Automatic
Automatic is an American rock band from Los Angeles, California, formed in 2017. Comprising Izzy Glaudini (synths, vocals), Halle Saxon (bass, vocals), and Lola Dompé (drums, vocals), Automatic has swiftly established itself in the post-punk and alternative rock scenes with their eclectic sound and dynamic performances.
Formation and Early Years (2017–2019)
Automatic was established in 2017 by Izzy Glaudini, Halle Saxon, and Lola Dompé, who met while immersed in Los Angeles’ DIY music scene. Inspired by The Go-Go’s track “Automatic” from their album Beauty and the Beat, the band adopted the name Automatic to reflect their energetic and automatic approach to music. In June 2019, they signed with the Los Angeles-based label Stones Throw, marking a significant milestone in their career.
Lola Dompé, the daughter of Bauhaus drummer Kevin Haskins, brings a rich musical heritage to the band. Having joined her first band, Blackblack, at the age of 13, Dompé’s background in art-rock has greatly influenced Automatic’s creative direction and sound.
Debut Album: Signal (2019–2021)
Automatic announced their debut album, Signal, with the release of their first single “Calling It” on June 3, 2019. They followed up with a cover of Delta 5’s “Mind Your Own Business” and the title track “Signal,” leading up to the album’s release on September 27, 2019. Pitchfork described Signal as “an exercise in post-punk and no-wave galvanism,” highlighting the band’s innovative sound and energetic execution.
On March 26, 2021, Automatic released Signal Remixes, featuring reworks from artists such as Peanut Butter Wolf, Sudan Archives, Peaking Lights, Osees’ John Dwyer, and Kevin Haskins. This remix album showcased the band’s collaborative spirit and ability to reinterpret their music through diverse artistic lenses.
Second Album: Excess (2022–Present)
In March 2022, Automatic announced their second album, Excess, alongside the release of their first single “New Beginning,” which Stereogum described as “’60s pop kitsch.” The group followed it up with their second single “Venus Hour” on April 7, 2022. Excess was officially released on June 24, 2022, through Stones Throw Records, continuing to explore and expand their musical repertoire.
Musical Style and Themes
Automatic’s music is a dynamic fusion of post-punk, rock, indie, synth-punk, pop punk, surf rock, reggae rock, alternative rock, experimental rock, and melodic hardcore. Their sound is characterized by synth-driven melodies, energetic vocals, and a blend of traditional rock instrumentation with modern experimental elements. The band’s lyrics explore themes of personal growth, societal issues, and emotional introspection, delivered with a unique and engaging lyrical approach.
Discography
Studio Albums
- Signal (2019)
- Excess (2022)
Band Members
Current Members
- Izzy Glaudini – Synths, Vocals
- Halle Saxon – Bass, Vocals
- Lola Dompé – Drums, Vocals
Past Members
- Bryan Sandell
- J. W. Gordon
- Jerry Douglas
- Bill Marcks
- Dean Farmer
- Zach Vogel
- Jim Wilcox
- Jeremy Wood
- Dan Aid
- Josh “Ralphie” Schneider
- Chris Bartholomew
- Chad Martin
- Eric Walsh
Trivia
- The band’s name, Automatic, is inspired by The Go-Go’s song “Automatic” from their album Beauty and the Beat.
- Lola Dompé is the daughter of Bauhaus drummer Kevin Haskins and began her musical career with the art-rock band Blackblack at age 13.
- The band’s debut album Signal received critical acclaim from Pitchfork for its post-punk and no-wave influences.
- In 2021, Automatic released Signal Remixes, featuring contributions from artists like Peanut Butter Wolf and Kevin Haskins.
- In 2015, during the band’s journey, their tour van was stolen, resulting in the loss of over $50,000 in equipment and merchandise, but they continued their tour with assistance from fellow bands.
- Automatic has a strong international presence, regularly touring North America, Europe, and Japan.
- Their second album, Excess, incorporates elements of ’60s pop kitsch as described by Stereogum.
- Automatic’s cover of Delta 5’s “Mind Your Own Business” showcases their ability to reinterpret classic punk tracks.
- The band continues to evolve, maintaining their distinctive sound while exploring new musical territories.
- Automatic remains active in the music scene, consistently releasing new music and performing live shows, maintaining their relevance in the punk scene.
