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AWOLNATION

AmericasUnited StatesPop RockAlternative Rock
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Band Timeline

2009-2010

Formation and Early Recording: Creation of Awolnation and Release of 'Back from Earth' EP

Awolnation was formed by Aaron Bruno in Los Angeles around 2009 after he was offered free use of the Red Bull recording studio. Bruno, previously involved in other bands like Under the Influence of Giants and Home Town Hero, created Awolnation as a solo project with collaborative input. He signed with Red Bull Records and produced the EP 'Back from Earth,' which was released on May 18, 2010. The band's name was inspired by Bruno's high school nickname, referencing the military term AWOL, reflecting his tendency to leave without goodbyes. This formation period laid the foundation for the band's unique experimental rock sound and independent creative control.
2011-2014

Breakthrough with 'Megalithic Symphony' and Growing Popularity

Awolnation's debut studio album, 'Megalithic Symphony,' was released on March 15, 2011, through Red Bull Records. The album featured the hit single 'Sail,' which became the band's signature song, reaching number 17 on the Billboard Hot 100 and achieving platinum status in the US and double platinum in Canada. 'Sail' gained broad cultural traction, featured in TV shows such as 'The Good Wife' and commercials for brands like Nokia and Under Armour. Its popularity was further amplified through placements during the Olympic Opening Ceremony and viral covers by artists including Macy Gray. Additional singles like 'Not Your Fault' and 'Kill Your Heroes' contributed to the album's success. By 2016, the album was certified platinum, establishing Awolnation as a prominent force in alternative rock.
2015

Release of Second Album 'Run' and Continued Evolution

On March 17, 2015, Awolnation released their second studio album, 'Run.' This album continued to build on the band's experimental rock style while incorporating diverse influences and more collaborative band dynamics. 'Run' was a pivotal point, reflecting Aaron Bruno’s growth as a songwriter and producer within a more collective band setting. The album helped maintain the band's momentum in alternative music circuits, supported tours, and kept their expanding fanbase engaged. This phase marked Awolnation's transition from primarily a solo project to a more collaborative band structure.
2018

Third Studio Album 'Here Come the Runts' and Further Touring

Awolnation released their third studio album 'Here Come the Runts' on February 2, 2018. This album featured a more polished production with introspective themes and showcased the band's evolving sound that balanced anthemic rock with electronic elements. The release was accompanied by extensive touring, solidifying their presence in live music scenes globally. It demonstrated the band's ability to mature artistically while retaining energetic performances and connected deeply with fans and critics alike.
2020

Release of Fourth Album 'Angel Miners & the Lightning Riders' Amidst Challenges

The band released their fourth studio album, 'Angel Miners & the Lightning Riders,' on April 24, 2020, in the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite global disruptions to touring and music events, the album received positive attention for its energetic production and resilience in uncertain times. It continued to highlight Aaron Bruno's songwriting and the band's adaptive creativity. The album's release was a testament to the band's persistence and innovation despite facing unprecedented challenges in the music industry.
2021

'Sail' Certified Diamond and Legacy Cemented

On June 14, 2021, Awolnation's hit single 'Sail' achieved diamond certification by the RIAA, marking it as one of the few songs in U.S. history to reach this status with over 10 million copies sold in the country. This milestone underscored the lasting cultural and commercial impact of the song, solidifying Awolnation's legacy in rock and alternative music. The success of 'Sail' continued to drive the band's recognition years after its release, influencing new artists and maintaining relevance in the digital music era.
2022

Covers Album 'My Echo, My Shadow, My Covers, and Me' Released

On May 6, 2022, Awolnation released a covers album titled 'My Echo, My Shadow, My Covers, and Me.' This project showcased the band's versatility and musical influences by reinterpreting songs from various artists. The album offered fans a creative departure from their original material and highlighted their ability to adapt and innovate within different musical styles. It added a new dimension to the band's discography, demonstrating artistic exploration and paying homage to the broader music landscape that inspired them.
2024

Fifth Studio Album 'The Phantom Five' Released

Awolnation released their fifth studio album of original material, 'The Phantom Five,' on August 30, 2024. This album marked the latest chapter in the band's evolving career, featuring fresh compositions that build on their signature fusion of rock and electronic elements. 'The Phantom Five' reflects the band's continued innovation and Aaron Bruno's enduring creative vision. It was supported by promotional activities and touring plans aimed at engaging both longstanding fans and new audiences, reaffirming Awolnation's position in contemporary alternative music.

Albums

awolnation_1st_album
Megalithic Symphony
14 tracks
2011
awolnation_2nd_album
Run
14 tracks
2015
awolnation_3rd_album
Here Come the Runts
14 tracks
2018
awolnation_4th_album
Angel Miners & The Lightning Riders
10 tracks
2020
awolnation_5th_album
My Echo, My Shadow, My Covers & Me
10 tracks
2022
awolnation_6th_album
The Phantom Five
10 tracks
2024
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Members

Current

Name
Begin
Occupation

Zach Irons

2015

Aaron Bruno

2009

Lead vocals

Guitar

Isaac Carpenter

2013

Background vocals

Membranophone

Percussion

History

Name
Begin
End
Occupation

David Amezcua

2010
2013

Bass

Background vocals

Drew Stewart

2009
2013

Background vocals

Guitar

Christopher Thorn

2010
2012

Guitar

Ziminy

2010
2013

Kenny Carkeet

2009
2017

Guitar

Background vocals

Keyboard

Story of AWOLNATION

AWOLNATION: From Indie Roots to Chart-Topping Success

AWOLNATION (stylized as AWOLNATION) is an American rock band hailing from Los Angeles. Led by the enigmatic Aaron Bruno, who previously fronted bands like Under the Influence of Giants, Home Town Hero, and Insurgence, AWOLNATION has carved a unique path in the music scene.

Their journey began with the release of their debut EP "Back from Earth" in 2010, which introduced them to the world. The band's first full-length studio album, "Megalithic Symphony," dropped in 2011 and catapulted them to mainstream success. The album's standout track, "Sail," became a global phenomenon, reaching the top 20 on the Billboard Hot 100, topping the Rock and Alternative charts, and achieving diamond certification by the RIAA. "Sail" solidified AWOLNATION's place as a force in the rock world and marked the beginning of their commercial breakthrough.

The band continued to create compelling music with their subsequent albums. "Run" in 2015, "Here Come the Runts" in 2018, and "Angel Miners & the Lightning Riders" in 2020 showcased their evolution and experimentation within the rock genre. In 2022, they released "My Echo, My Shadow, My Covers, and Me," a collection of powerful covers, demonstrating their versatility and respect for musical influences.

AWOLNATION's journey is a testament to their dedication, artistic vision, and the power of a unique sound. They've navigated the music industry, consistently delivering powerful and evocative music, solidifying their position as a modern rock powerhouse.

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