Hot Freaks formed in Minneapolis in the early 2010s, releasing their self-titled debut LP in 2013—a collection of bright, danceable indie-pop tracks with a glossy disco sheen and disarmingly vulnerable lyrics. Blending the emotional openness of of Montreal and Voxtrot with flashes of MGMT’s playful charisma, the record captured the band’s tight-knit chemistry and earned them a loyal following in the Minneapolis scene. Though they rarely toured beyond the Midwest, the group—made up of longtime friends whose relationships stretched back over a decade—became a beloved local staple before amicably disbanding in 2015 as members moved on to new chapters.
Years later, the internet gave Hot Freaks a second life. During the pandemic, their 2013 single “PUPPY PRINCESS” unexpectedly went viral on TikTok, introducing the band’s heartfelt, humor-tinged indie pop to a new global audience. What began as nostalgia among friends quickly turned into a full reunion as fans discovered the band’s earnest songwriting and infectious energy. Now reconnecting with listeners around the world, Hot Freaks are stepping back onto the stage with renewed momentum—releasing rare material, debuting new visuals, and turning a handful of hometown reunion shows into the start of a much bigger return.