio albums

FIDLAR's debut studio album, titled FIDLAR, was released on January 22, 2013, through Mom + Pop Music in the United States. The record consists of 14 tracks and debuted at No. 5 on the Billboard Heatseekers Albums chart.[75] Featuring raw garage punk energy centered on themes of partying and youth culture, the album gained attention for its breakout single "No Waves," which captured the band's chaotic, DIY ethos. The band's sophomore effort, Too, arrived on September 4, 2015, also via Mom + Pop Music, comprising 12 tracks that expanded on their punk roots with slightly more polished production while retaining themes of excess and disillusionment.[76] It peaked at No. 124 on the Billboard 200 chart and No. 1 on the Heatseekers Albums chart, reflecting growing commercial traction.[33] The lead single "40oz. on Repeat" exemplified the album's blend of humor and hedonism, helping propel Fidlar's profile in the alternative rock scene.[76] Almost Free, Fidlar's third studio album, was self-recorded and released on January 25, 2019, through Mom + Pop Music, featuring 13 tracks that marked a sonic evolution incorporating elements of indie rock and blues alongside their punk foundation.[34] The album debuted at No. 8 on the Billboard Top Album Sales chart and No. 11 on the Alternative Album Sales chart, with themes shifting toward personal recovery and introspection.[77] Standout single "Alcohol" highlighted this maturation, addressing struggles with substance use amid the band's signature irreverence.[34] Fidlar's fourth studio album, Surviving the Dream, was self-produced and released independently on September 20, 2024, consisting of 13 tracks that return to a high-energy, live-oriented punk sound while exploring mental health and resilience.[78] A deluxe edition followed on March 14, 2025, adding bonus content to the original release.[79] The album was announced with the double-single "Fix Me" / "Get Off My Wave," underscoring the album's raw, confrontational vibe, signaling a label shift to self-release after previous Mom + Pop efforts.[40]

Extended plays

Fidlar's early extended plays served as foundational releases that captured the band's raw, DIY garage punk energy, helping to cultivate a grassroots fanbase through limited physical runs, free digital distributions, and word-of-mouth sharing in the Los Angeles underground scene prior to their major-label debut album in 2013. These EPs featured lo-fi recordings emphasizing themes of youthful excess, skate culture, and irreverent humor, often self-produced in informal settings, which resonated with the burgeoning surf-punk revival. They collectively introduced key tracks that would later appear on the band's self-titled album, building anticipation and demonstrating Fidlar's unpolished yet infectious sound. The band's debut EP, DIYDUI, was released in 2011 on White Iris Records as a limited 7-inch vinyl pressing. Containing four tracks—"Wake Bake Skate," "Oh," "Wait for the Man," and "Max Can't Surf"—it showcased Fidlar's signature blend of fast-paced riffs and humorous lyrics about drugs and daily absurdities, recorded with minimal production to highlight their live-wire intensity. This self-financed release, limited to around 500 copies, quickly sold out at local shows and DIY outlets, marking the band's initial foray into physical distribution and establishing their reputation within Southern California's punk community.[15] Following the buzz from DIYDUI, Fidlar issued Don't Try... in 2012 via Wichita Recordings, primarily as a 7-inch vinyl for the European market but also available digitally. The four-track EP compiled earlier singles, including originals like "No Waves" and "Got No Money" alongside a cover of Blackout Stout (originally by The Evens), serving as a bridge between their demo-era material and polished studio work. It amplified the band's growing online presence through blog features and festival slots, with tracks like "No Waves" gaining traction for their anthemic, party-starting hooks that exemplified Fidlar's ethos of hedonistic escapism. The EP's release coincided with increased touring, further solidifying their cult following among punk and indie audiences.[80] Later that year, Fidlar self-released Shit We Recorded in Our Bedroom as a free digital EP, available for download on their Tumblr and Bandcamp pages in exchange for an email address. Comprising four tracks—"West Coast," "Carnivore Girls," "Shrooms," and "Crackhead Ted"—this mixtape-style collection was recorded casually at home, embracing a deliberately rough aesthetic with distorted guitars and off-kilter vocals to evoke bedroom jam sessions. Its no-cost accessibility led to widespread sharing on streaming platforms and social media, virally expanding the band's reach beyond live shows and contributing significantly to pre-album hype by introducing fans to their unfiltered, humorous songwriting. The band later released the EP That's Life on August 5, 2023, self-published as a digital and cassette release featuring four tracks exploring themes of personal growth and resilience.[81]

