(Artist Report)

Written by: Cody Denning  

Hello Soundwave readers, today the story is about an incredible American rock band, The Arcs. Formed by Dan Auerbach of The Black Keys, Dan had originally set out to create a solo project; however, after collaborating with Leon Michels, Nick Movshon, Homer Steinweiss, and Richard Swift, they became The Arcs.

The band’s debut album, **Yours, Dreamily**, was released in 2015, bringing a massive sound that felt both retro and modern. The album received acclaim for its fusion of blues, soul, and garage rock elements.

The Arcs' early performances took place at a couple of festivals; however, the band's performance on NPR’s **First Listen Live** series really grabbed the attention of many. This performance stands out as one of the band's debut performances and can be found on the web. Bringing this retro-modern sound to the live stage proved to be successful. The band began working on a second album and took on a bigger role for the band members.

The Arcs' music is characterized by its eclectic mix of genres, with Dan Auerbach's distinctive voice leading the way. The band has graced stages at notable events like the 2016 Coachella Festival, showcasing their live prowess. Their performances often include collaborations with unique groups like the all-female Mariachi band, Flor de Toloache, adding an extra layer of richness to their shows.

On July 3, 2018, the band and families were rocked by the passing of great friend and core band member Richard Swift. Richard was an incredible human being, producer, and artist; his ear for sound was like no other, bringing harmony and body to any and every track he played on. Richard and Dan had **shared** many moments together over the years; Richard even toured with The Black Keys in 2014/2015 as a bass player and backup vocalist. This was a sad loss for the world.

In a poignant turn, **Electrophonic Chronic**, The Arcs' second album, was released on January 27, 2023. This album, which had been in the works since before Swift's death, served as a tribute, capturing the essence of their lost bandmate. Auerbach and Michels co-produced this record, which was recorded at various studios, including Auerbach’s Easy Eye Sound in Nashville and the legendary Electric Lady Studios in New York City. The material for this album was largely recorded prior to Swift's passing, making it a bittersweet collection of songs that honor his memory. The album has since been nominated for **Best Recording Package** at the 2024 GRAMMY Awards

. The Arcs' music is timeless and will live on forever. Life is short, but it can be sweet. Dan continues on with The Black Keys and his many projects. We haven’t heard anything from The Arcs since 2023. Thank you for reading. We will continue to keep you informed and entertained. Support Soundwave and the sponsors. Keep on rockin'!

In Memory of Richard Swift.

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