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LCD Soundsystem
LCD Soundsystem
LCD Soundsystem
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LCD Soundsystem is an American dance-punk revival band from Brooklyn, New York, formed in 2002 by James Murphy, co-founder of DFA Records. The band comprises Murphy (vocals, various instruments), Nancy Whang (synthesizer, keyboards, vocals), Pat Mahoney (drums), Tyler Pope (bass, guitar, synthesizer), Al Doyle (guitar, synthesizer, percussion), and Korey Richey (synthesizer, piano, percussion). They have been signed to DFA since their inception, and also signed to Columbia Records in 2016.

Key Information

The band began by recording and releasing multiple singles from 2002 to 2004, the first of which was "Losing My Edge", one of their signature songs. This led up to the release of their 2005 self-titled debut studio album. It garnered critical acclaim and a Grammy Award nomination for Best Electronic/Dance Album. Their song "Daft Punk Is Playing at My House", which became the band's most commercially successful single, received a Grammy nomination for Best Dance Recording. In the following year, LCD Soundsystem recorded and released "45:33", a forty-five minute-long composition that was a specially made "workout track" for Nike's Nike+ Original Run series. In 2007, the band released their second studio album, Sound of Silver, to critical acclaim and another Grammy nomination for Best Electronic/Dance Album.

In 2010, LCD Soundsystem released their third studio album, This Is Happening, which became their first top-ten album in the United States. In February 2011, the band posted a statement on its website announcing that it was disbanding following a large farewell concert at Madison Square Garden on April 2, 2011. The farewell concert is chronicled in the documentary film Shut Up and Play the Hits and was also made available as a live album titled The Long Goodbye, in April 2014.

After a series of rumors hinting at a possible reunion, in December 2015 the band released their first single in five years, "Christmas Will Break Your Heart". The group later confirmed their reunion and announced an expanded tour, including appearances at several high-profile music festivals, and released their fourth studio album, American Dream, in September 2017. It went on to become their first number-one album in the U.S. The album was nominated for Best Alternative Music Album at the 60th Annual Grammy Awards and the single "Tonite" won for Best Dance Recording.

History

[edit]

Early singles and self-titled album (2002–2005)

[edit]
Main article: LCD Soundsystem (album)
LCD Soundsystem performing in Madrid in 2005

James Murphy founded LCD Soundsystem in 2002,[1] in the New York City borough of Brooklyn.[2] The "LCD" part of the band's name stands for "Liquid Christmas Display", a play on "liquid-crystal display", and originated from the earliest iteration of the band during a live performance at a Brooklyn Christmas party where bassist Murphy and drummer Pat Mahoney were covering songs by Liquid Liquid.[3]

They began by releasing a string of singles under DFA Records, which was co-founded by Murphy.[4] They gained attention with their first single, "Losing My Edge", which peaked at number 115 in the UK.[5] Described as "an eight-minute, laugh-out-loud funny dissection of cool over a dirty electronic beat";[6] the single became an underground dance favorite. This was followed by the single "Give It Up", and in the following year, "Yeah" and "Movement". The latter two peaked at number 77 and number 52 in the UK, respectively.[5]

LCD Soundsystem released their eponymous debut studio album in January 2005 to critical acclaim.[7] The CD version includes a second disc of non-album singles.[8] The following month, they released the single "Daft Punk Is Playing at My House", which became their first UK top 40 hit (peaking at number 29)[5] and their most commercially successful single (charting in Australia,[9] Belgium,[10] and the Netherlands).[11] The band toured with M.I.A. following the release of the album.[12] In June 2005, the band covered the Siouxsie and the Banshees song "Slowdive" for the B-side of their single "Disco Infiltrator".[13]

In December 2005, the group received nominations for two Grammy awards, one for Best Electronic/Dance Album with their self-titled album and one for Best Dance Recording with "Daft Punk Is Playing at My House".[14] Their self-titled debut was also placed at number 94 of Amazon.com's "Top 100 Editor's Picks" of 2005.[15]

"45:33" and Sound of Silver (2006–2008)

[edit]
Main articles: 45:33 and Sound of Silver

In October 2006, LCD Soundsystem released a composition titled "45:33", as part of Nike's Original Run series. It was made available for download from iTunes.[16] Despite its name, the track is actually 45 minutes and 58 seconds long—the title being an apparent reference to vinyl speeds (45 and 33 RPM)—and was claimed to "reward and push at good intervals of a run".[17] However, it was later revealed that this was not the case, and that Murphy merely wanted the opportunity to create a long piece of music, akin to E2-E4 by Manuel Göttsching.[18]

LCD Soundsystem performing in Turin, Italy in 2007

LCD Soundsystem's second studio album, Sound of Silver, was released on March 20, 2007, to critical acclaim.[19] Praise included Mixmag awarding it the title Album of the Month, a 9.2 score from Pitchfork[20] and a 5-star review from The Guardian.[21] The album release was preceded by the single "North American Scum", which was released in February 2007.[22] LCD Soundsystem's subsequent single "All My Friends" included covers of the song by Franz Ferdinand and former Velvet Underground member John Cale.[23] The digital download "All My Friends" EP also includes a cover of the early Joy Division song "No Love Lost". In September 2007, the A Bunch of Stuff EP was released[24] and the band went on tour with Arcade Fire.[25] Late in 2007, the band released "Someone Great" as the third single from Sound of Silver and re-released "45:33" on CD and vinyl through DFA Records.[26] In December 2007, there was a release of a 12-inch record containing B-sides from European singles for the North American market, entitled Confuse the Marketplace.[27]

In December 2007, the band received a Grammy nomination for Best Electronic/Dance Album with Sound of Silver.[28] The album was also named the best album of 2007 by publications such as The Guardian,[29] Uncut[30] and Drowned in Sound.[31] The album was also nominated for the 2007 Shortlist Prize, where it lost out to The Reminder by Feist.[32] Time magazine named "All My Friends" one of The 10 Best Songs of 2007, ranking it at number 4. Writer Josh Tyrangiel praised the "magic" in the song, saying that the song's "straightforward repetition of the same guitar, keyboard and bass lines, combined with lyrics about life without regret, and life with all kinds of regrets pays off with a punch about what we lose as we get older."[33][34] The track was later named the second best song of the 2000s by Pitchfork.[35]

After finishing touring for Sound of Silver the band recorded and released a song entitled "Big Ideas" on the soundtrack of the film 21.[36] This song was ranked number 63 on Rolling Stone's list of the 100 Best Songs of 2008.[37]

This Is Happening and breakup (2009–2011)

[edit]
Main article: This Is Happening

On November 18, 2008, Al Doyle seemed to suggest in an interview with 6 Music that the band would soon be discontinued.[38] However, the following day both Doyle and Murphy quashed this rumor, with Murphy indicating a new LCD Soundsystem album was on the way.[39][40] Murphy began recording in the summer of 2009 in Los Angeles. Possible song titles mentioned at that time included "Why Do You Hate Music?" and "Love in LA".[41] For the 2009 Record Store Day the band released a cover of Suicide member Alan Vega's song "Bye Bye Bayou".[42]

LCD Soundsystem performing in Santiago, Chile in 2011

On February 23, 2010, the LCD Soundsystem website announced that the album had been completed. The first single was set to be "Drunk Girls" and on March 25, a stream of the song was put on music site One Thirty BPM.[43] The title of the album and the cover were revealed on the DFA site on March 30.[44] The album, titled This Is Happening, was released in the UK on May 17, 2010, and in the U.S. on May 18, 2010. Prior to the release Murphy promised that it will be "definitely better than the other two."[45] Murphy stated that it was likely to be the last LCD Soundsystem album.[46] The band performed two secret gigs in New York on April 9 and 12, 2010, at the Music Hall of Williamsburg and Webster Hall in New York City. Murphy made an impassioned plea with fans and industry attendees at the New York gig not to leak the album to the internet in advance of the May 17 release date.[47] It was reported in the NME that Murphy went down on his knees onstage and stated:

If you got a copy of the record early and you feel like sharing it with the rest of the world, then please don't ... We spent two years making this record and we want to put it out when we want to put it out. I don't care about money – after it comes out, give it to whoever you want for free but until then, keep it to yourself.

