Miami Horror
Miami Horror is an Australian electronic music project founded in 2008 by producer and DJ Benjamin Plant in Melbourne, Victoria.[1] Initially conceived as a solo endeavor, it evolved into a collaborative band featuring live performers and guest vocalists.[2] Now based between Los Angeles, California, and Melbourne, Victoria, the project blends synth-pop, indie electronic, disco, and soul elements with 1980s influences from artists like New Order, Talking Heads, and Michael Jackson.[3][2] The band's debut album, Illumination, was released on August 20, 2010, via EMI and peaked at number 10 on the ARIA Charts, earning a nomination for Best Dance Release at the ARIA Music Awards.[4][5] It featured collaborations with artists such as Kimbra on "I Look to You" and Alan Palomo (of Neon Indian) on "Holidays," establishing Miami Horror's signature upbeat, nostalgic sound.[5] Following international touring and writing sessions in locations including Paris and Australian beaches, their second album, All Possible Futures, arrived on April 21, 2015, through Dine Alone Records, expanding on themes of existential reflection with tracks like "Real Slow" featuring Sarah Chernoff.[6][2] After a nine-year hiatus, Miami Horror returned with their third studio album, We Always Had Tomorrow, released on February 28, 2025, via Nettwerk Music Group, which explores human emotions through disco and house-inspired production.[7] The project has accumulated over 300 million combined streams across platforms and received acclaim from outlets including Billboard, Pitchfork, and Stereogum for its innovative sampling and live performances at festivals such as Coachella, Governors Ball, Splendour in the Grass, and Beyond the Valley.[3][1]History
Formation and early releases (2007–2009)
Miami Horror was formed in 2007 by Benjamin Plant as a solo electronic music project in Melbourne, Australia, drawing inspiration from 1970s and 1980s dance and rock artists such as Prince, New Order, and Pink Floyd.[8][9][10] Initially a one-man operation focused on production and DJing, the project evolved into a collaborative band by 2008, with Plant recruiting guitarist and vocalist Josh Moriarty, drummer Aaron Shanahan, and keyboardist Daniel Whitechurch to expand the live lineup and enhance performances.[11][12] This shift occurred as Plant completed work on the debut material, transitioning from studio-only efforts to a group dynamic. In 2008, Miami Horror signed with Virgin Records, an imprint of EMI, marking their entry into the major label system and enabling wider distribution in Australia and beyond.[13] The band's debut EP, Bravado, was released on November 14, 2008, entirely produced by Plant during his solo phase and featuring five tracks including "Illumination" and "Summerfest '86," which showcased synth-driven electronic pop with nostalgic undertones.[14][15] Following the EP's release, Miami Horror issued their first major single, "Sometimes," in late 2009, which gained traction through radio airplay on stations like Triple J and club play across Australia.[16][17] The band began performing live around this period, starting with initial shows in 2008 and building momentum with appearances at Australian festivals such as Groovin' the Moo and Triple J's One Night Stand in 2009, where they debuted material from Bravado to growing audiences.[18][19]Illumination era (2010–2012)
Miami Horror's debut studio album, Illumination, was released on August 20, 2010, through EMI Records.[5] The record marked the project's transition from independent EPs to a major-label production, featuring collaborations with artists such as Kimbra on "I Look to You" and Alan Palomo of Neon Indian on "Holidays." It debuted and peaked at number 10 on the ARIA Albums Chart, establishing the band as a rising force in Australian electronic music.[20] The album's promotion began with the lead single "Sometimes," released on October 30, 2009, ahead of the full-length. The track's official music video, directed by Rhett Wade-Ferrell, showcased a vibrant, retro-futuristic aesthetic that aligned with the band's synth-driven sound.[21] Follow-up singles included "Moon Theory" and "I Look to You" in 2010, with "Holidays" arriving in 2011 to further build momentum. These releases highlighted the album's blend of indietronica and dance elements, drawing early radio play and digital streaming attention in Australia and internationally.[22] To support Illumination, Miami Horror embarked on extensive Australian and international tours from 2010 through 2012, including headline shows across the US, such as performances at Mezzanine in San Francisco and the Pacific Festival in Costa Mesa. The band played major festivals and club venues, fostering a live reputation for high-energy sets that expanded their fanbase beyond indie dance circles. Core members Benjamin Plant, Aaron Shanahan, Josh Moriarty, and Daniel Whitechurch handled production and live duties during this period.