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Code Orange (band)

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Code Orange (formerly known as Code Orange Kids)[fn 1] is an American metalcore band that formed in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, in 2008, while the members of the band were still in high school.

Key Information

The band started as a hardcore punk band - under their original name of Code Orange Kids - and started to shift to metalcore on the release of their debut full-length album Love Is Love/Return to Dust, before incorporating more wide-ranging influences on their more recent albums, such as Forever and Underneath, as they began to incorporate elements of grunge, nu metal, electronica, and industrial.

The band originally signed to Deathwish Inc. for their first two studio albums: Love Is Love/Return to Dust, which was released in November 2012 under their original name, and I Am King in September 2014. Their third album, Forever was released in January 2017 through Roadrunner Records, and fourth album, Underneath, was released in March 2020, also on Roadrunner Records. The band's latest album, The Above was released on September 29, 2023. The band has also released three EPs, one live album, thirteen music videos, three live DVDs, and six other shorter releases (splits/singles).

They have received one Kerrang! Award for Best International Breakthrough (2018), have been nominated for two Grammy Awards for Best Metal Performance (2017 and 2020), have been nominated by Loudwire Music Awards for Metal Album of the Year and Metal Artist of the Year (2017), and been nominated twice by Metal Hammer Golden Gods Awards for Breakthrough Artist (2017 and 2018) which they won in 2018.

The band currently consists of vocalist Jami Morgan, guitarist and vocalist Reba Meyers, keyboardist/programmer/guitarist Eric "Shade" Balderose, bassist Joe Goldman, guitarist Dominic Landolina, and drummer Max Portnoy. Their touring lineup also formerly included drummer Ethan Young (of Thirty Nights of Violence) between March 2020 and October 2021, with Portnoy serving as touring drummer thereafter until his induction into the band as an official member in 2023.

History

[edit]

Formation and early years (2008–2012)

[edit]
The band as Code Orange Kids in 2013

The band formed under the name "Code Orange Kids" in 2008 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.[3][4] They started out playing "really straightforward punk," but would eventually take their music in a heavier direction with the introduction of new member, Bob Rizzo, who met members of the band at a local show.[3] By early 2012, the band described themselves as "doomy, abrasive" hardcore punk similar to Black Flag, Converge or Integrity.[3]

The band found some difficulty touring in their early days, due to the fact that they were not old enough to play at some of the clubs, and because many of the members were still in high school, could only tour between semesters. Despite this, Code Orange Kids opened for such bands as the Misfits, The Bronx, Nekromantix and Anti-Flag.[3][5] Early self-published releases from Code Orange Kids included 2009's Winter Tour Demo,[3] 2010's Demo 2010[3] and 2011's Embrace Me/Erase Me.[6] Code Orange Kids released the EP Cycles through Mayfly Records in 2011.[7]

Code Orange Kids announced they signed to Deathwish Inc. in January 2012.[8][9] At the time of their signing, the average age among the band members was only 18 years old.[9] In April 2012, the band released a split EP with Full of Hell through Topshelf Records.[8] A Max Moore-directed music video for the song "V (My Body Is A Well)" from the EP was also released.[10] Code Orange Kids toured North America with Touché Amoré, Defeater and Birds in Row in April 2012,[11] and toured Europe in July 2012. [12]

Love Is Love/Return to Dust (2012–2013)

[edit]

Code Orange Kids released their debut full-length album, Love Is Love/Return to Dust, in October 2012 through Deathwish.[4][13] The album was recorded in June 2012 with Kurt Ballou of Converge at his own GodCity studio.[4][14] Commenting on getting to work with Ballou, drummer Jami Morgan said, "Kurt has made tons of our favorite records and we respect him as an engineer and musician immensely, as many others do."[12] The album's release was preceded by a music video for the song "Flowermouth (The Leech)" in October 2012.[15]

The band began touring in support of Love Is Love/Return to Dust with a short Canadian tour with Bane in October 2012[16] followed by a North American tour with Gaza and Full of Hell from November through December 2012.[17] On this tour, the band was robbed of over US$10,000 worth of belongings in New Orleans, Louisiana.[18] In February/March 2013, Code Orange Kids toured the U.S. with H2O and Terror;[19] with Circle Takes the Square and Full of Hell in Europe in July/August 2013;[20] with Terror and Fucked Up in North America in October 2013;[21] and with Every Time I Die and Letlive in November/December 2013.[22] In April 2013, the band released a 4-way split 7-inch with Tigers Jaw, The World Is a Beautiful Place & I Am No Longer Afraid to Die, and Self Defense Family.[23]

Name change and I Am King (2014–2015)

[edit]
Code Orange performing in 2014

Recording for Code Orange Kids' (who would soon change their band name) second studio album began in February 2014 with Kurt Ballou.[24] Speaking on the overall sound of the new record, Morgan said it would mark "a very new era for our band," and that, "It's different. A lot of the heavier parts are heavier and sometimes more obvious. A lot of the odd parts are weirder and a little more anti-social. Things are a lot more blended together."[24] On June 5, 2014, the band announced that it was changing its name from "Code Orange Kids" to "Code Orange," and would be releasing its sophomore album titled I Am King on September 2, 2014.[4][1] Three months before the release of the album, the band released a music video for the title track, "I Am King," in June 2014[25] followed by an online stream of "My World" in July 2014[26] and a music video for "Dreams in Inertia" in August 2014.[27]

Code Orange's first tour in support of I Am King was a six-date stint with Killswitch Engage surrounding the band's participation in This is Hardcore Festival 2014 in July/August 2014, followed by a North American co-headlining tour with Twitching Tongues in September and October.[26] They also appeared on 2015's Rockstar Mayhem Festival, and toured the U.S. from June to August.[28][29]

Forever and The Hurt Will Go On (2016–2019)

[edit]

In April 2016, Code Orange signed to Roadrunner Records for their third studio album, which at the time was tentatively due out in late 2016.[30][31]

Leading up to the new album's release, the band toured the U.S. with Deftones in May 2016 and performed sporadic mid-year festival dates, including This Is Hardcore in August.[30][31] In October 2016, the band released a new single, "Forever."[4][32] It was revealed to be the title track to their third album, Forever, which was then set for release on January 13, 2017.[33][34] Following the release of the initial single, the band released an animated music video for "Kill The Creator" in December 2016,[35] as well as two further promotional singles, "Ugly"[36][37] and "Bleeding in the Blur," in January 2017, prior to the album's official release date of January 13.[38]