For the 2010 edition of Record Store Day, the band released 1000 copies of a single-sided 12" single of This Is Happening track "Pow Pow".[48] When speaking to The Quietus in August, Murphy insisted that LCD Soundsystem would continue to record music, stating: "We'll do some 12's and things like that. I just need to get away from it being a big thing".[49]

On February 8, 2011, LCD Soundsystem announced on its website that it would be playing its last show on April 2 at Madison Square Garden in New York City. When tickets went on pre-sale and sale, there were widespread problems with availability and online ordering. Following the immediate sale of all available tickets, LCD Soundsystem announced that they would be playing four warm-up shows at New York's Terminal 5. The setlists at those shows were nearly identical to the setlist of the final show at Madison Square Garden. The final song performed at the farewell show was "New York, I Love You but You're Bringing Me Down". The show lasted almost four hours with appearances by Arcade Fire, Reggie Watts and others.[citation needed]

Post-breakup (2011–2014)

[edit]
See also: Shut Up and Play the Hits and The Long Goodbye: LCD Soundsystem Live at Madison Square Garden

LCD Soundsystem covered the Franz Ferdinand song "Live Alone" for the Franz Ferdinand Covers EP (2011). The cover was also released as a single through the Domino Recording Company on April 11, 2011.[50] On April 12, Murphy confirmed the release of the final show on DVD, with a better quality than the stream offered by Pitchfork.[51][52] In addition, a documentary called Shut Up and Play the Hits, chronicling James Murphy during the 48 hours before, during, and after the final show, screened at the 2012 Sundance Film Festival and was later screened in select theaters. On March 5, 2013, LCD Soundsystem was named one of Rolling Stone's New Immortals—"currently active (or relatively recently defunct) artists who [they] think will stand the test of time."[53] On April 19, 2014, a live recording of the farewell show was released in a 5-box vinyl edition as The Long Goodbye: LCD Soundsystem Live at Madison Square Garden.

Reunion: American Dream and Electric Lady Sessions (2015–2019)

[edit]
Main articles: American Dream (LCD Soundsystem album) and Electric Lady Sessions

In October 2015, a Consequence of Sound article reported that "multiple sources" confirmed that LCD Soundsystem would be reuniting in 2016 and headlining "high-profile music festivals in the US and UK". This report was eventually confirmed by Billboard, but later that day, DFA Records label manager Kris Petersen stated that the band would not be reuniting. DFA co-founder Jonathan Galkin also affirmed this in a Pitchfork article.[54][55]

On December 24, 2015, LCD Soundsystem released the song "Christmas Will Break Your Heart", the band's first single in five years. Regarded as a "depressing Christmas song" that James Murphy had been singing to himself for years, the song was recorded during 2015 after Murphy arranged for band members Al Doyle, Pat Mahoney, Nancy Whang and Tyler Pope to come to DFA Studios to record the track.[56][57] It was released as both a digital download[58] and 7-inch vinyl.[59] After the release of the song, Consequence of Sound and Billboard again alleged that LCD Soundsystem would reunite in 2016.[60][61]

LCD Soundsystem performing in 2016

The band's reunion was confirmed on January 4, 2016, when it was announced that it would be headlining the 2016 Coachella Festival.[62][63] The following day, the band announced that they would be releasing a new studio album in 2016.[64] Murphy, who worked on David Bowie's Blackstar, stated that Bowie helped convince him to reassemble the band (prior to Bowie's death in January 2016).[65] On February 13, it was reported that LCD Soundsystem had signed with Columbia Records.[66][67] On March 23, it was announced that the band would also be headlining the 2016 Lollapalooza Festival.[68] The band performed two shows at Webster Hall in East Village, Manhattan on March 27 and 28, marking their first shows in almost five years. The event had a ticket distribution system in the form of a lottery.[69] During the rest of 2016, the band headlined the Outside Lands,[70] Primavera Sound,[71] Austin City Limits,[72] Bonnaroo, LouFest,[73] and Wayhome[74] festivals.

In August 2016, the band canceled tour dates for shows in Asia and Australia in order to complete work on the album.[75] Although plans were made to release the record in 2016, it was suggested that the release date would be moved into the following year, as the recording was predicted to take another few months.[76] LCD Soundsystem performed their first show of 2017 at the then-recently opened venue Brooklyn Steel on April 6. During their performance, they premiered three new songs titled "Tonite", "Call the Police", and "American Dream" during the first encore of their set.[77] A fourth new song, "Emotional Haircut", was performed during a later show at Brooklyn Steel.[78] On May 5, the band released "Call the Police" and "American Dream" together as a digital double A-side single.[79] Accompanying the single was a lengthy post on their Facebook page, which also included an update regarding the progress of their upcoming studio album.[80] The band performed the two songs during the May 6 episode of Saturday Night Live's 42nd season.[81] On June 19, the band revealed that the title of their fourth studio album would be American Dream and that it would be released on September 1 through Columbia Records and DFA Records. The tracklist for the album was also revealed as well as dates for a world tour.[82] American Dream released to critical acclaim following the release of several singles. The album was nominated for Best Alternative Music Album and the song "Tonite" won Best Dance Recording at the 2018 Grammy Awards, earning the band their first ever Grammy win.[83]

LCD Soundsystem performing at All Points East in 2018

The band performed three songs live at Electric Lady Studios as part of a Spotify Singles release, released on September 12, 2018, with the songs being "Tonite", "Home" (from This Is Happening), and a cover of the Chic song "I Want Your Love".[84] Later, on November 2, the band released a cover of the Heaven 17 song "(We Don't Need This) Fascist Groove Thang" and teased a full live album recorded at the same studio, titled Electric Lady Sessions.[85]

Holiday Special, concert residencies and collaborations (2020–2023)

[edit]

During his appearance on Marc Maron's WTF with Marc Maron podcast in July 2021, Murphy revealed that LCD Soundsystem had not worked on any music during the COVID-19 pandemic and were on a "full hiatus". He added that the band were at the point of their cycle where they "[return] to normal life completely" and that they had no plans to tour until they release another album. Regarding when the band plans to begin recording again, he stated "we'll figure something out when the time is right".[86] The band's hiatus effectively ended in October 2021, following their announcement of a 20-date residency at Brooklyn Steel from late November to late December 2021.[87] Synth player Gavilán Rayna Russom revealed in a November 2021 interview with Pitchfork that she decided against performing during the Brooklyn Steel shows and had permanently left LCD Soundsystem, citing an increased desire to work on other projects.[88] Multi-instrumentalist Matt Thornley was also absent during the shows.[89] The band picked up two new synth players for the residency: Abby Echiverri and Nick Millhiser, the latter being a member of fellow DFA Records signees Holy Ghost!.[90] The residency ended prematurely as the band canceled the final three dates, from December 19–21, due to a large increase of COVID-19 Omicron variant cases in New York City. Though they had planned on continuing through the end of the residency despite the rise in cases, the band announced on December 17 that they would cancel the remaining shows and offer refunds if enough concert attendees backed out of attending, which was the end result.[91]

On December 22, Amazon Music aired The LCD Soundsystem Holiday Special through their Twitch channel. The special was a one-off episode of a 1990s-style sitcom titled All My Friends, with comedians and actors portraying LCD Soundsystem members, including Eric Wareheim, the writer and director of the episode, playing James Murphy, Macaulay Culkin playing Pat Mahoney, and Christine Ko playing Nancy Whang. The episode was interspersed with footage from a prerecorded live performance by the band.[92] Wareheim stated that he and Murphy had been developing the sitcom project for 15 years.[92] The special was produced during November and December 2021; the live performance was filmed in New York City with the sitcom episode being filmed immediately afterward in Los Angeles, the latter over a span of two days.[93] Wareheim and Murphy both expressed amazement at Amazon Music's willingness to air the episode.[92]