[23][24] In celebration of the album's milestone, Miami Horror issued a 10th anniversary edition, beginning with a limited triple-vinyl release on October 29, 2020, featuring remixes, B-sides, and a continuous mix of the original tracks. This was followed by a digital remaster on March 20, 2021, which included additional bonus material and revitalized the record for streaming platforms.[25][20] Early critical reception praised Illumination for its polished synth-pop production, often evoking the radiant, hook-laden synths of 1980s acts like those in the new wave era. Pitchfork highlighted the "rich, radiant synths tightly coiled around a Hook-y baseline" in the review of "Sometimes," noting its deft balance of nostalgia and immediacy. NPR described tracks like "Holidays" as a satisfying retro dance-pop fix, while outlets like the Miami Herald later characterized the album's overall vibe as "cheesy '80s synth-pop" infused with dreamy electro elements. Sputnikmusic called it an "electro pop dance party," appreciating its vibrant energy despite occasional lyrical simplicity.[16][26][27][28]All Possible Futures and lineup changes (2013–2016)
In 2013, Miami Horror announced their second studio album, All Possible Futures, following a period of relocation to Los Angeles for inspiration and a return to foundational songwriting principles.[29] The band, now operating as a quartet, began recording in late 2013, incorporating more mature synth-pop elements that marked an evolution from their debut's brighter disco influences.[30] This shift emphasized emotional depth and eclectic collaborations, with producer Benjamin Plant citing influences from global travels in cities like Melbourne, Los Angeles, and Paris.[31] The lead single "Real Slow", featuring Sarah Chernoff, was released in September 2013 as a radio edit, with a full EP following in 2014 that included remixes and built anticipation through its hazy, new-wave video.[32] All Possible Futures arrived on April 21, 2015, via Haven Sounds and Dine Alone Records internationally, and Remote Control Records in Australia.[6][30] The album debuted at number 65 on the ARIA Albums Chart in May 2015. A second single, "Attitude" featuring Luna Shadows, emerged in 2015, highlighting the record's blend of introspective lyrics and pulsating synths as track nine on the 15-song collection.[33] During this era, Miami Horror maintained an active live presence, supporting Empire of the Sun on select dates and performing at major festivals, including a set at Splendour in the Grass in 2015.[34] These shows showcased material from the new album alongside earlier hits, solidifying their reputation for energetic, dance-oriented performances. The period concluded with significant lineup instability. On December 14, 2016, the band announced the departure of drummer, guitarist, and vocalist Aaron Shanahan, who had been a core member since formation; he cited personal reasons to pursue his solo project Sunday, following postponements of a planned European tour.[35] This change marked the end of the original quartet configuration and prompted a reevaluation of the band's direction.Hiatus and independent releases (2017–2024)
Following the release of their second album All Possible Futures in 2015 and the departure of drummer Aaron Shanahan in 2016, Miami Horror entered a period of reduced activity, shifting focus to independent projects and sporadic releases. On March 17, 2017, the band independently released the EP The Shapes through their own imprint, featuring six tracks including the single "Leila," which explored a more experimental synth-pop sound with influences from 1980s funk and disco.[36][37] The EP marked a transitional phase, emphasizing Benjamin Plant's production vision without a full band lineup.[38] During this hiatus, Miami Horror issued standalone singles that highlighted their evolving style, incorporating deeper R&B and funk elements. In 2019, they released "Restless" on June 28, a dreamy disco-infused track that showcased Plant's solo production approach after the band's earlier lineup changes.[39] The following year, "Under the Milky Way" arrived on November 27, 2020, as a reflective electronic piece that captured the introspective mood of the era.[40] These independent releases were self-produced and distributed via Nettwerk Music Group, allowing Plant creative freedom amid the band's downtime.[38] The COVID-19 pandemic further impacted the band's momentum, leading to the postponement of planned 2020–2021 tours, including European dates originally scheduled for April 2020. These shows were rescheduled to 2022, such as the April 19 performance at Paradiso in Amsterdam, disrupting live promotion efforts and contributing to the extended hiatus.[41] Meanwhile, Plant, who had relocated to Los Angeles around 2012, concentrated on production work for other artists, including his contributions to Marc Baker's 2018 EP No Place I'd Rather Be, where he handled production and mixing.[42] He also developed his solo alias Mild Minds, releasing the EP Swim in 2018 and the album MOOD in 2020, which allowed him to experiment with emotive electronic sounds outside the Miami Horror banner.[43] By late 2024, signs of a comeback emerged with the September 16 announcement of the single "Together," signaling renewed activity and the buildup to their third studio album. This period of independent output and external challenges ultimately shaped a more mature, production-focused evolution for the project, incorporating brief collaborations with new vocalists to refresh their sound.[44]We Always Had Tomorrow (2025–present)
