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Senses Fail
Senses Fail
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Senses Fail is an American post-hardcore band formed in Ridgewood, New Jersey, in 2001. Founded by vocalist Buddy Nielsen, drummer Dan Trapp, guitarists Garrett Zablocki and Dave Miller, and bassist James Gill (replaced by Mike Glita shortly after); the band has seen many lineup changes, with Nielsen being the only consistent member.[1] The band has released eight studio albums, one live album, and several EPs.

Key Information

History

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Formation and From the Depths of Dreams EP (2001–2003)

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Senses Fail's beginnings started in October 2001 after James "Buddy" Nielsen posted an advertisement on the Internet to recruit members for the band.[2] The advertisement attracted attention from Garrett Zablocki, who then began writing with Nielsen. Later Zablocki contacted Dave Miller to join the band who also brought along his friend, James Gill. After a short time with another drummer the band came across Dan Trapp, who was only 14-years-old at the time. Before the band signed to Drive-Thru Records, James Gill was kicked out of the band due to irreconcilable differences; he was replaced by former Tokyo Rose drummer Mike Glita.[3][4][5]

Nielsen explained the band name, stating: "In Hinduism, they believe that being alive is hell, and the only way to reach Nirvana is to ultimately have no attachments to anything. So, people go out and live in the middle of the woods and they don't eat and don't drink. They just meditate because they've reached such a high level where they're not attached to love, relationships or anything. And if you want to reach the highest level of being and see God, you have to have all your senses fail."[2]

Building a local fan base by playing any gig they could find from skate parks and clubs to churches,[6] they soon entered the studio and started to record. Their first release, From the Depths of Dreams, was a six-track EP that was originally released on ECA Records on August 16, 2002. It originally started as two three-song demo CDs, but was later joined together to make one release by producer John Naclerio. The independent release did very well and caught the attention of some record labels. They signed to Drive-Thru Records, and reissued their EP on April 29, 2003, with two extra tracks, remastering, and new cover art. The b-side "Bastard Son" was also recorded during this time. The release saw much success, and sold enough copies to peak at No. 144 on the Billboard chart.[7] In support of the EP, Senses Fail toured with such bands as The Used, Millencolin, The Starting Line, and Drive-Thru labelmates Finch.[8]

Let It Enfold You (2004–2005)

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Senses Fail started working on their debut album, Let It Enfold You in April 2003. During this time, lead singer and songwriter Buddy Nielsen was 18–19 years old.[6] They worked with producer Steve Evetts (Saves the Day, A Static Lullaby, Every Time I Die) on their new label Vagrant Records. The lyrics were derived from a wide variety of sources. The title of the album was taken from a poem written by Charles Bukowski, the song "Irony of Dying on Your Birthday" is about the work of mythologist Joseph Campbell, and parts of the song "Slow Dance" include lines of the Dao De Jing.[9] Nielsen stated that, "We just love making music and writing good songs. I feel like I've got a lot more to say and we've got a lot more to contribute. But even if things ended tomorrow, we've gotten 10 times further than we ever expected to get and that makes us feel like we've succeeded regardless of what happens from here on." Let It Enfold You was released on September 7, 2004, on Vagrant and Drive Thru Records.[10] The album was certified gold by the RIAA, and has sold over 600,000 copies worldwide.[11]

Let It Enfold You saw the release of two singles: "Buried a Lie" and "Rum Is for Drinking, Not for Burning." The music video for "Buried a Lie" was filmed on the set of the soap opera Guiding Light. Nielsen's mother, who shot the video, used to act in the show.[6] The release of the video started attracting mainstream success for the band. During this period, Senses Fail were featured in magazines such as Kerrang!, Rolling Stone, Spin and appeared on the cover of Alternative Press.[6]

The band toured extensively in support of the release. They were added to Warped Tour in 2004, 2005, and 2006, and 2009,[6] and played on the main stage for the 2005 and 2006 editions of the tour. They were also included on the first Taste of Chaos tour in 2005 with such notable acts as The Used, My Chemical Romance, and Killswitch Engage. They also headlined a few tours of their own during this time with The Early November from Drive Thru and Emanuel from Vagrant.

The band performed on Conan O'Brien's show in early 2005. Nielsen forgot the lyrics to the first verse of "Rum is for Drinking, Not for Burning" during this performance due to a panic attack.[12]

The album was reissued in November 2005 with bonus tracks and new album art. In addition to the original track listing, it featured acoustic versions of songs from the album, an unreleased track, and a cover of the Suicidal Tendencies song "Institutionalized."

