The Hampdens are a modern Australian band known for their literary lyrics, originally from Perth, Western Australia, but who are now based in Melbourne.

The band’s name is taken from Hampden College in Donna Tartt’s novel “The Secret History”. The book focuses on a group of college kids embroiled in a pagan cult.

The Hampdens have played with Sparkadia, Old Man River, Washington, Ben Lee, Evermore, John Mayer, Ray LaMontagne, Sarah Harmer, George, and Missy Higgins.

Their debut independent EP, Brightness Falls, was released independently in August, 2003 to rave reviews, with the first run sold out within two weeks. A second run was pressed and subsequently sold out. The success of the Brightness Falls lead to Sony releasing their follow up EP, Even World, in May, 2004. Even World was recorded with Dave Parkin at Blackbird Studios in Perth and mixed at Metropolis Studios in Melbourne. Their third EP So Young It Hurts was released in 2005 on Rubber Records. The EP was mixed and recorded by renowned UK producer Eden, best known for his work as side-kick for Nellee Hooper (Madonna).