Nonpoint
Nonpoint is an American heavy metal band formed in 1997 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, renowned for pioneering the nu metal and rap-rock genres with aggressive riffs, heavy grooves, and introspective lyrics delivered through vocalist Elias Soriano's dynamic style.[1] The band's current lineup consists of Elias Soriano on vocals, Robb Rivera on drums, Rasheed Thomas on rhythm guitar and backing vocals, Adam Woloszyn on bass, and Jaysin Zeilstra on lead guitar.[2] Emerging from the South Florida metal scene alongside acts like Puya and Endo, Nonpoint self-released their debut album Separate Yourself in 1998 before signing with MCA Records for their major-label breakthrough Statement in 2000, which peaked at No. 166 on the Billboard 200 and featured the hit single "Mindtrip."[3][4] Subsequent releases, including Development (2002, peaking at No. 52 on the Billboard 200), Recoil (2004), and To the Pain (2005, which sold over 415,000 copies), solidified their presence in the early 2000s nu metal wave, with singles like "What a Day" (No. 24 on Mainstream Rock) and "Bullet with a Name" (No. 22 on Mainstream Rock) earning radio play and MTV rotation.[3] After navigating label changes and lineup shifts—including the departure of original guitarist Andrew Goldman in 2008 and bassist Ken MacMillan in 2011—Nonpoint went independent, releasing the self-titled Nonpoint (2012) on Razor & Tie with the track "Left for You" and The Return (2014) on Razor & Tie in North America, before signing with Metal Blade Records in 2014 for international distribution, while amassing over 800,000 album sales in North America.[1][3] The band has performed at major events like Ozzfest (2001 and 2002), Rock on the Range, and Summerfest, and toured with prominent groups including Stone Sour, Disturbed, Sevendust, and Seether, maintaining a consistent output into the 2020s with recent efforts like the 2021 EP Ruthless, the 2025 live album Statement: 25th Anniversary (Live In Studio), and anniversary celebrations for their catalog in 2025.[1][](https://open.spotify.com/album/Statement: 25th Anniversary (Live In Studio))History
Formation and early years (1997–2004)
Nonpoint was formed in 1997 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, by vocalist Elias Soriano, bassist Ken MacMillan, guitarist Andrew Goldman, and drummer Robb Rivera.[5] The band emerged from the local heavy music scene, drawing on influences from rap metal and alternative rock to craft an aggressive sound blending screamed vocals, groovy riffs, and rhythmic interplay. Early rehearsals and performances took place in small venues around South Florida, where the group honed their high-energy live shows and built a grassroots following through word-of-mouth and demo tapes.[6] The band's initial recordings were independent efforts aimed at capturing their raw intensity. In late 1997, Nonpoint self-released their debut album, Separate Yourself, a 12-track effort recorded at Studio 13 that showcased their fusion of heavy grooves and lyrical themes of personal struggle.[7] This was followed by the 1999 album Struggle on the independent Jugular Records label, which included re-recorded tracks from the debut alongside new material like early versions of "Mindtrip" and "Double Stacked."[4] Local radio play and relentless gigging in the Southeast generated significant buzz, leading major labels to take notice after the band shopped polished demos.[8] In 2000, Nonpoint signed with MCA Records, marking their entry into the major-label arena after two years of non-stop regional touring.[9] Their debut for the label, Statement, arrived later that year, produced by Jason Bieler at Elysian Studios in Boca Raton, Florida. The album featured polished production that amplified the band's rhythmic drive, with singles like "What a Day" achieving #24 on the Mainstream Rock chart through heavy rotation on rock radio stations.[10] Statement propelled Nonpoint onto national tours, including opening slots for established acts like Sevendust during their 2001 run with Fuel.[11] Nonpoint followed with their second MCA album, Development, released on June 25, 2002, and again produced by Jason Bieler. The album peaked at No. 52 on the Billboard 200 and continued to build on their nu metal sound with tracks like "Circles" and "Excess of Fatigue," earning further radio play and solidifying their growing fanbase.[12] Key milestones in the early 2000s included Nonpoint's participation in Ozzfest 2001 on the second stage, where they delivered high-octane sets alongside bands like Drowning Pool and Spineshank, exposing them to massive audiences at amphitheaters across the U.S.[13] This period solidified their reputation as a formidable live act. By 2004, the band returned with Recoil on Lava Records (a Universal imprint), again produced by Bieler, which leaned into heavier, more introspective themes while maintaining their signature aggression.[14] The album's release capped a foundational era of growth, transitioning Nonpoint from local upstarts to a recognized force in the nu metal landscape.Rise to prominence (2005–2009)
