Salem

Salem is an American band formed in 2004 in Michigan, known for their unique blend of witch house, electronic, and experimental music. The band originally consisted of members John Holland, Heather Marlatt, and Jack Donoghue. They gained attention in the late 2000s for their atmospheric sound and distinctive aesthetic, which includes a heavy use of samples and dark, moody visuals. Their 2010 EP 'Iowa' helped solidify their reputation in the underground music scene, leading to a cult following and collaborations with various artists.

Salem's music is characterized by a diverse range of influences, including hip-hop, electronic, and goth music. They have cited artists like Three 6 Mafia, Burial, and the early work of The Cure as key inspirations. Their sound also draws from elements of witch house, a genre they are often credited with helping to define, which incorporates dark themes and a slowed-down aesthetic reminiscent of Southern rap and ambient music.

Salem was one of the pioneering bands in the witch house genre, which emerged around the late 2000s. They gained significant online traction through platforms like MySpace and were early adopters of using the internet for music distribution. The band's visuals often include occult imagery and surreal video aesthetics, which became a hallmark of their identity. Salem has been noted for their DIY ethic and have produced much of their music independently.

Salem's influence on the music scene can be seen in the resurgence of dark electronic music and the popularity of genres like chillwave and witch house. They have paved the way for a number of artists who blend genres and explore dark themes in their work. Their sound has also influenced the mainstream music landscape, with many contemporary artists citing them as an inspiration for their own experimental approaches.