From San Diego surfing buddies to a chart-topping indie pop sensation
In short: Almost Monday began as a high school friendship forged in the surf of San Diego. After an early television appearance sparked their formation in 2015, the trio navigated shifting lineups and instrument swaps to evolve into an indie pop force, eventually securing a number one hit on the Billboard Alternative Airplay charts.
The band's origins trace back to North County, San Diego, where Dawson Daugherty, Luke Fabry, and Cole Clisby first connected. While Daugherty and Fabry were childhood friends, Daugherty met Clisby through their shared interest in surfing. The group officially coalesced in 2015 following Daugherty's appearance on The Voice. Initially aiming for the name The Mondays, they pivoted to Almost Monday after discovering their first choice was already claimed. Their early years were marked by a rotating cast of drummers, including Michael Leto, who joined in late 2016, before the group eventually solidified as a trio in 2019.
The band's sonic identity underwent significant refinement as the members redistributed their roles. Daugherty transitioned from bass to rhythm guitar, Fabry moved from lead guitar to bass, and Clisby assumed lead guitar duties. This creative shift coincided with the release of their 2019 single, Broken People, which climbed to number 27 on the Billboard Alternative Airplay chart. Their debut EP, Don't Say You're Ordinary, followed in 2020, recorded across San Diego, Los Angeles, and Brooklyn with producers Mark Needham and Simon Oscroft.
By 2025, the band achieved major commercial success with their debut studio album, Dive. The single Can't Slow Down reached the top spot on the Billboard Alternative Airplay chart in February 2025. Their momentum continued through 2026 with the release of their second album, Thank God It's Almost Monday, and a series of high-profile tours alongside acts like Young the Giant and The Band Camino. Despite the constant evolution of their sound and touring personnel, including the long-term involvement of session drummer Rafa Vidal, the core trio has maintained their creative partnership since their high school days.
The band's trajectory reflects a decade of steady growth, moving from local radio play in 2017 to international stages. Their 2026 recognition, including a nomination for Best New Alternative Artist at the iHeartRadio Music Awards, underscores their transition from a local San Diego project to a recognized name in the modern alternative music landscape.
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- Summary by Intellect · source: Almost Monday
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