A music video for the track "The Mud", directed by Balderose and Dmitry Zakharov, was premiered on Adult Swim's Toonami block on September 30, 2017.[39] The album was featured on various best of 2017 lists including, Rolling Stone's "20 Best Metal Albums of 2017", Revolver's "20 Best Albums of 2017" and The Independent's "Top 20 Rock & Metal Albums of 2017."[40]

In support of the album, the band began touring as a five-piece.[41] Dominic Landolina – who also played lead guitar in Adventures alongside Meyers, Morgan and Goldman – was brought in as a touring guitarist and later became a full-time member, after being secretly unveiled as a new member in the music video for "Forever".[41][42]

In August 2017, "Bleeding in the Blur" was announced as one of the official theme songs for NXT's NXT TakeOver: Brooklyn III event.[43] At the event, held at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York, Code Orange were the first band to ever play live at an NXT show.[43] They opened the event with a performance of "Bleeding in the Blur," before later performing a live version of Aleister Black's entrance music, "Root of All Evil," with Incendiary vocalist Brendan Garrone; who appears on the original version of the song.[43] The band played Black to the ring for his match with Hideo Itami.[43] On December 28 and 29, Code Orange and Daughters supported mathcore band The Dillinger Escape Plan on their final two shows.[44] Their appearance came about after Morgan became friends with Dillinger frontman Greg Puciato, who invited them to these performances.[45]

Code Orange released a new single, "Only One Way", on February 8, 2018, through the Adult Swim Singles Program.[41][46] They followed it with a remix by guitarist Eric "Shade" Balderose called "only1 (the hard way)".[46]

On June 21, 2018, the band released a 3-track EP, The Hurt Will Go On.[40][41][47] Along with the remix of "Hurt Goes On," the EP also featured two brand-new tracks: "3 Knives" and "The Hunt," which features guest vocalist Corey Taylor of Slipknot and Stone Sour.[40][41][47]

During WWE's pay-per-view SummerSlam in August 2019, professional wrestler Bray Wyatt, while in his Fiend persona, premiered new entrance music performed by Code Orange.[40][48] The song, "Let Me In," is a re-imagining of Mark Crozer's song "Live in Fear," which was Wyatt's old theme before leaving WWE programming in November 2018 and creating a new version of his character.[40][48] "Let Me In" charted on the Scottish Singles Chart at number 79 for a solitary week beginning on August 16, 2019, becoming Code Orange's first song to chart on the Scottish Singles Chart.[49]

Underneath, Under the Skin, and What Is Really Underneath? (2020–2023)

[edit]
Code Orange at Rock im Park 2017

On January 10, 2020, the band released a music video for "Underneath", the first single from their fourth album, Underneath.[50][51] On February 7, 2020, they released a music video for their second single "Swallowing the Rabbit Whole".[52][53] On March 9, 2020, the band released the third single "Sulfur Surrounding".[54][55] An animated video directed by Eric Balderose, was released on March 9 along with the single.[56][57]

The full album was released on March 13, 2020.[50][51][52][58][59] On March 14, 2020, Code Orange performed a live-streamed album release concert in an empty venue on Twitch due to the COVID-19 pandemic.[60][61] The performance took place at the Roxian Theatre and was called "Last Ones Left: In Fear of the End".[60] The performance was later officially released on YouTube.[60]

The album was produced by Nick Raskulinecz.[40][51][62][63] The album was also produced by Jami Morgan and co-produced by Will Yip.[51][40] Yip also helped produce the band's previous album.[40] Producer and musician Chris Vrenna (formerly of Nine Inch Nails and Marilyn Manson) helped Eric Balderose develop the electronics, the arrangement of the many layers of production, and the use of white noise and other various noise elements for the album.[40][62][63]

Following the release of their fourth album, Jami stopped performing drums at live shows to focus solely on vocals,[64][65] with Ethan Young being revealed as the band's touring drummer in March 2020, to which Morgan commented: "He's a great guy and I think he'll continue to earn his spot, but for now he's an empty vessel. He's our drumming muse for now. We don't want to be married to anyone yet. You don't know how people are going to be 'til they are."[64]

On June 7, 2020, the band performed at NXT TakeOver: In Your House at Full Sail University.[66][67] On September 4, 2020, the band released a live album titled, Under the Skin.[68][69][70] The album featured acoustic renditions of songs from the bands discography, as well as a cover of "Down in a Hole" by Alice In Chains.[68][69][70]

In November 2020, the band was nominated for their second Grammy award. The band received a nomination in the Best Metal Performance category for the song "Underneath."[71][72][73][74] They would ultimately lose the Grammy to Body Count.[75]

On January 23, 2021, an animated motion-capture video for the song "Autumn and Carbine" was premiered on Adult Swim's Toonami.[40][76][77] The video was directed by Eric Balderose and Jami Morgan (under the nowhere2run productions moniker) and utilized motion-capture to create 3D models of the band members themselves.[40][76]

On October 14, 2021, the band announced that Max Portnoy, son of Mike Portnoy, and drummer of Pennsylvania nu metal band Tallah, had joined the group as their new touring drummer.[78][79][80]

On November 11, 2021, the band released a new standalone single titled "Out for Blood" along with its accompanying music video.[81][82][83][84] The song was recorded with Green Day and My Chemical Romance producer Rob Cavallo.[84]

On December 16, 2022, the band premiered new entrance music, the song, "Shatter" for the wrestler Bray Wyatt. This is the second time the band performed entrance music for Wyatt.[85][86] On February 17, 2023, the band released a remix album, What Is Really Underneath?, based on the band's fourth studio album, Underneath.[87][88] It is the bands' first release through the newly formed semi independent label, Blue Grape Music.[89][90]

The Above and hiatus (2023–2025)

[edit]
Code Orange at Hellfest 2023

On May 30 2023, the band shared a video on their YouTube channel entitled "Code Orange Slams modern music critics".[91] However, the video served as a bait-and-switch: It instead featured several minutes of a staged torture sequence before a new song played at the end.[91][92] The day after the video, on June 1, 2023, the band released two new songs: "Grooming My Replacement", which played in the video, and "The Game".[91][92][93] On July 18, 2023, the band released the single "Take Shape" featuring Billy Corgan of the Smashing Pumpkins.[94][95] On the same day, the band announced their fifth studio album, The Above, which was released on September 29, 2023.[95] On September 6, 2023, the band released the next single, "Mirror".[96][97]

