Merwulf (pronounced 'mAIR-wolf') is a minimalist post-punk/indie trio from Portland, OR, known for crafting sharp, angular songs that land somewhere between tension and play. If the B-52s were more Fugazi, you might get something close to Merwulf’s sound—think the off-kilter energy of Pere Ubu, the stripped-down ethos of Minutemen, and the moody grit of early Velvet Underground.

The band formed in late 2022, when songwriter Merri Garcia traded her piano and synth roots for a fuzzed-out bass guitar. As a mother and educator navigating a world of political chaos, pandemic fatigue, and climate anxiety, she began writing songs that felt both personal and confrontational—equal parts catharsis and critique.

She teamed up with longtime friends and collaborators Misty and Lar R. to form a trio that leans into economy: bass, keys, and drums—no guitars. The result is a sound that’s raw but intentional, stripped-down but expansive. One fan described it as “Halloween in summertime”—moody, weird, and a little mischievous.

Merwulf released their debut EP, All Zen +2, in August 2023. Their first full-length, On a Night Walk, followed in September 2024—recorded with legendary punk drummer Spit Stix (of Fear) at the helm. Initially self-released on digital and cassette, the album caught the attention of Olympia, WA-based Moodkiller Records, who issued a vinyl pressing in early 2025.

The band is currently at work on their second album, due out later this year.