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

What’s My Age Again?blink-182

blink-182 – What’s My Age Again? (Official Music Video)

Blink-182 is an American band active since 1992 and one of the leading names in pop punk.

Their catchy, approachable melodies and bright, breezy sound may well be made possible by their simple three-piece lineup.

On top of that, drummer Travis Barker’s razor-sharp playing delivers the driving sense of speed that defines pop punk.

Despite challenges—including a hiatus in 2005 and the departure of vocalist Tom DeLonge in 2015—they’ve continued on as a superband.

TarkusEmerson Lake&Palmer

Emerson, Lake & Palmer – Tarkus (Official Audio)

A British progressive rock band formed in 1970 by Keith Emerson (kb), Greg Lake (b, Vo), and Carl Palmer (ds).

They’re often abbreviated as ELP.

The band’s standout characteristic is, above all, that it’s rock without guitars! Centered around Keith Emerson—often hailed as a genius keyboard player—the group delivers highly technical and thrilling keyboard performances.

I originally started out as a keyboard player in a band myself, and back then I was obsessed with listening to their recordings.

I can’t recommend this band highly enough to anyone aspiring to be a rock keyboardist!

Juana La CubanaLA LOM

LA LOM Performs “Juana La Cubana”

LA LOM has been attracting attention for its unique sound that blends the diverse traditional music of Latin America—such as Mexico, Cuba, and Peru—with classic American jazz, rockabilly, and soul.

The three members, who held a residency at a historic hotel in Los Angeles, debuted in 2021 with the EP “LA LOM.” In August 2024, they released their highly anticipated album “The Los Angeles League of Musicians” on major label Verve Records, achieving the remarkable feat of reaching No.

5 on Billboard’s Tropical Albums chart.

This accomplished trio has not only opened for Vampire Weekend on tour but has also performed alongside renowned artists like Gladys Knight and Beck.

Enjoy their captivating sound, which, through its multicultural palette and unique artistic vision, presents new possibilities at the intersection of folk traditions and pop music.

KandaikiMammal Hands

Mammal Hands – Kandaiki

Mammal Hands, based in Norwich, UK, are a piano trio that, despite their unusual bass-less lineup, create a refined sound.

Formed in 2012 by brothers Jordan Smart and Nick Smart, they debuted in 2014 with the album “Animalia.” Drawing on a wide range of influences—ambient, jazz, electronic music, folk, and Sufi music—they’ve established a distinctive approach in which all members contribute equally to composition.

Their 2020 album “Captured Spirits” garnered high praise from notable artists such as Bonobo for its trance-like allure, skillfully blending improvisation with rhythmic loops.

Since April 2024, Rob Turner, known as the drummer of GoGo Penguin, has joined the band, bringing fresh energy.

Highly recommended for those who want to immerse themselves in a sound that is both delicate and dynamic.

JumpersSleater-Kinney

Sleater-Kinney – Jumpers [OFFICIAL VIDEO]

Sleater-Kinney is a girls’ trio from Olympia, Washington, formed in 1994 and widely beloved on the indie scene.

They made their debut in 1995 with their self-titled album Sleater-Kinney and have since released numerous acclaimed records, including Dig Me Out.

Notably, they have a distinctive lineup with no bass.

Their punkish, straightforward sound and socially conscious lyrics have continued to captivate many fans.

Their album The Woods, released on May 24, 2005, was selected by Rolling Stone as one of the 500 greatest albums.

Although they went on hiatus in 2006, they regrouped in 2014 and are now actively performing as a duo of the two original members.

BullheadBrian Melvin

Boris

Formed in Seattle in 1983.

They’re known for ferociously heavy riffs that obsess over sheer weight and slowness, and are even called the underground emperors of the U.

S.

heavy metal scene.

They reportedly had ties with hometown peers Nirvana.

Since 2006, it seems they’ve been performing as a four-piece.

John Rock And Roll SinclairTHE DOGS

The Dogs – “John Rock And Roll Sinclair”

A trio (including one female) that inherits the feral bloodline of Detroit’s thunderous rock.

Their jagged riffs and biting vocals are the very image of Detroit’s mad dogs.

Virtually unknown in the mainstream, yet a hidden gem of American punk!