On January 12, 2024, the band canceled their upcoming headline tour and ShipRocked cruise / Pulp Summer Slam due to health problems their guitarist Dominic Landolina has been facing for the past year.[98][99] In April 2025, vocalist Jami Morgan announced that the band is on hiatus, describing them as being "on the shelf". Morgan cited Landolina's health issues, as well as the pursuit of other projects by himself, Balderose and Meyers as the main reasons for the band's hiatus.[100][101]

Musical style and influences

[edit]

Code Orange has been described as many different genres throughout their discography primarily, metalcore, hardcore punk, alternative metal, industrial metal. They have also been described as metallic hardcore, industrial hardcore, post-hardcore, nu metal, nu metalcore, heavy metal, sludge metal, noise, industrial, alternative rock, and grunge.[note 1]

The band originally has a more traditional punk style that gradually grown more abrasive and metal-influenced,[4] moving into metalcore territory by the release of their 2012 debut album Love Is Love/Return to Dust.[127] In a review of their 2014 second album I Am King, Ryan Bray of Consequence placed them within the "American metalcore underground" and noted that their music stood out in exhibiting influences not just from hardcore and metal but also from indie rock, post-punk and shoegaze.[128] In 2015, Brian Leak of Alternative Press celebrated Code Orange as being "at the top of their game, not to mention the hardcore scene".[129]

In reference to their 2017 third album Forever, Lars Gotrich of All Songs Considered described their style as "nightmarishly chaotic hardcore", stating that "there's always been an experimental underpinning to Code Orange that toys with noise and melody (and some '90s grunge)."[130]

According to Scott Tady of Kill Your Stereo, "Code Orange takes...hardcore/metalcore and bleeds them over with modern industrial and bleak electronics, with the occasional alternative-rock detour...creating an almost-experimental sound that's both familiar yet futuristic."[117]

The band has also used elements of electronica, industrial, groove metal, and hip hop.[131] They cite Disembodied, Martyr A.D, Deadguy, Morbid Angel, Hatebreed, Converge, Pantera, Sepultura, Fear Factory, Deftones,[132] Nine Inch Nails,[133] Depeche Mode,[134] Earth Crisis,[135][136] Minor Threat, Black Flag[137] Ministry,[138] Type O Negative[139] Chapterhouse, Ride, My Bloody Valentine, Nirvana, Alice in Chains,[140] and the Smashing Pumpkins[141] as influences.

Band members

[edit]

Timeline

Discography

[edit]

Studio albums

Awards and nominations

[edit]

Loudwire Music Awards

Year Nominee / work Award Result Ref.
2017 Forever Metal Album of the Year Nominated [144]
Code Orange Metal Artist of the Year Nominated

Grammy Awards

Year Nominee / work Award Result Ref.
2018 Forever Best Metal Performance Nominated [71]
2021 Underneath Best Metal Performance Nominated [71][145]

Metal Hammer Golden Gods Awards

Year Nominee / work Award Result Ref.
2017 Code Orange Breakthrough Nominated [146]
2018 Code Orange Breakthrough Won [147]

Kerrang! Awards

Year Nominee / work Award Result Ref.
2018 Code Orange Best International Breakthrough Won [148][149]
2022 Code Orange Best International Act Nominated [150][151]

Footnotes

[edit]

References

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[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
Code Orange is an American metalcore band formed in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, in 2008, initially under the name Code Orange Kids while its members were still in high school.[1] The group blends aggressive hardcore punk with metalcore, industrial, and alternative rock influences, evolving from straightforward hardcore to a heavier, more experimental sound over their career.[1] Known for their intense live performances and innovative production, including collaborations with figures like Steve Albini, Code Orange achieved mainstream recognition with their 2017 major-label debut Forever and a Grammy nomination for Best Metal Performance for the track "Underneath" in 2021.[2] The band entered an indefinite hiatus in April 2025 due to health issues and personal circumstances affecting its members, which vocalist Jami Morgan later described as the gradual ending of the band following their disastrous final performance at Download Festival in June 2024, in an October 2025 interview.[3][4][5] The band's core lineup features vocalist/drummer Jami Morgan, guitarist/vocalist Reba Meyers, guitarist/synthesizer player Eric "Shade" Balderose, bassist Joe Goldman, and guitarist Dominic Landolina, with Morgan and Meyers as co-founding members who met in ninth grade.[1] Early releases on Deathwish Inc., such as the 2012 double album Love Is Love/Return to Dust and 2014's I Am King, established their reputation in the hardcore scene for raw energy and DIY ethos rooted in Pittsburgh's blue-collar culture.[1] Signing to Roadrunner Records marked a turning point, leading to broader exposure, including a historic live performance at WWE's NXT Takeover event in 2017—the first band to do so—witnessed by Triple H.[6] Subsequent albums Forever (2017), Underneath (2020), and The Above (2023) showcased their sonic expansion, incorporating electronic elements and themes of mental health and societal pressure, while earning praise from artists like Corey Taylor of Slipknot and Randy Blythe of Lamb of God.[1] During this period announced in April 2025, members have pursued side projects, including Meyers' solo work and collaborations with acts like Marilyn Manson, and Balderose and Morgan's involvement in the project NOWHERE2RUN.[7][8]

History

Formation and early years (2008–2012)