LCD Soundsystem was the musical guest for the February 26, 2022, episode of Saturday Night Live's 47th season, which was hosted by John Mulaney.[94] Breaking with tradition of musical guests performing new material, the band performed the songs "Thrills" and "Yr City's a Sucker" from their debut studio album for the episode.[95] Additionally, the band collectively appeared in a sketch during the episode, where they portrayed members of the Guardian Angels.[96] In March 2022, Murphy posted an update to the band's Facebook page explaining their direction for 2022, stating that the band collectively desired playing live shows without having to promote an album.[97] Murphy, Whang, Mahoney, and Pope reunited with former member Phil Mossman to perform together as LCD Soundsystem at a DFA Records 20th anniversary show on March 26.[98] LCD Soundsystem began their 2022 run of concert residencies in March 2022 at Franklin Music Hall in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, lasting four nights.[99] Through the rest of the year, they performed a four-night residency at the Roadrunner in Boston, Massachusetts,[100] a six-night residency at the O2 Academy in Brixton, London,[101] and an eight-night residency at the Fox Oakland Theatre and Warfield Theatre in the San Francisco Bay Area.[102] Also in August, Variety reported that the band had contributed to the soundtrack for Noah Baumbach's 2022 film White Noise with a new song titled "New Body Rhumba". It was released as a single on September 30, 2022.[103] On the same day, the band announced another 20-date residency at Brooklyn Steel, running from mid-November through December 2022.[104]

On January 31, 2023, AEG (Anschutz Entertainment Group) Presents announced that the band would be one of three headline acts at the inaugural Re:SET Concert Series.[105] In November and December, LCD Soundsystem embarked on the Tri Boro Tour, playing 12 shows in New York City comprising four shows each at Brooklyn Steel, Manhattan's Terminal 5 and Queens' Knockdown Center.[106] On October 18, 2023, the band Idles released the single, "Dancer," which featured LCD Soundsystem members James Murphy and Nancy Whang performing backing vocals.[107]

Upcoming fifth studio album (2024–present)

[edit]

On October 22, 2024, NTS Radio aired "X-Ray Eyes", the band's first release since "New Body Rhumba".[108] In a press release released on November 1, 2024, Murphy revealed that the band was recording a new album in between concert dates and festival performances.[109] The band again played a long run of New York City winter shows, this time featuring 12 dates all at the Knockdown Center through November and December 2024.[110] It was then announced in February 2025 that the band will be playing an eight-night residency at the Brixton Academy, London in June.[111]

In June 2025 the band released an edit of This is Happening track "Home" by British musician Tom Sharkett, first to streaming services and later as a 12" vinyl single.[112]

Musical style

[edit]

Musically, LCD Soundsystem has been described as part of the dance-punk revival,[113] as well as dance-rock,[114] electronic rock,[115] electronica,[116] art rock,[117] and alternative dance.[118]

Awards and nominations

[edit]

Grammy Awards

[edit]
Year Nominee / work Award Result
2006 "Daft Punk Is Playing at My House" Best Dance Recording Nominated
LCD Soundsystem Best Electronic/Dance Album Nominated
2008 Sound of Silver Nominated
2018 "Tonite" Best Dance Recording Won
American Dream Best Alternative Music Album Nominated

Rober Awards Music Poll

[edit]
Year Nominee / work Award Result
2007[119] "Someone Great" Best Dance Anthem Won
2008[120] James Murphy Best Male Artist Won
2010[121] "I Can Change" Best Dance Anthem Won
Themselves Best Electronica Won
2017[122] Best Group or Duo Won
Comeback of the Year Won
Best Live Artist 4th Place
American Dream Album of the Year 2nd place
"American Dream" Song of the Year Won
2018[123] "(We Don't Need This) Fascist Groove Thang" Best Cover Version 4th Place

Other Awards

[edit]
Year Awards Work Category Result
2005 MVPA Awards[124] "Daft Punk Is Playing at My House" Best Electronic Video Nominated
2007 Shortlist Music Prize Sound of Silver Album of the Year Nominated
Best Art Vinyl Best Vinyl Art[125] Nominated
2008 MVPA Awards[126] "North American Scum" Best Electronic Video Nominated
2010 UK Music Video Awards "Drunk Girls" Best Indie/Alternative Video Nominated
2011 New York Music Awards[127] Themselves Band of the Year Won
This is Happening Album of the Year Won
Best Pop/Electronic Album Won
"Drunk Girls" Best Rock Video Won
International Dance Music Awards "I Can Change" Best Underground Dance Track Nominated
Themselves Best Dance Artist (Group) Nominated
mtvU Woodie Awards Woodie of the Year Nominated
Webby Awards Artist of the Year Won
2012 UK Music Video Awards Shut Up and Play the Hits Best Live Music Coverage Won[128]
2013 NME Awards Best Music Film Nominated
2018 UK Music Video Awards "Tonite" Best Interactive Video Nominated
Brit Awards Themselves Best International Group Nominated
NME Awards Best Live Band Nominated
2019 Classic Pop Reader Awards[129] "Oh Baby" Video of the Year Won
Music Video Festival[130] Best Music Video Nominated

Band members

[edit]
Principal member James Murphy at La Route Du Rock in August 2007
Al Doyle (left) and Nancy Whang performing as part of the band in 2016

Members and dates are based on single and album credits from the band's discography.[8][131][132][133]

Official members[133][89]

  • James Murphy – lead vocals, keyboards, synthesizers, guitar, bass, drums, percussion, drum machine, piano, organ, production (2002–2011, 2015–present)
  • Nancy Whang – keyboards, synthesizers, vocals (2002–2011, 2015–present)
  • Pat Mahoney – drums, percussion, drum machine, synthesizers, backing vocals (2002–2011, 2015–present)
  • Tyler Pope – bass, guitar, synthesizers, drum machine (2004–2011, 2015–present)
  • Al Doyle – guitar, percussion, synthesizers, bass, vocals (2015–present; 2005–2011 touring)
  • Korey Richey – percussion, synthesizers, piano, backing vocals (2015–present)

Current touring musicians[89]

  • Abby Echiverri – synthesizers, guitar, percussion, backing vocals (2021–present)
  • Nick Millhiser – synthesizers, percussion, backing vocals (2021–present)

Former members

  • Phil Mossman – guitar, percussion (2004–2011, one-off performance 2022)[134]
  • Matt Thornley – guitar, percussion, piano, synthesizers, drum machine (2009–2011, 2015–2021; 2006–2009 touring)
  • Gavilán Rayna Russom – synthesizers, percussion, backing vocals (2015–2021; 2008–2011 touring)[88]

Former touring musicians

  • Jerry Fuchs – drums, percussion (2005–2009; died 2009)[135]
  • J. D. Mark – guitar (2005–2009; died 2013)[136]
  • Phil Skarich – bass (2005–2009)
  • David Scott Stone – guitar, percussion, synthesizers, vocals (2010–2011)

Timeline

[edit]

Discography

[edit]
For a more comprehensive list, see LCD Soundsystem discography.

