Starter List: Rainer Maria

Stalwart, sweet indie rock goodness from Wisconsin...

What can I say about Rainer Maria? They’re stalwart and mean a lot to many indie music listeners. I’ve had several people comment when they show up on a Ten Random Listens playlist. They’re truly loved by their fans.

Hailing from Madison, WI, the trio came together out of the ashes of Ezra Pound (are you seeing a theme with the band names?).

I’m a mid-list Rainer Maria fan. While there’s an occasional gem in their earlier recordings, and one or two driving rockers on their final release from 2017 (maybe another will surprise us?!?!?!). But the bulk of my favorites, the songs that make me sing-along and stop what I’m doing to appreciate them, all come from the mid-late releases: A Better Version of Me, Long Knives Drawn, and Catastrophe Keeps Us Together.

It’s on these mid-discography releases that the band, and especially lead vocalist Caithlin De Marrais, really hit their stride. De Marris’ vocals really start to shine. The songs tighten up, whether driving rockers or beautiful ballads. These albums keep all the grit and emotion of the early releases, with just a bit more polish and musical acumen. And they’re my Rainer Maria sweet spot.

So this starter list leans heavily on those three albums. If you’re new to their music, I hope you find something to prompt a deeper dive. If you’re a long-time fan, I hope this list suits you. If not, please share your favorites in the comments to help those newer listeners find their own Rainer Maria sweet spot!

Listen with Apple Music:
https://music.apple.com/us/playlist/starter-list-rainer-maria/pl.u-e98lMMjcav6GNjV