Hailing from Detroit, Protomartyr is a post-punk quartet led by vocalist Joe Casey, known for their intelligent music and streetwise lyrics. With a strong local impact from their 2012 debut album, the band gained international attention after signing with labels like Sub Pop and Domino, releasing acclaimed albums such as The Agent Intellect and Relatives in Descent. Despite setbacks due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Protomartyr returned in 2023 with the album Formal Growth in the Desert, showcasing a blend of poignant storytelling and dynamic musicality.

Formed in 2008 by guitarist Greg Ahee, bassist Scott Davidson, and drummer Alex Leonard, Protomartyr emerged from Detroit's underground scene, eventually solidifying their lineup with Joe Casey on vocals. The band's early success with singles and live performances led to signing with Hardly Art and later Domino, culminating in the release of albums like Under Color of Official Right and Ultimate Success Today. Their latest offering, Formal Growth in the Desert, released in 2023, reflects a matured sound influenced by personal experiences and cinematic inspirations, marking another chapter in Protomartyr's evolution as a formidable force in the post-punk genre.