A Loss For Words

ByLets Go Punk
A Loss for Words was a pop punk band from Abington

A Loss for Words was a pop punk band from Abington, Massachusetts, active from 1999 until 2015. Originally formed under the name Last Ride, the band went through several lineup changes and released multiple albums and EPs throughout their career. They gained a dedicated following for their energetic performances and heartfelt lyrics, ultimately leaving a lasting impact on the pop punk genre.

History

Early Years (1999–2004)

The band was initially formed by Matty Arsenault and Danny Poulin in 1999, eventually evolving into A Loss for Words. The early lineup featured members like Kreg Dudley, Chris Murphy, and Evan Cordeiro. Mike Adams joined on bass after the original bassist decided not to continue, and in 2004, Marc Dangora came on board. During these formative years, the band released their first EP, “These Past 5 Years,” which quickly sold out and established them as a rising act in the pop punk scene.

Early Releases (2004–2007)

By 2004, A Loss for Words had posted several tracks online and recorded with producer Matt Squire. Their first EP, “These Past 5 Years,” was released in 2005 and sold over 1,000 copies in a short time. The band continued to build their reputation with live performances, including appearances at festivals like Smashachusetts. In 2007, they released a split EP with They Sleep the Dream and became a more active touring band.

Webster Lake (EP) (2007–2008)

From late 2007 into early 2008, A Loss for Words recorded their first full-length album. Despite financial challenges, they completed the album with guest appearances from members of Four Year Strong, I Am the Avalanche, and The Starting Line. During this period, they also released the “Webster Lake” acoustic EP as a way to keep fans engaged while working on their upcoming album. The band supported Four Year Strong on tour and continued to grow their fan base.

The Kids Can’t Lose and Motown Classics (2008–2010)

The band’s debut full-length album, “The Kids Can’t Lose,” was self-released in 2009 and supported by extensive touring, including international dates. They followed this up with “Motown Classics,” a cover album of Motown hits released in 2010. The band toured the UK and the US, sharing stages with bands like The Wonder Years, Vanna, and The Ghost Inside. They were also recognized as Phoenix Magazine’s All Ages Band of the Year during this time.

No Sanctuary and Returning to Webster Lake (EP) (2011–2012)

In 2011, A Loss for Words signed with Rise/Velocity Records and released their third album, “No Sanctuary.” The album received positive reviews and charted on Billboard’s Heatseekers Albums chart. The band supported the album with tours in the US, UK, and Japan, including appearances on the Vans Warped Tour. They also released the “Returning to Webster Lake” acoustic EP, which featured reimagined versions of their songs and a few covers.

Before It Caves and Crises (2013–2016)

The band’s fourth album, “Before It Caves,” was released in 2013, continuing their evolution towards a more radio-friendly sound. The album charted on the Heatseekers Albums chart and was supported by tours with bands like The Wonder Years and Our Last Night. In 2014, the band announced they would be breaking up the following year, but they released one final album, “Crises,” in 2016 before officially disbanding.

Post-Breakup and Reunion Shows (2017–2021)

After their breakup, A Loss for Words released a compilation album, “Odds & Ends,” featuring rare and unreleased tracks. In 2018, they reunited for a one-off performance at Four Year Strong’s holiday show in Worcester, MA. Although they clarified there would be no full reunion, they continued to play select shows, including headlining performances in 2021 to celebrate the anniversaries of their albums “These Past 5 Years” and “No Sanctuary.”

Musical Style

A Loss for Words’ music is best described as pop punk, characterized by catchy melodies, energetic performances, and emotional lyrics. Their sound evolved over the years, incorporating elements of modern rock while maintaining their punk roots.

Band Members

Final Line-Up

  • Matty Arsenault – lead vocals (1999–2015)
  • Mike Adams – bass, backing vocals (2003–2015)
  • Marc Dangora – guitar (2004–2015)
  • Christian Mullen – drums (2012–2015)

Former Members

  • Kreg Dudley – lead guitar, vocals (1999–2003)
  • Chris Murphy – bass (1999–2003)
  • Evan Cordeiro – drums (1999–2004)
  • Adam Souza – guitar (???–2004)
  • Steve Delaney – drums (2004–2005)
  • Danny Poulin – guitar, vocals (1999–2006)
  • Jack McHugh – drums (2007–2011)
  • Lee Preston – drums (2011)
  • Nevada Smith – guitar, vocals (2007–2012)

Discography

Studio Albums

  • The Kids Can’t Lose (2009)
  • Motown Classics (2010)
  • No Sanctuary (2011)
  • Before It Caves (2013)
  • Crises (2016)

EPs

  • Coming Soon to a Theater Near You (2004)
  • These Past 5 Years (2005)
  • Webster Lake (2008)
  • Returning to Webster Lake (2012)

Splits

  • RVR Series Volume II (Split EP with They Sleep They Dream) [2007]
  • Such Gold/A Loss for Words (Split EP with Such Gold) [2011]

Compilation Albums

  • Odds & Ends (2017)
  • Odds & Ends Vol. II (2018)

Other Releases

  • 2007: “Water Runs Dry” (Boyz II Men cover released online)
  • 2008: “Face or Kneecaps” (The Movielife cover featured on compilation by Little Heart Records)

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