Despite being a Detroit band known for loud, screeching rock, Protomartyr delivered a profound and thoughtful performance during their Tiny Desk concert. Enigmatic frontman Joe Casey set the tone with deep and introspective lyrics, with a notable mention of "False happiness is on the rise" from the song "Why Does It Shake?" off their third album, The Agent Intellect. The band's music blends post-punk vibes with poetic lyricism, showcasing a unique and intellectual approach to their craft.

Protomartyr, formed in 2010, consists of Joe Casey on vocals, Greg Ahee on guitar, Alex Leonard on drums, and Scott Davidson on bass. The band welcomed Kelley Deal in 2020 to provide additional instrumentation and vocals during live performances.

With six studio albums under their belt, including The Agent Intellect and Ultimate Success Today, Protomartyr continues to push boundaries in the post-punk genre. Their Tiny Desk concert exemplified their ability to captivate with insightful lyrics and intense musical arrangements, making them a standout act in the alternative music scene.