Code Orange was formed in July 2008 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, under the name Code Orange Kids by high school friends Jami Morgan and Reba Meyers, who shared a passion for raw, aggressive hardcore punk; they were soon joined by guitarist Eric "Shade" Balderose to solidify the group's sound.[9][3][10] The initial lineup featured Jami Morgan on drums and vocals, Reba Meyers on bass and vocals, and Eric Balderose on guitar and backing vocals, with the band drawing from the local Pittsburgh hardcore scene's DIY spirit to create intense, youthful energy.[11] As teenagers still in high school, the members balanced music pursuits with academic commitments, often practicing and performing in informal settings that reflected their grassroots origins.[9] The band's early output emphasized self-reliance and the raw ethos of hardcore, beginning with their self-titled debut EP released on Boat Records in 2008, which captured their aggressive, no-frills style.[12] This was followed by the Winter Tour Demo in 2009 and the Demo 2010, both self-released on the same label, showcasing short, explosive tracks that resonated within underground circles.[13] In 2011, they issued the Embrace Me / Erase Me cassette independently, further honing their chaotic, high-energy approach while involving themselves deeply in Pittsburgh's vibrant all-ages venue scene, including spots like the Mr. Roboto Project and Games N'At.[14][15] Code Orange Kids built a dedicated following through grassroots efforts, starting with local house shows and small DIY performances in the Northeast U.S. hardcore circuit, where they connected with fans via the scene's communal vibe.[15] Their initial tours were modest regional outings, such as the winter tour supporting their 2009 demo, which helped expand their reach despite logistical hurdles like age-based venue restrictions that limited booking options for the underage musicians.[16] Lineup adjustments occurred during this period, including Reba Meyers transitioning from bass to guitar around 2011 and the addition of bassist Joe Goldman, as the band navigated member availability amid school and personal growth. These early experiences solidified their commitment to authenticity, fostering a tight-knit community before their first label-backed releases.[1]

Love Is Love / Return to Dust (2012–2013)

In early 2012, Code Orange Kids signed with Deathwish Inc., a pivotal move that elevated the band from regional DIY circuits to a prominent hardcore label roster.[17] This deal was bolstered by the band's growing reputation through prior East Coast tours and splits, including a 2012 collaboration with Full of Hell on Topshelf Records, which caught the label's attention via shared billings and underground networks.[18] Following the signing, the band entered God City Studios in Massachusetts during June 2012 to record their debut full-length with producer Kurt Ballou of Converge, whose involvement lent a polished yet raw edge to their sound.[19] The resulting album, Love Is Love // Return to Dust, was released on November 20, 2012, via Deathwish Inc., blending EP-length intensity with LP depth in a single 10-track package that clocked in at just over 27 minutes.[20] A music video for the opening track "Flowermouth (The Leech)" premiered in October 2012, showcasing the band's visceral energy and drawing early buzz for its relentless aggression.[21] Lyrically, Love Is Love // Return to Dust delved into themes of fractured personal relationships, emotional voids, and the harsh undercurrents of loss, often channeled through dual male-female vocals that amplified the hardcore fury.[22] Tracks like "Flowermouth (The Leech)" captured a sense of profound emptiness—"I have never felt as empty as I feel today"—while "Choices (Love Is Love)" and "Colors (Into Nothing)" explored fleeting connections and fading affection against a backdrop of metallic riffs and breakdowns.[23] Critics hailed "Flowermouth" for its explosive opener, praising its chaotic blend of powerviolence and metallic hardcore as a standout in underground circles, with reviews noting its "eye-widening" ferocity and role in propelling the album's reception.[24] Overall, the record earned acclaim for its raw innovation, earning scores like 9.5/10 for marrying "rich creativity with bold, untamed" execution.[25] The release period marked a surge in touring activity, transitioning the band from local Pittsburgh shows to national and international exposure. In fall 2012, they supported Gaza and Full of Hell on a U.S. run dubbed the "No Absolutes in Human Suffering Tour," honing their high-octane live presence amid sold-out venues.[26] This momentum carried into 2013 with a major U.S. headline package alongside H2O, Terror, and Backtrack, spanning February to March and showcasing Code Orange Kids' ability to hold their own against veteran acts through mosh-inducing sets.[27] They also shared stages with Converge at events like a May 2012 hardcore festival near Pittsburgh, fostering mentorship ties that influenced their production choices.[28] European dates followed in July and August 2013 with Circle Takes the Square and Full of Hell, further solidifying their transatlantic footprint.[29] Media coverage during this era highlighted the band's explosive live shows and DIY ethos, with features in Alternative Press spotlighting tour announcements and interviews that emphasized their youthful intensity and label debut.[30] Outlets like Louder described the album as "wild, unnerving, [and] exhilarating," while Consequence lauded its "abyssal depths" of rage and abstraction, attributing early national recognition to zine endorsements and festival slots that amplified their underground momentum.[31][32]

Name change and I Am King (2014–2015)

In early 2014, Code Orange Kids began recording their second full-length album at GodCity Studio in Salem, Massachusetts, marking a pivotal shift in their artistic direction. By June 5, 2014, the band announced they were shortening their name to Code Orange, dropping "Kids" to better align with their maturing sound and image, which had evolved beyond the youthful connotations of their original moniker. This rebranding was intended to emphasize a more aggressive and sophisticated hardcore style, reflecting the members' growth into their early twenties and their desire to avoid being pigeonholed as a juvenile act. The change was not permanent at first but solidified as they promoted their new material. The rebranded Code Orange released their breakthrough album I Am King on September 2, 2014, through Deathwish Inc. Produced by Kurt Ballou of Converge, the record was recorded at GodCity Studio and featured a denser, more atmospheric production that blended metallic hardcore riffs with shoegaze-inspired melodies and dissonant textures. Thematically, I Am King explored personal empowerment, self-assurance, and critiques of societal pressures, with lyrics confronting internal struggles and external alienation to assert individual strength amid chaos. Standout tracks like the title song "I Am King" and "My World" exemplified this through explosive dynamics and raw vocal deliveries, positioning the album as a raw statement of defiance. It debuted at No. 96 on the Billboard 200, No. 11 on the Hard Music Albums chart, No. 21 on the Independent Albums chart, and No. 1 on the Vinyl Albums chart, selling approximately 3,150 copies in its first week and signaling their rising prominence in the underground scene. Following the album's release, Code Orange expanded their touring footprint significantly, undertaking their first major co-headlining U.S. run, the "Kings of War Tour," with Twitching Tongues in September and October 2014, supported by acts like Nails and Soul Search. This month-long trek across North America helped solidify their live reputation for high-energy, chaotic performances that drew larger crowds and broadened their fanbase within hardcore and metalcore circles. In 2015, they further elevated their profile by performing on the Rockstar Energy Drink Mayhem Festival alongside headliners like Slayer and The Devil Wears Prada, marking one of their earliest appearances on a major touring festival. Critical reception was overwhelmingly positive, with outlets like Consequence of Sound praising the album's "abrasive musical statement" and its role in elevating the band as key players in American metalcore, while Decibel Magazine highlighted its innovative blend of aggression and melody in their coverage, cementing Code Orange's status as rising stars.

