Royal Teeth
| Company type | Band |
|---|---|
| Industry | Music |
| Founded | 2010 |
| Founder | Gary Larsen, Joshua Wells, Josh Hefner, Andrew Poe, Steve Billeaud, Nora Patterson |
| Defunct | June 18, 2023 |
| Headquarters | Lafayette and Baton Rouge , United States |
| Products | Indie pop music |
| Website | royalteeth |
Royal Teeth was an American indie pop ensemble originating from Lafayette and Baton Rouge, Louisiana, established in 2010. The lineup featured vocalist and guitarist Gary Larsen, vocalist Nora Patterson, guitarist Thomas Onebane, bassist Joshua Wells, and drummer Josh Hefner. Their initial EP Act Naturally debuted in 2011, followed by their first full-length album Glow in 2013.
Formation
Gary Larsen met Wells, Hefner, and keyboardist Andrew Poe—members of Lafayette's band Oh Juliet—through online connections. After Oh Juliet disbanded in 2010, Wells invited Larsen to Lafayette to collaborate on a new musical venture. The group was completed by Poe, Hefner, guitarist Steve Billeaud, and Patterson from Baton Rouge.
Act Naturally (2010–2012)
Originally rooted in folk music, Royal Teeth’s style transitioned toward electronic-infused indie pop as the band expanded. Their five-track debut EP Act Naturally was recorded in Charleston, South Carolina with producer Eric Bass and released in July 2011. Upon signing with Dangerbird Records in April 2012, the EP was reissued on May 8, 2012. This release includes the track "Wild" and a rendition of The Knife’s "Heartbeats."
Following the EP launch, Royal Teeth embarked on a nationwide tour and appeared at festivals such as CMJ, ACL, Snowglobe, Summerfest, and SXSW in 2012. They shared stages with artists like The Kooks, Fitz and the Tantrums, and Walk the Moon. Their initial touring experience involved opening for the 2012 reunion tour of NY nerdcore group 2 Skinnee J's.
Glow (2013–present)
In February 2013, the band commenced recording their first full album Glow in Toronto with producer Gavin Brown (known for working with Metric). On March 25, 2013, they showcased "Wild" on Last Call with Carson Daly. The album Glow was released on August 13, 2013 through Dangerbird Records. That year included performances at major festivals such as Boston Calling, SXSW, CMJ, Jazzfest, and Voodoo Music Experience. They also toured alongside The Mowglis, American Authors, Said The Whale, and The Rocket Summer.
Following the release of Glow, Poe and Billeaud exited the band; Thomas Onebane (formerly of Oh Juliet) joined as guitarist.
On March 20, 2014, Royal Teeth performed "Wild" during season 13 of American Idol. To support their debut album, they appeared at prominent events including the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, Bonnaroo, Firefly, Bunbury, Summerfest, Voodoo Music Experience, and SXSW.
The track "Wild" achieved widespread commercial recognition through placements in advertisements for Samsung Galaxy S5, Buick Verano, State Farm, Bose, American Eagle, Metro AG as well as television programs such as The Voice and ESPN. Additionally, it featured in EA Sports’ FIFA 13 soundtrack and the film G.B.F..
Royal Teeth signed with Elektra Records on April 21, 2015; however, by April 11, 2016 they had ended their association with the label.
Their second EP titled Amateurs was released on November 18, 2016. In 2018 they introduced singles "It's Just the Start" and "Never Gonna Quit". Their sophomore studio album Hard Luck followed in 2019.
The band officially disbanded on June 18, 2023.
Current
- Gary Larsen – vocals, guitar, percussion
- Nora Patterson – vocals
- Josh Hefner – drums
- Thomas Onebane – guitar
Former
- Andrew Poe – keyboards
- Steve Billeaud – guitar
- Joshua Wells – bass guitar
Sound Engineer
- Kieran McIntosh
Studio albums
- Glow (2013)
- Hard Luck (2019)
Extended plays
- Act Naturally (2011)
- Amateurs (2016)