In 2005, the band's web site announced the departure, by mutual agreement, of guitarist Dave Miller. He was replaced by Heath Saraceno, previously the guitarist and vocalist of the band Midtown.[13] Miller started his own record label called DMI (Dave Miller Industries) in September 2006.[14]

The song "Lady in a Blue Dress," from this album, was released as a downloadable track on the Rock Band Network on March 4, 2010.[15]

Still Searching (2006–2007)

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After taking a break from touring, and acquiring a new lineup, Senses Fail began to write their second studio album. The new album, titled Still Searching was produced by Brian McTernan (Thrice, Cave In) and mixed by Chris Lord-Alge. This album eased up on the aggression on previous albums and showed more emotion. On the subject of the new songs, Nielsen explained, "I like my lyrics to be open to interpretation, but I didn't want to paint pictures of things no one was going to understand; I want our fans to be able to relate. At some point, we all start examining our lives. If you don't, there's something wrong with you."[6]

In support of the new album, the band toured on the Taste of Chaos again. In 2006 they toured with the Taste of Chaos International, and in 2007 Senses Fail returned to North America for the 2007 Taste of Chaos tour. In the summer of 2007 they also participated in a few dates of the Zumiez Couch Tour alongside From Autumn to Ashes. They headlined in late 2006 with Saosin and Bleeding Through as supporters.[10] On October 5, 2007, Senses Fail began a 33-city co-headlining tour with New Found Glory which started in Las Vegas, Nevada. Also on the tour was Set Your Goals. The tour ended on November 24, 2007, in San Diego, California.

On November 13, 2007, Senses Fail released a deluxe version of Still Searching, which featured new art, behind-the-scenes DVD featuring footage from the band's headlining tour last fall, two new songs, three b-sides, and a cover of The Cranberries' song "Salvation."[16]

Former bassist and backing vocalist Mike Glita in 2007.

On December 8, 2007, bassist Mike Glita left the band to pursue his side project Knights In Paris.[17] Jason Black joined as a temporary replacement, though he later became a permanent member.

The song "Can't Be Saved," from this album, is featured in the game Guitar Hero III: Legends of Rock. One of their other singles, "Calling All Cars," is featured in the game Burnout Paradise.

Life Is Not a Waiting Room (2008–2009)

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The band's third full-length album Life Is Not a Waiting Room was released on October 7, 2008 through Vagrant Records,[18] and was followed by a nationwide tour the day after.[19] On November 21, Senses Fail did an online interview with Ultimate Guitar, talking about the evolution of the band, their new bassist and the album.[20]

On June 30, 2009, it was announced that guitarist Heath Saraceno would be leaving the band after the 2009 Warped Tour, stating: "I've shared many great times with these guys over the past four years or so. We've made two records I'm very proud of, toured the world and the States countless times, and I've made friends with people I would not have met otherwise. These guys from Jersey (and Atlanta by way of Florida) have turned into some of my closest friends, and I will miss seeing them as often as I've been able to."[21] He was replaced by Zack Roach.

The Fire (2010)

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Senses Fail in 2011
Buddy Nielsen performing at the Social in April 2013

The band began recording their new album, titled The Fire, at Salad Days Studio with Brian McTernan in June 2010 hoping to release later that year.[22] The Fire was released in the UK on October 25, 2010, through Hassle Records[23] and elsewhere on October 26 through Vagrant Records[24] to generally positive reviews. The album does not feature Zack Roach on guitar, replacing Heath Saraceno after leaving in 2009, but instead has Garrett Zablocki playing both guitar roles.[25] In February 2011, Garrett Zablocki left the band to attend college; however, he will be composing music for various films and videos.

Follow Your Bliss: The Best of Senses Fail (2012)

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Senses Fail announced that they would be going on tour with Stick to Your Guns, Make Do and Mend, and The Story So Far in November 2011.[26]

The band then released The Fire on vinyl through Mightier Than Sword Records.[citation needed]

Senses Fail played again on the 2012 Vans Warped Tour. They released a greatest hits album entitled Follow Your Bliss: The Best of Senses Fail which featured music from all of their previous albums and came with an added four-track EP of new songs. The album was released on June 19, 2012, in a double-CD package and it is limited to 10,000 copies.[27][needs update]

On June 15, they released "War Paint" from their Greatest Hits album.

Renacer (2013–2014)

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On November 13, 2012, Senses Fail posted on their Facebook page that "We begin recording our fifth full-length album this week in Los Angeles, California. We will be working with producer Shaun Lopez (Far, Deftones) at The Airport Studio and Red Bull Studio. The recording is expected to wrap up in mid-December with a Spring 2013 release planned." The resulting album, Renacer, was released on March 26, 2013. On February 4, 2013, the first single, "Mi Amor" was released,along with pre-orders for the album.[28] On March 1, 2013, a second single was released, "The Path."

The band played at the UK Slam Dunk Festival in May 2013.

