Brand New

ByLets Go Punk
Brand New is a seminal American emo/indie rock band from Long Island

Brand New was an American rock band formed in 2000 from Long Island, New York. Consisting of lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist Jesse Lacey, lead guitarist Vincent Accardi, bassist Garrett Tierney, and drummer Brian Lane, the band earned critical recognition as one of the most influential emo groups, acclaimed for their musical development and artistic innovation within the scene.

History

Formation and Your Favorite Weapon (2000–2002)

In the late 1990s, Jesse Lacey, Garrett Tierney, and Brian Lane were part of the Levittown band the Rookie Lot. After parting ways with Taking Back Sunday and recruiting guitarist Vincent Accardi, Brand New formed in 2000 in Merrick, New York. Signed to Triple Crown Records soon after, they released their debut album Your Favorite Weapon. The record, influenced by pop punk with themes of post-breakup angst, received positive reviews and sold over 50,000 copies, helping the band gain momentum through tours with Taking Back Sunday and Finch.

Deja Entendu and Rising Prominence (2003–2004)

The band’s second album, Deja Entendu (2003), marked a significant evolution in their sound, incorporating indie rock influences and complex songwriting. The singles “The Quiet Things That No One Ever Knows” and “Sic Transit Gloria… Glory Fades” garnered mainstream attention, with both entering the UK Singles Chart top 40 and the album eventually being certified Gold in the United States. This period solidified Brand New’s reputation for artistic growth and critical acclaim.

The Devil and God Are Raging Inside Me (2005–2007)

After signing with a major label, the band released their third album, The Devil and God Are Raging Inside Me (2006). The record showcased a darker, more experimental approach, blending emo with indie rock and earning retrospective acclaim as a landmark album in the emo genre. Despite internal tensions; particularly stemming from the side project Box Car Racer; the album elevated the band’s profile and influenced a generation of musicians.

Evolving Sound, Daisy, and Science Fiction (2008–2017)

Brand New continued to evolve with their fourth album, Daisy (2009), which featured a more post-hardcore and noise rock sound. It debuted at number six on the Billboard 200. After a long gap without releases, their surprise album Science Fiction (2017) debuted at number one on the Billboard 200, marking a pinnacle in their career with widespread critical acclaim and commercial success.

Later Years and Legacy

Following the release of Science Fiction, Brand New experienced speculation about breakups and internal strife, compounded by controversies and long periods of inactivity. Although the band never formally announced a breakup, they remained inactive for several years. In 2024, they reunited for a charity show, underscoring their lasting influence on the emo and indie rock scenes. Their innovative approach and evolving sound continue to inspire musicians and fans alike.

Discography

  • Your Favorite Weapon (2001)
  • Deja Entendu (2003)
  • The Devil and God Are Raging Inside Me (2006)
  • Daisy (2009)
  • Science Fiction (2017)

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