After the Burial is an American progressive metal band originating from Minneapolis, Minnesota. Formed in 2004, the band has been a significant force in the metal scene, known for their technical proficiency and dynamic compositions. They are currently signed to Sumerian Records and have released six full-length albums through the label. (Wikipedia)
Formation and Early Years (2004–2006)
After the Burial was founded in 2004 by high school friends Nick Wellner (vocals), Trent Hafdahl (guitar), Justin Lowe (guitar), and Greg Erickson (drums). The lineup was soon completed with the addition of bassist Lerichard “Lee” Foral. Their debut album, Forging a Future Self, was recorded in late 2005 and released on March 1, 2006, through Corrosive Records. This self-produced album showcased their early sound and laid the foundation for their future work. (Wikipedia)
Signing with Sumerian Records and Rareform (2007–2009)
In 2007, After the Burial signed with Sumerian Records, marking a significant step in their career. The band underwent lineup changes during this period, with vocalist Grant Luoma and drummer Eric Robles joining the group. They entered the studio in 2008 to record their second album, Rareform. Released on July 22, 2008, the album featured complex compositions and technical guitar work, solidifying their presence in the progressive metal scene. In 2009, the band re-released Rareform with new vocalist Anthony Notarmaso and drummer Dan Carle, enhancing the album’s impact. (Wikipedia)
In Dreams and Continued Evolution (2010–2012)
After the Burial’s third studio album, In Dreams, was released on November 23, 2010, through Sumerian Records. The album continued to showcase their technical prowess and featured a blend of aggressive riffs and melodic elements. During this period, the band toured extensively, supporting acts like Winds of Plague and headlining the Crush Em’ All Tour 2 in 2011. (Wikipedia)
Wolves Within and Tragic Loss (2013–2015)
In 2013, After the Burial released a three-song EP titled This Life Is All We Have, featuring re-mastered tracks from their debut album with updated vocals by Anthony Notarmaso. On December 17, 2013, they released their fourth studio album, Wolves Within, which received positive reviews for its intricate guitar work and cohesive songwriting. Tragedy struck in 2015 when founding guitarist Justin Lowe departed from the band and was later found deceased on July 21, 2015. His passing was a significant loss to the band and the metal community. (Wikipedia)
Dig Deep and Lineup Changes (2016–2017)
Following the loss of Justin Lowe, After the Burial released their fifth studio album, Dig Deep, on February 19, 2016. The album was well-received, debuting at number 50 on the Billboard 200 chart. In June 2016, bassist Lee Foral announced his departure from the band to focus on his family. Adrian Oropeza joined as the new bassist in December 2016, completing the current lineup. (Wikipedia)
Evergreen and Recent Activities (2018–Present)
After the Burial began working on their sixth studio album in 2018, culminating in the release of Evergreen on April 19, 2019. The album continued to showcase their signature blend of technical proficiency and melodic elements. In 2023, the band released two new singles, “Nothing Gold” and “Death Keeps Us from Living,” under the banner of a two-song single titled Embrace the Infinity. They also embarked on a North American tour with Spiritbox and Intervals, starting in Vancouver, Canada. (Wikipedia)
Musical Style and Influence
After the Burial’s musical style is characterized by their use of eight-string guitars, complex compositions, and a blend of aggressive and melodic elements. They are considered key contributors to the development of subgenres such as djent and progressive metalcore. Their technical proficiency and innovative approach have influenced many bands within the metal genre. (Wikipedia)
After the Burial Discography
• Forging a Future Self (2006)
• Rareform (2008)
• In Dreams (2010)
• Wolves Within (2013)
• Dig Deep (2016)
• Evergreen (2019)
After the Burial continues to be a prominent force in the progressive metal scene, consistently pushing the boundaries of the genre with their innovative compositions and technical mastery.