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Band Timeline
2010
Formation of Real Friends and Early Beginnings
In the fall of 2010, bassist Kyle Fasel sought a fresh start and initiated the formation of Real Friends with lead guitarist Dave Knox. Vocalist Dan Lambton, a friend of Knox, and drummer Aaron Schuck soon joined, marking the band's initial lineup. Their debut EP 'This Is Honesty' was recorded in spring 2011, after which they began performing around the Midwest. Early challenges included lineup changes, notably Schuck's replacement by Brian Blake, and the gradual addition of rhythm guitarist Eric Haines. This period laid the groundwork for the band's signature emotional punk style and growing local fanbase.
2013
Signing with Fearless Records and Building Momentum
In December 2013, Real Friends signed with Fearless Records, a pivotal step that offered them marketing and distribution support while preserving artistic control. This partnership facilitated the recording of their debut studio album, which they completed in February 2014 with producer Seth Henderson. The band strategically increased their visibility by touring extensively, including supporting UK acts like The Wonder Years, which bolstered their reputation within the pop punk scene internationally.
2014
Release of Debut Album 'Maybe This Place Is the Same and We're Just Changing'
'Maybe This Place Is the Same and We're Just Changing' was released on July 22, 2014. The album marked Real Friends' breakthrough, peaking at number 24 on the Billboard 200 and selling over 10,300 copies. Its success was amplified by their participation in the 2014 Vans Warped Tour, where they performed on the Journey’s Stage, exposing them to a wider audience. The album established their presence in the pop-punk genre with heartfelt lyrics and relatable themes.
2015
Continued Growth and Acoustic EP Release
Throughout 2015, the band focused on developing new material and touring to solidify their fanbase. In April, they released 'More Acoustic Songs' for Record Store Day, featuring acoustic renditions of tracks including collaborations such as 'Late Nights in My Car' with Kevin Jordan. This acoustic release showcased their versatility and broadened their appeal by highlighting the emotional depth of their songwriting in a stripped-down format.
2016
Release of Second Album 'The Home Inside My Head'
'The Home Inside My Head' was released on May 27, 2016, following a recording process completed on tour. The band promoted the album with singles like 'Colder Quicker,' supported by a music video and robust touring that included festival appearances and headline shows. The album continued their exploration of themes like mental health and personal struggle, resonating strongly with their audience and maintaining their momentum in the alternative rock scene.
2017
Leading up to Third Album and Single Releases
In late 2017, Real Friends released the single 'Get By' on November 16, setting the stage for their upcoming third album. They maintained an active touring schedule and engaged their fanbase through acoustic sessions and live performances, emphasizing a mature sound that retained their signature emotional honesty while expanding their musical range.
2018
Release of Third Album 'Composure' and Extensive Touring
'Composure,' released on July 13, 2018 through Fearless Records, marked a critical phase as the band's last record with both the label and lead vocalist Dan Lambton. It included singles such as 'From the Outside' and 'Smiling on the Surface,' and was promoted with a North American Warped Tour appearance and headlining US tours. The album charted on multiple Billboard charts and received acclaim from outlets like Alternative Press, underscoring their evolution within the pop-punk genre. Later that year, the band performed at notable festivals and toured Latin America and Europe, expanding their global reach.
2020
Departure of Lead Vocalist Dan Lambton
In 2020, Dan Lambton departed from Real Friends, marking a significant lineup change for the band. This departure came after the release of 'Composure' and ended an era for the group, as Lambton had been a founding member and the voice central to their identity. The band faced the challenge of continuing without his presence, prompting a period of transition and reflection on their future direction.
2024
Independent Release of Fourth Studio Album 'Blue Hour'
On October 11, 2024, Real Friends independently released their fourth studio album, 'Blue Hour.' This album marked a new chapter as they moved away from their previous record labels, Fearless Records and Pure Noise Records. 'Blue Hour' reflects the band's growth and resilience through years of lineup changes and industry challenges. The independent release demonstrates their commitment to creative control and maintaining a direct relationship with their fans as they continue to evolve their sound in the rock and pop-punk genre.
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Story of Real Friends
Real Friends: A Pop Punk Powerhouse From The Midwest
Real Friends, hailing from the suburban sprawl of Tinley Park, Illinois, have carved a solid place in the pop punk scene. Since their formation in 2010, they've unleashed a torrent of music, including seven EPs and three full-length albums. Initially signed to the powerhouse label Fearless Records, they currently rock with Pure Noise Records.
The Early Days: From Garage Jams to Midwest Dominance
In the fall of 2010, bassist Kyle Fasel wasn't feeling the music he was making and yearned for a fresh start. He reached out to lead guitarist Dave Knox, and their shared ambition sparked the birth of Real Friends. Fasel's friend, vocalist Dan Lambton, was quickly brought on board, and the band completed their lineup with the addition of drummer Aaron Schuck.
Their debut EP, "This Is Honesty," dropped in the spring of 2011, igniting a firestorm of energy. Real Friends hit the road, conquering stages across the Midwest and building a passionate fanbase hungry for their energetic blend of pop punk anthems.
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