References

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

LCD Soundsystem

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
LCD Soundsystem is an American band from , New York, formed in 2002 by musician, singer, and producer James Murphy as a solo studio project under the label he co-founded with Tim Goldsworthy. The band blends , , , and , characterized by Murphy's witty, self-deprecating lyrics exploring themes of aging, music scene pretensions, and interpersonal dynamics. Emerging from New York's early-2000s underground scene, LCD Soundsystem became a leading act in the revival, influencing a generation of artists with their energetic live performances and critically acclaimed recordings. The band's breakthrough came with the 2002 single "Losing My Edge," a satirical critiquing hipster that gained status through word-of-mouth and club play. Their self-titled debut album, LCD Soundsystem (2005), expanded on this sound with tracks like "Daft Punk Is Playing at My House," which peaked at number 29 on the UK Singles Chart and earned a Grammy nomination for Best Recording. Follow-up albums (2007) and (2010) solidified their reputation, with the former featuring the euphoric anthem "All My Friends"—a staple of indie sets—and the latter showcasing longer, more experimental compositions like "Dance Yrself Clean." Both records received widespread praise for their production and emotional depth, with Sound of Silver ranking highly on numerous decade-end lists. After , LCD Soundsystem announced their disbandment in 2011, culminating in a sold-out farewell concert at titled "The Long Goodbye," which was later released as a live album. The group reformed in 2016 for a series of shows, leading to the release of (2017), a reflective album that debuted at number one on the and addressed Murphy's experiences with loss and maturity. Subsequent releases include the live album (2019) and the single "" (2022). In 2024, they released the single "x-ray eyes," and a new album is scheduled for 2025. As of 2025, the band remains active, with core members including Murphy (vocals, multi-instruments), Nancy Whang (keyboards, vocals), Pat Mahoney (drums), (guitar, percussion), and Tyler Pope (bass, guitar), and they are currently touring , including a multi-night residency at Queens' Knockdown Center from November to December.

History

Formation and early releases (2002–2005)

James Murphy, a New York-based musician and producer, had been active in the local scene prior to LCD Soundsystem, serving as the live sound engineer for the post-punk band Six Finger Satellite in the late 1990s, where he developed a reputation for his high-volume mixes. In 2001, Murphy co-founded DFA Records with Tim Goldsworthy, a fellow producer and former member of electronic acts like UNKLE, and manager Jonathan Galkin, aiming to capture the raw energy of New York's underground electronic and punk sounds. DFA quickly became a key player in revitalizing dance-punk through releases like The Rapture's "House of Jealous Lovers." LCD Soundsystem began as Murphy's solo project in 2002, initially envisioned as a one-off outlet for his ideas blending , , and electronic elements, but it soon expanded into a collaborative band featuring regular contributors like vocalist and keyboardist Nancy Whang and bassist Tyler Pope. The project's debut single, "Losing My Edge," was released in July 2002 on as a 12-inch vinyl, featuring a satirical over a driving beat that name-dropped obscure artists and captured the anxieties of aging hipster culture. The track earned widespread critical acclaim, ranking #13 on Pitchfork's list of the top 500 songs of the 2000s and praised for its witty lyrics and infectious groove. Building on this momentum, LCD Soundsystem issued the single "Yeah" later in 2002, a raw, extended jam that showcased Murphy's production style with looping guitar riffs and pulsating bass, initially released as a 7-inch before a fuller 12-inch version in 2004. The project continued with sporadic releases, including the 2005 single "Tribulations," a disco-inflected track from the forthcoming album that highlighted the band's growing polish while maintaining its underground edge. The self-titled debut album, LCD Soundsystem, was produced by Murphy and Goldsworthy at DFA's New York studio and released on January 24, 2005, through a joint venture between DFA and Capitol Records. The record compiled reworked versions of early singles alongside new material, with standout tracks like the opener "Daft Punk Is Playing at My House"—a euphoric nod to electronic icons—and the introspective "Never as Tired as When I'm Waking Up," blending raw energy with emotional depth across 16 tracks (including bonus disc remixes). It debuted at #6 on Billboard's Top Electronic Albums chart and sold over 62,000 copies in the U.S. by early 2007, establishing the band as a critical darling in the indie scene. Early live performances further fueled LCD Soundsystem's underground buzz in New York's circuit, with Murphy and his rotating lineup playing intimate venues like Williamsburg warehouses and clubs, where the band's sweaty, improvisational sets drew crowds from the city's thriving community. These shows, often extending into marathon DJ sets, helped cultivate a dedicated following amid the early-2000s resurgence of genre-blending nightlife.

Sound of Silver era (2006–2008)

In October 2006, LCD Soundsystem released 45:33, a 45-minute continuous composition commissioned by Nike as part of their Nike+ Original Run series, designed for use during workouts via integration. The track, initially available digitally as a single unbroken piece, blended electro-disco elements with building rhythms, reflecting James Murphy's interest in extended, immersive structures. Following this, the band recorded their second studio album, , primarily in 2006 at a studio in , , where Murphy covered the walls in silver foil to create a reflective acoustic environment and thematic mood. Released on March 12, 2007, in the United Kingdom via and on March 20 in the United States through DFA and , the album marked a shift toward more polished production while retaining raw energy. Standout tracks included "All My Friends," an eight-minute epic driven by and driving percussion, and "Someone Great," a lament with emotive vocals. Sound of Silver received widespread critical acclaim for its seamless fusion of and introspective songwriting, earning a 9.2/10 rating and Best New Music designation from , which praised its hybrid of rock and dance values. awarded it four stars, highlighting Murphy's evolution as a "future-disco hero" with unusually nostalgic depth. Commercially, it peaked at number 28 on the , where it was later certified gold by the BPI for sales exceeding 100,000 units, and reached number 46 on the with first-week sales of approximately 15,000 copies; overall sales have surpassed 225,000 units to date. The album's success propelled an extensive 2007 tour, encompassing over 100 shows across Europe, North America, and South America, with headline performances at major festivals including Coachella on April 28, where the band drew one of the largest crowds at the Sahara Tent. This period solidified the band's live lineup, featuring core members such as James Murphy on vocals and multi-instruments, Nancy Whang on keyboards and backing vocals, and Pat Mahoney on drums, alongside collaborators like Tyler Pope on bass and guitar. Lyrically, drew from Murphy's personal reflections on aging into his mid-30s and the fading allure of New York City's nightlife scene, as explored in tracks like "All My Friends," which captures the exhaustion and of endless partying among old companions. Murphy has described these themes as stemming from his own experiences of feeling like a "real-life emotional teenager" amid the transience of and cool, infusing the album with a bittersweet tension between revelry and regret.

This Is Happening and disbandment (2009–2011)

Following the success of Sound of Silver, LCD Soundsystem began work on their third studio album, This Is Happening, in early 2009. The recording sessions took place primarily at The Manshun, a rented studio space in Los Angeles, with additional work at DFA Studios in New York City; mixing was completed at DFA from April 2009 through February 2010. James Murphy, the band's frontman and primary songwriter, handled production alongside the group, emphasizing a raw, expansive sound that built on the emotional introspection of prior work while incorporating longer, more anthemic structures. The album was released on May 17, 2010, in the UK and May 18 in the via DFA and . Standout tracks included the opener "Dance Yrself Clean," a slow-building nine-minute epic that transitions from subdued verses to euphoric disco-infused choruses, and "I Can Change," a tender duet-inspired featuring Murphy's wife Nancy Whang on vocals, which explored themes of and transformation. Commercially, marked the band's strongest performance to date, debuting at number 7 on the and number 10 on the , with approximately 31,000 copies sold in its first week. The record received widespread critical acclaim for its maturity and energy, often cited as a career peak that extended the themes of aging and nightlife from . To support the album, LCD Soundsystem embarked on an extensive world tour in mid-2010, spanning , , and , with performances that highlighted the new material alongside fan favorites. A key highlight was their June 27, 2010, headline slot on the Other Stage at , where they delivered a sunset set blending tracks like "Drunk Girls" and "All My Friends," drawing massive crowds and earning praise for its communal, dance-driven atmosphere. The tour built momentum through sold-out arena shows and festival appearances, culminating in a series of intimate warm-up dates before the announced finale. On February 7, 2011, the band released a video statement on their official website announcing their disbandment after one final performance, with frontman James Murphy explaining the decision stemmed from personal exhaustion after years of intense touring and a desire to conclude the project while still at its creative zenith, avoiding the pitfalls of . The announcement, framed as a "slow goodbye" to allow for a proper send-off, specified the last show as April 2, 2011, at in , billed as a three-hour extravaganza with special guests. The concert served as the band's final performance of the initial era, running nearly four hours and featuring guest appearances from Arcade Fire's and , as well as a career-spanning setlist that closed with an emotional rendition of " but You're Bringing Me Down." Fans reacted with a mix of devastation and celebration, with tickets selling out in seconds and resale prices soaring to $1,500 amid widespread online outpouring of grief and gratitude for the band's raw honesty and influence on indie dance music. The event, later documented in the 2012 film Shut Up and Play the Hits, underscored the breakup as a poignant, self-aware exit rather than a dramatic fracture.

