Follow Your Favorite Band Today!
Be the first one to follow Of Mice and Men!
Top Of Mice and Men Community Posts
Loading posts...
Sponsor content
Band Timeline
2009
Formation of Of Mice & Men and early lineup establishment
Of Mice & Men was founded in 2009 by Austin Carlile, the former vocalist of Attack Attack!, and bassist Jaxin Hall, originally from Auckland, New Zealand. The band's initial lineup was completed with drummer Valentino Arteaga and guitarist Phil Manansala, who joined after being invited by Carlile. The group relocated to Southern California, where Shayley Bourget replaced Jon Kintz as rhythm guitarist and clean vocalist. Early in 2009, the band gained attention by releasing a cover of Lady Gaga's "Poker Face," which helped them secure a deal with Rise Records. They then recorded their debut self-titled album with Joey Sturgis at Foundation Studios in Indiana.
2010
Release of debut album 'Of Mice & Men' and early tours
The band's debut album, "Of Mice & Men," was released on March 9, 2010, after a delay from the initial February release date. Prior to that, the album was leaked online in February. Music videos for singles "Second & Sebring" and "Those in Glass Houses" helped increase their visibility, with the former premiering on Headbangers Ball. Throughout 2010, Of Mice & Men actively toured, joining the "Squash the Beef Tour" supporting Dance Gavin Dance, and supporting I See Stars on the "Leave It to the Suits Tour." They also participated in the Vans Warped Tour, gaining a following in the metalcore and post-hardcore scenes.
2011
Continued lineup changes and release of 'The Flood'
In 2011, the band experienced key lineup changes. Austin Carlile and Jaxin Hall departed due to personal and health-related reasons. Jerry Roush, initially a temporary replacement, became the lead vocalist but was later replaced by Carlile's return in 2011. The band released their second studio album, "The Flood," which built on their metalcore sound and increased their popularity. Of Mice & Men also toured extensively, including spots on the Vans Warped Tour. These developments helped solidify their presence in the American rock scene.
2014
Release of ‘Restoring Force’ and stylistic evolution
Of Mice & Men's third album, "Restoring Force," came out in 2014, marking a stylistic evolution from their earlier work. The album incorporated more melodic elements and influences from alternative and nu metal while retaining their metalcore roots. This shift broadened their audience and received critical acclaim. The band toured heavily in support of the album, including high-profile appearances at music festivals and multiple headline tours. "Restoring Force" is considered a turning point in their career, demonstrating maturity and versatility.
2016
Departure of Austin Carlile and release of 'Cold World'
In December 2016, Austin Carlile left the band permanently due to ongoing health issues. This was a major transition, as Carlile had been the founding vocalist and a central figure. After his departure, bassist Aaron Pauley stepped up to become lead vocalist while continuing on bass. The band went on to release their fourth studio album, "Cold World," in the same year, which further explored a more melodic yet heavy sound. This era saw Of Mice & Men adapting to the new vocal dynamic and continuing to tour internationally.
2018
Release of ‘Defy’ with Aaron Pauley as frontman
In 2018, Of Mice & Men released their fifth album, "Defy," their first full-length record with Aaron Pauley as the lead vocalist. The album featured a blend of aggression and melody, merging the band's metalcore origins with more nu metal and hard rock influences. "Defy" was praised for its energy and Pauley's powerful performance, establishing the band’s continued relevance and evolution. The group supported the album with extensive touring, expanding their fan base worldwide.
2019
Release of ‘Earthandsky’ and international touring
The sixth studio album, "Earthandsky," was released in 2019 and showcased Of Mice & Men's continued growth in sound, mixing heavy riffs with melodic hooks and emotions. The album was well-received by fans and critics, highlighting mature songwriting and strong production. The band maintained an active touring schedule, performing at major international festivals and headlining tours, reinforcing their standing in the modern rock scene.
2021
Release of ‘Echo’ and maintaining momentum amid challenges
In 2021, Of Mice & Men released "Echo," their seventh studio album. Despite the global challenges that impacted the music industry, the album reflected resilience and adaptability. "Echo" maintained the band's signature blend of metalcore, nu metal, and alternative influences, incorporating melodic vocals and dynamic instrumentation. Continued touring and engagements affirmed the band's commitment to their fans and their evolution over more than a decade.
2023
Release of ‘Tether’ and current status
Of Mice & Men released their eighth studio album, "Tether," in 2023, further showcasing their blend of heavy and melodic elements with an emphasis on raw emotion and growth. The band's lineup currently includes drummer Valentino Arteaga, guitarists Phil Manansala and Alan Ashby, and bassist/lead vocalist Aaron Pauley. The band continues to perform internationally and maintains a significant presence in the rock and metalcore scenes, reflecting their lasting influence and dynamic evolution since their inception in 2009.
Albums
Sponsor content
Members
History
Name
Begin
End
Occupation
Jon Kintz
2009
2009
Lead vocals
Jaxin Hall
2009
2009
Lead vocals
Jon Kintz
2009
2009
Story of Of Mice and Men
Of Mice & Men: A Rock Band's Journey from Metalcore to Mainstream
Of Mice & Men (OM&M for short) is an American rock band that burst onto the scene in 2009, hailing from Costa Mesa, California. The current lineup features drummer Valentino Arteaga, guitarists Phil Manansala and Alan Ashby, and bassist/lead vocalist Aaron Pauley.
The band's origins trace back to the departure of vocalist Austin Carlile from Attack Attack! in mid-2009. Carlile, alongside bassist Jaxin Hall (originally from Auckland, New Zealand), formed OM&M in Columbus, Ohio, marking the start of their rock journey.
OM&M's early sound was firmly rooted in the intense world of metalcore and post-hardcore. Their self-titled debut album, released in 2010, showcased their raw energy and aggressive style. Over time, the band's sound evolved, incorporating more melodic elements and exploring genres like nu metal, alternative metal, and hard rock, while retaining their core musical identity.
This evolution is evident in their discography, which spans eight studio albums:
- Of Mice & Men (2010) - Their explosive debut, firmly in the metalcore realm.
- The Flood (2011) - A continuation of their metalcore sound, further solidifying their place in the scene.
- Restoring Force (2014) - Marking a shift towards a more melodic direction.
- Cold World (2016) - A further exploration of their evolving sound, blending metalcore with alternative rock influences.
- Defy (2018) - A more experimental album, showcasing their continued growth and pushing the boundaries of their sound.
- Earthandsky (2019) - A deeply personal album, reflecting on the band's experiences and internal struggles.
- Echo (2021) - A powerful album exploring themes of introspection and resilience.
- Tether (2023) - Their latest offering, showcasing their ability to continue pushing boundaries while staying true to their core sound.
OM&M's journey has taken them beyond the studio, onto the international stage, performing at major festivals like the Vans Warped Tour (2010, 2011, 2012, 2014) and Soundwave Music Festival (2013, 2015).
Through it all, Of Mice & Men has cemented their place as a powerhouse in the rock scene, constantly evolving and pushing the boundaries of their music while staying true to their core identity. Their journey from metalcore newcomers to genre-bending rock stars is a testament to their talent, hard work, and unwavering passion for music.
Sponsor content
Learn more about Of Mice and Men
