As the brainchild of Los Angeles native Jake Hays, Maudlin Strangers was born in 2010 as a solo creative outlet. Initially self-recorded in his bedroom, the project quickly gained traction for its moody, melodic blend of alternative and indie rock with a darker edge. Drawing inspiration from both classic and contemporary influences, Hays developed a signature sound marked by gritty guitar textures, atmospheric synths, and introspective lyrics. This sonic identity was first solidified with the release of their debut EP, Overdose, in 2015 via Vagrant Records/BMG.

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The success of Overdose brought Maudlin Strangers to a broader audience, earning them national attention and landing spots on tours with bands like Bad Suns, LANY, and Cold War Kids. Critics and fans alike were drawn to the group’s ability to channel raw emotion through catchy, yet haunting compositions. BuzzbandsLA noted their music was “darker than most but still sparkles enough to be worthy of a pool party soundtrack,” a fitting summary of their brooding-yet-accessible style.

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Following a period of steady momentum, the band went on hiatus in 2016 as Hays shifted his focus to acting and producing for other bands. However, Maudlin Strangers never fully faded—its loyal fanbase and the emotional resonance of its catalog kept the project alive in the digital space. In 2023, the band made a highly anticipated return, reuniting with original drummer Richie Gonzales and bringing in new players to complete the ensemble,  multi-instrumentalist Alexander Morgan (Schmorgle, Noaru) on guitar and keys, and Drew Bruchs (Olivver the Kid, Petey) on bass.

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The revival brought new energy and vision to Maudlin Strangers. Their comeback was marked by a sold-out show and a string of singles that reaffirmed their place in the alternative scene, demonstrating the band’s continued evolution—leaning into synth-laced melancholy while preserving the raw rock core that defined their early work. Fast forward to 2025, the lineup welcomed new members Blane Barker on bass and John Ashton on guitar.

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Today, Maudlin Strangers stands as a testament to reinvention and emotional honesty in music. With Jake Hays at the creative helm and a tight-knit band of collaborators, they continue to craft songs that explore mental health, love, and existential longing through a cryptic 1950s black-and-white aesthetic. Whether through introspective lyrics or cinematic soundscapes, Maudlin Strangers invites listeners into an eerie world where darkness finds its own kind of light.