John Maus is an American musician, composer, and academic known for his unique blend of lo-fi, synth-pop, and post-punk music. Born on February 23, 1980, in Austin, Minnesota, Maus pursued his passion for music alongside his interests in philosophy and political science, eventually earning a PhD in Political Philosophy. He emerged onto the music scene in the early 2000s, initially garnering attention for his association with artists such as Ariel Pink, as part of the Los Angeles music scene.
Maus's sound is characterized by vintage synthesizers, baritone vocals, and an often enigmatic combination of existential melancholy and pop sensibility. His work is marked by a DIY ethic, with Maus frequently writing, performing, and recording his material independently. With the release of "Songs" in 2006, he set the groundwork for his style—an amalgamation of haunting melodies with underlying themes of existential despair. His subsequent albums, such as "Love Is Real" (2007) and the critically acclaimed "We Must Become the Pitiless Censors of Ourselves" (2011), have solidified his reputation for crafting deeply philosophical and emotionally resonant music. In 2012, Maus took a step back to reflect on his earlier work with "A Collection of Rarities and Previously Unreleased Material," offering fans a glimpse into his evolving sound. "Screen Memories" (2017) continued this introspective trend, while "Addendum" (2018), served as a companion piece to "Screen Memories" providing further insight into his esoteric artistry. John Maus has made a significant impact on the underground music scene, influencing a new generation of musicians attracted to his synthesis of retro sounds and contemporary angst.
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