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A Static Lullaby

A Static Lullaby is an American band formed in , in 2001, known for blending aggressive screamed vocals with melodic guitar hooks and explosive live performances. The band originated from a high school , with its original lineup consisting of vocalist Joe Brown, Phil Pirrone, Brett Dinovo, and guitarists Dan Arnold and Nathan Lindeman. In 2002, they self-released their debut EP Withered, which sold approximately 6,000 copies, before signing with Ferret Records later that year; they followed this with their first full-length album ...And Don't Forget to Breathe in 2003. They later signed with and issued Faso Latido in 2005, then moved to for their self-titled album in 2006 and Rattlesnake! in 2008. Throughout their early career, A Static Lullaby toured extensively with acts like , , and Brand New, solidifying their place in the scene despite lineup changes, including Pirrone's departure following a car accident. The band went on in 2012 but reunited in 2015 for select shows, performing their debut in full and continuing to sporadically. As of 2025, A Static Lullaby remains active, headlining events like a sold-out at The Observatory in , in April, where they played tracks from their iconic .

History

Formation and early years (2001–2002)

A Static Lullaby was formed in , in 2001 by high school friends Joe Brown (vocals), Phil Pirrone (bass and clean vocals), Brett Dinovo (drums), and guitarists Dan Arnold and Nate Lindeman, who came together after a casual that led them to quit their previous bands and unite under the new project. The group wasted no time, performing their debut show just two weeks after formation, which helped generate immediate local buzz in the music scene. That same year, the band independently released a self-titled demo EP featuring tracks such as "Love to Hate, Hate to Love," "The Shooting Star That Destroyed Us All," and "A Sip of Wine Chased with ," marking their entry into recording. Building on this momentum, they followed up in 2002 with the Withered EP, which included reworked versions of the first demo's opening tracks plus "Song for a Broken Heart" and ultimately sold approximately 6,000 copies through grassroots distribution. These releases, combined with frequent local gigs at venues in the region, allowed the band to cultivate a dedicated following within the burgeoning community. The band's early sound drew inspiration from the and movements, particularly acts like and , blending screamed vocals, melodic hooks, and aggressive instrumentation to capture the emotional intensity of the era's underground scene. This direction resonated with local audiences and paved the way for their signing to Ferret Records later in 2002.

Major label signing and initial albums (2003–2005)

In late 2002, A Static Lullaby signed with the independent label Ferret Music, which facilitated the release of their debut studio album, ...And Don't Forget to Breathe, on January 28, 2003. The album, produced by and recorded in studios, showcased the band's sound with dual vocals and aggressive riffs, earning attention through singles such as "Lipgloss and Letdown," which received an official and airplay in 2003, and "The Shooting Star That Destroyed Us," released as a promotional single that year. Following the album's release, the band embarked on extensive touring to build momentum, including appearances on the 2003 Vans Warped Tour, where they performed at multiple stops such as , alongside acts in the and scenes. They also supported prominent groups like during regional dates in 2004, contributing to their growing visibility within the and communities. This period of relentless roadwork solidified their fanbase and led to a major label deal with in 2004. Under Columbia, A Static Lullaby entered the studio with producer Lou Giordano—known for his work with and others—to craft their sophomore effort, Faso Latido, released on April 5, . The album marked a shift toward more polished production and melodic elements while retaining chaotic energy, peaking at number 129 on the chart and featuring singles "Stand Up" and "Radio Silent," which highlighted the band's evolving dual-vocal dynamic. The year's momentum was disrupted in October 2005 when bassist and vocalist Phil Pirrone was involved in a serious car accident on , while driving home from his parents' house in , landing him in intensive care with significant injuries but an expected recovery. Following his hospitalization and rehabilitation, Pirrone departed the band later that year, citing the incident as a catalyst for reevaluating his priorities, which represented the group's first major lineup change.

