West Philly band “They Are Gutting A Body of Water” gains popularity.

On a sunlit afternoon in West Philadelphia, Douglas Dulgarian discussed his appreciation for both the city and its vibrant music scene while seated in Woodlands Cemetery. The frontman of the band They Are Gutting A Body of Water, affectionately known as Tagabow, Dulgarian is making waves as the most critically acclaimed Philadelphia act of 2025.

Critics have lauded the band’s album Lotto, naming it one of the year’s best thanks to coverage from prominent outlets like The New York Times and The New Yorker. Rolling Stone has described the album as “heavier than heaven, hotter than hell, bold as love,” further solidifying its artistic impact.

The Tagabow sound, often associated with the shoegaze genre—an ethereal style born in the 1990s that thrived on dreamy melodies and instrumentals—differs in notable ways. While drawing inspiration from legendary bands like My Bloody Valentine and Lush, Dulgarian infuses punk sensibilities into the music. He believes the band should ultimately be classified under a uniquely Philadelphia genre, reflecting the rich musical lineage that characterizes the city.

Additionally, Dulgarian highlights fellow indie acts such as Alex G and Spirit of the Beehive, alongside underground bands like Blue Smiley and Cooking, which inhabit Philadelphia’s DIY music scene. Through his label, Julia’s War, he has supported emerging artists, contributing significantly to the local music landscape.

At 35, Dulgarian’s roots trace back to the Hudson Valley in New York, where he split his time growing up. His childhood experiences—marked by the culture of dirt track racing through his father and the working-class ethos of North Jersey—shaped his musical journey. Initiating guitar lessons at the age of 13, he grew serious about music after a tumultuous period in a drug rehabilitation facility, utilizing his struggles with addiction as an essential part of his narrative.

Lotto, which opens with “The Chase”—a raw account of Dulgarian’s battle with fentanyl withdrawal—serves as both personal reflection and tribute to his girlfriend, Emily Lofing, the band’s bassist. Their domestic life is poetically portrayed within the album, offering a glimpse into Dulgarian’s quest for connection amid the chaos.

Formerly known as Jouska, Dulgarian’s band evolved into Tagabow following his relocation to Philadelphia in 2016. The unusual name originated from a misheard lyric, which has since become a defining marker of the band’s identity.

As the band prepares for performances at the First Unitarian Church in December, they will showcase their album in a unique setting, with musicians encircled by the audience. Lotto’s ten succinct tracks blend visceral energy and introspection, aiming to build connections in a commodified world. The album’s themes resonate deeply, addressing the hollow promises of the American Dream and emphasizing the challenge of earning meaningful experiences over superficial success. It marks the band’s first release with ATO Records, alongside notable acts such as Alabama Shakes and My Morning Jacket.

For those interested in experiencing the raw energy and artistic depth of They Are Gutting A Body of Water, tickets for their shows on December 12, 13, and 19 at the First Unitarian Church are available online.