Soundtracks to experiences. “The band are thinkers, experimenters, and explorers. They bear the bloodline of their now nostalgic forefathers without following their footprints into the world of tribute. They forge their own path.” – Muzic.NZ

Impostor Syndrome is an experimental recording project from Auckland, New Zealand, pushing the boundaries of progressive rock. Blending alternative rock, film scores, and spoken word, they have been described by Muzic.NZ as “Industrial meets Depeche Mode.” Others have likened them to “Taika Waititi doing a scary movie”—unexpected, atmospheric, and unsettling in the best way.

Formed in 2019, the trio—vocalist Ryan Culleton, drummer Scott Nicolson, and multi-instrumentalist Shannon Coulomb—first bonded over Alice in Chains as teenagers. The 2020 pandemic allowed them to refine their recording techniques, culminating in their 2022 debut. Their commitment to creative exploration continues, alongside building their own recording studio.

Shannon, a multi-instrumentalist and head of the Music Department at Birkenhead College, draws from blues, rock, and modern technology. Ryan, an audio engineer and poet, brings dreamlike spoken-word storytelling. Scott, with experience in New Zealand and London’s music scenes, balances energy and subtlety on drums while also working as a videographer.