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Neon Trees

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Band Timeline

2005

Formation of Neon Trees

Neon Trees was formed in late 2005 in Provo, Utah by childhood friends Tyler Glenn and Chris Allen, both originally from Murrieta, California. The initial lineup included five members: Glenn (vocals, keyboards), Allen (guitar, vocals), along with Utah music scene veterans Mike Liechty (bass), Jason Gibbons (drums), and Nathan Evans (keyboards). The band took its name from the neon-lit trees on In-N-Out Burger signs, inspired by Glenn's experiences. Early on, they started performing and began crafting their distinctive rock sound.
2006

Early Releases and Lineup Changes

In 2006, Neon Trees released their first EP titled 'Becoming Different People,' which helped establish their presence with tracks like 'Phones' and 'Sister Stereo.' During this period, the band toured California and underwent lineup changes, settling into a four-member group with Branden Campbell joining on bass and Elaine Bradley on drums and vocals. These changes helped stabilize the band's core lineup and set the stage for future success.
2008

Exposure Through Touring with The Killers and Signing to Mercury Records

In 2008, Neon Trees gained significant exposure by opening for The Killers during several North American tour dates. This opportunity arose partly due to connections between band members and The Killers' drummer Ronnie Vannucci Jr., who became an early supporter. The tour expanded their audience and led to the band being signed by the major label Mercury Records in late 2008, marking a critical turning point from an independent act to a mainstream rock band.
2010

Debut Album 'Habits' and Breakthrough Single 'Animal'

March 2010 saw the release of Neon Trees' debut studio album 'Habits' under Mercury/Island Def Jam. The lead single, 'Animal,' achieved impressive commercial success, reaching number 13 on the Billboard Hot 100 and topping the Alternative Songs chart. The song received widespread media attention and was featured in various TV performances, including Jimmy Kimmel Live! and The Tonight Show. The album also produced singles like '1983' and 'Your Surrender,' which charted on alternative radio. This year marked the band's commercial breakthrough and established their footprint in the rock music scene.
2012

Second Album 'Picture Show' Released

Neon Trees released their second studio album, 'Picture Show,' in April 2012. The album further solidified their popularity, peaking at number 17 on the Billboard 200 chart. The record continued their exploration of alternative rock and pop sounds, benefiting from the momentum gained from their debut. The band supported the album with tours and garnered critical attention, helping maintain their presence in the competitive music market.
2014

Release of Third Album 'Pop Psychology'

In 2014, Neon Trees released their third studio album, 'Pop Psychology.' This album displayed a maturation of their sound, combining catchy hooks with more introspective lyrics. It reflected the band's evolving artistic identity and demonstrated their willingness to experiment with new musical styles. The release contributed to keeping the band relevant among their fan base and in the broader alternative rock landscape.
2020

Fourth Album 'I Can Feel You Forgetting Me' and Continued Career

After a six-year gap in studio album releases, Neon Trees returned in 2020 with their fourth album, 'I Can Feel You Forgetting Me.' This release marked their ongoing relevance and adaptability in the modern music scene, showcasing their ability to produce fresh material years after their initial success. The band continued to engage audiences through new music and performances, reinforcing their place in American rock music.
2024

Fifth Album 'Sink Your Teeth' Released

In 2024, Neon Trees released their fifth studio album, 'Sink Your Teeth.' This album represents the latest chapter in their career, continuing their tradition of alternative rock infused with pop sensibilities. The release highlights the band's longevity and sustained creativity over nearly two decades. The album contributes to their discography as established artists who have consistently evolved while maintaining their distinctive sound.

Albums

neon-trees_1st_album
Habits
8 tracks
2010
neon-trees_2nd_album
Picture Show
15 tracks
2012
neon-trees_3rd_album
Pop Psychology
10 tracks
2014
neon-trees_4th_album
I Can Feel You Forgetting Me
10 tracks
2020
neon-trees_5th_album
Sink Your Teeth
12 tracks
2024
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Members

Current

Name
Begin
Occupation

Elaine Bradley

2006

Chris Allen

N/A

Branden Campbell

2006

Tyler Glenn

N/A

Story of Neon Trees

Neon Trees, hailing from Provo, Utah, exploded onto the national scene in late 2008. Their electrifying performances opening for The Killers on several North American tour dates catapulted them to wider recognition, quickly leading to a record deal with Mercury Records. Their debut single, "Animal," became a chart-topping hit, reaching No. 13 on the Billboard Hot 100 and conquering the Alternative Songs chart at No. 1.

Since then, this indie-rock powerhouse has solidified their place in the music world, releasing five studio albums: Habits (2010), Picture Show (2012), Pop Psychology (2014), I Can Feel You Forgetting Me (2020), and Sink Your Teeth (2024). Their prolific output also includes eight EPs (two exclusive to iTunes) and fourteen singles, showcasing their diverse musicality and sustained creative energy.

The band's history began with childhood friends Tyler Glenn (vocals, keyboards) and Chris Allen (guitar, vocals), originally from Murrieta, California. Relocating to Provo, Utah, they formed the core of Neon Trees, later adding Branden Campbell (bass guitar, vocals) and Elaine Bradley (drums, percussion, vocals) to complete their powerful lineup. David Charles rounds out the live experience as their touring guitarist.

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