Nonpoint's rise to prominence began with the release of their studio album To the Pain, on November 8, 2005, through independent label Bieler Bros. Records.[15] The album was produced by guitarist Andrew Goldman and marked the band's first project under the new label after departing from Lava Records.[16] Key singles included "Bullet with a Name," which peaked at No. 22 on the Billboard Mainstream Rock chart, and "Alive and Kicking."[17] "Bullet with a Name" gained additional exposure through its inclusion on the soundtrack for the video game WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2007.[18] To the Pain debuted at No. 147 on the Billboard 200, selling approximately 9,000 copies in its first week, and had sold over 415,000 units in the United States by September 2008.[17][19] The band's lineup remained stable during this period, featuring vocalist Elias Soriano, drummer Robb Rivera, bassist Ken MacMillan, and guitarist Andrew Goldman, whose contributions helped refine Nonpoint's aggressive nu metal sound with rap-infused verses and heavy riffs.[4] Building on this momentum, Nonpoint released their studio album Vengeance, on November 6, 2007, again via Bieler Bros. Records.[20] Produced by the band alongside Matt LaPlant, the album emphasized themes of resilience and aggression, with tracks like "What I Do Best" and "March of War" showcasing their evolving songwriting.[20] Vengeance debuted at No. 129 on the Billboard 200, selling around 8,400 copies in its opening week.[21] Later that year, in September 2008, founding guitarist Andrew Goldman departed the band, and Chicago-based musician Zach Broderick joined as his replacement, providing continuity for live performances and contributing to the group's dynamic.[22] The period was defined by intensive touring that elevated Nonpoint's visibility in the rock scene. In late 2006 and early 2007, they supported Disturbed on the Music as a Weapon 3 tour alongside Stone Sour and Flyleaf, performing across North American venues and exposing their music to larger audiences.[23] Nonpoint also headlined their own U.S. tours and appeared at major festivals, including Rock on the Range in Columbus, Ohio, in May 2008, where they shared the bill with acts like Kid Rock and Disturbed.[24] These opportunities solidified their reputation as a reliable live act, blending high-energy sets with fan-favorite material from To the Pain and Vengeance. By early 2009, following the completion of Vengeance-era commitments, Nonpoint amicably parted ways with Bieler Bros. Records after a decade of collaboration, allowing the band to pursue new management and label opportunities amid shifting industry dynamics.[25] This transition marked the end of their most commercially active major-label-adjacent phase, during which they achieved steady chart presence and broadened their fanbase through strategic touring and media placements.Independent phase (2010–2018)
Following their departure from Bieler Bros. Records in early 2009, Nonpoint transitioned to greater independence, self-releasing their studio album Miracle on May 4, 2010, through the band's own 954 Records in partnership with Rocket Science Ventures and RED Distribution. Produced by Mudvayne's Chad Gray and Greg Tribbett at The Machine Shop in Racine, Wisconsin, the record emphasized themes of personal resilience and lyrical introspection amid career uncertainties, with tracks like the title song reflecting survival and renewal. The album debuted at No. 59 on the Billboard 200, marking a modest but dedicated return focused on artistic control rather than commercial peaks.[26][27][28] In late 2011, the band underwent significant lineup changes to reinvigorate their sound, parting ways with longtime bassist Ken MacMillan and guitarist Zach Broderick after over a decade with the group. They recruited rhythm guitarist Rasheed Thomas, lead guitarist Dave Lizzio, and bassist Adam Woloszyn, forming a refreshed core alongside vocalist Elias Soriano and drummer Robb Rivera that would anchor the next several releases. This new configuration signed with Razor & Tie Records in November 2011, leading to the band's self-titled studio album on October 9, 2012, produced by Johnny K at Groovemaster Studios in Chicago. The effort showcased stylistic experimentation with heavier riffs and melodic hooks, highlighted by the lead single "I Said It," which addressed themes of confrontation and self-assertion, and was offered as a free download to fans.