American Hi-Fi
American Hi-Fi is a rock band from Boston, Massachusetts, formed in 1998. The band consists of lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist Stacy Jones, lead guitarist Jamie Arentzen, bassist and backing vocalist Drew Parsons, and drummer Brian Nolan. Prior to forming American Hi-Fi, Jones was known for his work as a drummer with alternative rock bands Veruca Salt and Letters to Cleo. The band has a close connection with Miley Cyrus, sharing two members with her backing band. Their musical style blends pop-punk, alternative rock, and power pop influences.
History
1998–2003: Formation, Debut Album, and The Art of Losing
American Hi-Fi was initially formed under the name BMX Girl before changing to their current name, which was suggested by Keith Richards of The Rolling Stones. The band’s self-titled debut album was released on February 27, 2001, through Island Records, produced by Bob Rock. The album received positive reviews and was highlighted as an AllMusic ‘Album Pick’. It reached No. 81 on the Billboard 200 and topped the Heatseekers chart. The single “Flavor of the Weak” became a commercial hit, charting on the Hot Modern Rock Tracks and the Billboard Hot 100, establishing the band’s presence in the rock scene.
In February 2003, American Hi-Fi released their second studio album, The Art of Losing. The album, produced by Nick Launay, peaked at number 80 on the Billboard 200. Despite the success of singles like “The Art of Losing” and “The Breakup Song,” the album didn’t achieve the same level of commercial success as their debut, leading to the band being dropped by Island Records.
2004–2006: Hearts on Parade
Following the loss of their record deal, American Hi-Fi relocated to Los Angeles and began working on a new album with producer Butch Walker. Hearts on Parade was released in Japan on July 14, 2004, with its U.S. release following in April 2005 under Maverick Records. The album’s lead single, “The Geeks Get the Girls,” gained some attention, but the album itself failed to chart, resulting in Maverick dropping the band later that year.
The band continued to pursue opportunities, including submitting the track “The Rescue” for the Superman Returns soundtrack, which received radio play but did not secure them a new record contract.
2007–2011: Fight the Frequency
In April 2007, American Hi-Fi announced that they were recording a new album, marking the return of original drummer Brian Nolan. The band released their fourth studio album, Fight the Frequency, on August 17, 2010, through their own label, Hi-Fi Killers/The Ascot Club, distributed by Megaforce/RED/Sony. Despite releasing singles like “Lost” and revamping their website, the album saw limited promotion and touring.
2012–2015: Blood & Lemonade
In 2012, American Hi-Fi announced they were recording a new album with Goomba Music. Produced by the band and John Fields, the album titled Blood & Lemonade was released on September 9, 2014, through Rude Records. Singles “Killing Time” and “Allison” preceded the album’s release. The band supported the album by joining the Summerland Tour 2015 alongside Everclear, Fuel, and Toadies.
2016: American Hi-Fi Acoustic
In 2016, American Hi-Fi re-recorded their debut album in an acoustic format, releasing it on April 29, 2016, through Rude Records. The band recorded the album live at Sunset Sounds with minimal overdubs, offering a new take on their classic tracks. The acoustic version of “Flavor of the Weak” was released as a music video to promote the album.
2020: Anywhere Else but Here EP
In 2020, American Hi-Fi released an EP titled Anywhere Else but Here, featuring a collection of cover songs. The EP, released on August 7, 2020, was the band’s most recent release, continuing their long-standing tradition of experimenting with different sounds and styles.
Band Members
Current Members
- Stacy Jones – lead vocals, rhythm guitar, occasional drums (1998–present)
- Jamie Arentzen – lead guitar, backing vocals (1998–present)
- Drew Parsons – bass, backing vocals (1998–present)
- Brian Nolan – drums, backing vocals (1998–2004, 2007–present)
Former Members
- Jason Sutter – drums (2004–2007)
Discography
Studio Albums
- American Hi-Fi (2001) – No. 81 US, No. 1 Heatseekers
- The Art of Losing (2003) – No. 80 US
- Hearts on Parade (2005) – No. 129 US
- Fight the Frequency (2010)
- Blood & Lemonade (2014)
- American Hi-Fi Acoustic (2016)
Live Albums
- Rock N’ Roll Noodle Shop: Live From Tokyo (2002)
- Live in Milwaukee (2005)
