The project of Shaun Kilfoyle, Minks' moody take on indie pop initially drew comparisons to the Cure, New Order, and My Bloody Valentine. Little was known about the group until the April 2010 release of their first single, "Funeral Song." That summer, the band returned with the single "Ophelia," which revealed a softer side to Minks' music. Live shows (for which the band expanded to a six-piece) with Veronica Falls and labelmates Cosmetics and Blank Dogs increased buzz around the band, culminating with the release of Minks' debut album By the Hedge in January 2011. ~ Heather Phares