Self-titled era and transitions (2006–2007)

Following their departure from , A Static Lullaby signed with independent label in May 2006, marking a shift back to a more supportive indie environment after the major label's underwhelming promotion of their previous album, Faso Latido. This transition allowed the band to refocus on their core sound amid significant lineup instability, as in early 2006, three original members—bassist/vocalist Phil Pirrone, drummer Brett Dinovo, and guitarist Nate Lindeman—departed, with Lindeman and Pirrone forming Casket Salesmen. The band's self-titled third album, A Static Lullaby, was released on October 10, 2006, through , debuting at number 173 on the chart and showcasing a blend of aggressive riffs with melodic vocal hooks and clean choruses. Produced by , the record featured standout tracks like the singles "," released with an official on November 28, 2006, and "The Art of Sharing Lovers," which highlighted the band's dual-vocal dynamic between screamed and clean deliveries. To stabilize for the album's recording and promotion, the band recruited bassist Dane Poppin, who contributed backing vocals, and initially drummer , with Tyler Mahurin joining on drums in 2007 to replace Alexander. In support of the album, A Static Lullaby embarked on extensive touring, including a slot on the 2006 Vans Warped Tour alongside acts like , which helped rebuild their live presence and fan connection after the lineup shakeup. The effort paid off in reestablishing their aggressive energy on stage, with Poppin and the drummers anchoring a heavier, more direct sound that resonated with audiences seeking the band's early intensity. Critics praised the self-titled album for returning to the band's heavier roots, contrasting the more experimental and polished Faso Latido with tighter song structures, potent breakdowns, and a renewed emphasis on raw emotion over radio-friendly polish. Reviews highlighted its streamlined elements and vocal interplay as a step forward, though some noted inconsistencies in pacing across the tracklist. Overall, the release was seen as a revitalizing pivot during a turbulent period, solidifying the remaining core members' vision amid the transitions.

Final album and disbandment (2008–2012)

In 2008, A Static Lullaby released their fourth studio album, !, on September 9 through . The record adopted a heavier sound influenced by southern metal, building on the experimental edge of their self-titled effort while emphasizing aggressive riffs and themes of mystery and horror. By this point, the band had sold over 160,000 albums since their debut, though the landscape was shifting amid broader genre saturation. The band supported Rattlesnake! with extensive touring, including the six-week Party Star Tour alongside , , , and , which featured headlining slots across . They also performed international shows and contributed a punk rock cover of ' "Toxic" to the 2009 compilation Punk Goes Pop 2, released via , which gained attention for its ironic reinterpretation in the band's style. However, declining sales and internal lineup adjustments strained the group, compounded by the relentless pace of constant touring that had defined their career. Drummer Brett Dinovo briefly rejoined in 2011. By 2011, A Static Lullaby announced an indefinite hiatus, during which vocalist Joe Brown launched the side project Elevate: , collaborating with former bandmate John Martinez on new material. The break became permanent in January 2012, when guitarist and co-founder Dan Arnold issued a statement confirming the disbandment, expressing gratitude for fan support over 11 years but noting that "touring has been our life" and it was time to move on without a new record, citing burnout and satisfaction with their legacy. The band's final performance occurred on July 7, 2012, as a farewell show in , , at Gor Kertajaya, marking the end of their original run amid unresolved label support and personal exhaustion.

Reunion and recent developments (2013–present)

Following a hiatus that began with their disbandment in 2012, A Static Lullaby announced their reunion in December 2015, reuniting with vocalist Joe Brown, guitarist/vocalist Dan Arnold, bassist/vocals Dane Poppin, and drummer Tyler Mahurin (the band's lineup from 2006–2012) for a series of shows in early 2016. These performances included dates at Soda Bar in on February 26, The in Pomona on February 27, Boardwalk in Orangevale on March 25, and Bottom of the Hill in on March 26, where the band played their debut album ...And Don't Forget to Breathe in full. The shows marked a nostalgic return to their roots, drawing strong attendance from longtime fans eager for the band's signature blend of melodic aggression and emotional intensity. The band remained largely inactive until 2024, when they made a significant comeback with a performance at the California Is for Lovers Festival on August 31 at The Torch at LA Memorial Coliseum in Los Angeles. This appearance, alongside acts like Hawthorne Heights and Finch, was hailed as a full reunion milestone, reigniting interest in the group's catalog amid a broader post-hardcore revival driven by festivals celebrating early-2000s emo and screamo acts. Fan reception was overwhelmingly positive, with social media and live footage capturing enthusiastic crowds singing along to classics like "The Shooting Star That Destroyed Us" and "Lip Gloss and Letdown," underscoring the band's enduring appeal in nostalgic scenes. Building on this momentum, A Static Lullaby announced additional 2025 performances, including a headline show at The Observatory in , on February 8 with support from The Juliana Theory and A Thorn for Every Heart. The tour expanded eastward with dates at in on June 7 and Underground Arts in on June 8, both featuring and The Color Fred. A further show is scheduled for December 13 at KROQ's Almost Acoustic Christmas, announced as the final performance of 2025. These outings have solidified the lineup's stability, with no changes reported as of November 2025, though the group has not announced any new studio material, focusing instead on reissues like the vinyl debut of their 2006 self-titled album via Enjoy The Ride Records. In the revival, A Static Lullaby's sporadic returns have positioned them as influential elders, inspiring younger acts and fostering a among fans who view their music as a cornerstone of the genre's emotional and chaotic ethos.

