Mixtapes

Mixtapes were a pop punk band from Cincinnati, Ohio, best known for heartfelt, fast-moving songs built around dual lead vocals and guitar. Formed in 2009 and later signed to No Sleep Records, the band released a steady run of albums and EPs before stepping back into an indefinite hiatus in 2014.

How It Started

Mixtapes began when friends Ryan Rockwell and Maura Weaver started writing and playing together in 2009. Both handled vocals and guitar, giving the band a back-and-forth energy that became a big part of their sound. Early on, they brought in drummer Tim Rengers to record their first full-length release.

Early Releases and Lineup Growth

The group’s debut album, Maps, came out in March 2010 through Death to False Hope Records. A year later, the band revisited that era by reissuing the material as Maps & Companions on vinyl via Animal Style Records. That release added five newer songs drawn from a freshly recorded EP titled Companions.

As the band picked up speed, the lineup expanded. Bassist Michael Remley joined, and Boone Haley became the permanent drummer, locking in the core that would carry them into their busiest stretch.

No Sleep Records Era

In 2012, Mixtapes signed to No Sleep Records and released their second album, Even on the Worst Nights. The partnership marked a step forward in visibility and touring, and it set the stage for a packed 2013.

Early in 2013, Michael Remley announced he would be leaving after a final show in February, and Paul Kupper stepped in on bass soon afterward. That spring, Mixtapes toured with Masked Intruder on the “Let’s Talk Industry Tour,” then hit the road again during the summer as part of Warped Tour.

Ordinary Silence and the Final Run

Mixtapes released their third album, Ordinary Silence, in 2013. After the album arrived, they continued touring through the fall, sharing bills with Real Friends, Forever Came Calling, and Pentimento.

In 2014, the band supported Bayside on a spring headlining run and returned to Warped Tour that summer. Their last shows before hiatus came at The Fest 13, with sets on October 31 and November 1, 2014. After that, the band paused activity, and Boone Haley went on to play in the hardcore band On Bodies.

One-Night Return

Mixtapes briefly surfaced again for a one-night-only reunion show on December 17, 2017. The performance took place at Chain Reaction in Anaheim, California, as part of the ten-year anniversary celebration for Animal Style Records.

Members

Final lineup

• Ryan Rockwell, vocals and guitar (2009–2014, 2017)
• Maura Weaver, vocals and guitar (2009–2014, 2017)
• Boone Haley, drums (2010–2014, 2017)
• Paul “Golden Boy” Kupper, bass (2013–2014, 2017)

Former members

• Michael Remley, bass (2010–2013)

Discography

Albums

• Maps (2010)
• Even on the Worst Nights (2012)
• Ordinary Silence (2013)

EPs

• Thought About Growing Up (2010)
• A Short Collection of Short Songs (2010)
• Castle Songs (2011)
• Hope Is for People (2011)
• Companions (2011)
• How to Throw a Successful Party (2011)
• Somewhere in Trinsic (2012)