Banner Pilot

Banner Pilot is a punk band from Minneapolis, Minnesota, formed in 2005 after the breakup of Rivethead. Drawing on influences like Jawbreaker, The Lawrence Arms, Screeching Weasel, and Hot Water Music, Banner Pilot quickly established themselves in the underground scene with their melodic, heartfelt take on punk rock. Their debut demo, released the same year, gained praise from Punknews and Razorcake, propelling them to record additional EPs and studio albums.

Early Years and First Releases

Founded by bassist Nate Gangelhoff and vocalist/guitarist Nick Johnson, the band released their first EP, Pass the Poison, in 2006, leading them to tour the East Coast. Around this time, they caught the attention of Go-Kart Records, which released their inaugural full-length Resignation Day in 2008. After the album’s release, Mike Johnson left the band to focus on school, and Corey stepped in on lead guitar for their West Coast tour.

Move to Fat Wreck Chords and Continued Output

In April 2009, Banner Pilot inked a deal with Fat Wreck Chords, releasing Collapser on September 1 of that year. The album’s positive reception paved the way for an East Coast tour with fellow labelmates Dead to Me and Teenage Bottlerocket. They later did a European tour in April 2010, including a performance at Belgium’s Groezrock festival. Fat Wreck also oversaw the remixed, remastered version of Resignation Day in 2010.

Further Albums and Evolving Lineup

In 2013, the band announced they were working on over a dozen new songs, culminating in the 2014 release of Souvenir. This period brought changes to Banner Pilot’s lineup, including the arrival of Jeff Matika on lead guitar. Despite these shifts, Banner Pilot has continued to refine their tuneful, driving brand of punk rock through live shows and recorded material.

Band Members

• Nick Johnson – Lead Vocals, Rhythm Guitar (2005–present)
• Nate Gangelhoff – Bass (2005–present)
• Danny Elston-Jones – Drums (2005–present)
• Jeff Matika – Lead Guitar (2014–present)

Former Members

• Mike Johnson – Lead Guitar (2005–2008)
• Corey Ayd – Lead Guitar (2008–2014)

Discography

Studio Albums

• Resignation Day (2008)
• Collapser (2009)
• Heart Beats Pacific (2011)
• Souvenir (2014)

EPs

• Pass the Poison (2006)

Split Releases

• Banner Pilot / Monikers (2007)