Wye Oak, an acclaimed indie rock duo from Baltimore, consists of the talented musicians Andy Stack and Jenn Wasner. Formed in 2006 under the name Monarch, they quickly evolved into Wye Oak, a name inspired by Maryland’s former state tree. Their debut album, “If Children,” was released independently in 2007 and garnered attention for its earnest blend of folk-influenced indie rock. In 2008, they signed with Merge Records, which re-released their debut, paving the way for their second album, “The Knot,” in 2009, recorded as part of Stack’s senior project at the University of Maryland Baltimore County.
The duo’s third album, “Civilian,” released in March 2011, marked a significant milestone in their career, featuring the title track in the popular series “The Walking Dead.” This exposure helped solidify their presence in the indie music scene. Following this success, they released “Shriek” in 2014, showcasing their evolving sound and artistic growth. In 2016, they offered fans “Tween,” a compilation of previously unreleased material, further demonstrating their prolific nature.
In 2018, Wye Oak released “The Louder I Call, the Faster It Runs,” which received critical acclaim and showcased their innovative approach to music. During their tour for this album, they expanded their live lineup by adding bassist William Joseph Hackney, enhancing their dynamic performances.
Most recently, in 2023, Wye Oak released “Every Day Like the Last,” continuing their legacy of creating compelling music that resonates with audiences. With a discography that includes multiple studio albums, singles, and EPs, Wye Oak remains a significant force in the indie rock genre, celebrated for their unique sound and artistic integrity.