Biography
Ringlets are an Auckland post-punk quartet formed in Tāmaki Makaurau in 2021. The band emerged from the city’s musical scene with a distinct blend of delicate wit, grit, and evident sonic technicality, quickly establishing themselves as one of the most exciting acts in Aotearoa’s alternative landscape.
The band began when László Reynolds recruited Arabella Poulsen and Arlo Grey to back his solo material, but the chemistry proved so strong that the three decided to collaborate as a full band. When Leith Towers joined on lead vocals, Ringlets took shape as the four-piece now known for their energetic, articulate post-punk sound. Reynolds reportedly came up with the name “Ringlets” during a ten-day silent meditation retreat in the Kaipara bush.
Catching the attention of former Pitchfork editor Chris Ott, the band released their debut album in 2023 under Ott’s Massachusetts-based imprint Mutual Skies, with a vinyl edition issued by Leather Jacket Records Ōtautahi. The debut was produced by De Stevens (Marlin’s Dreaming, Erny Belle) alongside the band, and earned praise for its intelligence and intensity. Their 2025 sophomore album The Lord Is My German Shepherd (Time for Walkies) was released through Flying Nun Records and Leather Jacket Records, mixed by Isaac Keating at Abbey Road Studios in London, and further cemented their reputation as a leading force in New Zealand post-punk.
Ringlets have performed alongside international acts including UK indie group Sorry and punk legends The Damned, and have played major New Zealand festivals including The Others Way, Nest Fest, and Newtown Festival. Rolling Stone AU/NZ described the second album as “a more cohesive and controlled collection” that marks the band as “the most exciting post-punk band to emerge from the New Zealand music scene in years.”
Members
- Leith Towers (vocals; also Marlin’s Dreaming)
- László Reynolds (guitar, synthesisers, vocals)
- Arabella Poulsen (bass, vocals)
- Arlo Grey (drums)
Discography
- Ringlets [LP] (2023, Leather Jacket Records / Mutual Skies, LJR5)
- New Life [7″] (2024, Flying Nun Records / Leather Jacket Records)
- The Lord Is My German Shepherd (Time for Walkies) [LP] (2025, Flying Nun Records / Leather Jacket Records)