[29][30][31][32] The independent momentum continued with The Return, released September 30, 2014, via Razor & Tie in North America and Metal Blade Records internationally, again produced by Johnny K with engineering by Daniel Salcido. Clocking in at 13 tracks, the album delved into raw emotional territory, with the lead single "Breaking Skin" capturing defiance and recovery through aggressive nu-metal grooves blended with alternative rock accessibility; it debuted at No. 38 on the Billboard 200, their highest charting since 2006. Amid this, in July 2014, lead guitarist Dave Lizzio departed and was replaced by B.C. Kochmit, formerly of Sw1tched and Eye Empire, injecting fresh energy into live performances before his own brief tenure ended. Nonpoint's touring during this era shifted toward supporting slots with established acts like Staind and Sevendust, alongside headline runs in mid-sized clubs and theaters such as The Fillmore in Detroit and House of Blues venues, fostering direct fan connections in an era of DIY promotion.[33][34][35] By 2016, Nonpoint signed with Spinefarm Records, releasing The Poison Red on July 8, produced by Rob Ruccia at The Blue Room in Studio City, California. The 11-track outing explored darker, introspective themes of personal trials, addiction, and emotional turmoil, with songs like "Passive" and "Paradigm" blending heavy breakdowns and atmospheric builds to convey vulnerability without losing the band's signature intensity. This period's artistic freedom allowed for bolder experimentation, moving away from polished radio aims toward raw, narrative-driven rock. The phase culminated with X (pronounced "ten"), their tenth studio album, on August 24, 2018, also via Spinefarm and produced by Fred Archambault at Uptown Recording Studio in Chicago. Commemorating over two decades since the band's 1997 formation, the record featured 12 songs emphasizing evolution and grit, such as "Crisis," and maintained the independent ethos with focused promotion through streaming and live shows in comparable venues. Throughout 2010–2018, these releases solidified Nonpoint's resilience, prioritizing creative autonomy and steady touring over major-label scale.[36][37][38]Recent activities (2019–present)
In April 2021, Nonpoint announced the formation of their independent record label, 361 Degrees Records, to maintain full creative control over their future releases.[39] The label was established by vocalist Elias Soriano and drummer Robb Rivera, allowing the band to bypass traditional industry constraints and directly manage production and distribution.[40] This move marked a continuation of their independent phase, enabling quicker output of new material without external approvals. Since their last full-length studio album, X, released in 2018, Nonpoint has focused on EPs and singles rather than comprehensive albums, experimenting with shorter formats amid the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.[41] Key releases include the single "Ruthless" in May 2021, which peaked at No. 16 on Billboard's Mainstream Rock chart, and the accompanying Ruthless EP in December 2021, as well as the Heartless EP in November 2023, led by the single "Heartless" released in February 2023.[42][43] These projects, produced under 361 Degrees Records, incorporated thematic elements inspired by The Wizard of Oz, with "Ruthless" introducing a reimagined Tin Man character and "Heartless" exploring his emotional void.[44] The band's lineup stabilized in late 2019 following the departure of guitarist B.C. Kochmit in August, with Jaysin Zeilstra joining as permanent lead guitarist in November to solidify the current roster alongside Soriano, Rivera, rhythm guitarist Rasheed Thomas, and bassist Adam Woloszyn.[45] This configuration has supported a return to intensive touring post-pandemic, though the period brought significant hurdles, including the complete halt of live performances in 2020 and delayed plans for the Ruthless EP originally slated for that year.[41] To sustain fan engagement during lockdowns, Nonpoint produced streaming content such as the "Alive & Kicking (Quarantine Sessions)" performance in 2020, adapting to virtual formats while navigating economic uncertainties in the live music industry.[46] Major tours resumed in 2023 with Nonpoint supporting Mudvayne on "The Psychotherapy Sessions" alongside Coal Chamber, GWAR, and Butcher Babies, running from July to August across North American venues. Building on this momentum, the band launched "The Painful Statements Tour" in January 2025, celebrating the 25th anniversary of their debut album Statement (2000) and the 20th anniversary of To the Pain (2005), with special guests Crobot and Heartsick.[47] The tour features rarely performed tracks from these albums, emphasizing deep cuts and fan favorites like "Bullet with a Name" and "What a Day" to highlight their foundational sound. In September 2025, Rivera revealed in an interview that Nonpoint had 16-17 new songs in various stages of completion, with many drums already recorded at home, signaling plans for their first full-length album since 2018 potentially in late 2025 or 2026.[41] He noted the band's two-year writing process and expressed enthusiasm for returning to a traditional album format after testing EPs, aiming for about 10 tracks to recapture their biennial release rhythm disrupted by the pandemic.[41]Artistry