Singles

Fidlar's singles have played a crucial role in establishing their presence in the garage punk and alternative rock scenes, with several tracks gaining traction through radio airplay, certifications, and streaming milestones. The band's early single "No Waves", released in 2013 from their debut album, helped to introduce their high-energy sound to a wider audience. In 2015, "40oz. on Repeat" became a standout lead single from their second album Too, earning a Gold certification from the RIAA for 500,000 units sold or streamed, and reaching No. 20 on the Alternative chart. The track has since amassed over 19 million streams on Spotify.[82][83] "Alcohol", issued as a promotional single in 2018 for the album Almost Free, reflected the band's evolving lyrical focus on personal vices. Fidlar's 2024 releases "Fix Me" and "Get Off My Wave" served as the lead singles from Surviving the Dream, marking their return after a five-year hiatus. "Fix Me" has surpassed 10 million streams on Spotify as of November 2025.[40] Other notable singles include "Dumb" from 2015, which contributed to the band's reputation for candid, youthful anthems. By 2025, Fidlar had achieved one certified single in total, underscoring their lasting commercial footprint.[5]

Media appearances

Music videos

Fidlar's music videos have consistently captured the band's raw, irreverent punk ethos, often produced on low budgets with a DIY aesthetic that emphasizes chaotic energy, humor, and Los Angeles street culture. Directed primarily by frequent collaborator Ryan Baxley, the videos blend skateboarding antics, party scenes, and satirical elements to visually amplify the band's themes of youthful excess and rebellion. By 2025, the band had released over a dozen official music videos, many premiering on platforms like YouTube and tied to single promotions from their albums. One of the band's earliest videos, "No Waves" (2012), exemplifies their initial low-budget, skate-punk chaos, featuring VHS-style footage of friends causing mischief with sparklers and aimless hanging out in LA settings.[84] Directed by Ryan Baxley, it captures a slacker vibe with non-professional actors, including family members of the crew, wandering through urban locales and evoking the unpolished spirit of their debut era.[85] Similarly, the "Cocaine" video (2013), also helmed by Baxley, amps up the comedic excess with actor Nick Offerman portraying a recently fired man chugging 40-ounce beers and urinating in absurd public spots, satirizing self-destructive impulses in a deliberately NSFW manner.[86][87] As Fidlar evolved, their videos incorporated more meta-humor and pop culture nods. The "40oz. On Repeat" clip (2015), directed by Baxley, parodies iconic 1990s music videos from artists like Eminem, Missy Elliott, and Soundgarden, with the band donning costumes and recreating famous shots in a rapid-fire montage that pokes fun at MTV tropes while promoting their album Too.[88] Later entries like "By Myself" (2019) shift toward a lighter, more introspective tone reflective of the band's sobriety journey, using photo-booth style clips of LA musicians and friends lip-syncing in a confetti-filled, disco-infused setup to convey ironic isolation.[89] Directed in-house with cameos from local acts like Together Pangea and Twin Peaks, it highlights Fidlar's growing ties to the broader SoCal scene.[90] More recent videos continue the DIY tradition with matured, humorous concepts. "Down N Out" (2024) maintains the band's signature chaotic visuals, filmed in gritty LA environments to underscore themes of perseverance.[91] The "New Tattoo" video (2025), released alongside the deluxe edition of Surviving the Dream, adopts a playful, hands-on aesthetic focused on stick-and-poke tattoos and temporary ink experiments, symbolizing personal reinvention through simple, band-led production.[47] Overall, Fidlar's video output prioritizes authentic, location-based storytelling over high production values, often featuring recurring motifs of friendship, absurdity, and urban exploration that reinforce their punk roots.