Forever and The Hurt Will Go On (2016–2019)

In April 2016, following the success of their independent breakthrough album I Am King, Code Orange signed a deal with Roadrunner Records, marking their entry into the major label arena.[33] The band announced plans for a new release later that year, building anticipation with singles like "Forever," which showcased their evolving sound blending hardcore aggression with industrial elements.[34] Their major label debut, Forever, arrived on January 13, 2017, produced by Kurt Ballou of Converge at GodCity Studios and Will Yip at Studio 4 in Pennsylvania.[35] The album experimented boldly with industrial noise, electronic textures, and sludge metal influences, expanding beyond traditional hardcore while maintaining the band's signature intensity and breakdown-driven structure.[36] Tracks such as the title song "Forever" and "Bleeding in the Blur" delve into themes of mental health struggles, including anxiety and emotional turmoil, reflecting the band's personal experiences with psychological pressure in the music industry.[2] Commercially, Forever debuted at No. 4 on the Billboard Heatseekers Albums chart and No. 62 on the Top Album Sales chart, signaling their growing mainstream traction.[37] To support the album, Code Orange embarked on extensive touring, including a slot on the 2017 Vans Warped Tour, where they performed alongside acts like Sleeping with Sirens and Neck Deep, exposing their music to broader audiences. In 2018, they headlined U.S. tours with bands like Twitching Tongues and Vein, emphasizing their raw live energy, and appeared at international festivals such as Download Festival in the UK and Australia, solidifying their global presence. The title track "Forever" earned a Grammy nomination for Best Metal Performance at the 60th Annual Grammy Awards in 2018, nominated alongside entries from Mastodon and August Burns Red, which significantly elevated the band's visibility in the metal community. Later that year, on June 21, 2018, Code Orange surprise-released the EP The Hurt Will Go On via Roadrunner, featuring three tracks including a guest appearance by Slipknot's Corey Taylor on "The Hunt."[38] Produced with a focus on heavier, riff-centric aggression and atmospheric tension, the EP served as a transitional piece, hinting at the darker, more experimental directions in their forthcoming work while reinforcing themes of emotional pain and resilience.[39]

Underneath, Under the Skin, and What Is Really Underneath? (2020–2023)

In March 2020, Code Orange released their fourth studio album, Underneath, through Roadrunner Records. Recorded prior to the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, the album incorporates industrial and electronic elements into the band's metalcore foundation, with contributions from vocalist/guitarist Nicole Dollanganger on tracks such as "(deeperthanbefore)" and "Swallowing the Rabbit Whole," as well as additional programming by Chris Vrenna, formerly of Nine Inch Nails. Thematically, Underneath explores duality in personal and societal contexts amid a digital, overexposed world, as articulated by the band in annotations for the title track, emphasizing self-reflection under duress. The album's release coincided with the early stages of global lockdowns, amplifying its introspective tone through unforeseen real-world isolation. The title track "Underneath" earned the band a nomination for Best Metal Performance at the 63rd Annual Grammy Awards in 2021, marking their second such recognition following a prior nod for "Forever" from 2017. This accolade highlighted the song's intense, anthemic structure and its resonance in heavy music circles. Amid pandemic restrictions, Code Orange adapted by staging virtual performances, including the "Last Ones Left: In Fear of The End" livestream on March 13, 2020, which drew over 13,000 viewers on Twitch and featured a full production in an empty Pittsburgh venue to promote the album. Later that year, on June 30, they announced Under the Skin, a stripped-down acoustic set performed live-to-stream on August 21, 2020, and released as a digital live album on September 4 via Roadrunner; this project delved into raw vulnerability, showcasing rearranged tracks from their catalog in an intimate format that contrasted their typically aggressive sound. Building on this experimental vein, Code Orange self-produced the companion EP What Is Really Underneath?, released on February 17, 2023, as a remix and reinterpretation of Underneath material. Produced by vocalist/drummer Jami Morgan and guitarist Eric "Shade" Balderose under their nowhere2run imprint, the EP further probes themes of emotional exposure and inner turmoil, with selections like "Grooming My Replacement" reimagined through ambient and electronic lenses. Accompanying the release was a 14-minute animated short film of the same name, directed by Balderose and conceived by Morgan, which weaves a surreal narrative scored by the EP's tracks to visualize psychological depth and societal masks. During the intervening lockdowns, Morgan expanded his production endeavors through nowhere2run Productions, collaborating on multimedia projects and facilitating the band's pivot to virtual formats while maintaining creative output. To support touring post-2020, the band incorporated session musicians into their live setup, including drummer Ethan Young of Thirty Nights of Violence from March 2020 to October 2021, allowing core members like Morgan—who occasionally shifted from drums to frontman duties—to adapt to health and logistical challenges amid ongoing restrictions. These adjustments enabled resumed North American tours by 2022, blending high-energy performances with the introspective elements honed during isolation.

The Above and hiatus (2023–present)

Code Orange released their fifth studio album, The Above, on September 29, 2023, through their independent label Blue Grape Music.[40] The record represented a further evolution in the band's sound, incorporating glitchy electronic elements, industrial textures, grunge influences, and melodic rock alongside their signature hardcore aggression, building on the experimental directions explored in prior releases like Underneath.[40] The album garnered mixed reception from critics, who praised its innovative and expansive approach to hardcore but noted inconsistencies, particularly in the latter tracks, which some felt flattened the overall momentum.[40] Commercially, The Above underperformed relative to the band's earlier efforts, such as Underneath, which debuted with nearly 5,000 units and reached No. 155 on the Billboard 200; the self-released nature of the project contributed to limited chart visibility.[41] In early 2024, the band faced setbacks when they cancelled a planned North American headline tour set to begin in February, citing serious health issues affecting guitarist Dominic Landolina that prevented him from performing.[42] The outing was to include support acts Gel, Teenage Wrist, Soul Blind, Spy, and Gridiron, and its cancellation also led to the scrapping of related mini-tours by some of the opening bands.[43] These challenges culminated in an official hiatus for Code Orange, confirmed by vocalist Jami Morgan in April 2025 during an appearance on the Nik Nocturnal Podcast, where he described the band as being "on the shelf for good reason" amid a series of circumstances, with no confirmed plans for future activity.[3][44] During this period, band members have focused on individual endeavors; guitarist Reba Meyers released her debut solo single "Certain Uncertainty" in December 2024, followed by additional material leading to her first solo tour in support of the forthcoming album Clouded World, while also joining Marilyn Manson as a touring guitarist.[45][46] Separately, Morgan and multi-instrumentalist Eric "Shade" Balderose debuted their electronic/cinematic project NOWHERE2RUN with the EP What Did You Do? on October 31, 2025, and launched a fall U.S. tour to promote it.[47][48]

