Defeater
Defeater is a melodic hardcore band from Massachusetts that formed in 2008. The group has released five full-length albums, two EPs, and several singles. Their lineup includes Derek Archambault on vocals, Jake Woodruff on guitar, Joe Longobardi on drums, and Mike Poulin on bass. Early releases came through Bridge 9 Records, while their debut album Travels was first issued on Topshelf Records before being re-released by Bridge 9. Later works, including Abandoned (2015) and their self-titled 2019 album, were released on Epitaph Records. Their 2013 album Letters Home charted on Billboard, reaching number 72 overall and number 1 on the vinyl chart.
History
From the start, Defeater gained recognition for its narrative approach to songwriting. All of their music ties into one overarching story, depicting the struggles of a working-class New Jersey family in the years following World War II. Derek Archambault confirmed in interviews that the band’s entire discography fits within this storyline. They toured with groups such as La Dispute, Comeback Kid, Bane, and August Burns Red, while also appearing at festivals including Vans Warped Tour and Hevy Music Festival.
After the release of Abandoned in 2015, founding guitarist Jay Maas was removed from the lineup due to personal differences. In March 2019, Defeater announced their self-titled record produced by Will Yip, accompanied by the single and video for “Mother’s Sons.”
Members
- Derek Archambault – vocals, guitars, piano, lyrics (2008-present)
- Mike Poulin – bass (2008-present)
- Jake Woodruff – guitars (2009-present)
- Joe Longobardi – drums (2011-present)
- Adam Crowe – guitars (2019-present)
Former Members
- Jay Maas – guitar, vocals (2008-2015)
- Max Barror – bass (2008)
- Gus Pesce – guitar (2008-2010), bass (2011)
- Andy Reitz – drums (2008-2011)
Discography
Studio Albums
- Travels (2008, Topshelf/Bridge 9)
- Empty Days & Sleepless Nights (2011, Bridge 9)
- Letters Home (2013, Bridge 9)
- Abandoned (2015, Epitaph)
- Defeater (2019, Epitaph)
EPs
- Lost Ground (2009)
- Live on BBC Radio 1 (2012)
- Live at TIHC (2014)
Singles
- “Dear Father” (2011)
- “Still & True” (2016)
- “Where Eagles Dare” (2016, Misfits cover)