Television, film, and other media

Fidlar made their television debut on Jimmy Kimmel Live! on September 29, 2015, performing "West Coast" and "Why Generation" from their album Too in a high-energy set that showcased their skate-punk style.[92][93] The band returned to late-night TV the following year, appearing on Conan on November 9, 2016, where they delivered a raw rendition of "West Coast," highlighting their evolving sound with surf-rock influences.[94] In film, Fidlar's music has been featured in several soundtracks, including "Why Generation" in the 2014 comedy Neighbors, which captured the band's chaotic party anthems amid college-themed antics.[95] Their track "Breaker" appeared in the 2020 sci-fi sequel Bill & Ted Face the Music, aligning with the film's nostalgic punk-rock vibe and contributing to its eclectic soundtrack alongside artists like Weezer. Additionally, "Cheap Beer" was included in the 2021 animated historical satire America: The Motion Picture, emphasizing Fidlar's irreverent humor in a broader cinematic context.[95][96] Beyond traditional film, Fidlar's songs have been licensed for video games, particularly in the skate and action genres that resonate with their roots. "White on White" featured in the 2014 open-world game Sunset Overdrive, enhancing its fast-paced, rebellious gameplay. "Drone" from Too was part of the 2016 wrestling title WWE 2K17, while "West Coast" appeared in the 2020 remake Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 1 + 2, bridging their music with skate culture.[97] More recently, "Move On" was included in the 2023 sports simulation NHL 24, marking a fresh entry into gaming media post-2020.[98] Fidlar's live performances have gained exposure through festival broadcasts and streams, amplifying their presence in punk and alternative media. They delivered full sets at events like Bonnaroo in 2016 and Vieilles Charrues Festival that year, with pro-shot footage capturing their mosh-pit energy.[99] In later years, streams from Punk Rock Bowling in 2025 and Sjock Festival in 2025 provided global access to their high-octane shows, focusing on tracks from Surviving the Dream and emphasizing live media as a key outlet amid reduced soundtrack placements after 2020.[100][101]