Artistry

Musical style

Code Orange's music is primarily classified within the genres of hardcore punk and metalcore, defined by intense, aggressive breakdowns, rapid tempos, and raw emotional delivery that evoke the straight-edge ethos of their early work.[49] The band's sound features heavy riffing, dissonant guitar work, and a relentless drive that prioritizes visceral impact over melodic accessibility.[50] As their career progressed, they expanded into metallic hardcore with sharper, more technical elements, particularly evident in their shift toward greater sonic density and experimentation starting around 2014.[1] A hallmark of their style is the integration of industrial and electronic influences, including distorted synths, sampling, and atmospheric noise rock textures, which add layers of unease and modernity to their aggression.[51] This evolution from straightforward hardcore in their formative years (2008–2013) to a more hybridized form with industrial experimentation on albums like Forever (2017) onward reflects a deliberate push toward genre-blending, incorporating sludge-like weight and post-metal atmosphere while maintaining hardcore's chaotic energy.[52] Vocalist Jami Morgan's harsh, guttural screams provide the core ferocity, often complemented by guitarist Reba Meyers' versatile contributions, which range from clean singing to screamed passages, creating dynamic contrasts that heighten the music's emotional range.[53] Production plays a crucial role in their polished yet brutal aesthetic, with heavy distortion, layered electronics, and meticulous mixing emphasizing both clarity and overload.[54] Collaborations with producers such as Kurt Ballou for Forever and Nick Raskulinecz for Underneath (2020) have refined this approach, balancing raw aggression with innovative sonic elements like programmed beats and ambient interludes.[55] Critics often compare their intensity and genre-fusing ambition to Converge's pioneering mathcore ferocity, while the electronic infusions draw parallels to Nine Inch Nails' industrial edge.[56][57]

Influences

Code Orange's sound draws heavily from the DIY ethos and raw energy of hardcore punk pioneers. The band has cited Black Flag and Minor Threat as foundational influences, emphasizing their straight-edge principles and aggressive, unpolished approach to music that shaped the group's early commitment to intense live performances and self-reliant production.[58] These roots are echoed in Code Orange's formation within Pittsburgh's underground scene, where exposure to local thrash and punk shows instilled a similar sense of community and rebellion.[59] In terms of heaviness and technical aggression, metal acts like Slayer and Pantera have profoundly impacted the band's riff-driven intensity and groove-oriented breakdowns. Jami Morgan has specifically highlighted Pantera's mid-to-late 1990s output as a key era influencing Code Orange's evolution toward more dynamic, groove-infused compositions.[59] Additionally, Converge's blend of mathcore complexity and emotional ferocity serves as a direct inspiration, with the band acknowledging how it informed their grinding, experimental edge.[56] Industrial and noise rock elements entered Code Orange's palette through bands like Godflesh, Ministry, and especially Nine Inch Nails, whose electronic textures and thematic depth influenced the incorporation of synths and atmospheric production starting with the album Forever. Jami Morgan and Eric "Shade" Balderose have described Nine Inch Nails' works like Broken and The Downward Spiral as overwhelming inspirations, citing Trent Reznor's integration of industrial sounds with personal turmoil as a model for their own sonic experimentation.[57][60] Morgan has further named electronic artists such as Aphex Twin and Autechre as favorites, crediting their abstract, glitchy aesthetics for adding experimental layers to the band's music.[59] The Pittsburgh hardcore scene has been a vital cultural force, providing early exposure to diverse influences like thrash metal and punk through DIY venues and festivals, which fostered Code Orange's collaborative spirit and admiration for contemporaries such as Turnstile and Knocked Loose.[59] Broader themes of mental health advocacy in their work stem from personal experiences.

Personnel

Current members

The current lineup of Code Orange, as of the 2025 hiatus, consists of five core members.[3] Jami Morgan serves as the lead vocalist and is a founding member since 2008; originally handling drums as well, he transitioned to focus primarily on vocals starting around 2021, while maintaining his role as the band's primary songwriter and producer across their discography.[3][61][62] Reba Meyers, another founding member from 2008, plays guitar and provides vocals, contributing to the band's signature dual-vocal approach that blends screamed and clean styles; she has pursued solo projects and joined Marilyn Manson as a touring guitarist during the hiatus.[3][63] Eric "Shade" Balderose, also a founding member since 2008, handles guitar, keyboards, programming, and backing vocals, often incorporating electronic textures that define the band's modern production.[3][47] Joe Goldman joined as bassist in 2011, bringing a foundational low-end presence to the rhythm section that supports the band's aggressive dynamics.[3][64][65] Dominic Landolina has been the second guitarist and backing vocalist since 2017, adding layered guitar work despite facing significant health challenges, including a genetic condition that contributed to the band's tour cancellations and hiatus.[3][66]

Former members

Code Orange has undergone several lineup changes since its formation in 2008, with former members contributing significantly to the band's early sound and evolution through its initial albums and EPs. Greg Kern – bass (2008–2010)[67] Bob Rizzo – drums (2010–2011)[14] Colt Hess joined in 2008 and remained until 2017, providing key riffs and contributing to albums including I Am King (2014) and Forever (2017); his exit was attributed to personal growth and differing visions for the band's future, though relations remained positive.[14] Drummer Derek Hess, Colt's brother, served from 2011 to 2020, anchoring the rhythm section across multiple releases up to Underneath (2020) and handling additional vocal duties; he left to prioritize his mental health following a period of intense touring and personal challenges. Drew Golde replaced the previous bassist in 2012 and stayed through 2017, supporting the Forever era with his playing on that album and related tours; his departure was amicable, allowing him to pursue other opportunities while the band maintained its core stability. Max Portnoy, son of drummer Mike Portnoy, took over on drums in late 2021 (touring until 2023, full member 2023–2025), enabling Morgan's shift to full-time vocals and injecting high-energy technicality into live performances prior to the hiatus.[61][3][68]

