A Skylit Drive

Band History

A Skylit Drive was formed in 2005 in Lodi, California, by a group of high school friends sharing a passion for post-hardcore music. The original lineup included Jordan Blake (vocals), Nick Miller (guitar), Joey Wilson (lead guitar), Brian White (bass and unclean vocals), and Cory La Quay (drums). Their early sound fused the raw intensity of screamo with the melodic undertones of emo, culminating in the release of their debut EP, She Watched the Sky, in January 2007 under Tragic Hero Records.

Blake’s distinctive vocal style defined their initial sound, but health issues forced his departure later that year. He was briefly replaced by Jonny Craig and then Craig Mabbitt, before Michael “Jag” Jagmin became the band’s new frontman, completing a lineup that would propel the band forward.

Breakthrough with Wires…And the Concept of Breathing (2008)

The addition of Jagmin brought a fresh dynamic to A Skylit Drive. In May 2008, they released their debut full-length album, Wires…And the Concept of Breathing. Produced by Mitchell Marlow and Allen Jacob, the album introduced a polished yet aggressive sound. Tracks like the title song and “Knights of the Round” showcased intricate guitar work, dynamic breakdowns, and Jagmin’s soaring vocals.

The album achieved moderate commercial success, peaking at No. 171 on the Billboard 200 and No. 20 on the Top Independent Albums chart. Its critical reception and robust touring schedule helped establish A Skylit Drive as a rising force in the post-hardcore scene. The band also released a live DVD, Let Go of the Wires, later that year.

Continued Evolution with Adelphia and Identity on Fire (2009–2011)

In 2009, A Skylit Drive signed with Fearless Records and released their second album, Adelphia. The record marked a departure into a more experimental territory, blending post-hardcore with progressive and alternative rock influences. The album reached No. 64 on the Billboard 200, and the band embarked on extensive tours, including the Vans Warped Tour.

Their third album, Identity on Fire (2011), saw the band refining their sound further. The record balanced melodic hooks with heavier elements, featuring tracks like “Too Little Too Late.” The band maintained their hectic touring schedule, performing alongside acts like Underoath and Sleeping with Sirens.

Lineup Changes and Rise (2012–2013)

By 2012, internal changes began to impact the band. Lead guitarist Joey Wilson departed, and A Skylit Drive returned to Tragic Hero Records for their fourth album, Rise (2013). Produced by Cameron Mizell, Rise demonstrated the band’s resilience and evolution, achieving their highest chart position to date at No. 41 on the Billboard 200. The album’s thematic complexity and polished production were well-received.

Turmoil and ASD (2014–2017)

In 2014, Brian White and Cory La Quay exited the band, citing creative differences. Despite these challenges, A Skylit Drive continued as a four-piece, releasing Rise: Ascension, an acoustic reinterpretation of Rise, in 2015. Later that year, they released their fifth studio album, ASD, marking another stylistic shift.

However, internal tensions persisted, culminating in Jagmin’s departure and the band’s hiatus in 2017.

Division and Revival (2018–Present)

In 2018, Jagmin rebranded his iteration of the band as Signals, leading to legal disputes with other original members. Eventually, Jagmin secured the rights to the name A Skylit Drive, while the original lineup performed as ASD. Both versions of the band released new music and toured, maintaining active presences in the post-hardcore scene.

The original lineup reunited briefly in 2022 to celebrate the 15th anniversary of She Watched the Sky. Tragically, Jordan Blake passed away in April 2023, a loss deeply felt by fans and band members alike.

Legacy and Influence of A Skylit Drive

A Skylit Drive’s music blends post-hardcore, metalcore, and screamo, with influences from Underoath, Silverstein, and progressive acts like Dream Theater. Their albums, particularly Wires…And the Concept of Breathing and Rise, are regarded as milestones in the post-hardcore genre.