[Western Music] Cool Three-Piece Bands: Recommended Trios Roundup [2025]

There Are GhostsKarate

There Are Ghosts

Karate is a trio that brilliantly fuses jazz’s intricate rhythms with the raw energy of indie rock.

Formed in Boston in 1993, they established a unique musical identity following their 1996 debut album, “Karate.” The trio’s seamless ensemble—Jeff Farina’s delicate guitar work and striking vocals, Jeff Goddard’s fluid bass lines, and Gavin McCarthy’s precise drumming—offers a singular experience you won’t find with any other band.

Though they were forced to disband in July 2005 due to Farina’s hearing impairment, they reunited in 2022 after roughly 17 years.

In 2024, they released “Make It Fit,” their first album in 20 years, and they’re set to tour Japan in March 2025.

For those seeking fresh music that transcends boundaries—post-rock, emo, jazz rock—this three-piece band, imbued with true musician’s spirit, is a perfect fit.

BuenaMorphine

Morphine – Buena (Official Music Video)

Morphine is an avant-garde low-rock trio from America that captivates with the depth of its low end.

Formed in Massachusetts in 1989, they upended conventional rock by eschewing standard guitars in favor of a two-string slide bass, baritone saxophone, and drums.

From their 1992 debut, Good, they established a distinct sonic world, and the following year’s Cure for Pain saw singles like Thursday and Buena become college radio favorites.

In 1997, they earned the honor of a Grammy nomination for Best Short Form Music Video.

Sadly, in July 1999, frontman Mark Sandman passed away suddenly during a live performance in Italy, cementing the band’s legend.

Highly recommended for those who want to immerse themselves in the dark, sultry sound of “low rock,” infused with elements of jazz and blues.

Calling After MeWallows

Wallows – Calling After Me (Official Video)

WALLOWS are a three-piece indie rock band from Los Angeles, centered around Dylan Minnette—known for starring in the film/series “13 Reasons Why”—along with childhood friends Braeden Lemasters and Cole Preston.

They began performing around 2005 and broke onto the scene with their 2017 single “Pleaser.” Their 2018 debut album “Nothing Happens” generated major buzz, with the track “Are You Bored Yet?” becoming a particular hit.

While drawing influence from bands like Arctic Monkeys and The Strokes, they’ve carved out a place in the indie rock scene with their distinctive melodic sensibilities and lyrics that deftly capture youthful emotions.

Balancing acting and music, they pursue a catchy yet nuanced sound through DIY-minded production.

They’re a must-listen for anyone who wants to connect with the feelings of youth or is seeking refined indie rock.

People EverywhereKhruangbin

Khruangbin – People Everywhere | Live From Austin City Limits TV

Khruangbin are a captivating trio from Houston, Texas.

Their band name means “airplane” in Thai, symbolizing their border-crossing musicality.

They released their debut album, The Universe Smiles Upon You, in 2015, drawing attention with a unique sound that fuses soul, psychedelia, funk, and more.

After gaining global recognition when one of their tracks was included on a Bonobo compilation in 2013, they steadily built their career, and in 2022 released a collaborative album with Ali Farka Touré.

With an exotic atmosphere and groove-laden performances, they’re a band recommended for anyone seeking a fresh musical experience.

WarBrutus

Brutus “War” (Live at Rain City)

Brutus is a three-piece band from Belgium that overwhelms listeners with a sound that exquisitely fuses metal, punk, and post-hardcore.

Formed in Leuven in 2013, they’re distinguished by the astonishing versatility of drummer-vocalist Stefanie Mannaerts.

They made a name for themselves with their 2017 debut album, Burst, and captivated many fans with powerful standout tracks on their 2019 sophomore effort, Nest.

In 2022, they released their third album, Unison Life, showcasing their musical evolution.

While their award history isn’t clear, their live performances are highly acclaimed, and in 2020 they released the live album Live in Ghent, capturing that intensity as-is.

If you’re looking for an inventive sound that transcends genre boundaries and a commanding stage presence, their music experience is highly recommended!

TreasureHotWax

HotWax – Treasure (Official Video)

HotWax are a three-piece rock band based in Hastings, UK.

They’re drawing attention with a unique sound that fuses psychedelic rock and punk rock.

In March 2023, they released their debut EP, “A Thousand Times,” and have since appeared at high-profile festivals such as London’s All Points East.

Despite their youth, they’re steadily building their career, having shared the stage with The Strokes and Yeah Yeah Yeahs.

They’ve also earned support from Nova Twins and Wolf Alice, and while carrying the spirit of grunge pioneers, they’re carving out a new realm of guitar music with strong songwriting.

Known for powerful live performances, they’re highly recommended for anyone drawn to a sound brimming with youthful energy and defiance.

Take On Mea-ha

a-ha – Take On Me (Official Video) [4K]

A Norwegian trio best known for this work, which became a worldwide hit in 1985.

Their idol-like promotion strategy also paid off, and they were popular in Japan.

You could say they were the most successful pop group from the Nordic countries since ABBA.