AWOLNATION

Biography

AWOLNATION is an American rock band formed in Los Angeles, California, in 2009. The solo project of multi-instrumentalist and singer Aaron Bruno, the band merges various genres including alternative rock, electronic rock, and indie rock. The name AWOLNATION is derived from a high school nickname of Bruno's.

Formation and Early Years

Aaron Bruno was previously a member of the bands Home Town Hero and Under the Influence of Giants. In 2009, he was approached by Red Bull Records, which offered him free use of their Los Angeles recording studio. This partnership allowed him the creative freedom to record the music he wanted. In 2010, AWOLNATION released their first EP, "Back from Earth".

Musical Style

The band's music is known for its blend of live instrumentation and electronic elements. Their sound has been described as alternative rock, electronic rock, electropop, and dance-rock. While their first two albums, "Megalithic Symphony" and "Run," were heavy on electronica, later works like "Here Come the Runts" adopted a more 'organic' indie rock sound.

Breakthrough with "Megalithic Symphony"

AWOLNATION released their debut studio album, "Megalithic Symphony," on March 15, 2011. The album featured their most notable hit single, "Sail." The track became a massive sleeper hit, eventually peaking at number 17 on the Billboard Hot 100 and spending 79 weeks on the chart. The song achieved diamond certification from the RIAA, with over 10 million copies sold in the United States. The album itself was certified platinum.

Subsequent Albums and Evolution

The band's second album, "Run," was released in 2015, followed by "Here Come the Runts" in 2018. Their fourth studio album, "Angel Miners & the Lightning Riders," was released in 2020 and was inspired by significant events in Bruno's life. In 2022, the band released a covers album titled "My Echo, My Shadow, My Covers, and Me," featuring collaborations with artists like Brandon Boyd of Incubus and Tim McIlrath of Rise Against.

Recent Work

In 2024, AWOLNATION released their fifth studio album, "The Phantom Five." Bruno has suggested this might be the final album for the project. The album features collaborations with artists such as Emily Armstrong and Del The Funky Homosapien. The lead single, "Panoramic View," showcases a heartfelt ballad style.

Discography

Studio Albums

- Megalithic Symphony (2011)
- Run (2015)
- Here Come the Runts (2018)
- Angel Miners & the Lightning Riders (2020)
- The Phantom Five (2024)

Extended Plays

- Back from Earth (2010)
- Candy Pop (2023)

Covers Album

- My Echo, My Shadow, My Covers, and Me (2022)