Musical style
Nonpoint's musical style is primarily rooted in nu metal and alternative metal, incorporating groove metal and rap metal elements particularly in their early work. The band's sound features aggressive, riff-driven compositions that emphasize heavy, syncopated guitar work and rhythmic intensity, often delivered through drop tunings to achieve a low-end punch suitable for their groove-oriented songwriting.[48][49][50] Central to their identity are the versatile vocals of frontman Elias Soriano, who employs a rap-singing delivery blending rapid-fire spoken-word verses with melodic, anthemic choruses, complemented by occasional screams for emphasis. This vocal approach pairs with signature heavy breakdowns—intense, mosh-pit-inducing sections—and dynamic shifts between aggression and catchiness, creating a high-energy contrast that defines tracks across their catalog. Production techniques in their later albums, such as The Poison Red (2016) and Vengeance (2007), incorporate layered guitar textures for depth and subtle electronic accents to enhance atmospheric elements, while maintaining a raw, organic edge.[51][52][53] The band's style has evolved notably over their career, beginning with the raw aggression of their debut Statement (2000), which showcased nu metal's kinetic fury through relentless riffs and rap-infused aggression. By Miracle (2010), Nonpoint shifted toward a more melodic hard rock sensibility, integrating pop-rock hooks and cleaner production while retaining core heaviness, marking a revitalized, radio-friendly phase. This progression circled back with X (2018), where they returned to heavier roots by infusing thrashy grooves and intensified breakdowns, blending their foundational intensity with matured songcraft. Subsequent releases, such as the Heartless EP (2023), continue this trajectory by revisiting early nu metal aggression with heavy grooves and melodic contrasts.[54][55][56][57][58] Comparisons often highlight a fusion of Limp Bizkit's rap-rock energy and Sepultura's groove metal precision, adapted into Nonpoint's distinctive, groove-centric approach.[54][55][56][57]Influences
Nonpoint's sound draws heavily from nu metal pioneers, with frontman Elias Soriano citing Korn and Limp Bizkit as early influences after attending their concert alongside Helmet, which marked a pivotal exposure to the genre's rap-rock fusion.[59] Groove metal elements are evident through the band's covers and stylistic nods to Pantera, a major influence on guitarist Mark "Dis" Broderick's riffing approach.[53] Broader inspirations include hip-hop and classic rock, reflecting the diverse backgrounds of the members. Soriano, who initially gravitated toward hip-hop and R&B before embracing rock in his early 20s via local music scenes, credits artists like Steely Dan, Billy Joel, James Taylor, Prince, Michael Jackson, Kansas, Journey, and James Brown for shaping his emotional vocal delivery and melodic sensibilities during adolescence.[60][51] Drummer Robb Rivera contributes a metal edge rooted in thrash and hard rock, influenced by drummers such as Neil Peart (Rush), John Bonham (Led Zeppelin), Bill Ward (Black Sabbath), Stewart Copeland (The Police), Alex Van Halen (Van Halen), and Eric Carr (Kiss), which adds dynamic grooves and intensity to the band's rhythm section.[61][62] Personal factors further inform their artistry, particularly Soriano's Puerto Rican heritage, which infuses lyrical themes of cultural pride and personal struggle, as showcased in Spanish-language tracks like "Orgullo" and the recurring coquí frog motif symbolizing resilience from Puerto Rican folklore.[63][64] Bassist Ken Charman has highlighted the band's collective admiration for acts like Rage Against the Machine, Tool, and Deftones, fostering a competitive drive toward rhythmic complexity and alternative metal textures.[65] Collaborative experiences with producers have refined their evolution, such as working with Johnny K (known for Disturbed and Staind), whose 90s alternative metal production techniques emphasized polished aggression on albums like the self-titled 2012 release.[1] Early influences dominated Nonpoint's 2000s output with raw, aggressive nu metal and rap-infused heaviness on albums like Statement (2000), while later works incorporated post-grunge melodicism and bluesy chord structures for broader accessibility.[66][67]Band members
Current members