Musical style

Genre influences and core sound

A Static Lullaby is primarily classified as a band, incorporating elements of , , and in their musical style. Their core sound revolves around a high-energy blend of hardcore aggression and melodic accessibility, featuring fast tempos, intricate dual guitar arrangements, and dynamic drumming that alternates between brutal intensity and soothing interludes. This tension between fury and grandeur is a defining trait, often manifesting in aggressive breakdowns and atmospheric builds that heighten emotional impact. Central to their identity is the contrast between harsh, screamed vocals handled by frontman Joe Brown and clean, melodic singing delivered by guitarist Dan Arnold and bassist Phil Pirrone, creating a dual-vocal approach that amplifies lyrical urgency and melodic hooks. This vocal duality, combined with heavily distorted guitar riffs and abrupt shifts in dynamics, produces a raw yet orchestrated sound that emphasizes emotional depth through screamed outbursts and harmonious choruses. The band's production typically employs thick layers of distortion to underscore the heaviness, while maintaining clarity in melodic passages to ensure broad appeal within the genre. Key influences on their style include post-hardcore acts like and , evident in the incorporation of expansive atmospheric intros and structured aggressive segments that echo the era's ethos. Additional inspirations from heavier bands such as and contribute to the metal-infused edge in their breakdowns and guitar work, while strains add vulnerability to the cleaner vocal lines. These elements collectively shape a signature sound that teeters between visceral brutality and poignant sensitivity, positioning A Static Lullaby as a practitioner of the 2000s dual-vocal wave.

Evolution and lyrical themes

A Static Lullaby's early work, exemplified by their 2003 debut album ...And Don't Forget to Breathe, featured a raw sound rooted in emo-punk influences, characterized by intense "sing-scream" vocals and chaotic energy that captured the volatile shifts typical of the early scene. With their 2005 sophomore release Faso Latido, the band underwent a notable stylistic toward a more mature, rock-oriented approach, incorporating broader dynamics, unconventional production techniques like wah and effects on guitars, and melodic vocal alternations between screams and clean singing, which subverted traditional breakdowns in favor of textured, atmospheric builds. This shift marked a revolutionary step in the genre, blending intense hooks with experimental elements to expand their appeal while maintaining core aggression. By their 2006 self-titled album, A Static Lullaby returned to a more aggressive post-hardcore foundation, balancing raw screams and hardcore riffs with increased melody and listener-friendly production under Steve Evetts, drawing heaviness from acts like Killswitch Engage while softening screamo edges for wider accessibility. The 2008 effort Rattlesnake!, their heaviest and fastest to date, further polished this into a metalcore-leaning sound with rolling riffs, sledgehammer breakdowns influenced by Every Time I Die and The Dillinger Escape Plan, and southern rock textures, emphasizing upbeat experimentation and less melodrama over prior releases' emotional intensity. Overall, the band's progression from raw emo-punk volatility to refined metalcore polish reflected a deliberate maturation, prioritizing dynamic interplay and riff-driven energy. Lyrically, A Static Lullaby consistently explored themes of personal struggles, fractured relationships, , and self-destruction, often employing metaphors of deceptive calm—echoing their name's "static lullaby" concept—to contrast soothing facades with underlying turmoil. Tracks like "A Song for a " delve into emotional desolation and futile longing, with lines evoking ("Tonight, I don’t even have the stars to hold onto") and desperate ("Would a replace his lips?"), underscoring the pain of lost love. These motifs were frequently inspired by real-life adversities, including divorces and interpersonal conflicts, as noted by vocalist Dan Arnold, occasionally weaving in fantasy narratives like a storyline across songs on . This lyrical vulnerability mirrored broader 2000s trends, where bands like and bared raw emotional exposure amid aggressive instrumentation, as seen in A Static Lullaby's "The Shooting Star That Destroyed Us All," which grapples with regret and self-inflicted ruin through imagery of draining vitality and crystalline mistakes. Following their 2012 disbandment and 2016 reunion, the band has focused on live performances revisiting full albums like ...And Don't Forget to Breathe, delivering nostalgic energy without new studio material, though recent shows in 2025 suggest a refined stage presence that amplifies their evolved melodic aggression in a context.