Interlude period (2011–2014)

Following the disbandment in 2011, James experienced significant emotional fatigue from the band's exhaustive final tour, retreating to process the aftermath privately. The morning after the farewell concert, he awoke to 50 voicemails but immediately returned to bed, underscoring the toll of the high-intensity performances. channeled his energies into diverse solo endeavors outside of music production. In 2012, he debuted as an actor, portraying the character Ken in Rick Alverson's The Comedy. The following year, he directed the short film Little Duck as part of Canon's Project Imaginat10n initiative, which supported emerging filmmakers. By early 2014, expanded into the beverage industry, partnering with to launch the House of Good single-origin blend, reflecting his interest in curated sensory experiences. Despite the hiatus, Murphy stayed engaged in musical collaborations and scoring projects. In April 2013, he produced the track "Buried Alive Interlude" for ' album . Later that year, he co-produced Arcade Fire's fourth studio album , contributing to its expansive, dance-oriented sound. Also in 2013, Murphy delivered an extended remix of David Bowie's "Love Is Lost (Hello Mix by James Murphy for the DFA)," clocking in at over 10 minutes, and composed original music for the Broadway revival of Harold Pinter's , starring and . In July 2014, director enlisted him to score the comedy While We're Young, building on their prior collaboration for Greenberg in 2010. Murphy's non-album work extended to innovative installations and experimental releases. In summer , he co-created Despacio, a custom-built, mobile sound system and DJ booth with Belgian brothers Stephen and David Dewaele of (2manydjs), designed for immersive club experiences and debuted at . That August, in an interview, he explicitly stated having no intentions of reuniting LCD Soundsystem, emphasizing focus on new pursuits. In 2014, he produced Remixes Made with Tennis Data, a series of tracks generated from U.S. Open tennis match data in partnership with , showcasing . LCD Soundsystem's core members also pursued independent paths during the break. Guitarist formed the synth-pop trio New Build alongside Hot Chip's Felix Martin and engineer Tom Hopkins, releasing their debut album Yesterday Was Lived and Lost on March 5, 2012, via Lo Recordings. The group followed with a second album, Pour It On, in October 2014. Meanwhile, bassist Tyler Pope managed the Output record label, which he co-founded, and drummer Pat Mahoney contributed to recordings by artists including Holy Ghost! and Junior Boys, while keyboardist Nancy Whang continued performing and producing with The Juan MacLean. These activities highlighted the band's members maintaining ties to the electronic and indie scenes without a full LCD Soundsystem revival.

Reunion and American Dream (2015–2017)

In late December 2015, LCD Soundsystem announced their reunion, confirming headlining performances at the 2016 Music and Arts Festival, marking the band's return after a four-year hiatus. The surprise announcement followed months of rumors and generated significant excitement among fans, with frontman James Murphy later explaining that the decision stemmed from a desire to create new music without the pressure of a definitive farewell. The band's first post-reunion performances were intimate surprise shows at New York City's Webster Hall on March 27 and 28, 2016, which served as warm-up gigs before larger festival appearances and drew crowds including celebrities like and . Following these initial shows, the band began recording their fourth studio album, , primarily at DFA Studios in , with additional sessions at other locations; noted that this would be the final album recorded at the original DFA space before its relocation. Released on September 1, 2017, via DFA and , the album features a tracklist including standout songs like "Call ," "Tonite," and the title track, exploring themes of political disillusionment amid the Trump era and personal aging, with lyrics often reflecting on the hiatus and 's midlife anxieties. Critics praised its blend of urgent energy, expansive grooves, and emotional introspection, awarding it a score of 86 out of 100 based on 37 reviews, indicating universal acclaim. Commercially, debuted at number one on the US , the band's first chart-topping album there, and reached number three on the . At the , the album earned a nomination for Best Alternative Music Album, while the track "Tonite" won for Best Dance Recording. To support American Dream, LCD Soundsystem embarked on an extensive world tour in 2017–2018, beginning with summer festival dates such as in , in , and in , before a fall run of arena and theater shows across , , and beyond. The tour highlighted the band's revitalized live energy, incorporating new material alongside classics, and extended into 2018 with additional dates, solidifying their comeback momentum.

Post-reunion releases (2018–2023)

In late 2018, LCD Soundsystem announced their live album , recorded during three days in January 2018 at New York's . The double LP, released on February 8, 2019, via DFA and , features reinterpreted tracks from the band's catalog alongside covers of songs by , , and , capturing the group's post-reunion energy in an intimate studio setting. This release extended the momentum from their era, offering fans polished live renditions that highlighted James Murphy's evolving production style. The band's activities slowed in 2020 amid the , entering a full hiatus that halted planned tours and live performances globally. With venues closed and travel restrictions in place, LCD Soundsystem focused inward, postponing any international outings and contributing to broader industry disruptions in live music. In December 2021, LCD Soundsystem returned with The LCD Soundsystem Holiday Special, a Prime Video concert film directed by , blending scripted sketches with live performances from . The special, aired on December 22, debuted the original festive track "christmas will break your heart" alongside classics like "Tonite," providing a timely, introspective holiday offering amid ongoing pandemic recovery. The group resumed extensive live work in with a 20-night residency at , announced in September and running from November 18 to December 17, marking their most concentrated series of shows to date. However, rising cases led to the cancellation of the final three dates on December 19, reflecting persistent health challenges for touring acts. During this period, LCD Soundsystem shared stages with acts like at festivals such as This Ain't No Picnic in , fostering collaborative energy through joint bills that amplified their dance-punk sound alongside punk contemporaries. In 2023, LCD Soundsystem maintained a steady pace of performances, including a 12-show multi-venue residency across New York boroughs from November 16 to December 16 at Brooklyn Steel, Terminal 5, and The Rooftop at Pier 17. They also headlined major U.S. festivals like the Re:SET Concert Series in June, sharing the lineup with and others, underscoring their enduring draw in live settings. This run of shows, including stops at and Frost Amphitheater, reinforced the band's post-reunion vitality through extended sets blending catalog staples with newer material. Additionally, August 2021 saw the reissue of The Long Goodbye: LCD Soundsystem Live at , the complete recording of their 2011 farewell concert, on vinyl for its 10th anniversary, providing a reflective bridge to their pre-reunion legacy.

