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NOFX

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Band Timeline

1983

Formation of NOFX

NOFX was formed in Los Angeles in 1983 by guitarist Eric Melvin and bassist/vocalist Mike Burkett, known as Fat Mike. They were soon joined by drummer Erik Sandin. Originally named NO-FX, the band took inspiration from a Boston hardcore punk band called Negative FX. In their early days, the band experienced several lineup changes and began developing their punk rock sound.
1984–1987

Early Recordings and Lineup Changes

NOFX recorded their first demo, 'Thalidomide Child,' in 1984, though it did not sell many copies and was thought lost until its re-release in 2012. The band released their self-titled debut EP in 1985 on Mystic Records and continued releasing several EPs. During this period, their drummer Erik Sandin briefly left and was replaced before returning in 1986. The band also faced tragedy when former member Dave Allen died in a car accident. Guitarist Dave Casillas joined in 1987, contributing to their politically charged EP criticizing music censorship.
1988–1991

First Albums and Signing with Epitaph Records

NOFX recorded their debut studio album 'Liberal Animation' in 1988 with Brett Gurewitz of Bad Religion. The album, which humorously criticized vegetarianism, coincided with Fat Mike adopting vegetarianism himself. After releasing their second album 'S&M Airlines' in 1989, the band continued to build their reputation. In 1991, their third album 'Ribbed' was released, and after another lineup change, Aaron Abeyta, known as El Hefe, joined as lead guitarist and trumpeter, completing the classic lineup that would define the band's sound.
1992–1993

Expanding Discography and Growth

With El Hefe, NOFX released the EP 'The Longest Line' and studio albums 'White Trash, Two Heebs and a Bean' in 1992. The band also saw the release of a compilation of early tracks by their former label Mystic Records. This period solidified their presence in the independent punk scene and expanded their fan base considerably through consistent work and touring.
1994

Breakthrough with 'Punk in Drublic'

NOFX released their fifth studio album, 'Punk in Drublic,' on July 19, 1994, through Epitaph Records. This album became their most commercially successful release, eventually earning a gold certification in the United States for sales over 500,000 copies. It is widely regarded as a classic punk album, influencing numerous bands and expanding their mainstream recognition. The album's title is a playful spoonerism and the work showcased their signature fast, melodic punk sound with sharp social commentary.
2008

Television and Wider Exposure

In 2008, NOFX ventured into television by broadcasting their own show on Fuse entitled 'NOFX: Backstage Passport.' This series gave fans insight into the band's tours and lifestyle, further increasing their visibility beyond the traditional punk rock audience. The show demonstrated their enduring appeal and ability to engage with fans in new media formats.
2022

Release of Final Studio Album 'Double Album'

On December 2, 2022, NOFX released their fifteenth and final studio album titled 'Double Album.' This release marked the culmination of a long and prolific career spanning nearly four decades. The album was well received by fans who appreciated the culmination of their musical evolution and consistent punk ethos maintained throughout their career.
2024

Retirement and Farewell Tour

NOFX officially retired in October 2024 after completing a farewell tour. Over their career, the band sold over eight million records worldwide, becoming one of the most successful independent punk bands in history. Their decision to retire marked the end of an era for their dedicated fanbase and the punk rock community at large, closing a significant chapter in underground music history.

Albums

nofx_1st_album
Liberal Animation
14 tracks
1988
nofx_2nd_album
S&M Airlines
12 tracks
1989
nofx_3rd_album
Ribbed
14 tracks
1991
nofx_4th_album
White Trash, Two Heebs and a Bean
13 tracks
1992
nofx_5th_album
Punk in Drublic
17 tracks
1994
nofx_6th_album
Heavy Petting Zoo
13 tracks
1996
nofx_7th_album
So Long and Thanks for All the Shoes
16 tracks
1997
nofx_8th_album
Pump Up the Valuum
14 tracks
2000
nofx_9th_album
BYO Split Series, Volume III
12 tracks
2002
nofx_10th_album
The War on Errorism
14 tracks
2003
nofx_11th_album
Wolves in Wolves’ Clothing
19 tracks
2006
nofx_12th_album
Coaster
2 tracks
2009
nofx_13th_album
Self/Entitled
12 tracks
2012
nofx_14th_album
First Ditch Effort
13 tracks
2016
nofx_15th_album
West Coast vs. Wessex
10 tracks
2020
nofx_16th_album
Single Album
10 tracks
2021
nofx_17th_album
Double Album
10 tracks
2022
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Members

Current

Name
Begin
Occupation

Eric Melvin

1983

Electric guitar

Accordion

Background vocals

Erik Sandin

1986

Drums (drum set)

Fat Mike

1983

Electric bass guitar

Keyboard

Lead vocals

El Hefe

1991

Background vocals

Trumpet

Electric guitar

History

Name
Begin
End
Occupation

Erik Sandin

1983
1985

Drums (drum set)

Steve Kidwiller

1989
1991

Electric guitar

Story of NOFX

NOFX: A Punk Rock Powerhouse

Formed in Los Angeles in 1983, NOFX quickly established themselves as a major force in the punk rock scene. The core trio of Fat Mike (bass/vocals), Eric Melvin (guitar), and Erik "Smelly" Sandin (drums) remained the bands backbone for decades, appearing on every release despite Sandins brief departure in 1985. The lineup solidified in 1991 with the addition of El Hefe on lead guitar and trumpet, creating the most iconic NOFX iteration.

Their success paralleled the punk rock resurgence of the 1990s, yet they notably achieved this without ever signing to a major label. Over a career spanning more than four decades, NOFX built a formidable discography: fifteen studio albums, sixteen EPs, and numerous singles. Their breakthrough came with 1994s *Punk in Drublic*, their only album to achieve RIAA gold certification. The bands influence culminated in their fifteenth and final studio album, Double Album, released December 2, 2022. Having sold over eight million records worldwide, NOFX cemented their place as one of the most successful independent bands in history. Their cultural impact extended beyond music; in 2008, they even hosted their own show, NOFX: Backstage Passport, on Fuse. The band concluded their legendary career with a farewell tour in 2024.

Early Years (1983-1987):

The band`s origins trace back to 1983 when Eric Melvin and Fat Mike (then Mike Burkett) formed NO-FX, a name inspired by the Boston hardcore band Negative FX. They were soon joined by Erik "Smelly" Sandin on drums, launching their impactful journey through the annals of punk rock history.

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