Louis XIV

Louis XIV formed in San Diego in 1999 around guitarist and vocalist Brian Karscig. They drew from post-punk and darkwave influences, with Bauhaus, The Cure, and Joy Division mentioned as touchstones. Their sound incorporated industrial and electronic elements at times, though they resisted being boxed in as just a goth band.

Their 2003 self-titled debut was followed by albums like 'The Distances Between Us' in 2005 and 'Slick Dogs and Ponies' in 2008. The song 'Guilt By Association' became a point of discussion for its lyrics, which some found provocative. Their live shows often featured elaborate staging and costumes.

Karscig remained the consistent figure in the group, with other members including bassist Sam Coutts, guitarist Jason Hill, and drummer Danny Frankel. They put out 'Blue on Black' in 2011 and returned with 'Slick Dogs and Ponies II' in 2017.