Biography

Through a combination of mutual friends and strangers from Reddit, Bad Diplomat formed in New York City in the fall of 2022. The band connected over a shared love of the alternative rock scene of the early 2000s, and started out playing covers of bands like Arctic Monkeys, The Strokes, and Red Hot Chili Peppers. Eventually, their creative impulses took over and they began writing original material. Over the course of the next couple of years, they wrote and recorded what would become their debut album Headcannon, released in July of 2025. Each member brought their own unique influences to the songwriting sessions, and it shows in the final product. No two of these eight songs sound the same, but the resulting album remains cohesive and exciting at every turn.

Opener “Where It Begins” kicks off the album with a bang. With a catchy guitar riff and straightforward indie rock feel, it’s a great introduction to what the band does best. The following track “Lizards” is heavier but no less melodic, while “Feel It All” takes the energy a step further, with its punk-influenced riff morphing into a metal-inspired guitar solo. “Bouquet” switches things up with a memorable bass line and explosive chorus. The album finds time to slow down a bit with the moodier “Vices,” before revving back up with the time-signature swaps in crowd-favorite “Reciprocate.” For the last leg of the record, the band veers into pop-rock territory with “Another Collision,” and closes with the standout track “Daydreams,” which offers both guitarists room to shine.

The band has performed these songs throughout New York City in venues such as The Cutting Room, Berlin, and The Delancey. With their debut album now out in the world, they are busy crafting the next chapter of Bad Diplomat.

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