How to Destroy Angels is an innovative American post-industrial band that emerged in 2009, founded by the talented members of Nine Inch Nails, including Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross. They were joined by Mariqueen Maandig, a former member of West Indian Girl and Reznor’s wife, along with Rob Sheridan, a longtime collaborator with Nine Inch Nails. The band’s name pays homage to a 1984 EP by the influential group Coil, reflecting their artistic roots and commitment to pushing musical boundaries.
The band’s debut release, a self-titled EP, launched on June 1, 2010, showcased their unique sound and garnered significant attention. The lead single, “A Drowning,” was made available as digital content, while the music video for “The Space in Between” premiered on Pitchfork, further establishing their presence in the music scene. Their track “The Believers” not only captivated audiences but also featured in the soundtrack of the 2011 film Limitless, highlighting their ability to create music that resonates across various media.
In November 2012, How to Destroy Angels released their second EP, An Omen EP, through Columbia Records. The single “Keep It Together” was accompanied by a self-directed music video, showcasing their creative vision. The EP also included visually striking videos for “Ice Age” and “The Loop Closes,” directed by acclaimed filmmaker John Hillcoat and the band, respectively, demonstrating their multifaceted artistic capabilities.
The band’s debut studio album, Welcome Oblivion, released on March 5, 2013, solidified their status in the industry. Featuring tracks from An Omen EP, the album included the standout single “How Long?” which was accompanied by a visually compelling music video directed by Shynola. Through their innovative sound and artistic collaborations, How to Destroy Angels continues to make a significant impact on the post-industrial music landscape.