The Kills

Formation

The Kills, an English-American rock duo, was formed in 2000 by American singer Alison "VV" Mosshart and English guitarist Jamie "Hotel" Hince. Both members had prior musical experiences; Mosshart was the vocalist for the punk rock band Discount, while Hince played in bands like Scarfo and Blyth Power. Their paths crossed when Mosshart was touring in England, leading to a creative partnership that began with exchanging music ideas through tapes. They initially performed under the names VV and Hotel before settling on the name The Kills, which they felt could resonate across different musical eras.

Key Releases and Career

The Kills quickly made a name for themselves with their minimalist sound, characterized by the use of a drum machine and raw guitar riffs. They signed with Domino Records and released their debut album, "Keep on Your Mean Side," which was followed by several successful albums including "No Wow," "Midnight Boom," and "Blood Pressures." Each of these albums reached the UK Albums Chart, showcasing their growing popularity. Their fifth studio album, "Ash & Ice," released in 2016, marked a career high, reaching number 18 on the UK Albums Chart.

Influence and Legacy

The Kills have been influential in the garage rock and indie rock scenes, known for their distinctive sound and aesthetic. Their music often blends elements of punk and blues, and they have garnered a dedicated fanbase over the years. With a career spanning over two decades, Mosshart and Hince continue to push musical boundaries, solidifying their place in the rock genre.