The Paper Kites

The Paper Kites are an Australian indie folk band formed in Melbourne around 2010, led by songwriter Sam Bentley with Christina Lacy, Dave Powys, Sam Rasmussen, and Josh Bentley. Their soft harmonies and atmospheric folk-pop won an international audience — States (2013) and the nocturnal twelvefour (2015) are the classic entry points. Explore The Paper Kites vinyl, CDs, and reissues at Wax Trax Records.

About The Paper Kites

The Paper Kites formed in Melbourne, Australia around 2010. The five-piece is led by songwriter Sam Bentley and includes Christina Lacy, Dave Powys, Sam Rasmussen, and Josh Bentley. The band built an international audience early through atmospheric EPs and steady touring, becoming a fixture of the Australian indie folk scene and beyond.

Sound and style

The Paper Kites play indie folk, folk-pop, and dream-influenced indie rock, characterized by soft harmonies, warm acoustic and electric textures, and a gentle, atmospheric mood. Their later projects have explored ambitious concepts, including nocturnal-themed and collaborative records, broadening their sonic palette.

Discography highlights

  • States (2013)
  • twelvefour (2015)
  • On the Train Ride Home (2018)
  • Roses (2021)

For collectors

The Paper Kites' albums and early EPs have appeared in colored-vinyl variants popular with their international fan base. Their atmospheric, concept-driven releases are of interest to indie folk collectors.

Where to start

Listeners new to The Paper Kites often start with States (2013) or twelvefour (2015). For related listening, see Explore more: Folk & Indie Folk and Explore more: Pop/Indie-Pop.