New material and recent tours (2024–present)

In October 2024, LCD Soundsystem teased the development of their fifth studio album during the announcement of their headlining slot at 2025, with frontman stating that recording sessions were ongoing amid the band's touring schedule. However, the festival organizers later clarified that the band would not debut the full album at the event, though confirmed in November 2024 that work on the project continued without a finished LP or firm release plans. As of November 2025, the album remains unfinished with no firm release date announced. The first single from these sessions, "X-Ray Eyes," premiered on in late October 2024 and was officially released on November 1, featuring a minimalist, tech-driven production co-written by , , and Nancy Whang, who also contributes vocals. The track explores themes of introspection and relational scrutiny through its repetitive, synth-heavy structure, marking a return to the band's roots while hinting at the evolving sound of the forthcoming album. In spring 2025, LCD Soundsystem embarked on a North American tour comprising 10 shows across five cities, including multi-night stands in Austin, , and New Orleans, alongside stops in and , supported by acts like and Gustaf. The run highlighted the band's sustained live intensity, with setlists blending classics like "All My Friends" and recent material such as " Eyes." The band headlined on June 7, 2025, delivering a high-energy set without introducing new album tracks beyond the already-released single, focusing instead on fan favorites from their catalog. Later that month, on June 20, 2025, they issued a digital and limited vinyl release of Tom Sharkett's remix of "" from their 2010 album , transforming the original's melancholic build into a more upbeat, edit suitable for club play. In September 2025, LCD Soundsystem announced a 12-show residency at ' Knockdown Center from November 20 to December 13, reviving their annual NYC tradition with tickets selling out rapidly via general sale on September 16, priced around $190 including fees. Setlist expectations include staples like "Dance Yrself Clean" and "Tribulations," potentially incorporating previews from the ongoing album sessions to maintain the residency's improvisational vibe.

Musical style and influences

Musical style

LCD Soundsystem's music fuses , electronic, , and elements, creating a propulsive sound that bridges indie rock's raw edge with dance floor urgency. The band employs synthesizers and drum machines alongside live instrumentation such as thudding kick drums, throbbing bass lines, and snapping hi-hats to craft energetic, danceable tracks that manipulate rhythm to engage the body. This blend draws from underground and electro traditions while incorporating punk's intensity, resulting in extended grooves that prioritize movement over conventional song structures. James Murphy's lyrics often explore introspective themes of aging, failure, and , delivered with a mix of irony, humor, and emotional transparency that balances and sincerity. In songs like "All My Friends," Murphy ruminates on life's relentless passage and the regrets of long nights out, using self-deprecating wit to underscore personal and social critiques. His hyperdeclaratory vocal style—raw and unpolished—conveys vulnerability amid the music's drive, turning confessions of self-loathing into communal anthems. The band's production emphasizes layered builds and repetitive hooks, starting with sparse elements that gradually accumulate into dense, immersive soundscapes, often blending synthetic and organic textures for a hyper-modern feel. Murphy's studio craft, honed through self-production, favors clockwork precision in rhythms and deliberate sonic overloads, ensuring tracks like "Dance Yrself Clean" evolve from quiet introspection to euphoric release without losing their visceral punch. Over time, LCD Soundsystem's sound evolved from the lo-fi rawness of early singles—characterized by crackling analog crispness and punk urgency—to the polished, emotionally layered arrangements of later albums, while preserving a DIY ethos rooted in independent experimentation. This progression, evident from the debut's joking electro-punk rushes to the vulnerable art-rock remakes on , maintained an emphasis on authenticity over slick perfection, reflecting Murphy's commitment to organic recording processes. In the post-reunion era, beginning with (2017), the band's style grew more mature and introspective, featuring longer, more expansive compositions that delve deeper into themes of loss, mortality, and personal reflection, while retaining the core energy and rhythmic drive. Subsequent releases, such as the Yr Body Is Nothing EP (2022) and singles like "x-ray eyes" (2024), continued this trajectory with minimalistic and experimental elements, blending raw emotional depth with evolving electronic textures as of 2025.

Influences

LCD Soundsystem's music draws heavily from bands, particularly their rhythmic and angular styles, with James Murphy citing as a key inspiration for angular guitar riffs and beats, as heard in tracks like "." also influenced the band's percussive rhythms and minimalist funk, evident in Murphy's appreciation for their no-wave-adjacent grooves from the early 1980s New York scene. contributed to the angular, talky energy that Murphy emulated in LCD's nervy, intellectual fusion. Electronic and dance influences are central to the band's sound, with Murphy frequently referencing Kraftwerk's pioneering synth work and robotic vocals as foundational to his electronic explorations, likening them to rock rather than pure in his early listening experiences. Daft Punk's shaped the band's approach to and production, though he critiqued their later work for lacking the same raw power. New Order's blend of and informed LCD's melodic electronic structures and emotional depth in songs like "I Can Change." The New York no-wave and club scenes profoundly impacted Murphy, who drew from the city's late-1970s and early-1980s friction between new wave, , and hip-hop, citing bands like and ESG for their raw, experimental rhythms. His experiences in New York's underground venues, including the punk birthplace , fueled LCD's gritty, scene-aware aesthetic, with Murphy recalling the influence of Sonic Youth's noise-rock energy from his early days in the city. These elements manifest briefly in albums like , where no-wave angularity meets club pulse. Broader cultural factors from the 1970s–1980s disco and punk crossover shaped the band's hybrid sound, with Murphy highlighting Loose Joints' post-disco grooves as pivotal to the DFA label's drum aesthetics and LCD's dance-floor urgency. Punk acts like and provided a raw, anti-macho edge that contrasted with 's hedonism, inspiring Murphy's fusion of aggression and groove. In interviews, Murphy has cited as a major personal inspiration for artistic reinvention and genre versatility, crediting Bowie's encouragement during LCD's reunion for pushing him toward discomfort as a creative force. He also positioned LCD Soundsystem as a self-referential critique of indie trends, drawing from post-punk's ironic detachment to mock culture in tracks like "Losing My Edge."

Awards and nominations

Grammy Awards

LCD Soundsystem has received five Grammy Award nominations throughout their career, with one win, primarily recognizing their contributions to electronic and alternative music. Their nominations span from the mid-2000s to the late 2010s, highlighting key albums and singles that blended dance-punk, electronic, and rock elements. At the 48th Annual Grammy Awards in 2006, the band earned two nominations for their self-titled debut album: Best Dance Recording for the single "Daft Punk Is Playing at My House," which showcased their infectious dance-rock energy, and Best Electronic/Dance Album for the album as a whole. Neither award was won, but these early nods marked LCD Soundsystem's breakthrough in the electronic music scene. The band's second album, , brought another nomination at the in 2008 for Best Electronic/Dance Album. This recognition came for tracks like "All My Friends" and "Someone Great," which exemplified their evolving sound with introspective lyrics over pulsating rhythms. The album did not win, but it solidified their critical acclaim in the genre. LCD Soundsystem achieved their first Grammy win at the in 2018, held on January 28 at in . They won Best Dance Recording for "Tonite" from their comeback American Dream, beating nominees including Gorillaz's "Andromeda" and Bonobo's "Cirrus." The track, with its urgent disco-punk drive, was praised for capturing themes of aging and loss. The American Dream was also nominated for Best Alternative Music Album, though it lost to The National's . This ceremony represented a career milestone, as the win was their first after years of nominations.
YearCeremonyCategoryWorkResult
2006Best Dance Recording"Daft Punk Is Playing at My House"Nominated
2006Best Electronic/Dance AlbumLCD SoundsystemNominated
2008Best Electronic/Dance AlbumNominated
2018Best Dance Recording"Tonite"Won
2018Best Alternative Music AlbumNominated

Other awards

LCD Soundsystem has garnered acclaim from various music critics' polls and industry honors beyond the , particularly highlighting their critical success in the United States and innovative contributions to electronic and rock music. In the Village Voice's annual critics' poll, a highly regarded survey aggregating votes from hundreds of music journalists, topped the albums list in 2007 with 1,662 points from 141 voters, marking a pinnacle of critical consensus for the band's sophomore release. The album's blend of energy and introspective lyrics was praised for its emotional depth and sonic innovation. followed suit in 2010, securing second place overall behind Kanye West's , underscoring the band's continued relevance during their pre-disbandment peak. , their 2017 reunion album, ranked ninth in the poll, reflecting sustained admiration for its mature exploration of aging and politics amid a competitive field. Sound of Silver also earned a nomination for the 2008 Shortlist Music Prize, an American award recognizing outstanding albums outside mainstream genres, where it competed alongside works by , M.I.A., and Feist but did not win. This recognition positioned the band as a key player in the indie and electronic scenes, akin to the UK's in scope and prestige. In 2011, LCD Soundsystem received the Webby Award for in the Special Achievement category, honoring their pioneering use of digital platforms to build a global fanbase, including interactive online campaigns and direct engagement that blurred lines between artist and audience. This accolade complemented their reputation for blending live performance intensity with technological savvy, as seen in viral promotions around their farewell shows.