The music video for "Between the Mountains and the Sea" was released on August 2, 2013[29]

It was announced on June 2, 2014, via the band's Facebook page that Senses Fail would be doing a 10th Anniversary tour playing their record "Let It Enfold You" from start to finish and that ex-Poison the Well, current Big Black Delta live drummer, Chris Hornbrook would be replacing long time drummer, Dan Trapp.[citation needed]

Pull the Thorns from Your Heart, touring replacements, side projects (2014–2016)

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On February 2, 2015, the band released a tease of their split EP on their Facebook. The EP was released on March 3, 2015. Pull the Thorns from Your Heart was released on June 30, 2015. The touring cycle for the record kicked off by playing the entirety of the 2015 Vans Warped Tour. The band then embarked on a winter co-headlining tour with Silverstein. On this tour, guitarist Matt Smith was absent due to the birth of his first child. Greg Styliades, who had previously toured with the band after Zack Roach returned home for the birth of his child, performed with the band on this tour. At this time, the band was classified by AbsolutePunk as screamo and "alternative".[9]

On May 17, 2016, frontman Buddy Nielsen announced that he had formed a new band called Speak The Truth... Even If Your Voice shakes. The band also includes drummer Alex Pappas and guitarists Alex "Grizz" Linares and Daniel Wonacott, all formerly of the band Finch. They released their debut, self-titled 7" on November 4, 2016, via Bad Timing Records. The release features the songs Crash My Car and Go For The Throat. Senses Fail bassist Gavin Caswell was later recruited to play bass at the outfits first ever live performance.

In 2016, the band performed at the recently revived Taste of Chaos festival in San Bernardino, California. After returning as a single day festival in 2015, Taste of Chaos returned as a full United States tour in 2016, culminating in the festival date. The festival took place on July 16, and also featured performances from The Starting Line, The Get Up Kids, and Quicksand, as well as 2016 Taste of Chaos full tour acts Saosin, Taking Back Sunday, and Dashboard Confessional.

The future of the band was left uncertain after it was revealed that guitarists Zack Roach and Matt Smith would no longer be touring with the band, with both choosing to focus on their families after the recent births of their children. Despite almost breaking up, the band took the rest of the summer of 2016 off to regroup. In late 2016, the band supported Sum 41 on their "Don't Call it a Sum Back" full United States tour. Bassist Gavin Caswell took over rhythm guitar duties live, with Styliades returning on bass guitar, and Jason Milbank filling the role of lead guitarist.

In Your Absence, Quince Años Tour and If There Is Light, It Will Find You (2016–2019)

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On November 15, 2016, the band announced that in celebration of its upcoming fifteenth anniversary, they would be embarking on the Quince Años Tour in March and April 2017, with support from Counterparts, Movements, and Like Pacific. To commemorate the event, the band performed its 2006 album Still Searching in full, alongside a collection of career spanning songs.[30]

On the same day, the band announced the release of their long teased acoustic EP, In Your Absence.[31] It featured three brand new songs recorded and produced by Beau Burchell, alongside acoustic renditions of "Lost and Found" from Still Searching, and "Family Tradition" from Life Is Not A Waiting Room recorded and produced by Kyle Black. A music video was released for the lead single, "Jets to Peru", on January 26, 2017. The EP released on March 3, 2017, alongside the beginning of the Quince Años Tour.

The band entered the studio with Saosin guitarist Beau Burchell, who also handled recording duties on In Your Absence, to begin recording their seventh full-length album on June 27, 2017, to be titled If There Is Light, It Will Find You.[32] Nielsen commented that the album would feature a style more akin to earlier releases, such as Let It Enfold You.[citation needed]

On August 2, it was revealed that former drummer Dan Trapp would be performing drums on the album, although current drummer Chris Hornbrook would still be performing and touring with the band. However, on January 8, 2018, Hornbrook announced his departure from the band. Hornbrook had been touring with Dhani Harrison during the recording sessions.[33] On February 1, 2018, Steve Carey of The Color Morale was announced as the band's new drummer, following the announcement that The Color Morale would be entering a hiatus.[34]

On November 30, the lead single "Double Cross" was released. A second single, "Gold Jacket, Green Jacket..." was released on January 11, 2018.[35] On February 1, 2018, a third single, "New Jersey Makes, the World Takes" was released.[36] The album was released on February 16, 2018.[citation needed]

On August 29, 2019, a re-recorded version of 2004's "Bastard Son" was released with a video, and the band announced the release date of a "reimagined" From the Depths of Dreams EP on September 6, 2019.

