Bane

Bane is an American hardcore punk band formed in 1995, rooted in the Worcester, Massachusetts music scene. Originally begun as a side project by Aaron Dalbec (then a member of Converge) and Damon Bellorado, Bane evolved quickly into a dedicated band known for promoting unity and tolerance within the hardcore community. They are recognized for their passionate live shows, emotionally charged lyrics, and a consistent lineup of seasoned hardcore musicians.

Formation and Early Development (1995–1998)

The genesis of Bane can be traced back to 1995, when Aaron Dalbec (guitar) and Damon Bellorado (drums) performed a few shows under the name Gateway with vocalist Matt Firestone. After Firestone left to pursue other projects, Dalbec invited Aaron Bedard—formerly of Backbone—to join as vocalist. In December 1995, the newly formed band recorded a five-song demo. By early 1996, Bane was playing frequent shows throughout central Massachusetts, and in 1997 released their Free to Think, Free to Be EP. A year later, they dropped Holding This Moment (as a 7-inch and CD) and ventured on their first US tour, steadily growing their fanbase within the hardcore scene.

Recordings and Core Ethos (1999–2001)

In June 1999, Bane recorded their debut studio album, It All Comes Down to This, at Austin Enterprises in Clinton, Massachusetts, with Kurt Ballou of Converge involved as a producer. After the album’s release on Equal Vision Records, they embarked on extensive touring across North America with acts like Death by Stereo and Adamantium, boosting their presence in the hardcore circuit. In 2001, the band released its second album, Give Blood, recorded with producer Brian McTernan in Beltsville, Maryland. The release was followed by tours in the US and beyond, during which Bane cemented a reputation for their high-energy performances and a resolute message of inclusivity.

Continued Activity and Global Reach (2003–2014)

Personnel shifts saw longtime drummer Damon Bellorado replaced by Nick Branigan, and later by Bob Mahoney. Despite these changes, Bane continued to thrive, touring extensively and playing hardcore festivals worldwide. Their third album, The Note, arrived in 2005 on Equal Vision Records. Its raw, personal lyrics resonated with fans, propelling the band into further touring and appearances in North America, Europe, and Japan. In 2014, Bane released Don’t Wait Up, billed as their final album. Despite stating that they would continue to perform, the record served as a culmination of nearly two decades of melodic yet aggressive hardcore music.

Hiatus, Surprise Reunions, and Recent Developments

Bane played what was intended as their final show on June 18, 2016, at the Worcester Palladium, a symbolic farewell in their home scene. However, a surprise appearance at a benefit show on July 2, 2021, witnessed the band performing once more alongside acts like The Bouncing Souls and H2O, in tribute to former member Brendan “Stu” Maguire, who died of pancreatic cancer in June 2021. In early 2023, Bane teased an upcoming announcement through social media, eventually revealing a two-night reunion event at Roadrunner in Boston, confirming that their legacy and music still spark enthusiasm among hardcore fans.

Musical Influences

While Bane’s sound is firmly rooted in hardcore punk, they have cited numerous influential 1980s bands like Void, Chain of Strength, Youth of Today, Hatebreed, Underdog, Burn, Minor Threat, the Cro-Mags, and Rites of Spring. They have also expressed admiration for the melodic hardcore style found in works by Dag Nasty and All. Combining these influences, Bane forged a style that balances raw aggression with melodic sensibilities.

Straight Edge Connection

Though Bane’s early material referenced straight edge, it was not the band’s defining lyrical theme. Several core members identify with straight edge, but Bane’s thematic focus extends to broader messages of tolerance, unity, and personal responsibility. Tracks like “Count Me Out” highlight straight edge references, but newer songs explore themes of growth and community in the evolving hardcore scene.

Band Members

Final Lineup

• Aaron Bedard – Vocals (1995–2016; 2021, 2023)
• Aaron Dalbec – Guitar (1994–2016; 2021, 2023)
• Zach Jordan – Guitar (1995–2016; 2021, 2023)
• James Siboni – Bass (2014–2016; 2021, 2023)
• Bob Mahoney – Drums (2003–2016; 2021, 2023)

Former Members

• Matt Firestone – Vocals (1995)
• Pete Chilton – Bass (1994–2007; 2015)
• Brendan “Stu” Maguire – Bass (2008–2012; died 2021)
• Chris Linkovich – Bass (2012–2014)
• Damon Bellorado – Drums (1995–1997)
• Ben Chused – Drums (1997–1998)
• Nick Branigan – Drums (1998–2003)

Discography

• It All Comes Down to This (1999, Equal Vision)
• Give Blood (2001, Equal Vision)
• The Note (2005, Equal Vision)
• Don’t Wait Up (2014, Equal Vision)

Additional highlights include Holding This Moment (1998), a compilation of the band’s EPs, and several split releases, including a split 7″ with Adamantium in 2001.

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