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Band Timeline
1998
Formation of Chimaira
Chimaira was formed in August 1998 in Cleveland, Ohio. The founding members included vocalist Mark Hunter and bassist Jim LaMarca, who had previously been part of a hardcore band named Skipline. After Skipline was disbanded due to a robbery incident, Hunter was contacted by guitarist Jason Hager to form a new band. They recruited drummer Jason Genaro and bassist Andrew Ermlick to form the initial lineup. Soon after, Rob Arnold joined as lead guitarist and drummer Andols Herrick replaced Genaro to complete the early lineup. Chimaira was named after the mythical Greek creature Chimera, symbolizing their heavy metal style.
2000
Release of debut EP, This Present Darkness
In 2000, Chimaira independently released their debut EP titled 'This Present Darkness' through East Coast Empire. The EP gained popularity and charted in the top 10 on Metal Radio. The release helped establish the band's presence in the heavy metal scene and secured them a record deal with Roadrunner Records. Around this time, the band continued touring the United States, playing with prominent bands like Hatebreed and God Forbid. The alignment with manager Thom Hazaert played a crucial role in promoting their music and gaining interest from major labels.
2001
Debut studio album Pass Out of Existence and lineup changes
Chimaira released their debut full-length album 'Pass Out of Existence' in August 2001 under Roadrunner Records. The album featured the addition of bassist Jim LaMarca and the involvement of Chris Spicuzza handling electronics. Shortly after the release, the band underwent lineup changes; guitarist Jason Hager was replaced by Matt DeVries in 2001. The album helped solidify their presence in the metal community, supported by tours and growing fan interest. Their sound embraced a heavy metalcore style that would continue to evolve over subsequent releases.
2003
The Impossibility of Reason album release and lineup changes
In 2003, Chimaira released their second studio album 'The Impossibility of Reason.' This album marked significant success for the band, debuting and peaking at number 117 on the Billboard 200 chart. Around this time, drummer Andols Herrick was replaced by Kevin Talley, known for his work with Misery Index. The album pushed Chimaira further into the metalcore scene, blending aggressive rhythms with melodic elements. Extensive tours supported the album, increasing their fanbase and reputation in heavy metal circles.
2005
Self-titled album Chimaira and lineup stabilization
Chimaira released their self-titled album in August 2005, which peaked at number 74 on the Billboard 200. The album featured Matt DeVries firmly established on rhythm guitar. However, the band faced internal pressures regarding new releases. Despite this, the album was well received and reinforced Chimaira's musical identity. Following tensions with their label Roadrunner Records, the band would eventually move on to sign with the independent label Ferret Music, which offered them greater creative control.
2007
Resurrection album and reunion with drummer Andols Herrick
In early 2006, drummer Andols Herrick rejoined Chimaira after having been replaced previously. The band signed with Ferret Music and recorded their fourth studio album, 'Resurrection,' released in March 2007. The album saw commercial success, debuting at number 42 on the Billboard 200, the highest charting in their career to that point. 'Resurrection' represented a significant artistic moment, blending heavy breakdowns with melodic passages and showcasing the reaffirmed chemistry of the original drummer returning.
2013
Crown of Phantoms album release
Chimaira released their seventh studio album titled 'Crown of Phantoms' in 2013. This album showcased the band's evolving sound with a modern metal approach. Although the band maintained some lineup stability, ongoing changes marked their later years. The album received positive reviews and demonstrated Chimaira's continued commitment to heavy, aggressive metal music, resonating with their loyal fan base amid the evolving metal scene.
2014
Band dissolution announcement
In 2014, Chimaira officially announced their breakup, concluding their active years after over 15 years of making music. Throughout their history, numerous lineup changes had left vocalist Mark Hunter as the only constant member. The breakup marked the end of the band’s first era, with members moving on to other projects. Despite disbanding, Chimaira left a strong legacy in the heavy metal and metalcore scenes, influencing many bands and fans with their aggressive yet melodic style.
2017
Band reunion announcement
Chimaira announced a reunion in 2017, reuniting with several longtime members for special performances and tours. This unexpected comeback rekindled interest among fans and showcased the lasting impact of the band's music. The reunion highlights the continued demand and respect for Chimaira in the metal community, bringing together original members and introducing their music to new audiences.
2023
Return with most longtime members rejoined
In 2023, Chimaira officially returned with the majority of its longtime members rejoining the band. This marked a significant restart of the band’s activities, including new performances and the potential for new music. The return demonstrates the band's enduring popularity and the strong bonds among its members, promising a continuation of their influential presence in the heavy metal genre.
Albums
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Members
History
Name
Begin
End
Occupation
Andols Herrick
1999
2003
Drums (drum set)
Richard Evensand
2003
2004
Drums (drum set)
Jason Hager
1998
1999
Guitar
Andols Herrick
2006
2010
Drums (drum set)
Chris Spicuzza
2000
2011
Synthesizer
Background vocals
Keyboard
Emil Werstler
2011
2012
Bass guitar
Mark Hunter
1998
2014
Lead vocals
Rob Lesniak
1999
2000
Bass guitar
Austin D’Amond
2011
2014
Drums (drum set)
Matt Szlachta
2007
2011
Guitar
Matt DeVries
2001
2011
Guitar
Emil Werstler
2012
2014
Guitar
Jim LaMarca
2000
2010
Bass guitar
Kevin Talley
2004
2006
Drums (drum set)
Sean Zatorsky
2011
2014
Background vocals
Keyboard
Austin D’Amond
2017
2017
Drums (drum set)
Austin D’Amond
2022
2022
Drums (drum set)
Jeremy Creamer
2011
2014
Bass guitar
Jason Hager
1999
2002
Guitar
Rob Arnold
1999
2011
Guitar
Story of Chimaira
Chimaira (pronounced ky-MEER-a), the Cleveland, Ohio heavy metal titans, exploded onto the scene in August 1998. Their name, derived from the monstrous Greek mythological creature, became synonymous with a sound that blended aggressive metalcore with groove-laden heaviness. The band endured a tumultuous history marked by significant lineup changes, with vocalist Mark Hunter remaining the sole constant member throughout their career. After dissolving in 2014, Chimaira roared back to life with a highly anticipated reunion in 2017, culminating in a full-fledged return in 2023 featuring many of their long-time core members.
Early Days (1998-1999): A Forged in Fire Story
Before Chimaira, vocalist Mark Hunter and bassist Jim LaMarca cut their teeth in the hardcore band Skipline. Their two-year run (1996-1998) abruptly ended when their van, along with all their equipment, was stolen just before their first Rhode Island show. This setback forced the band back to Ohio, effectively ending Skipline. However, from the ashes rose a new opportunity. Hunter was approached by guitarist Jason Hager of the Cleveland metalcore band Ascension to form a new group. Seizing the chance, Hunter and Hager recruited drummer Jason Genaro and bassist Andrew Ermlick, solidifying Chimaira`s initial lineup and launching them into their legendary journey.
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