The Naked and Famous

The Profile

The Naked and Famous are a New Zealand indie electronic band formed in Auckland in 2007 by Thom Powers and Alisa Xayalith. Their debut album Passive Me, Aggressive You (2010) featured the hit singles Young Blood and Punching in a Dream, followed by In Rolling Waves (2013), Simple Forms (2016), A Still Heart (2018), and Recover (2020).

Formed in Auckland (2007) by Thom Powers and Alisa Xayalith; debut album Passive Me, Aggressive You (2010) included Young Blood and Punching in a Dream; subsequent albums In Rolling Waves (2013), Simple Forms (2016), A Still Heart (2018), Recover (2020); the band later relocated to Los Angeles.

Hetzer’s review of Passive Me, Aggressive You spotlights The Naked and Famous’ 80s-flavored synths, sharp programming, and Alisa Xayalith’s standout vocals. Singles like Punching in a Dream and Girls Like You impress more than Young Blood. The album is praised as fresh and effective rather than a masterpiece, earning a measured but warm endorsement. Live energy is noted, and the band’s New Zealand roots and five-piece lineup are mentioned.