The current lineup of Nonpoint, as of 2025, centers around founding members Elias Soriano and Robb Rivera, who have maintained the band's core identity through decades of evolution. Elias Soriano serves as lead vocalist since the band's formation in 1997, acting as the primary songwriter and charismatic frontman renowned for his dynamic stage presence that energizes crowds during performances.[68][69] His contributions extend to lyrics and production, shaping Nonpoint's signature blend of aggression and melody across their catalog.[69] Robb Rivera has been the drummer since 1997, delivering thrash-influenced rhythms that underpin the band's high-energy sound.[1] His technical prowess and endurance have been pivotal in recent developments, including his vocal advocacy for the band's upcoming full-length album, with over 16 new songs already in progress as of September 2025.[41] Rasheed Thomas joined as rhythm guitarist in late 2011, bringing additional layers of groove to the band's live sets through his rhythmic precision and backing vocals.[6][70] His integration has enhanced the ensemble's tightness, particularly in extended touring scenarios. Adam Woloszyn took over bass duties in late 2011, emphasizing a robust low-end drive that bolsters the foundation in recent studio recordings and live outings.[6][70] Jaysin Zeilstra (also known as Jason Zeilstra) assumed lead guitar responsibilities in November 2019, excelling in intricate solos and harmonic interplay during tours such as the 2025 Painful Statements run, which celebrates key album anniversaries.[45][70][71] His addition has injected fresh technical flair into the group's performances. The longstanding partnership between Soriano and Rivera provides essential stability, allowing newer members to build upon the band's established foundation while pushing forward with new creative directions.[1]Former members
Nonpoint's original lineup included co-founders Ken MacMillan on bass and backing vocals from 1997 to 2011, during which he contributed to the band's first six studio albums, including Statement (2000), Development (2002), Recoil (2004), To the Pain (2005), Vengeance (2007), and Miracle (2010); he departed in late 2011 due to fatigue from constant touring and a desire to pursue work in graphic design.[72][6] Andrew Goldman, another co-founder, served as guitarist and backing vocalist from 1997 to 2008, playing a key role in crafting the band's early nu metal riffs and appearing on the first five albums up to Vengeance; he left in September 2008 to pursue personal interests outside the music industry.[73][74] Zach Broderick joined as guitarist in 2008 following Goldman's exit and remained until 2011, contributing lead guitar work to Miracle and helping stabilize the band during a transitional period; his departure alongside MacMillan was announced in November 2011, though no specific reasons were detailed beyond an amicable split to allow for new directions.[72][75] Dave Lizzio took on lead guitar duties from 2011 to 2014, performing on the self-titled album (2012) and The Return of the Messiah (2013) while bringing a fresh energy to live shows; he announced his exit in July 2014, expressing heartbreak over the decision, which the band described as mutual to facilitate further evolution.[34][76] B.C. Kochmit (also known as Bradley Kochmit) handled lead guitar from 2014 to 2019, replacing Lizzio and contributing to The Poison Red (2016) and X (2018) with his aggressive style rooted in prior bands like Eye Empire; he stepped away in August 2019 primarily to prioritize family commitments amid health and financial challenges.[77][78] These lineup shifts, particularly after 2008, marked a turbulent phase for Nonpoint as they navigated independent releases and label changes, occasionally impacting tour cohesion but ultimately fostering resilience through new talent integration.[79][67]Discography
Studio albums
Nonpoint's studio discography spans over two decades, beginning with their independent releases and evolving through major-label and independent efforts that reflect the band's shift from nu metal roots to a more diverse hard rock sound. The band's albums have generally achieved moderate commercial success on the Billboard 200, with peak positions declining as they transitioned from major labels to self-managed productions, though they maintained a dedicated fanbase. Producers such as Jason Bieler and Johnny K have been instrumental in shaping their sound across multiple releases.| Album | Release Date | Label | Producer | Peak Billboard 200 Position |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Separate Yourself | December 8, 1997 | Independent | Jeremy Staska | - |
| Struggle | May 18, 1999 | Jugular Records | Nonpoint | ) |
| Statement | October 10, 2000 | MCA Records | Jason Bieler | No. 166 [80] |
| Development | June 25, 2002 | J Records | Jason Bieler | No. 52 [80] |
| Recoil | August 31, 2004 | Lava Records | Jason Bieler | No. 115 [80] |
| To the Pain | September 13, 2005 | J Records | Jason Bieler | No. 147 [80] |
| Vengeance | November 6, 2007 | Bieler Bros. Records | Jason Bieler | No. 129 [80] |
| Miracle | September 21, 2010 | 954 Records | Nonpoint | No. 59 [80] |
| Nonpoint | October 9, 2012 | Razor & Tie | Johnny K | No. 62 [80] |
| The Return | September 30, 2014 | Metal Blade Records | Johnny K | No. 39 [80] |
| The Poison Red | July 8, 2016 | Spinefarm Records | Rob Ruccia | No. 73 [80] |
| X | August 24, 2018 | 361 Degrees Records | Fred Archambault | [80] |