Hell Is in Your Head (2020–present)

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Senses Fail playing at Aftershock 2023

In January 2020, Senses Fail announced that they had begun recording their eighth record, tentatively titled Hell Is In Your Head, and that it would follow the character from Still Searching after the events of the song "The Priest and the Matador."[37] In March, they updated the working title to What the Thunder Said, Hell Is in Your Head.[38]

On October 30, 2020, two Misfits covers were released as part of a split covers EP with the band Saves the Day titled Through Being Ghoul. On November 25, 2020, the band released an EP titled Christmas Has Been Canceled Due to Lack of Hustle which features two songs, a cover of Saturday Night Live's "I Wish It Was Christmas Today" and "Donde Esta Santa Clause".

On February 17, 2021, the band released "Lush Rimbaugh," coinciding with the death of conservative news pundit Rush Limbaugh.[39] On August 18, a second single titled "Death by Water" was released alongside a music video, and featured Ice Nine Kills vocalist Spencer Charnas. On November 4, 2021, another new single was released alongside a music video titled "I'm Sorry I'm Leaving." The release of the song also saw the official announcement that Hell Is in Your Head would be released on July 15, 2022.[40]

In September 2022, it was announced that bassist Greg Styliades would be only a part time touring member of the band so he could focus on his real estate career and raising his family.

Senses Fail were listed as a band to watch on day 1 of the 2023 Aftershock Festival by The State Hornet.[41]

The band was confirmed to be performing at the 2026 Sonic Temple music festival in Columbus, Ohio.[42]

Musical style and influences

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Senses Fail's traditional sound is characterized by "a slick amalgam of post-hardcore muscle and emo heartbreak," along with "unusually esoteric" lyrics.[43] In addition to post-hardcore[44][45][46] and emo,[47][45][48][46] the band has also been categorized as screamo,[49][50][51][52] metalcore,[53][54] pop screamo,[55][56][57] pop-punk,[58][50] and hardcore punk,[59][60] and punk rock.[61] According to AllMusic, "Unlike many bands flying punk's pirate flag in the early '00s, Senses Fail don't go in for the jokey pop-punk sound favored by so many of their peers (especially on the West Coast). Nor do they trade in the ubiquitous emo sound, or Rancid-style retro. Instead they pursue their own course; while melodic, they don't go for obvious pop hooks."[61] According to Alternative Press, "The band exquisitely balance their post-hardcore and metalcore elements by providing ample attention to each aspect of the genres."[62]

Nielsen's vocal style utilizes both screaming and singing, drawing influence from hardcore punk, emo and pop music.[63] He has retroactively self-described his lyrics on early Senses Fail releases as misogynistic. He said: "There are definitely things I said on there that I’d never say now. Specifically, sort of misogynistic, overtly misogynistic things. Songs just that lack a level of depth. Overall, there’s a couple lines where I’ll cringe, like 'whore.' Or I have a song about pushing a girl off a building. [...] I wouldn’t say when I look at it as a whole I’m, like, cringing or upset about it. But there are specific instances when I look at it, and I’m like, 'What? What was going on back then that that’s what came out?'"[64]

The band have cited Poison the Well,[65] Planes Mistaken for Stars, Saetia, Pg. 99, Hot Water Music, Cursive, Orchid,[66] Jimmy Eat World, the Get Up Kids, the Promise Ring, Appleseed Cast, Saves the Day, Thursday, the Casket Lottery, Lifetime, Metallica, Megadeth and Deftones as their influences.[67][68][69][70][71]

Personal life and ideology

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Frontman Buddy Nielsen has stated that he has struggled with anxiety, sexual addiction, substance abuse and alcoholism at earlier periods in his life. He identifies as queer and has stated he has found himself attracted to people of all gender identities.[72][73] He has been an outspoken proponent for LGBT rights in the United States, healthcare reform and socialism. He is married and has a daughter. His wife suffers from multiple sclerosis, which nearly cost her life during childbirth.[74][75][76]

Nielsen practices Buddhist meditation and ju jitsu. In a 2012 Warped Tour interview with BryanStars, Nielsen stated that he did not believe in God or heaven.[77][78]

Band members

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Current

  • James "Buddy" Nielsen – lead vocals, piano, programming, additional percussion (2002–present)
  • Gavin Caswell – rhythm guitar, backing vocals (2016–present); bass (2013–2016)
  • Jason Milbank – lead guitar, backing vocals (2016–present)
  • Steve Carey – drums (2018–present)
  • Daniel Wonacott – bass, backing vocals, part-time guitars (2022–present)