Band members

Current and former members

James Murphy, born February 4, 1970, in , is the founder, lead vocalist, multi-instrumentalist, and primary songwriter of LCD Soundsystem. As the driving creative force, he established the band in 2002 through his label, blending , , and electronic elements into a signature sound. Murphy's background includes early work as a punk musician and assistant engineer at studios like Recording, before co-founding DFA with Tim Goldsworthy and Jonathan Galkin. Nancy Whang serves as the band's longtime and vocalist, providing backing and occasional lead vocals since joining the live lineup in 2005. A New York-based DJ and producer, Whang first contributed to LCD Soundsystem's early singles like "Losing My Edge" and has since become integral to their stage presence and recordings, also collaborating extensively with The Juan MacLean on DFA. Her synth work and harmonies add a disco-infused layer to the band's energetic performances. Pat Mahoney has been the drummer and percussionist since 2005, anchoring the band's rhythm section with a versatile style influenced by punk and . A visual artist and DJ who performs alongside as Special Disco Version, Mahoney's tenure spans the band's original run and reunion, contributing to albums like and live sets known for their intensity. The current lineup also includes Tyler Pope on bass and guitar (reduced role post-reunion), who co-wrote tracks during the band's early years starting in 2004 and rejoined for the 2015 reunion; , guitarist and keyboardist from , contributing since 2005 with his dual-band commitments; Korey Richey on synthesizers, piano, percussion, and guitar, a native who joined post-reunion for added textural depth; Nick Millhiser on synthesizers, percussion, and backing vocals since 2021, bringing experience from Holy Ghost!; Abby Echeverri on and multi-instruments, enhancing the band's live horn and woodwind elements in recent tours; and Nay Wilkins on bass for touring duties since 2025. Among former members, Jerry Fuchs played drums and percussion from 2005 until his death in 2009, bringing a funky, disco-rooted groove from prior work with !!! and The Juan MacLean before a tragic accident in . Phil Mossman, an original guitarist and percussionist from 2004 to 2011, contributed to the band's debut tours and recordings; a native with credits alongside David Holmes and , he occasionally rejoined for special performances like the 2022 show. Matt Thornley served as guitarist and multi-instrumentalist during the late 2000s and 2010s, including on , before shifting focus; originally from the , he later formed The Crystal Ark with . , a synthesist and from 2008 to 2021, shaped the band's electronic textures on and reunion efforts; a transdisciplinary and former Black Leotard Front member, Russom departed to pursue solo work in cultural sustainability and performance.

Timeline

PeriodLineupKey Events and Notes
2002–2004James Murphy (vocals, instruments) with session musicians including Phil Mossman (guitar, percussion)LCD Soundsystem began as James Murphy's solo project under DFA Records, releasing early singles like "Losing My Edge" (2002). No fixed band lineup during this phase.
2005Core band formation: James Murphy (vocals, instruments), Nancy Whang (keyboards, vocals), Pat Mahoney (drums), Tyler Pope (bass, guitar), Al Doyle (guitar, percussion)The band expanded into a live ensemble for the self-titled debut album release and subsequent tours. Additional contributors included Jerry Fuchs (drums, 2005–2009).
2005–2011Core members plus Gavilán Rayna Russom (synthesizers, joined 2008); occasional additions like Matt Thorn (keyboards, percussion)Lineup supported albums Sound of Silver (2007) and This Is Happening (2010), with tours including the farewell Madison Square Garden show in 2011. Jerry Fuchs passed away in 2009.
2011–2015No active lineupThe band entered hiatus following the 2011 disbandment announcement, with members pursuing solo projects and DFA Records operations.
2016–2020Reunion lineup: James Murphy, Nancy Whang, Pat Mahoney, Al Doyle, Tyler Pope, Gavilán Rayna Russom; additional touring musiciansReformed for festival appearances (e.g., Coachella 2016) and album American Dream (2017), followed by Electric Owl (2019, Japan-only). Russom contributed to synth arrangements until her departure.
2021–presentCore: James Murphy, Nancy Whang, Pat Mahoney, Al Doyle; additions including Nick Millhiser (programming), Korey Richey (multi-instrumentalist), and touring members like Nay Wilkins (bass), Abby Echeverri (DJ/multi-instrumentalist). Tyler Pope reduced role post-reunion. Al Doyle participates part-time on tours.Post-Russom departure (2021, due to health and creative reasons), the band maintained a stable seven-to-eight piece configuration for albums, residencies, and 2025 tours including North American dates and NYC residency.

Discography

Studio albums

LCD Soundsystem's debut studio album, titled LCD Soundsystem, was released on January 24, 2005, through DFA and . Produced primarily by James Murphy, the album features 16 tracks and runs for approximately 62 minutes. It peaked at number 20 on the but did not enter the US Billboard 200. The band's second studio album, , followed on March 12, 2007, also via DFA and . Again produced by Murphy, it contains 10 tracks over 46 minutes. The record reached number 28 on the and number 46 on the , while earning gold certification from the (BPI) for 100,000 units sold in the UK. This Is Happening, the third studio effort, arrived on May 17, 2010, released by DFA and . Produced by Murphy, the 10-track album lasts 49 minutes. It debuted at number 10 on the US and number 7 on the . After a seven-year hiatus, LCD Soundsystem returned with on September 1, 2017, through DFA and . Self-produced by Murphy, the album comprises 9 tracks and runs for 48 minutes. It debuted at number 1 on the US with 85,000 equivalent album units in its first week (81,000 from traditional sales) and peaked at number 3 on the .
AlbumRelease DateLabelTracksDurationUK PeakUS Billboard 200 Peak
LCD SoundsystemJanuary 24, 2005DFA / Capitol1662 minDid not chart
Sound of SilverMarch 12, 2007DFA / Capitol1046 min2846
This Is HappeningMay 17, 2010DFA / Virgin1049 min710
American DreamSeptember 1, 2017DFA / Columbia948 min31