In November 2024, Miami Horror announced their third studio album, We Always Had Tomorrow, set for release on February 28, 2025, through Nettwerk Music Group.[45] The album marks the band's first full-length project in a decade, following a period of independent releases and hiatus.[7] It features 11 tracks, including highlights such as the opening "Aurora/Dead Flowers" and "Another Time" featuring Woodes, blending synth-pop with introspective elements.[7] Thematically, the record explores hope, maturity, and existential reflection, balancing melancholic introspection with uplifting grooves inspired by disco, soul, and indie-rock.[46] The album incorporates collaborations with several Australian artists, including Telenova on "We're All Made of Stars," Tim Ayre, Beckah Amani, and Woodes, creating a diverse sonic landscape that emphasizes connection and nostalgia.[47] Initial reception has been positive, with critics praising its evolution toward a more mature sound. ABC Double J described it as "a decidedly more mature work that balances existential thoughts with shimmery synths," highlighting its warm, inviting quality akin to The Avalanches.[46] The Indiecator noted its mellower, sadder side, appreciating tracks like "Remember" for their disco-infused bass and psychedelic synthesizers while acknowledging a shift from the band's earlier high-energy style.[48] To support the album, Miami Horror launched the We Always Had Tomorrow Tour in 2025, with Australian headline dates including a performance on November 27, 2025, at The Ice Cream Factory in Northbridge, Perth, and additional shows in Sydney and Melbourne.[49] Special guests such as Telenova and TSEBA joined select dates, emphasizing the band's nu-disco roots in live settings.[50] As of November 2025, the band remains active under the leadership of LA-based producer Benjamin Plant, prioritizing live performances and hinting at future releases amid ongoing tour momentum.[51]Musical style and influences
Musical style
Miami Horror is primarily known for its blend of synth-pop, nu-disco, and indietronica, characterized by electronic elements and 1980s-inspired production that evoke a retro yet modern dance aesthetic.[52][1] The band's core sound features shimmery, sparkling synths that create ethereal melodies, often layered over down-tempo beats and laidback rhythms, blending dance-rock energy with accessible pop structures.[10][16] Signature production techniques include multi-layered arrangements that build a rich stereo field, incorporating analog synths, lo-fi effects, and subtle live instrumentation such as percussion and guitar to add organic texture.[53][10] Benjamin Plant, the band's primary producer, emphasizes analog warmth and innovative plug-ins for delays and effects, starting with simple instrumental sketches before adding vocals and thematic interludes to enhance cohesion.[53][10] This approach results in tracks that balance tight, gridded beats with groove-oriented feels, avoiding overly rigid programming in favor of emotional depth.[10] Early releases, such as the 2010 album Illumination, showcase an upbeat, retro vibe with uplifting synths and summery melodies suited for dance settings.[52][53] Over time, the band's sound has evolved toward more mature and introspective layers, incorporating deeper synth tones, piano-driven elements, and mellower arrangements in later works from 2015 onward.[52][10] This progression includes a shift from high-energy nu-disco to electropop with emotional nuance and nostalgic undertones, as heard in albums like All Possible Futures (2015) and We Always Had Tomorrow (2025), where production favors non-linear songwriting and foley sounds for added introspection.[53][52] Plant's techniques have grown to prioritize thematic permanence and live-recorded elements, moving away from purely electronic rigidity to hybrid organic-digital hybrids.[53][10]Influences and collaborations
