From First To Last

From First to Last, a pioneering American post-hardcore outfit, exploded onto the scene, officially forming in Tampa, Florida, in November 1999. The band`s initial sonic architects were founding members Matt Good, Scott Oord, and Parker Nelms. Today, the core lineup remains formidable, featuring the versatile Matt Good on lead vocals and searing lead guitar, alongside Travis Richter handling rhythm guitar and raw, unclean vocals, and the powerhouse drumming of Derek Bloom.

Their foundational sound solidified with the 2003 release of their debut EP, Aesthetic, featuring founding vocalist Phillip Reardon. However, internal friction led to Reardon`s departure in 2004, citing personal and creative differences. A pivotal moment followed as From First to Last inked a deal with legendary punk/hardcore label Epitaph Records and brought in the burgeoning talent Sonny Moore as their dynamic new frontman, a move that would prove instrumental in their ascent.

Under Moores electrifying guidance, From First to Last truly broke through with two seminal albums that would become essential listening for the burgeoning post-hardcore scene. Their 2004 full-length debut, *Dear Diary, My Teen Angst Has a Bodycount*, followed by 2006s equally impactful Heroine, became underground sensations. Despite a noticeable absence from mainstream radio airwaves, these albums collectively moved an impressive 304,000 units in the U.S. by 2008, a testament to their devoted fanbase. This era also saw the band dominate the then-unrivaled music social platform, MySpace, where their tracks amassed a staggering 20 million-plus streams by March 2008, cementing their status as a true digital phenomenon.

The band faced a significant turning point in February 2007 with the highly publicized departure of Sonny Moore, who would soon redefine electronic music as the iconic Skrillex. This pivotal shift saw founding member Matt Good reclaim the frontman position, stepping up to both lead vocals and guitar, while Matt Manning joined the ranks on bass. A new chapter began with their signing to Suretone Records, culminating in the release of their third studio effort, the self-titled From First to Last, in 2008. Despite the backing of a high-profile marketing push from the label, the album garnered mixed critical reception and ultimately struggled to connect with audiences, failing to meet commercial expectations set by their previous independent successes.