Horsegirl, the American rock trio hailing from Chicago, has been making significant strides in the indie music scene since their formation in 2019. Comprising guitarist and vocalist Nora Cheng, guitarist and bassist Penelope Lowenstein, and drummer Gigi Reece, the band has garnered attention for their distinctive blend of post-punk and indie rock influences.
Early Beginnings and Influences
The band’s journey began in the vibrant Chicago DIY music scene, where they were inspired by local acts and the city’s rich musical heritage. Their early work, including the self-released track “Forecast” in 2019 and the EP Horsegirl: Ballroom Dance Scene et cetera in 2020, showcased their raw talent and potential. These initial releases were characterized by a lo-fi aesthetic and drew comparisons to bands like Sonic Youth and Stereolab.
Debut Album: Versions of Modern Performance
In 2022, Horsegirl released their debut studio album, Versions of Modern Performance, under Matador Records. The album was written during their high school years and recorded at Electrical Audio in Chicago with producer John Agnello. It received critical acclaim for its reminiscent 1990s indie rock sound and appeared on multiple year-end lists. The band’s influences during this period included Sonic Youth, Yo La Tengo, and Stereolab, which were evident in their music’s texture and composition.
Transition and Growth
Following the success of their debut album, Cheng and Lowenstein relocated to New York City to attend New York University. Despite this move, the band remained committed to their Chicago roots, returning to record their sophomore album at Wilco’s studio, The Loft, in January 2024. This period marked a significant evolution in their sound, influenced by their experiences and the guidance of producer Cate Le Bon.
Sophomore Album: Phonetics On and On
Released on February 14, 2025, Phonetics On and On represents a maturation of Horsegirl’s musical style. The album was crafted over two weeks in a collaborative and exploratory process, beginning with bare-bones tracks and evolving through experimentation. Le Bon’s production encouraged the band to embrace a more spacious and restrained musical style, emphasizing their raw talent and collaborative nature.
Touring and Live Performances
To support their new album, Horsegirl announced an extensive North American summer tour, commencing on August 4, 2025, in Madison, Wisconsin, and concluding on August 26, 2025, in Denver, Colorado. They will be joined by Godcaster as their opening act. This tour follows their 2025 winter tour and a series of performances in Europe, including appearances at Primavera Sound festivals in Barcelona and Porto.
Critical Reception and Future Prospects
Horsegirl’s journey from high school friends to rising stars in the indie rock scene has been marked by critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base. Their ability to evolve while staying true to their roots has set them apart in a crowded musical landscape. As they continue to grow and explore new musical territories, Horsegirl remains a band to watch in the coming years.