Miami Horror's musical influences are rooted in the dance and rock acts of the 1970s and 1980s, particularly artists like Prince, New Order, and Michael Jackson, whose styles informed the band's early fusion of disco-pop psychedelia and upbeat electronic elements.[54][55][10] These inspirations are evident in their incorporation of groovy basslines, synth-driven melodies, and nostalgic production techniques that evoke the era's progressive rock and new wave sounds, including nods to acts like Talking Heads, INXS, and Tame Impala.[55][56] The band has cultivated key partnerships through guest vocalists and production collaborations that have shaped their evolving discography. On their 2010 album Illumination, Miami Horror teamed up with New Zealand singer Kimbra for the track "I Look to You," blending her soulful vocals with their electronic funk to create a standout single.[57] Similarly, the 2015 album All Possible Futures featured contributions from vocalists such as Sarah Chernoff on "Real Slow" and Cleopold on "Love Like Mine," adding layers of indie pop and R&B inflections to the project's expansive sound.[58] Their 2025 release We Always Had Tomorrow further emphasizes collaborations with Australian indie talents, including Telenova on "We're All Made of Stars," Woodes and RAC providing vocals across tracks, and Beckah Amani joining Ayoni on "Together," which also incorporates a children's choir for emotional depth.[47][46][7] These partnerships have broadened the band's sonic palette, integrating R&B grooves, indie pop harmonies, and electronic experimentation to explore themes of connection and nostalgia.[47]Band members
Current members
Miami Horror's current lineup centers on its founder and creative force, with a core group supported by rotating vocalists and live musicians for performances and recordings as of 2025. The band maintains a fluid structure, emphasizing live energy through consistent instrumentalists and guest vocal contributions, particularly evident in their third studio album, We Always Had Tomorrow, released in February 2025.[59] Benjamin Plant serves as the band's founder, primary producer, and DJ, having initiated Miami Horror as a solo project in 2007. Based in Los Angeles but originally from Melbourne, Plant oversees the project's electronic and indie-dance direction, blending production duties with occasional live DJ sets.[9][12] Daniel Whitechurch has been the band's keyboardist since 2008, contributing to both studio recordings and live performances with his work on piano, synthesizers, and additional instrumentation. His long-term involvement has shaped the group's synth-driven sound from early releases onward.[60][61] Rhythm Luna joined as the drummer in 2016, providing rhythmic foundation for live shows and recent productions. Luna's touring experience with Miami Horror spans over nine years, supporting the band's evolution into fuller live band configurations.[62][63] Reva Devito and TC Milan handle rotating vocal duties, with both prominently featured on the 2025 album We Always Had Tomorrow. Devito, known for her soulful contributions, and Milan, from the project Crush Club, bring dynamic lead and backing vocals to tracks, enhancing the album's collaborative and evolving vocal style.[64][65] Nicolas Mulhall and Tom Frazer provide guitar support for live performances since 2017, adding rock-infused elements to the band's electronic base. Mulhall, associated with Queen Magic, and Frazer contribute guitar and occasional vocals during tours, bolstering the full-band setup for events like the 2025 Australian tour dates.[65][66]Former members
Miami Horror has experienced several lineup changes since its formation, with key early members contributing to the band's initial sound and live performances before departing. Josh Moriarty was an early member of the band, serving as guitarist and synthesizer player from 2008 to 2012, and providing significant input on the production and arrangement of the Bravado EP released in 2008.[67][68] Aaron Shanahan joined as drummer in 2008 and remained until his departure on December 12, 2016, citing personal reasons to focus on his solo project Sunday.[69][35] Shanahan also contributed on guitar, vocals, and keys across multiple roles, playing a pivotal part in the band's live tours supporting the 2010 album Illumination.[11] His exit marked a shift in the band's direction toward a more streamlined trio format for subsequent releases.[70] Kosta Theodosis served as the drummer from approximately 2009 to 2015, helping to establish their stage presence during the promotional period for Bravado and Illumination, and contributing to the 2015 album All Possible Futures.[13][71][72]Discography
Studio albums
