The Virgins
| Company type | Indie rock group |
|---|---|
| Industry | Music |
| Founded | 2006 in New York City, United States |
| Defunct | November 2013 |
| Headquarters | New York City , United States |
| Products | Music albums, singles, EPs |
The Virgins were an indie rock group originating from the United States, established in 2006 in New York City. The ensemble ceased activities in November 2013.
2006–2007: Formation
Donald Cumming, the lead vocalist, initially composed music alone in his New York apartment before enlisting friends to form the complete band.
The group swiftly created a five-track EP, titled The Virgins '07, which included early demos and solo material by Cumming. This EP circulated among acquaintances and DJs, gaining popularity within the New York club circuit. The momentum from this exposure secured them a contract with Atlantic Records even prior to finalizing the band's full lineup. Their first full-length album was released in 2008, followed by an extensive tour schedule.
2008–2011: The Virgins
Their eponymous debut album received a range of critical opinions. To support the release, The Virgins appeared at prominent festivals such as All Points West Festival, SXSW, Lollapalooza, Glastonbury, Leeds, Reading, and T in the Park. During the summer of 2009, they also performed at major European festivals across countries including France, Germany, Norway, Sweden, the Netherlands, Spain, and Italy. Additionally, they played a show in Moscow that autumn.
The track "Rich Girls" was listed at number 68 on Rolling Stone magazine’s compilation of the 100 Best Songs of 2008 (without ranking order).
2012–2013: Strike Gently and break-up
In 2012, The Virgins re-emerged with a revised lineup centered around Donald Cumming and signed with Cult Records, a label founded by Julian Casablancas of The Strokes. Their album Strike Gently was released globally in March 2013.
To promote this record, the band embarked on tours across the United States, South America, and Europe. They also performed "Wheel of Fortune" on NBC’s Late Night with Jimmy Fallon.
In April 2013, The Virgins joined The Killers for a tour that included a May 14 concert at New York’s Madison Square Garden.
On November 13, 2013, Donald Cumming announced the group’s disbandment and revealed intentions to pursue a solo career. Consequently, their scheduled European tour for 2014 was cancelled.
Following the breakup, members John Eatherly and Xan Aird formed the New York City band Public Access T.V.. Bassist Nick Zarin-Ackerman passed away on March 30, 2017.
Discography
- Studio albums
- The Virgins (June 3, 2008; Atlantic Records)
- Strike Gently (March 12, 2013; Cult Records)
- Extended plays
- The Virgins '07 (2007)
- Singles
- Venus in Chains w/ Slave to You (May 26, 2012; Glassine Box)
Members
- Donald Cumming – lead vocals
- Wade Oates – lead guitar, backing vocals
- Nick Zarin-Ackerman – bass guitar, backing vocals
- Erik Ratensperger – drums
- Xan Aird – lead guitar
- Max Kamins – bass guitar
- John Eatherly – drums
Appearance
The Virgins were showcased as the sought-after band for a wedding in the 2010 action-comedy film Cop Out, recognized for their distinctive edgy aesthetic.