History of The Paper Kites in Timeline

The Paper Kites are an Australian indie rock/folk rock band formed in Melbourne in 2009. Founded by Sam Bentley and Christina Lacy, they gained recognition with their 2010 single "Bloom", which achieved Platinum certification in the United States. By 2026, the band had released seven studio albums and two EPs, including their latest album, If You Go There, I Hope You Find It, released on January 23, 2026.

2009: Formation of the band

In 2009, The Paper Kites were formed in Melbourne by Sam Bentley and Christina Lacy.

2010: Release of "Bloom" and increased attention

In 2010, The Paper Kites began attracting media attention after the release of their single "Bloom". The single and video were released online, and its popularity grew through word of mouth.

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2010: Release of "Bloom"

In 2010, The Paper Kites released the single "Bloom", which was later certified Platinum in the United States.

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2010: Expansion of the band lineup

In 2010, the band's lineup expanded when Sam Bentley and Christina Lacy added Sam Rasmussen, David Powys and Josh Bentley to the group.

June 2011: Release of "Featherstone"

In June 2011, "Featherstone" was released in advance of The Paper Kites' EP, Woodland.

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February 2012: First Headline Tour of Australia

In February 2012, The Paper Kites embarked on their first headline tour of Australia, performing sold-out shows in small clubs around the country.

April 2012: Decision to record a second EP

In April 2012, The Paper Kites decided to hold off making a full-length album and release a second EP instead to allow for more touring and development of their sound.

June 2012: Recording of second EP

In June 2012, The Paper Kites recorded their five-track EP with producer Wayne Connolly.

August 2012: Release of "Young North"

In August 2012, The Paper Kites released "Young North".

January 2013: Opening for Bombay Bicycle Club

In January 2013, The Paper Kites opened for the UK band Bombay Bicycle Club for a small run of shows.

February 2013: Recording of debut album "States"

In February 2013, The Paper Kites began recording their debut full-length album, "States", in collaboration with producer Wayne Connolly.

August 2013: Release of "States"

In August 2013, The Paper Kites released their debut album "States", which peaked at number 17 on the ARIA Charts.

October 2013: First trip to America and North American release of "States"

In October 2013, The Paper Kites made their first trip to America, opening for City and Colour on a 13-date tour. Also on 1 October 2013, "States" was released in North America.

2013: Release of "St Clarity" and "Young" singles

In 2013, The Paper Kites released the singles "St Clarity" and "Young" from their album "States". The music video for "Young" was later nominated for Australian Music Video of the Year at the J Awards of 2013.

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August 2015: Release of "Twelvefour"

On 28 August 2015, The Paper Kites released their second album, "Twelvefour", which was recorded in Seattle and produced by Phil Ek. It is a concept album written entirely between midnight and four am.

January 2017: Release of "Twelvefour" outtakes on Spotify

In January 2017, The Paper Kites released two outtakes from the "Twelvefour" sessions on Spotify.

April 2018: Release of "On the Train Ride Home"

On 18 April 2018, The Paper Kites released "On the Train Ride Home", the first of two new albums. It was recorded in Melbourne and co-produced by Tom Iansek and Sam Bentley.

July 2018: Start of "Where You Live" tour

On 16 July 2018, The Paper Kites embarked on their 93-show "Where You Live" tour, playing shows in the US, Canada, Europe, Australia, and New Zealand.

September 2018: Release of "On the Corner Where You Live"

On 21 September 2018, The Paper Kites released "On the Corner Where You Live", recorded in Connecticut with producer Peter Katis. The artwork for both this and "On the Train Ride Home" were painted by Gina Higgins.