Discography

Studio albums

Code Orange has released five studio albums, beginning with their debut under the name Code Orange Kids and evolving through shifts in label and sound. These albums mark the band's progression from raw hardcore punk to a more experimental metalcore style incorporating industrial and electronic elements. The band's debut album, Love Is Love/Return to Dust, was released on November 19, 2012, by Deathwish Inc..[69] Recorded at GodCity Studio by Kurt Ballou, it focused on indie and hardcore circuits without peaking on major charts.[20] The album received praise for its intense energy and dual-sided structure blending love-themed and dust-returning motifs. Track listing:
  1. "Flowermouth (The Leech)" – 2:25
  2. "Around My Neck // On My Head" – 1:07
  3. "Sleep (I've Been Slipping)" – 1:29
  4. "Liars // Trudge" – 3:55
  5. "Colors (Into Nothing)" – 2:33
  6. "My World" – 1:31
  7. "The Swell" – 1:53
  8. "Crawl" – 1:48
  9. "Wounds" – 2:01
  10. "Love Is Love" – 2:41
  11. "Return to Dust" – 3:26[20]
The sophomore album, I Am King, arrived on September 2, 2014, also via Deathwish Inc..[70] It debuted at No. 96 on the Billboard 200, No. 1 on the Vinyl Albums chart, No. 11 on the Hard Music Albums chart, and No. 21 on the Independent Albums chart, selling about 3,150 copies in its first week. Critics lauded its production by Kurt Ballou and fusion of metallic hardcore with shoegaze melodies, calling it a "supremely well executed" evolution that surpassed early hype.[71][72] Track listing:
  1. "I Am King" – 2:38
  2. "Slowburn" (featuring AJ Borish) – 2:31
  3. "Dreams in Inertia" – 5:00
  4. "Unclean Spirit" (featuring Scott Vogel) – 2:11
  5. "Alone in a Room" – 3:09
  6. "My World" – 1:15
  7. "Take Flight" – 2:42
  8. "Starve" – 2:51
  9. "Your Body Is Ready..." – 1:56
  10. "Thieve" – 3:58
  11. "Bind" – 3:53[73]
Forever, the band's major-label debut on Roadrunner Records, was released on January 13, 2017.[35] It peaked at No. 3 on the Heatseekers Albums chart, No. 4 on the Hard Rock Albums chart, No. 62 on the Top Album Sales chart, No. 3 on the Independent Albums chart, and No. 15 on the Top Rock Albums chart.[2][37] The title track earned a Grammy nomination for Best Metal Performance in 2018. Reviewers highlighted its caustic energy and catchy hooks as a compelling major-label entry.[74] Track listing:
  1. "Forever" – 3:07
  2. "Kill the Creator" – 2:26
  3. "Real" – 3:07
  4. "Bleeding in the Blur" – 4:04
  5. "The Mud" – 4:10
  6. "The New Reality" – 2:03
  7. "Spy" – 3:22
  8. "Autonomy" – 3:42
  9. "It Was a Gift" – 4:10
  10. "Crescent" – 3:01
  11. "The Same Blood" (featuring Brendan Garr) – 3:14[75]
Underneath, released amid the COVID-19 pandemic on March 13, 2020, by Roadrunner Records, debuted at No. 155 on the Billboard 200 and No. 6 on the Hard Rock Albums chart, with nearly 5,000 first-week sales.[76] Produced by the band alongside Nick Raskulinecz and Will Yip, it expanded on industrial metal influences and was acclaimed for its heavy, complicated soundscapes.[77] Track listing:
  1. "(deepernoise)" – 1:51
  2. "Swallowing the Rabbit Whole" – 3:47
  3. "In Fear" – 3:21
  4. "You and You Alone" – 3:06
  5. "Blue Dream" – 3:15
  6. "The Hunt" – 3:26
  7. "Sulfur City" – 3:24
  8. "Simulacrum" – 3:51
  9. "Fall" – 3:41
  10. "The Faded Soul" – 3:17
  11. "Reckless Parade" – 3:35
  12. "Last Ones Left" – 3:16
  13. "Autumn and Carbine" – 3:24
  14. "Back Inside the Glass" – 3:06[78]
The fifth album, The Above, marked a shift to Blue Grape Music on September 29, 2023.[79] Incorporating more electronic and alternative metal elements, it sold 2,715 units in its first week but did not enter major Billboard charts.[80] Reviews were mixed, praising its eclectic experimentation while critiquing uneven execution in tracks like "Take Shape" featuring Billy Corgan.[40][79] Track listing:
  1. "Never Far Apart" – 3:53
  2. "Theatre of Cruelty" – 3:58
  3. "Take Shape" (featuring Billy Corgan) – 3:24
  4. "The Mask of Sanity Slips" – 5:08
  5. "Mirror" – 3:25
  6. "A Drone Opting Out of the Hive" – 3:23
  7. "I Fly" – 3:32
  8. "Splinter the Soul" – 3:51
  9. "The Game" – 3:47
  10. "Gnaw Life" – 2:59
  11. "A Perfect Bind" – 4:01
  12. "The Above" – 3:36[81]
None of the albums have received RIAA certifications for sales.