Former

  • Garrett Zablocki – lead guitar, backing vocals (2002–2011)
  • Dan Trapp – drums, percussion (2002–2014, official; 2017–present, session)
  • Mike Glita – bass, backing screamed vocals (2002–2008)
  • Dave Miller – rhythm guitar (2002–2005)
  • Heath Saraceno – rhythm guitar, backing vocals (2005–2009)
  • Jason Black – bass (2008–2012)
  • Zack Roach – rhythm guitar (2009–2011); lead guitar (2011–2016); backing vocals (2009–2016); bass (2012–2013)
  • Matt Smith – rhythm guitar, backing vocals (2011–2016)
  • Chris Hornbrook – drums (2014–2018)
  • Greg Styliades – bass (2016–2022, part-time/touring 2022–present); guitars (touring 2015)
  • James Gill – bass (2002)

Touring musicians

  • Etay Pisano – guitars (2009–2010)
  • Jeremy Comitas – bass, backing vocals (2012)


Timeline

Discography

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References

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[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
Senses Fail is an American post-hardcore band formed in Ridgewood, New Jersey, in 2002 by vocalist James "Buddy" Nielsen through an online advertisement seeking collaborators. The band's original lineup included Nielsen, drummer Dan Trapp, guitarists Dave Miller and Garrett Zablocki, and bassist Mike Glita, though it has undergone extensive changes over the years with Nielsen remaining the sole constant member. Known for blending aggressive instrumentation with introspective lyrics often drawn from Nielsen's personal experiences with addiction, sexuality, and mental health, Senses Fail debuted with the EP From the Depths of Dreams in 2003 before achieving commercial breakthrough with their first full-length album Let It Enfold You (2004), which sold over 500,000 copies worldwide. The group has released eight studio albums to date, including Still Searching (2006) and If There Is Light, It Needs to Be Burned (2018), while sustaining relevance through tours on major packages like Warped Tour and Taste of Chaos alongside acts such as My Chemical Romance. Despite lineup instability and occasional interpersonal conflicts within the scene, such as public disputes with other bands, Senses Fail persists as an active entity, announcing co-headlining tours into 2025.

History

Formation and From the Depths of Dreams (2001–2003)

Senses Fail was formed in , in 2001 by vocalist Buddy Nielsen and drummer Dan Trapp, who sought to create music drawing from influences amid the local scene. Nielsen placed an online advertisement for bandmates, which was answered by guitarist Garrett Zablocki; the pair then recruited rhythm guitarist Dave Miller and bassist Mike Glita, the latter previously a drummer in the New Jersey act , to complete the initial lineup composed of members from regional groups. The band quickly recorded and released their debut EP, From the Depths of Dreams, on August 16, 2002, through the independent label ECA Records in a limited run of 300 copies. The six-track release featured a raw sound marked by aggressive riffs, screamed vocals, and introspective lyrics addressing alienation, regret, and emotional turmoil, as heard in songs like "" (3:49) and "One Eight Seven" (4:12). Performing at grassroots venues and local shows, Senses Fail built underground momentum with the EP's distribution, which caught the attention of major indie label ; the EP was reissued by Vagrant on April 29, 2003, with updated artwork and two bonus tracks, signaling the band's entry into broader punk and circuits.

(2004–2005)

Senses Fail recorded their debut full-length album, , across multiple studios in during April 2003, with production handled by . The record, featuring themes of personal despair drawn from vocalist Buddy Nielsen's experiences, was mixed by Eric Stenman and released on September 7, 2004, through . This marked the band's transition from their prior EP to a more expansive sound, supported by a lineup including Nielsen on vocals, guitarists Dave Miller and Garrett Zablocki, bassist Mike Glita, and drummer Dan Trapp. The album achieved commercial breakthrough, debuting at number 34 on the chart and reaching number 2 on the Independent Albums chart upon release. "Buried a Lie" served as the lead radio single, released on February 8, 2005, helping drive visibility through rotation and airplay. Initial sales exceeded expectations for an independent punk-leaning act, with over 325,000 copies moved by mid-2006, reflecting growing demand in the and scenes. Post-release touring expanded the band's profile nationally, beginning with slots on the in summer , where they performed on the Maurice Stage for the tour's first half across multiple U.S. dates. They supported and on select headline dates, including an August 15 show at in , signaling entry into larger venues and co-bills with established acts. In 2005, Senses Fail returned to on the main stage and joined the tour, alongside a year-end run with , solidifying their shift from regional New Jersey gigs to sustained national exposure.