Miami Horror's debut studio album, Illumination, was released on 20 August 2010 through EMI Music Australia.[5] The album consists of 12 tracks blending nu-disco, synth-pop, and electronic elements, with production led by Benjamin Plant alongside contributions from collaborators such as Josh Moriarty.[22] Key features include vocal appearances by Kimbra on "I Look to You" and Alan Palomo of Neon Indian on "Holidays," contributing to its summery, retro-futuristic vibe.[5] It debuted and peaked at number 10 on the ARIA Albums Chart, marking the band's commercial breakthrough in Australia. The track listing opens with the instrumental "Infinite Canyons" and includes standouts like "Sometimes," "Moon Theory," and "Escapism," closing with "Illumination." Overall, the album runs approximately 50 minutes and emphasizes lush synths, funky basslines, and dreamy atmospheres without delving into heavier experimental territory.[5]| Album | Release Date | Label | Format(s) | Peak ARIA Position |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Illumination | 20 August 2010 | EMI Music Australia | CD, digital, vinyl | 10 |
| Album | Release Date | Label | Format(s) | Peak ARIA Position |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| All Possible Futures | 21 April 2015 | Dine Alone Records | CD, digital, vinyl | 65 |
| Album | Release Date | Label | Format(s) | Peak ARIA Position |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| We Always Had Tomorrow | 28 February 2025 | Nettwerk Music Group | CD, digital, vinyl | — |
Extended plays
Miami Horror's extended plays consist of two releases: their debut project Bravado and the conceptual The Shapes, marking a return after a period of inactivity.[14][36] Bravado, released on November 14, 2008, through Virgin Records, served as the band's debut EP and showcased the early production work of founder Benjamin Plant.[78][79] The EP features five original tracks blending synth-pop and electronic elements, with a runtime emphasizing groovy, retro-inspired beats.[78] Key tracks include "Illumination," a seven-minute closer that highlights the band's atmospheric style, and "Summerfest '86," which captures a summery, danceable vibe.[78] Some editions include bonus instrumentals and remixes, expanding it to seven tracks total.[79]| No. | Title | Length |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Don't Be on with Her | 3:42 |
| 2. | Summerfest '86 | 3:50 |
| 3. | Make You Mine | 4:13 |
| 4. | Bellevue | 2:50 |
| 5. | Illumination | 7:05 |
| No. | Title | Length |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Sign of the Times | 4:39 |
| 2. | Trapeze | 3:52 |
| 3. | Leila | 3:47 |
| 4. | Azimba | 3:47 |
| 5. | Dark Love (feat. Danny Pratt) | 3:39 |
Singles
Miami Horror's singles often highlight their signature blend of synth-pop, disco, and indie electronic elements, frequently featuring collaborations with vocalists and serving as precursors to their album releases. These tracks have garnered attention for their catchy hooks and vibrant production, contributing to the band's growing international profile. The band's debut single, "Sometimes," was released on 23 October 2009, as the lead track from their debut album Illumination.) It earned a nomination for Best Dance Release at the 2010 ARIA Music Awards.[83] Following its success, "I Look to You" featuring Kimbra was issued on 30 July 2010, also from Illumination, showcasing the band's early affinity for guest vocalists.[84] Additional singles from Illumination include "Moon Theory" (16 April 2010) and "Holidays" featuring Alan Palomo (10 December 2010). In the lead-up to their second album All Possible Futures, Miami Horror released "Real Slow" featuring Sarah Chernoff on 10 September 2013.[85] The track was accompanied by an official music video directed in a new-wave aesthetic, emphasizing the band's visual storytelling.[86] Further pre-album singles for All Possible Futures were "Wild Motion (Set It Free)" (2014). "Leila" arrived on 3 March 2017, as the lead single from the EP The Shapes, marking a shift toward more conceptual releases with its introspective lyrics and polished synth arrangements.[87] Later, "Restless" was released as a standalone single on 28 June 2019, blending funky basslines with dreamy vocals to explore themes of yearning.[39] "Luv Is Not Enough" followed in 2019 as another non-album single. For We Always Had Tomorrow, the lead single "Together" was released on 16 September 2024.[44]| Year | Title | Featured Artist | Associated Release | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2009 | Sometimes | None | Illumination (2010) | Lead single; ARIA Best Dance Release nominee (2010) |
| 2010 | Moon Theory | None | Illumination (2010) | Album single |
| 2010 | I Look to You | Kimbra | Illumination (2010) | Second single from debut album |
| 2010 | Holidays | Alan Palomo | Illumination (2010) | Album single |
| 2013 | Real Slow | Sarah Chernoff | All Possible Futures (2015) | Pre-album single with official video |
| 2014 | Wild Motion (Set It Free) | None | All Possible Futures (2015) | Pre-album single |
| 2017 | Leila | None | The Shapes (2017) | Lead single from EP |
| 2019 | Restless | None | Standalone | Independent digital release |
| 2019 | Luv Is Not Enough | None | Standalone | Independent digital release |
| 2024 | Together | None | We Always Had Tomorrow (2025) | Lead single for third album |