Band members

Current lineup

As of November 2025, A Static Lullaby's current lineup consists of core members from the band's original era who rejoined for the 2015 reunion, supplemented by recent additions for ongoing tours and performances. Joe Brown serves as the frontman and handles unclean vocals, while also acting as the primary songwriter; he has led the band through its reunion activities since 2015. Dan Arnold plays rhythm guitar, contributes clean vocals and programming, and oversees production elements for live and recorded material; a founding member, he returned alongside Brown for the 2015 revival. John "Death" Martinez provides , bringing technical solos to the post-hardcore sound; he initially joined in the mid-2000s and has been part of the reunion lineup since 2015. Kris Comeaux is on drums, delivering the driving rhythms essential for the band's high-energy sets; he came aboard specifically for the 2015 reunion tours and remains active. Kyler Gillam rounds out the group on , adding low-end support and backing vocals; the newest member, he joined in 2024 ahead of 2025 performances.

Former members

Phil Pirrone served as the bassist and provided clean vocals for A Static Lullaby from its formation in 2001 until 2006, contributing significantly to the band's early dual-vocal dynamic alongside lead screamer Joe Brown. As a co-founder, Pirrone helped shape the group's initial sound on debut album ...And Don't Forget to Breathe (2003) and follow-up Faso Latido (2005), where his melodic lines complemented the aggressive instrumentation. His departure in early 2006 followed a serious car accident in 2005 that left him in intensive care, prompting a reevaluation of his priorities. Brett Dinovo was the original drummer for A Static Lullaby, performing from 2001 to 2006 and briefly returning in 2011–2012 to support reunion efforts. He laid the percussive foundation for the band's first two full-length albums, ...And Don't Forget to Breathe (2003) and Faso Latido (2005), driving the fast-paced rhythms that defined their early live energy. Dinovo's exit in 2006 was motivated by a desire to pursue , aligning with other original members' departures during a transitional period. Nate Lindeman co-founded A Static Lullaby in 2001 and played until 2006, delivering the intricate solos and riffs that added technical depth to the band's debut recordings. His contributions were prominent on ...And Don't Forget to Breathe (2003) and Faso Latido (2005), where he handled melodic leads amid the chaotic arrangements. Like Pirrone and Dinovo, Lindeman left in early 2006 to form a new project, marking the end of the original lineup's core. Jarrod Alexander joined as drummer in 2006, providing the rhythmic drive for the band's self-titled album released that year, and remained until 2007. His tenure helped stabilize the band during its transition to Fearless Records following major label challenges. Phil Manansala served as lead guitarist from 2008 to 2009, contributing to the recording and touring for Rattlesnake! (2008) with his aggressive riffing and stage presence. After departing, he went on to join Of Mice & Men, bringing his experience from A Static Lullaby's heavier era. Dane Poppin joined A Static Lullaby as and in 2006, remaining until 2011 and stabilizing the rhythm section during the band's self-titled era. He performed on the self-titled album (2006), contributing to tracks like "The Shooting Star That Destroyed Us," and the subsequent ! (2008), where his bass work supported the evolving heavier sound. After leaving, Poppin briefly toured as a fill-in bassist for Of Mice & Men in 2010–2011. Tyler Mahurin took over as drummer from 2007 to 2011, providing steady support for 's mid-period tours and recordings following Jarrod Alexander's departure. His percussion drove the energy on Rattlesnake!, including dynamic shifts in songs like "Rattlesnake!," and sustained the band's live performances through extensive touring.

