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Biography
Holy Fuck formed in 2004, brought together by Graham Walsh (keyboards, effects) and Brian Borcherdt (keybaords, effects). Added to the lineup were Matt “Punchy” McQuaid (bass) and Matt Schulz (drums), helping to flesh out their live sound. Holy Fuck were fortunate to perform at Coachella early in their career, acting as the backing band for Brooklyn, US rapper, Beans.
The band’s debut album was released in 2005, with the self-titled record displaying a love for analog electronics. The album created a lo-fi electronica sound reminiscent of Kraftwerk, avoiding the use of laptops and instead favoring unusual instruments such as a 35mm film synchroniser.
The band have become known for their exciting and improvised live shows, that use a variety of electronic devices the band have gathered randomly over time. Their second album, “LP,” was released in 2007, featuring collaborations with Owen Pallet and Dave Newfield of Broken Social Scene. The album was a critical success, receiving a Juno nomination for ‘Album of the Year’ and a place on the Canadian Polaris Music Prize shortlist.
Following a successful tour with British electronic artist M.I.A, the band returned to the studio for their third record, “Latin.” Released in May 2010, the album peaked at number 14 on the Billboard Dance Chart, prompting a selection by Les Savy Fav for the band to perform at All Tomorrow’s Parties’ ‘Nightmare Before Christmas’ festival.
Live reviews
Holy Fuck! That was a great performance. This group may have alienated themselves from any serious radio play as most stations would have issues broadcasting their full name live on air, they still have a huge pull for their performance across the globe. The improvisational electro geniuses from Canada have over a decade's experience of playing together as a unit and they really understand their equipment onstage and how to pair it with engaging and enthralling visual displays.
Centred around the curious Brian Borcherdt, each member onstage tonight looks to be in a nervous tension as they first take to the stage and grapple with their synth machines and artificial effects. Considering most of the sounds created are via technology it still has a very live feeling and it harmonises well between all four musicians. The appeal and reputation of this quartet has been growing all the time and following in the footsteps of fellow Canadian Caribou, they are known as incredibly ambient and visual performers. The show tonight is pure evidence as to why they are so acclaimed and their appeal is only going to grow with the increasing positive press.
sean-ward
Holy Fuck's trippy electronic sound has a sort of Animal Collective meets Daft Punk touch that is really unique, and I had no idea this obscure band could crank out such gems.
The music started out slow, with a nice tension between the synth pulses and the drumbeat. The jam really began right away. I loved every second of it. They began to perform their monumental "Red Lights", and the room just lit up. The song was incredibly hard not to dance to, but the sounds were so ethereal and alien. It was truly surreal, bizarre, and a straight up jam, all at once.
The energy was high, and the mood was nice. I had to hand it to this band after that one, they made me a fan.Holy Fuck is still currently active, but I haven't seen a release from them since 2010's, "Latin".
Their albums have really impressed me, especially since they were all improvised, and utilised strange instruments like toys and cassette players. Holy fuck is a band to look out for if you are looking for a great live show.
Only saw these guys once before - must be 10 years ago. Happy to say that they're sticking to there incredible roots of drums and crazy noises through a sea of wires, pedals and gadgets. With their new carefully thought out arrangements and introduction of vocals into the mix, they're definitely worth checking out. You'll be hooked straight away and right until the end. So much energy, creativity, and on-point drumming. My only regret was buying the wrong sized T-shirt! Maybe the Canadian 'S' is a UK 'XS' - so try one on if you go see them ;)
Amazing sessions with KEXP on Youtube btw.
Jamesgigs
Another fantastic show at Yes Manchester. Great sound unbelievable power. Took my friend with me both of us completely blown away. Loved the new songs you played along with some old classics. Cant wait to hear your new album. Don't see how anyone cant be impressed with this electronic, eclectic mix. I would recommend Holy Fuck as one of the best live acts around. Keep the vibes going.
Tim R
timrudd
just great, almost 2 hours of dance from one of the most original bands around.
electro? maybe, indie? maybe?disco? maybe - great definetly. HF will tear it up over the summer - make sure your'e there
jayne-reeves
Saw HF at soup kitchen manchester. Great live band, great sounds looking forward to seeing again at yes in Manchester. Congrats is a great album pushing the boundaries yet again. Electric night.
Tim R
timrudd
