As Friends Rust

As Friends Rust is an American melodic hardcore band based in Gainesville, Florida, formed in 1996. Known for their blend of melodic elements with the intensity of hardcore punk, As Friends Rust has been a significant presence in the melodic hardcore and punk scenes, with influential songwriting that foreshadowed the emo sound.

Formation and Early Years (1996–1997)

As Friends Rust was formed in September 1996 in Davie, Florida by vocalist Damien Moyal, guitarist Henry Olmino, bass guitarist Jeronimo Gomez, and drummer Matthew Crum. Originally a Springsteen/Clash cover band named Direct Drive, the group changed their music and name after Moyal attended a Bad Brains show in Washington, D.C., in 1981, which he described as an “epiphany.” This experience inspired them to adopt a more hardcore punk sound.

The “Porch House” Era (1997–2000)

After parting ways in early 1997, Moyal reformed As Friends Rust in June 1997 with a new lineup, including Timothy Kirkpatrick on drums, Joseph Simmons and Gordon Tarpley on guitars, and Kaleb Stewart on bass. Their debut EP, The Fists of Time, was released in 1998 through Good Life Recordings. The band underwent several lineup changes during this period, including the replacement of Tarpley with Peter Bartsocas, and later with James Glayat. As Friends Rust signed with Doghouse Records, releasing their self-titled EP in 1999 and their first full-length album, Won, in 2001.

Discography

Studio Albums

• Won (2001)
• Any Joy (2023)

Extended Plays

• The Fists of Time (1998)
• As Friends Rust (1999)
• A Young Trophy Band in the Parlance of Our Times (2002)
• Up from the Muck (2020)
• Lightless (2024)

Compilations

• Eleven Songs (1999, Howling Bull Entertainment)
• Greatest Hits? (2014, Cosmic Note)
• The Porch Days: 1998 to 2000 (2015, Demons Run Amok Entertainment)

Band Members

• Damien Moyal – lead vocals (1996–1997, 1997–2002, 2008–present)
• Timothy Kirkpatrick – drums (1997–2000, 2008–present)
• Joseph Simmons – guitar (1998–2002, 2008–present)
• James Glayat – guitar, backing vocals (1998–2000, 2008–present)
• Andrew Seward – bass guitar (2022–present)

Musical Style and Themes

As Friends Rust’s music is characterized by a blend of melodic hardcore and punk, featuring fast-paced rhythms, intricate guitar work, and emotionally charged vocals. Their lyrics often explore themes of friendship, personal struggle, and societal issues, delivered with sincerity and depth. This combination of aggression and melody has set them apart in the hardcore scene, appealing to fans who appreciate both intensity and emotional resonance.

Legacy and Influence

As Friends Rust is credited with superior songwriting and for foreshadowing the emo sound. Their influence is acknowledged by prominent bands such as NOFX, Heroin, and Disfear, who cite As Friends Rust as a significant inspiration in their own music.

Trivia

• As Friends Rust’s name was inspired by lyrics from the song “Now Ruin Is,” originally written for Shai Hulud and later re-used for various projects before the band’s formation.
• Vic Bondi, after leaving Articles of Faith, contributed to multiple other bands and projects, including Alloy and Report Suspicious Activity, and was featured in documentaries like American Hardcore and You Weren’t There.
• The band’s second full-length album, Any Joy, was released in 2023 and featured contributions from Andrew Seward of Against Me! on bass guitar.