Timeline of changes

The timeline of lineup changes for A Static Lullaby reflects a period of stability in the early years followed by frequent shifts during the mid-2000s, inactivity after disbandment, and a reunion with rotating members leading to a more settled configuration in recent years.
PeriodKey Lineup Changes
2001–2005Original formation with Joe Brown (unclean vocals), Dan Arnold (rhythm guitar, clean vocals, keys), Nathan Lindeman (lead guitar), Phil Pirrone (bass), and Brett Dinovo (drums); lineup remains stable until late 2005, when Lindeman, Pirrone, and Dinovo depart.
2006–2007Dane Poppin joins on bass, Jarrod Alexander on drums, and John Martinez on lead guitar to replace the departed members; Alexander and Martinez exit by 2007.
2008–2012Phil Manansala joins on lead guitar in 2008 but leaves in 2009; Tyler Mahurin joins on drums in 2008; Dane Poppin departs in 2011, with Brett Dinovo briefly returning on drums until the band's 2012 disbandment.
2013–2015Band inactive with no lineup activity.
2016–2023Reunion centered on core members Joe Brown and Dan Arnold, with rotating support including past members like Brett Dinovo and Dane Poppin on select shows.
2024–presentStabilization around core of Joe Brown (unclean vocals), Dan Arnold (rhythm guitar, clean vocals), and John Martinez (lead guitar), with Kris Comeaux joining on drums and Kyler Gillam on bass following the 2024 Is For Lovers Festival performance.

Discography

Studio albums

A Static Lullaby's debut studio album, ...And Don't Forget to Breathe, was released on January 28, 2003, through Ferret Music. Produced by , known for his work with bands like Snapcase and , the album captured the band's early energy with aggressive riffs and dual vocal dynamics. It did not chart on the but gained traction in the underground scene, featuring standout tracks like "Lipgloss and Letdown," which highlighted their influences and emotional intensity. The band's second album, Faso Latido, arrived on April 5, 2005, via , marking a shift toward more melodic elements while retaining roots. Produced by Lou Giordano, who had previously worked with and the , the record experimented with cleaner production and atmospheric layers, reflecting the band's evolving songwriting. It peaked at number 129 on the , their highest commercial showing at the time, driven by tours and radio play. In 2006, A Static Lullaby returned to a heavier sound with their self-titled third album, released on through . Once again produced by , the effort emphasized raw aggression and technical guitar work, serving as a stylistic reset after the melodic detour of their prior release. The album debuted at number 173 on the and number 16 on the Independent Albums chart, bolstered by singles like "." The band's fourth and final studio album to date, Rattlesnake!, was issued on September 9, 2008, by Fearless Records. Produced by Steve Evetts for the third time, it incorporated experimental elements such as southern rock textures and unconventional structures, alongside tracks like "The Turn" that showcased their maturing heaviness. The album peaked at number 16 on the Heatseekers Albums chart and number 50 on the Independent Albums chart, amid shifting industry trends and internal changes. Following their 2012 disbandment and 2013 reunion, A Static Lullaby has not released any new studio albums as of 2025, focusing instead on live performances and reissues.

Extended plays

A Static Lullaby's earliest recording, a self-titled demo EP released independently in 2001, laid the groundwork for the band's post-hardcore style through raw, aggressive tracks that blended melodic elements with intense breakdowns. The EP consisted of three songs—"Love to Hate, Hate to Love," "The Shooting Star That Destroyed Us All," and "A Sip of Wine Chased with Cyanide"—which highlighted vocalist Joe Brown's emotive screams and the group's tight rhythmic foundation, drawing early attention in Southern California's underground scene. This release was crucial in honing their live performance energy, fostering a dedicated local following before broader exposure. Building on this momentum, the band issued their follow-up EP, Withered, in as a self-released effort that refined their sound with more polished production while previewing key material for future releases. Featuring four tracks—"Love to Hate, Hate to Me," " That Destroyed Us All," "A Sip of Wine Chased with ," and "A for a "—the EP emphasized themes of heartbreak and turmoil, delivered through dynamic shifts between clean vocals and chaotic instrumentation. It achieved modest commercial success, selling around 6,000 copies independently, and fueled extensive touring that amplified the band's reputation for high-energy shows. Following Withered, A Static Lullaby shifted focus to full-length , producing no additional extended plays as they pursued major label deals and expanded their catalog.