Still Searching (2006–2007)

In early 2006, Senses Fail entered the studio to record their sophomore album , following a period of lineup adjustments that included the addition of new members to stabilize the band after extensive touring. The album was produced by , known for his work with rock acts emphasizing polished production techniques, and released on October 10, 2006, via in collaboration with . It debuted at number 15 on the , selling approximately 49,000 copies in its first week, reflecting the band's growing commercial momentum from prior releases. The lead single "Calling All Cars" preceded the album, but "Can't Be Saved" emerged as a key track upon its release as the second single in February 2007, gaining radio play and contributing to the album's visibility through its anthemic structure and music video debut on AOL Music that May. To promote Still Searching, the band undertook extensive touring, including a late 2006 U.S. headlining run supported by and , followed by co-headlining dates with in spring 2007. They also joined larger acts on support slots, such as a 33-city co-headlining tour with New Found Glory starting October 5, 2007, alongside Set Your Goals, and select European dates to expand their international presence. Post-release, early indicators of internal flux appeared as Mike Glita, a member since 2002, departed the band in 2007 amid unspecified tensions, marking the beginning of recurring lineup instability that would intensify in subsequent years. This shift occurred while the band maintained a rigorous tour schedule, highlighting efforts to sustain momentum despite personnel changes.

Life Is Not a Waiting Room (2008–2009)

Senses Fail released their third studio album, Life Is Not a Waiting Room, on October 7, 2008, via . The record featured 12 tracks, including "Fireworks at Dawn," "Lungs Like Gallows," and "Family Tradition," and marked a heavier sound incorporating aggression with introspective lyricism. Recorded amid personal turmoil, the album addressed themes of emotional upheaval without providing explicit resolutions to the underlying issues. Frontman Buddy Nielsen's struggles with , depression, and the dissolution of a long-term relationship profoundly shaped the album's content. Nielsen later reflected that he composed much of the material while under the influence of alcohol and drugs, grappling with life's hardships including as a contemplated escape. These experiences contributed to a raw, unfiltered tone, diverging from the band's earlier melodic emphases toward more visceral expressions of inner conflict. To promote the album, Senses Fail undertook extensive touring, performing 47 shows in 2008 and escalating to 147 concerts in 2009 despite the global financial crisis. Key outings included the Saints & Sinners Tour starting February 27, 2009, alongside , , and , as well as a full summer run on the Warped Tour's Smartpunk Stage. These efforts sustained fan engagement amid economic pressures, with performances showcasing the new material's intensity.

The Fire (2010)

The Fire, the band's fourth studio album, was released on October 26, 2010, through in and Hassle Records in the . Recorded at Studio in , , the album was produced, engineered, and mixed by , with contributions from vocalist Buddy Nielsen on vocals, guitarist Garrett Zablocki on guitar and backing vocals, bassist Jason Black, and drummer Dan Trapp. The record incorporated elements of hardcore aggression alongside melodic structures, reflecting a period of stylistic experimentation amid lineup flux, including touring guitarist Zack Roach. Internal challenges constrained promotion, as the band navigated ongoing member turnover—described by Nielsen as a "sinking ship" era—and Nielsen's recovery from throat surgery, which limited extensive touring following the release. Despite these issues, the album represented a brief phase of relative stability with its core recording lineup intact, signaling a pivot toward greater band autonomy after reliance on major-label distribution.

Follow Your Bliss compilation and Renacer (2011–2014)

In 2012, Senses Fail issued Follow Your Bliss: The Best of Senses Fail, a double-disc compilation released on June 19 through Vagrant Records, compiling 12 tracks from prior albums alongside a bonus EP containing four previously unreleased songs: "War Paint," "Vines," "Early Graves," and "Waves." The collection highlighted singles and fan favorites spanning the band's first decade, such as "Can't Be Saved" and "Buried a Lie," marking a reflective endpoint to their partnership with Vagrant, which had issued their albums since Let It Enfold You in 2004. The release underscored a transitional phase, with the new material previewing evolving sonic directions amid lineup stability under vocalist Buddy Nielsen. The band promoted Follow Your Bliss through live performances, including a slot on the 2012 Vans Warped Tour, where they played dates across the , such as the June 21 stop at in . This period involved internal reevaluation following the intensity of The Fire in 2010, with limited side projects; Nielsen focused on personal recovery themes echoed in the compilation's curation, though no major external ventures were pursued by core members. Shifting to independence, Senses Fail self-released Renacer on March 26, 2013, via Workhorse Music Group, a seven-track EP titled after the Spanish word for "rebirth," incorporating linguistic and thematic nods to Latin American culture through song titles like "Mi Amor" and exploratory motifs in tracks such as "Renacer" and "Holy Mountain." Produced by Zack Ohren, the EP experimented with heavier, atmospheric elements distinct from prior roots, featuring a tracklist of "Renacer" (2:27), "Holy Mountain" (3:49), "Mi Amor" (3:29), "Closure/Rebirth" (3:24), "The Path" (3:51), "Canine" (3:28), and "" (4:19). Available in formats including limited orange/green marble vinyl (500 copies), it represented genre boundary-pushing during a phase of artistic reinvention, with tours remaining subdued to prioritize creative output over extensive roadwork.