References

  1. FIDLAR Songs, Albums, Reviews, Bio & More | Al... - AllMusic
  2. FIDLAR - Dine Alone Records
  3. 'Surviving the Dream' with FIDLAR - Document Journal
  4. A grown-up FIDLAR rages wisely on 'Surviving the Dream'
  5. https://www.discogs.com/artist/2660605-Fidlar
  6. FIDLAR | Album - AllMusic
  7. https://www.discogs.com/master/880616-FIDLAR-Too
  8. https://www.discogs.com/master/1490138-Fidlar-Almost-Free
  9. FIDLAR | Pitchfork
  10. Band to Watch: FIDLAR - Rolling Stone
  11. Introducing… FIDLAR - BBC News
  12. The one track mind of Fidlar - Loud And Quiet
  13. FIDLAR - DIYDUI
  14. FIDLAR - VICE
  15. LA skate punks, FIDLAR brought the ruckus to Crescent Ballroom
  16. FIDLAR - Riptide Music Group
  17. Shit We Recorded In Our Bedroom EP - Stream FIDLAR - SoundCloud
  18. FIDLAR: Risk-Taking, SoCal Pop-Punks Unleash True Sounds of ...
  19. FIDLAR Discography - Download Albums in Hi-Res - Qobuz
  20. FIDLAR Share Debut LP Details, New Track - Pitchfork
  21. FIDLAR [Album Review] - The Fire Note
  22. FIDLAR's Much-Anticipated Second Album 'Too' Out Today
  23. FIDLAR Performs On 'Last Call With Carson Daly' - Best New Bands
  24. Max Kuehn of Fidlar - Modern Drummer Magazine
  25. FIDLAR Announces Spring Tour With Wavves
  26. FIDLAR and The Orwells touring together this fall (dates)
  27. https://www.concertarchives.org/bands/fidlar?year=2013
  28. https://www.concertarchives.org/bands/fidlar?year=2014
  29. FIDLAR Concert Setlist at SXSW 2013 on March 16, 2013 | setlist.fm
  30. FIDLAR Premieres Video + Tour With Wavves
  31. Billboard 200 Chart Moves: Elle King Hits the Top 40, Luke Bryan's ...
  32. FIDLAR: Almost Free Album Review - Pitchfork
  33. FIDLAR: Almost Free - Paste Magazine
  34. FIDLAR Setlist at Reading Festival 2019
  35. Interview: FIDLAR's Zac Carper on New EP - New Noise Magazine
  36. FIDLAR and Liily at The Fillmore in San Francisco - Digital Diversion
  37. Fidlar Returns With A Big, Bold, Self-Produced Sound - Mixonline
  38. Fidlar Announce New Album 'Surviving the Dream,' Tour, and Two ...
  39. FIDLAR announce new album 'Surviving The Dream' - DIY Magazine
  40. News: Fidlar Resurge with New Album 'Surviving The Dream'
  41. Fidlar Tour Dates, Tickets & Concerts 2025
  42. FIDLAR Concert & Tour History (Updated for 2025)
  43. Ice Cream Floats: a Modest Mouse Cruise 2026 - Songkick
  44. SURVIVING THE DREAM (DELUXE) - Album by FIDLAR
  45. FIDLAR - NEW TATTOO (Official Video) - YouTube
  46. How Green Day's Billie Joe Helped FIDLAR Singer Kick Heroin
  47. https://www.consequence.net/2015/08/fidlar-stupid-decisions/
  48. How T.S.O.L. Bred LA 'It' Band Fidlar - OC Weekly
  49. FIDLAR Go Their Own Way - The Santa Barbara Independent
  50. FIDLAR Exclaim!
  51. FIDLAR Is the Party Band that Had to Give Up the Drugs - GQ
  52. FIDLAR: Stupid Decisions - Consequence.net
  53. Teen Angst, Adult Problems: Zac Carper from FIDLAR Grows Up
  54. Mikki & Elvis: Vol. 1
  55. Small Wigs | Small Wigs
  56. With 'That's Life,' FIDLAR's DIY Spirit Burns Brighter Than Ever - SPIN
  57. FIDLAR // Smuggling Music Beyond The Genre Borders
  58. Key & BPM for Punks by FIDLAR - Tunebat
  59. Album Review: Fidlar – Surviving the Dream - The Indy Review
  60. None
  61. Reviews – MAXIMUM ROCKNROLL
  62. ALBUM REVIEW: FIDLAR - TOO - XS Noize
  63. Addiction, Tragedy And Recovery: Why FIDLAR Are Back… - Kerrang!
  64. "Surviving The Dream" is Fidlar's Best Album - Still in Rock
  65. Review: FIDLAR Kick Their Bad Habits on 'TOO' - SPIN
  66. REVIEW: FIDLAR - 'Too' (Wichita / Mom + Pop Music)
  67. Album Review: FIDLAR's "Almost Free" - Crybaby Press
  68. “Fidlar have come a long way from their 'Wake! Bake! Skate!' years ...
  69. FIDLAR Discography - Download Albums in Hi-Res - Qobuz
  70. FIDLAR: Too Album Review | Pitchfork
  71. FIDLAR | Biography, Music & News | Billboard
  72. FIDLAR Announce New LP SURVIVING THE DREAM, 2024 Tour ...
  73. FIDLAR music, videos, stats, and photos - Last.fm
  74. News: FIDLAR Announce New Album 'Surviving The Dream'
  75. https://www.discogs.com/master/761684-FIDLAR-Dont-Try
  76. FIDLAR - Shit We Recorded In Our Bedroom
  77. https://www.riaa.com/gold-platinum/?tab_active=default-award&ar=FIDLAR&ti=40oz+on+Repeat#search_section
  78. FIDLAR - Chartmetric
  79. FIDLAR - No Waves (2012) - IMVDb
  80. FIDLAR's VHS-Inspired 'No Waves' Video: Slackers and Sparklers
  81. Cocaine (2013) - FIDLAR - IMVDb
  82. Video: FIDLAR: "Cocaine", Featuring "Parks and Recreation"'s Nick ...
  83. FIDLAR Parody Your Favorite Nineties Videos in '40oz. on Repeat'
  84. FIDLAR Share New Song "By Myself": Listen - Stereogum
  85. FIDLAR - By Myself (Official Music Video) - YouTube
  86. FIDLAR - DOWN N OUT (OFFICIAL VIDEO) - YouTube
  87. FIDLAR make TV debut with a rousing performance on Kimmel Live!
  88. Watch FIDLAR Perform "West Coast" on Conan
  89. FIDLAR - IMDb
  90. WWE 2K17 Soundtrack:FIDLAR - "Drone" - YouTube
  91. Listen to the new FIDLAR track from the NHL 24 soundtrack - Kerrang!
  92. FIDLAR live Bonnaroo 2016 - YouTube
  93. FIDLAR (Full Set) LIVE @ Punk Rock Bowling 5/25/25 - YouTube
  94. Fidlar ​⁠- Live - Sjock 2025 - YouTube
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