Singles

A Static Lullaby's singles primarily served as promotional vehicles for their , with several tracks gaining traction through radio , music videos, and targeted marketing efforts in the and scenes. The band's debut single "Lipgloss and Letdown," released in 2003 from their album ...And Don't Forget to Breathe, marked their breakout moment, receiving notable radio play and helping to introduce their aggressive yet melodic sound to a wider . "The Shooting Star That Destroyed Us All," also from the 2003 debut album, was an early promotional single that contributed to the record's initial buzz among fans and industry tastemakers. In 2005, "Stand Up" from Faso Latido was issued as a promotional single in the UK, reflecting the band's push for international exposure during a period of lineup changes and stylistic experimentation. The track appeared on a promo CD by Columbia Records, underscoring efforts to broaden their appeal beyond the U.S. market. "Hang 'Em High," the lead single from the band's 2006 self-titled album, was released to promote the record's more polished production and thematic depth, achieving visibility through an accompanying music video and tour support. Featured prominently in reissues and anniversary editions, it exemplified the group's evolving balance of intensity and accessibility. The 2009 cover of Britney Spears' "Toxic," included on the compilation Rattlesnake! and the Punk Goes Pop 2 album, stood out as a unique promotional effort. Produced in collaboration with Fearless Records, the track featured a music video with a fan contest element, where participants created content inspired by the song, generating buzz through creative community engagement. Following the release of Rattlesnake!, A Static Lullaby did not issue any further singles, coinciding with the band's hiatus after 2012 and their subsequent reunion activities focused on live performances and reissues rather than new material as of 2025.

Videography

Music videos

A Static Lullaby released official music videos for key singles across their early , often tying into album promotions and emphasizing the band's energy through performance and elements. The 2003 video for "The Shooting Star That Destroyed Us," from the album ...And Don't Forget to Breathe, adopts a style centered on emotional turmoil, reflecting the song's intense lyrical content. Later that year, the band issued an early promotional video for "Lipgloss and Letdown," also from ...And Don't Forget to Breathe, featuring high-energy performance footage that captures the track's raw, aggressive vibe. The following year, "Hang 'Em High" from the self-titled album was visualized in a dark, aggressive style that aligns with the track's heavier sonic shift, directed by Nicholas Peterson and produced by A Common Thread. The band's 2009 cover of Britney Spears' "Toxic," appearing on Punk Goes Pop 2, came with a humorous music video directed by Robby Starbuck, infusing pop-punk flair through playful visuals and performance elements. Following their 2024 reunion, A Static Lullaby has not released any new official music videos as of 2025, though fan-recorded live footage from tours in 2024 and 2025 is widely available online.

Live recordings

A Static Lullaby has not released a full live or EP as of 2025, though the band's high-energy performances have long contributed to their reputation in the scene, often featuring explosive stage antics and intense crowd interaction that amplify their screamed vocals and melodic elements. The band's most prominent official live recording appears on the 2005 Taste of Chaos DVD, a compilation highlighting performances from the 2004 tour. This release includes two tracks by A Static Lullaby: "The Shooting Star That Destroyed Us" and "Lip Gloss and Letdown," captured during their set alongside acts like and . The footage showcases the group's raw delivery and chaotic stage presence, emblematic of their early-2000s era. While no dedicated live video from their 2006 Download Festival appearance exists officially, fan-captured clips of the performance have circulated online, preserving moments from the UK event where the band played tracks like "Hang 'Em High" amid a lineup featuring Tool and Metallica. Similarly, the 2016 reunion shows, including sets at The Glass House and The Roxy, yielded both fan-recorded full performances and select official clips shared via the band's social channels, highlighting nostalgic renditions of album ...And Don't Forget to Breathe in full. More recent documentation includes footage from the band's 2024 set at Is for Lovers Festival, where official photos and fan videos captured energetic takes on "Rattlesnake!" and "Withered," marking a revival of their live presence. In 2025, highlights from their February 8 show at The Observatory in —featuring support from The Juliana Theory—have been made available through streaming platforms like , with clips of songs such as "Radio Flyer's Last Journey" and their cover of ' "Toxic" emphasizing the sustained intensity of their performances.