American Football

The Profile

American Football are an American emo/indie rock band formed in Illinois in 1997 by Mike Kinsella, Steve Lamos, and Steve Holmes. Their 1999 self‑titled debut became a cult classic; they reunited in 2014 and released LP2 (2016) and LP3 (2019).

Formed in Urbana, Illinois; core members include Mike Kinsella, Steve Lamos, and Steve Holmes. Known for intricate guitar arpeggios, irregular meters, and trumpet passages. Signature song: "Never Meant." Iconic house imagery on early covers. Released by Polyvinyl; reunion led to LP2 (2016) and LP3 (2019).

Four DeBaser reviews chart American Football from their 1998 EP and 1999 cult debut to the polarizing LP2 and the refined, collaborative LP3. Praise centers on arpeggios, trumpet, and melancholy lyricism; criticism hits LP2’s vocals/arrangements. Overall: a classic debut, loved EP, strong LP3, and one very harsh take on LP2.