Extended plays

Code Orange's extended plays represent key milestones in the band's evolution, from their raw hardcore origins to more experimental and introspective explorations. These releases often serve as bridges between full-length albums, allowing the band to experiment with production, collaborations, and thematic depth without the scope of a studio album. Early EPs emphasize aggressive energy and DIY ethos, while later ones incorporate industrial, acoustic, and electronic elements, reflecting the band's growth in the hardcore and metal scenes.
TitleRelease YearLabelNumber of TracksNotable Features
Embrace Me // Erase Me2011Upper Hand Records3Raw hardcore tracks focusing on personal turmoil; cassette format.[82]
Cycles2011Mayfly Records5Aggressive riffs and intense vocals defining early sound; 7" vinyl.[83]
The Hurt Will Go On2018Roadrunner Records3Guest appearance by Corey Taylor on "The Hunt"; remix by band member Shade; digital release introducing heavier, glitchy production.[84]
Under the Skin2020Roadrunner Records14 (live acoustic set)Acoustic renditions from a livestream performance; emphasizes emotional vulnerability and stripped-down arrangements.
Mirror2023Blue Grape Music4Introspective and dynamic tracks blending soft vocals with hardcore bursts; animated video accompaniment for title track.[85]
The early EPs, such as Embrace Me // Erase Me and Cycles, captured Code Orange's (then Code Orange Kids) emergence in Pittsburgh's hardcore scene, with short, visceral songs that prioritized live energy and lyrical themes of isolation and resilience. Cycles, in particular, featured production by Matt Very that highlighted the band's tight instrumentation and dual vocal attack from Jami Morgan and Reba Meyers, laying the foundation for their aggressive style.[83] These releases were pivotal in gaining attention from labels like Deathwish Inc., leading to their debut full-length. The Hurt Will Go On marked a shift toward broader appeal, blending hardcore with electronic remixes and high-profile collaboration. The EP's title track reworks a song from their 2017 album Forever, adding glitchy effects that foreshadowed the industrial influences on subsequent work. Its surprise digital drop via Roadrunner Records demonstrated the band's ability to maintain momentum between albums while experimenting with guest features to expand their sound.[86] Later EPs like Under the Skin and Mirror showcase introspection amid the band's heavier catalog. Under the Skin, recorded during a 2020 livestream amid pandemic restrictions, transformed high-energy tracks into acoustic versions, revealing melodic layers and emotional nuance often masked in their live shows. Released by Roadrunner, it underscored the band's adaptability and connected with fans through vulnerability during isolation. Similarly, Mirror in 2023, issued under their own Blue Grape Music imprint, explores self-reflection with tracks like the title song featuring ethereal vocals and building intensity, aligning with themes of identity in their post-The Above era. This EP highlights their continued push into genre-blending, with production emphasizing atmosphere over sheer aggression.[87]

Singles and other releases

Code Orange, initially performing as Code Orange Kids, began with self-released demos that showcased their early hardcore punk sound. Their first demo, Tour Demo 2009, was recorded and distributed independently during their winter tour, featuring raw tracks like "Head High, Skull Thick" and "Starving Sisters (Never Sleep)."[88] This cassette-only release marked the band's nascent aggression and DIY ethos.[11] In 2010, Code Orange Kids followed with Demo 2010, another self-released cassette limited to a small run, containing songs such as "Coasts," "Thrones," and "Violence."[89] Often referred to in early contexts as tied to themes like Embrace Me, this demo highlighted evolving metallic elements in their hardcore style and was pivotal for building a local following through tape trading and shows.[90] The band's transition to Roadrunner Records in 2017 brought prominent standalone singles. "Forever," the title track from their major-label debut album, was released as a single on January 13, 2017, blending industrial metal riffs with emotional intensity and accompanied by an official music video directed by the band.[91] In 2020, "Underneath" served as the lead single for their fourth album, released on January 10 via Roadrunner Records with a video emphasizing themes of isolation and resilience.[92] The track's heavy, atmospheric production contributed to the album's number 2 debut on the Billboard Emerging Artists chart.[93] "Swallowing the Rabbit Whole," another single from the same era, dropped on February 7, 2020, featuring dissonant noise and crushing breakdowns, paired with a Max Moore-directed video that amplified its chaotic energy.[94] This release further solidified their experimental edge within metalcore.[95] More recently, "Take Shape" featuring Billy Corgan of The Smashing Pumpkins was issued on July 18, 2023, as a single ahead of The Above, incorporating nu-metal anthems and Corgan's guest vocals on the bridge.[96] The official video, released concurrently, highlighted the collaboration's dynamic interplay.[97] It reached number 1 on the Billboard Hard Rock Digital Song Sales chart, marking a commercial peak.[98] Additional miscellaneous outputs include splits and one-offs, such as the 2012 split EP with Full of Hell on Topshelf Records, which featured exclusive tracks like "Flowermouth" and "The Water's Weight."[99] These releases, along with tied video content, expanded their catalog beyond full-length projects.

Awards and nominations

Grammy Awards

Code Orange has received two nominations for the Grammy Award for Best Metal Performance. Their debut nomination came in 2018 at the 60th Annual Grammy Awards for the track "Forever" from their album of the same name, though they lost to Mastodon's "Sultan's Curse." This recognition highlighted the band's rising prominence in the metal scene and contributed to greater mainstream visibility for hardcore acts.[100][2] In 2021, at the 63rd Annual Grammy Awards, Code Orange earned their second nomination in the same category for "Underneath," a single from their 2020 album Underneath, but lost to Body Count's "Bum-Rush (All My Heroes Are Dead)." The dual nominations underscored the band's innovative blend of hardcore and metal elements, further elevating their profile within the genre.[101] As of 2025, Code Orange has not won a Grammy Award. In recognition of their 2018 nomination, Pennsylvania Governor Tom Wolf issued a commendation letter praising the Pittsburgh-based band's artistic commitment and contributions to the state's cultural landscape.[102]

Other awards

In addition to their Grammy nominations, Code Orange has received recognition from various metal and rock industry awards and publications. At the 2018 Metal Hammer Golden Gods Awards, the band won the Breakthrough award, sponsored by Sumerian Records, acknowledging their rapid rise following the release of Forever.[103] This accolade highlighted their innovative blend of hardcore punk and metal elements, positioning them as a standout new act in the genre.[104] The band's 2017 album Forever earned significant praise from critics, topping Rolling Stone's list of the 20 Best Metal Albums of 2017, where it was lauded for exploding genre boundaries alongside veterans like Unsane and Obituary.[105] The title track "Forever" also claimed the number-one spot on Loudwire's Best Metal Songs of 2017, underscoring its impact through aggressive riffs and emotional intensity.[106] At the 2018 Kerrang! Awards, Code Orange secured the Best International Breakthrough award, beating nominees including Greta Van Fleet and Turnstile, in celebration of their global touring success and genre-defying sound.[107] This win marked a key milestone in their international acclaim, distinct from broader industry honors like the Grammys. Code Orange has also garnered nominations from other prominent outlets. Guitarist Reba Meyers was nominated for Best Guitarist at the 2017 Alternative Press Music Awards, recognizing her contributions to the band's dynamic live performances and recordings.[108] In 2021, Underneath received a nomination for Best Album Artwork at the Heavy Music Awards, reflecting their visual and sonic evolution.[109] The 2023 album The Above was included in Revolver Magazine's list of the 30 Best Albums of 2023.[110] While the band has achieved several nominations and list placements, they have not secured major wins in these genre-specific ceremonies beyond the aforementioned Breakthrough honors as of 2025.[101]

References

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