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Band Timeline

2009

Formation and Early EPs

Highly Suspect was formed in 2009 in Cape Cod, Massachusetts, initially as a cover band playing songs by artists such as Sublime, Jimi Hendrix, and Pink Floyd. The band members—twin brothers Rich and Ryan Meyer along with Johnny Stevens—started by performing in local bars. They released their first EP, First Offense, on July 15, 2009, which included their earliest original songs. This period saw the band honing their style and building a local following through live performances and early releases.
2010-2013

Development Through EPs and Moving to Brooklyn

Between 2010 and 2013, Highly Suspect released several EPs including Gang Lion (2010), The Worst Humans (2012), and Black Ocean (2013). Their music evolved, incorporating heavier and more diverse rock elements. Having moved to Brooklyn, New York, they began working with producer Joel Hamilton. Their fourth EP, Black Ocean, formed a crucial bridge towards their debut full-length album, featuring key tracks like "Lydia" which would later become significant in their career. The band further developed a strong independent presence, leveraging digital platforms and touring with various rock acts.
2015

Debut Studio Album 'Mister Asylum' and Breakthrough

Highly Suspect released their debut studio album, Mister Asylum, on July 17, 2015. Produced by Joel Hamilton and released via 300 Entertainment, the album was critically acclaimed and commercially successful. The single "Lydia" reached number 4 on the US Mainstream Rock Songs chart and received significant airplay. Another single, "Bloodfeather," also charted well. They toured with prominent bands such as Deftones and Halestorm. This album earned them a Grammy nomination for Best Rock Album and propelled Highly Suspect to wider recognition in the rock music scene.
2016-2017

Second Album 'The Boy Who Died Wolf' and Chart Success

In 2016, Highly Suspect traveled to Bogota, Colombia to record their second album, The Boy Who Died Wolf, which was released on November 18, 2016. The lead single "My Name Is Human" achieved notable success, topping the US Mainstream Rock Songs chart and earning a Grammy nomination for Best Rock Song. The follow-up single "Little One" also performed well, peaking at number 2 on the same chart. This era marked the consolidation of the band's presence on mainstream rock radio and continued critical acclaim, with extensive touring and festival appearances.
2019

Release of Third Studio Album 'MCID'

Highly Suspect released their third studio album, MCID, in 2019. This album saw the band exploring and expanding their musical style further, incorporating elements of hip-hop and more experimental rock. MCID continued to solidify Highly Suspect's status as a versatile and dynamic rock band. The release was supported by singles and tours, and it highlighted the band's willingness to experiment and evolve their sound beyond traditional rock parameters.
2022

Fourth Album 'The Midnight Demon Club' Released

The Midnight Demon Club, the fourth studio album by Highly Suspect, was released in 2022. This album continued to showcase the band's eclectic style, blending rock with gritty, edgy themes. The release was met with positive reviews and helped maintain their relevance in a competitive rock landscape. The album release also included supporting tours and promotional activities, reinforcing their commitment to engaging their fanbase and expanding their artistic horizons.
2024

Fifth Studio Album 'As Above, So Below' Launch

On July 19, 2024, Highly Suspect released their fifth studio album, As Above, So Below. This latest offering reflected the band's maturity and evolution over their career, further pushing the boundaries of their sound. The release was significant as it marked their continued presence and influence in the rock genre over 15 years. Accompanying the album were various promotional efforts and tours aimed at reaching both loyal fans and new audiences.
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Members

Current

Name
Begin
Occupation

Johnny Stevens

N/A

Electric guitar

Ryan Meyer

2009

Membranophone

Johnny Stevens

N/A

Synthesizer

Rich Meyer

2009

Lead vocals

Ryan Meyer

2009

Lead vocals

Johnny Stevens

N/A

Lead vocals

Rich Meyer

2009

Bass guitar

Story of Highly Suspect

Highly Suspect: A Rock Band's Journey from Bar Covers to Global Recognition

Highly Suspect, hailing from Cape Cod, Massachusetts, is a force to be reckoned with in the modern rock scene. This quartet, comprised of twin brothers Rich (bass, backing vocals) and Ryan Meyer (drums, backing vocals), alongside Johnny Stevens (guitar, lead vocals) and Matt Kofos (guitar, synthesizer, backing vocals), has climbed the ranks from humble bar cover band beginnings to international acclaim.

Their journey began in the early 2000s, honing their skills by performing covers of rock legends like Sublime, Jimi Hendrix, and Pink Floyd. They captivated audiences at various Cape Cod hotspots, including the British Beer Company, J.R. Brody's Roadside Tavern, and Sundancers. Early tours with bands like 10 Years, Monster Truck, and Sevendust further honed their live performance skills.

A pivotal moment arrived when they relocated to Brooklyn, New York. There, they crossed paths with producer Joel Hamilton, who helped them craft their debut EP, "The Worst Humans." This release was a taste of things to come, showcasing their raw energy and distinctive sound.

In 2015, Highly Suspect unleashed their full-length debut, "Mister Asylum." This album garnered critical acclaim and a Grammy nomination for Best Rock Album at the 58th Annual Grammy Awards. Their song "Lydia" also received a nod for Best Rock Song, solidifying their place as a leading force in contemporary rock.

They continued their ascent with "The Boy Who Died Wolf" in 2016, which spawned the hit singles "My Name Is Human" (topping the Billboard US Mainstream Rock Songs chart) and "Little One" (peaking at number 2 on the same chart).

2019 saw the release of their third studio album, "MCID," further solidifying their signature sound and expanding their fan base. The band continued to evolve, delivering their fourth studio album, "The Midnight Demon Club," in 2022.

Most recently, Highly Suspect has released their fifth album, "As Above, So Below" in July 2024. This record promises to be a defining moment for the band, pushing the boundaries of their sound and establishing them as a cornerstone of the contemporary rock landscape.

From humble beginnings in Cape Cod to a global audience, Highly Suspect's story is a testament to talent, perseverance, and a refusal to compromise their artistic vision. They've proven their ability to captivate audiences with their intense live shows and infectious music, solidifying their status as one of the most exciting rock bands today.

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