Rilo Kiley

The Profile

Rilo Kiley were an American indie rock band from Los Angeles, formed in 1998 by Jenny Lewis and Blake Sennett with Pierre de Reeder and Jason Boesel. They released four studio albums—Take Offs and Landings (2001), The Execution of All Things (2002), More Adventurous (2004), and Under the Blacklight (2007)—and the compilation RKives (2013). The band went on hiatus by 2011 and later disbanded.

Formed in Los Angeles in 1998 by Jenny Lewis and Blake Sennett; rounded out by Pierre de Reeder and Jason Boesel. Key releases include Take Offs and Landings (2001), The Execution of All Things (2002), More Adventurous (2004), and Under the Blacklight (2007, Warner Bros.). Compilation RKives released in 2013. Notable tracks include Portions for Foxes. Jenny Lewis also recorded with The Postal Service.

Three DeBaser reviews chart Rilo Kiley’s path from intimate indie-pop beginnings to a more mainstream turn. Take Offs and Landings is praised for its crafted pop and folk touches. The Execution of All Things is deemed enjoyable and nuanced, if less convincing when it chases radio polish. Under the Blacklight draws sharp criticism for a glossy, MTV-ready sheen, with Smoke Detector singled out as a keeper.