Pull the Thorns from Your Heart and lineup instability (2014–2016)

Senses Fail announced their sixth studio album, Pull the Thorns from Your Heart, in May 2015, with a release date set for June 30, 2015, via Pure Noise Records. The album marked the band's first full-length output on the label, following a series of independent and major-label releases, and featured a shift toward heavier, more aggressive post-hardcore elements driven by updated instrumentation. Recording for Pull the Thorns from Your Heart occurred against a backdrop of personnel flux, including the enlistment of new , whose dynamic playing contributed to the album's intensified rhythms and breakdowns. Hornbrook's involvement followed the exit of founding Dan Trapp after over a decade with the band, exacerbating operational challenges as core songwriting and performance roles required rapid reconfiguration. This period highlighted broader instability stemming from prior exits, such as longtime guitarist Garrett Zablocki's 2011 departure to pursue and finance career opportunities, which had already reshaped the band's guitar dynamics and live setup. To sustain touring commitments, including appearances on the 2015 Vans Warped Tour, Senses Fail relied on temporary and part-time replacements for guitars and other positions, allowing vocalist Buddy Nielsen to maintain momentum amid the turnover. Nielsen also explored side projects during this time, diverting creative energy while the band navigated recruitment and rehearsal disruptions that tested logistical continuity. These adjustments underscored the operational strains of frequent member changes, with the group adapting through ad-hoc lineups to support album promotion and live performances.

If There Is Light, It Will Find You and intermediate releases (2017–2019)

In March 2017, Senses Fail released the acoustic EP In Your Absence through Pure Noise Records, consisting of five tracks: "Jets to ," "In Your Absence," "Death Bed," "Family Tradition," and "Lost and Found." The EP was produced by and featured a for the "Jets to Peru," which premiered on January 26, 2017. This release aligned with the launch of the Quince Años Tour on March 3, 2017, a North American headlining run marking the 15th anniversary of the band's 2006 album . During the tour, supported by acts including Counterparts and Movements, Senses Fail performed Still Searching in full each night, spanning dates from , California, to Toronto, Ontario. On November 30, 2017, Senses Fail announced their seventh studio album, If There Is Light, It Will Find You, for release on February 16, 2018, via Pure Noise Records. Produced by , the 12-track album included the debut single "New Jersey Makes, The World Takes," premiered in February 2018. The record addressed themes of personal recovery and emotional resilience, drawing from frontman Buddy Nielsen's experiences with hardship and renewal. Following its release, the band embarked on a U.S. headlining tour starting February 27, 2018, with support from , Have Mercy, and . This period marked efforts toward lineup stability after prior turnover, with Nielsen remaining the core creative force alongside a consistent touring and recording ensemble including bassist Gavin Caswell and drummer Dan Trapp. The band's output reflected a return to focused production, bridging acoustic introspection in the EP with the fuller arrangements of the album.

Hell Is in Your Head and recent tours (2020–2025)

Senses Fail released their eighth studio album, , on July 15, 2022, through Pure Noise Records. Co-produced by of , the record delves into personal introspection and generational trauma, marking the band's first full-length since 2018's If There Is Light, It Will Find You. In conjunction with the album's announcement in November 2021, the band scheduled a spring 2022 U.S. tour to support its promotion. Post-release activities emphasized live performances amid pandemic recovery, with Senses Fail focusing on anniversary celebrations and co-headlining runs. In 2024, the band launched the "New Jersey vs. The World" tour alongside , performing Let It Enfold You in full to commemorate its 20th anniversary, including sets at venues like in on November 20. During these shows, collaborations emerged, such as a joint cover of My Chemical Romance's "Helena" featuring 's Chris Conley, performed at dates including in on November 6. Additionally, in October 2024, Senses Fail and exchanged covers—"Shoulder to the Wheel" by the former and an unspecified track by the latter—released as a mutual tribute. By August 2025, Senses Fail announced "" co-headlining U.S. tour with , supported by , commencing November 17 in and extending through late November, including stops at The Eastern and . As of October 2025, no new studio has followed , with emphasis remaining on touring and select covers rather than new original material.