Other releases

LCD Soundsystem's early extended plays and singles laid the foundation for their sound, beginning with the debut single "Losing My Edge" released in May 2002 on as a 12-inch vinyl. The track, a satirical critique of hipster culture, featured a B-side of "Beat Connection," an instrumental rework of an unreleased demo, and became a cult hit in underground scenes without major chart success. Follow-up singles like " Is Playing at My House" (2005) reached number 28 on the UK Singles Chart, with B-sides including "" and remixes that showcased the band's remix-heavy approach. Other charting singles included "All My Friends" (2007) at number 80 on the UK chart and "Dance Yrself Clean" (2017) at number 84, often paired with B-sides such as "Hippie Priest" or alternate mixes that expanded on album themes. The Introns EP, released digitally on March 14, 2006, via DFA, compiled B-sides and remixes from the band's self-titled debut , running 54 minutes across 10 tracks. Key inclusions were "Yr City's a Sucker," an original non- track, alongside remixes like Soulwax's version of " Is Playing at My House" and FXHE's take on "Tribulations," highlighting LCD Soundsystem's collaborative . This EP served as a companion to their core material, emphasizing experimental electronic elements without entering mainstream charts. In 2006, 45:33 emerged as a unique commission from Nike, released digitally on October 17 as a continuous 45-minute track designed for workouts, later reissued physically in 2007 with three bonus tracks: "45:33 Part 1," "Part 2," and "Part 3." The piece blended electro-disco and punk-funk into a seamless arc, building from ambient grooves to euphoric peaks, and was later incorporated into the Sound of Silver album as bonus content. Live releases expanded the band's catalog with Electric Lady Sessions, a 2018 in-studio recording released on February 8, 2019, via DFA and as a . Recorded at New York's , it featured refreshed versions of classics like "Seconds" and "American Dream," plus covers of Heaven 17's "Seconds," David Bowie's "Sound and Vision," and Bob Marley's "No Compassion," peaking at number 63 on the . The sessions captured the post-reunion lineup's precision, blending nostalgia with new interpretations. The band's 2021 Holiday Special, premiered on on December 22, combined a comedic faux sketch with a live concert from , directed by and featuring actors like . It debuted the original track "Christmas Will Break Your Heart," a festive yet melancholic addition to their repertoire, alongside performances of hits like "I Used to," emphasizing their multimedia approach to fan engagement. In 2022, LCD Soundsystem released the single "" on November 16, via , for the soundtrack of Noah Baumbach's film White Noise. The track blends the band's signature with cinematic elements. Compilations include the five-LP box set The Long Goodbye: LCD Soundsystem Live at , released April 19, 2014, for , documenting their April 2, 2011, farewell concert in full—over three hours across 28 tracks mixed by James Murphy. This set preserved the emotional intensity of the event, with extended jams on songs like "New York, I Love You but You're Bringing Me Down," serving as a definitive live archive. In 2024, the single "X-Ray Eyes" was released digitally on October 31 via DFA, with a limited numbered 12-inch vinyl following, marking the band's first original non-album track since their reunion and hinting at forthcoming material. The minimalist electronic track, featuring sparse verses from James Murphy, debuted on and received acclaim for its introspective lyricism. Most recently, on June 20, 2025, DFA issued "," a of the track "" by producer Tom Sharkett of WH Lung, originating as a 2025 bootleg played on NTS before official release. The edit extends the original's emotional build with subtle synth layers and spirited pacing, available digitally and on vinyl, underscoring the band's ongoing influence in .

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  24. https://pitchfork.com/reviews/albums/10017-sound-of-silver/
  25. https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-album-reviews/sound-of-silver-255538/
  26. https://www.officialcharts.com/artist/12680/lcd-soundsystem/
  27. https://www.rhino.com/article/happy-10th-lcd-soundsystem-sound-of-silver
  28. https://pitchfork.com/thepitch/1004-can-lcd-soundsystem-finally-fulfill-james-murphys-dream-of-a-number-one-album/
  29. https://www.setlist.fm/setlist/lcd-soundsystem/2007/empire-polo-club-indio-ca-73d34245.html
  30. https://www.concertarchives.org/bands/lcd-soundsystem?page=5&year=2007
  31. https://tidal.com/magazine/article/lcd-soundsystem-a-beginners-guide/1-42028
  32. https://www.bkmag.com/2016/06/30/sound-of-silver-talk-to-me-growing-older-with-lcd-soundsystem/
  33. https://www.nastylittleman.com/2010/03/30/lcd-soundsystem-new-album-title-confirmed-this-is-happening-out-may-18-on-dfavirgin/
  34. https://www.officialcharts.com/albums/lcd-soundsystem-this-is-happening/
  35. https://pitchfork.com/news/38935-lcd-soundsystem-black-keys-band-of-horses-nasmarley-hit-top-ten/
  36. https://pitchfork.com/features/lists-and-guides/7893-the-top-50-albums-of-2010/?page=5
  37. https://www.theguardian.com/music/2010/jun/28/lcd-soundsystem-glastonbury-2010
  38. https://www.nme.com/blogs/nme-blogs/lcd-soundsystem-help-glastonbury-dance-itself-clean-6304
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  40. https://pitchfork.com/news/41478-lcd-soundsystem-announce-farewell-nyc-show/
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  42. https://www.theguardian.com/music/2011/apr/03/lcd-soundsystem-last-gig-new-york
  43. https://pitchfork.com/thepitch/1514-everything-james-murphy-did-while-lcd-soundsystem-was-broken-up/
  44. https://pitchfork.com/news/45245-watch-james-murphy-in-the-feature-film-the-comedy/
  45. https://pitchfork.com/news/51228-james-murphy-writing-music-for-broadway-show-starring-daniel-craig-and-rachel-weisz/
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  49. https://www.nytimes.com/2015/12/30/arts/music/coachella-lands-two-big-reunions-guns-n-roses-and-lcd-soundsystem.html
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  54. https://consequence.net/2017/07/lcd-soundsystem-expand-2017-us-tour/
  55. https://www.jambase.com/article/lcd-soundsystem-announces-new-album-2017-world-tour
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  62. https://consequence.net/2021/12/the-lcd-soundsystem-holiday-special-recap/
  63. https://www.nme.com/news/music/lcd-soundsystem-announce-second-20-night-brooklyn-steel-residency-3320573
  64. https://pitchfork.com/news/lcd-soundsystem-cancel-remaining-brooklyn-residency-dates-due-to-covid-19/
  65. https://floodmagazine.com/115919/live-in-photos-this-aint-no-picnic-2022/
  66. https://www.nastylittleman.com/2023/10/02/lcd-soundsystem-announce-2023-residency/
  67. https://www.setlist.fm/stats/lcd-soundsystem-73d69619.html?tour=63dfe257
  68. https://guestpectacular.com/artists/lcd-soundsystem/events/tour/playing-around-the-us-in-2023
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  72. https://altaz933.com/lcd-soundsystem-clarifies-new-album-status-theres-no-finished-lp-yet/
  73. https://pitchfork.com/news/lcd-soundsystem-tease-album-officially-release-new-song-x-ray-eyes-listen/
  74. https://www.nastylittleman.com/2025/01/24/lcd-soundsystem-north-american-tour-dates-announced/
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  81. https://northerntransmissions.com/lcd-soundsystem-american-dream/
  82. https://radiomilwaukee.org/show/whats-all-this/2024-11-11/best-new-indie-alternative-lcd-soundsystem-x-ray-eyes
  83. https://www.residentadvisor.net/dj/lcdsoundsystem/biography
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  87. https://pitchfork.com/features/article/6036-jukebox-james-murphy/
  88. https://www.avclub.com/60-minutes-of-music-that-sum-up-lcd-soundsystem-1798282846
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  90. https://grammy.com/news/lcd-soundsystem-tonite-wins-best-dance-recording-2018-grammys
  91. https://www.imdb.com/name/nm1912399/awards/
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  93. https://grammy.com/awards/60th-annual-grammy-awards-2017
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  95. https://www.robertchristgau.com/xg/pnj/pjres07.php
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  98. https://glidemagazine.com/11095/wilco-arcade-fire-feist-among-10-shortlist-prize-finalists/
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  109. https://www.instagram.com/reel/DPHRRzcCc_0/
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  113. https://www.jambands.com/news/2022/03/28/phil-mossman-joins-lcd-soundsystem-in-queens-for-first-time-in-a-decade/
  114. https://www.allmusic.com/artist/matt-thornley-mn0001642116
  115. https://pitchfork.com/thepitch/gavilan-rayna-russom-on-why-she-left-lcd-soundsystem/
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  128. https://music.apple.com/us/album/electric-lady-sessions/1447409378
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  131. https://pitchfork.com/news/watch-the-lcd-soundsystem-holiday-special-on-amazon-prime-video/
  132. https://store.dfarecords.com/products/pre-order-lcd-soundsystem-new-body-rhumba-12
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  134. https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-news/lcd-soundsystem-to-issue-5-lp-box-set-of-final-concert-98854/
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  136. https://www.dfarecords.com/collections/front-page/products/lcd-soundsystem-home-edit
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