Musical style and influences

Core elements and evolution

Senses Fail's music centers on a foundation, defined by aggressive dual guitar riffs, propulsive drumming, and abrupt dynamic shifts between high-energy verses and anthemic choruses. Vocalist Buddy Nielsen's style provides a constant thread, blending raw screams with emotive clean singing to convey intensity and vulnerability, often layered over esoteric, introspective lyrics. This core structure allows for genre fluidity, routinely integrating punk's directness and emo's cathartic builds while maintaining structural tension through tempo accelerations and breakdowns. The band's early output, such as the 2002 self-titled EP and From the Depths of Dreams (2003), emphasized raw, unrefined production that amplified chaotic, screamo-infused aggression, with tracks like "" showcasing frantic pacing and minimal polish to heighten visceral impact. Subsequent albums marked a shift toward greater sonic refinement and experimentation; (2006) incorporated brighter hooks and cleaner melodies, evident in songs with mid-tempo grooves and harmonious refrains, diverging from prior abrasiveness. By The Fire (2010), heavier hardcore elements emerged prominently, including chugging breakdowns and metallic riffing that intensified the base without abandoning melodic cores. Later works further polished this evolution, as seen in Hell Is in Your Head (2022), where professional production highlights matured arrangements—smoother transitions, layered instrumentation, and balanced aggression—while preserving Nielsen's vocal duality amid broader textural depth. Pull the Thorns from Your Heart (2015) exemplified ongoing genre hybridization, weaving grooves and diverse stylistic detours into the framework, demonstrating adaptability without diluting foundational drive. Throughout, Nielsen's voice anchors these fluctuations, ensuring continuity in emotional delivery despite production and structural variances.

Key influences from New Jersey scene and beyond

Senses Fail drew foundational inspiration from the New Jersey post-hardcore and emo underground of the early 2000s, particularly bands like Saves the Day and Thursday, which helped shape their blend of melodic intensity and structural complexity. Saves the Day's emo-punk style, highlighted in their 1999 album Through Being Cool, directly impacted vocalist Buddy Nielsen's approach to emotional, riff-driven songcraft, influencing Senses Fail's early melodic hooks and narrative-driven tracks on albums like Let It Enfold You (2004). Thursday's expansive, atmospheric builds and genre-fusing dynamics similarly informed Senses Fail's progression toward layered arrangements, enabling causal shifts from aggressive verses to soaring choruses that defined their post-hardcore identity. The broader scene, including contemporaries , provided a fertile, competitive ecosystem that vitalized Senses Fail's development, pushing them to refine their sound amid regional hyper-activity rather than conforming to isolated formulas. This local vitality manifested in shared DIY ethos and tour circuits, fostering Senses Fail's resilience and evolution without reliance on major-label homogenization. Extending beyond New Jersey, Senses Fail integrated midwestern emo's introspective textures, hardcore punk's raw aggression, and pop-punk's accessible catchiness, as articulated by the band, creating a hybrid urgency that avoided mainstream pop's melodic softening. These elements causally linked to their refusal of genre dilution, preserving punk's confrontational edge—evident in screamed vocals and breakdowns—while incorporating emo's melodic vulnerability for broader emotional depth.

Lyrical themes

Personal struggles and recovery

Buddy Nielsen, the frontman of Senses Fail, has frequently drawn from his battles with alcohol and sex addiction in the band's lyrics, particularly during the Life Is Not a Waiting Room era around 2008, when he described himself as an extreme alcoholic and sex addict engaging in self-destructive behaviors such as frequent patronage of prostitutes, including male and individuals. These struggles manifested as internal turmoil and shame over his place on the spectrum of , which he later characterized not as a fixed label like bisexual but as a broader, unresolved identity that fueled addictive cycles rather than external affirmation. Post-2010, Nielsen embarked on a path to , achieving long-term without traditional 12-step programs, which he credited to personal amid ongoing anxiety and substance temptations that permeated earlier works like the themes of depression-fueled drinking in tracks such as "." This recovery emphasized self-inflicted wounds from unchecked vices, with Nielsen reflecting on how alcohol masked deeper emotional voids, leading to a shift toward in his songwriting by the mid-2010s. In later albums like (2020), Nielsen explored generational trauma rooted in familial , portraying it as an inherited cycle of internal hell that demands breaking through rather than denial, as seen in songs addressing , , and inherited patterns of . These narratives underscore a causal progression from personal vices to familial legacies, with recovery framed as an individual confrontation of one's psyche, informed by Nielsen's adoption of meditation and spiritual practices to navigate persistent challenges.

Socio-political and philosophical elements

Senses Fail's lyrical content sporadically engages socio-political issues, as articulated by vocalist Buddy Nielsen in discussions surrounding the 2018 album If There Is Light, It Will Find You, where he highlighted influences from the Republican Party's political dominance and the prevalence of mass shootings amid societal brinkmanship. These references critique external chaos without endorsing collective grievance, instead reinforcing an underlying commitment to individual accountability, wherein personal fortitude supersedes systemic excuses for despair or inaction. Nielsen's philosophical leanings, shaped by a departure from conventional Western religious structures, prominently feature Buddhist principles, as seen in the 2015 track "The Three Marks of Existence," which invokes the doctrines of anicca (impermanence), dukkha (suffering), and anatta (non-self) to confront existential transience head-on. This adoption, detailed in Nielsen's accounts of using to process trauma, rejects facile, feel-good spiritualism in favor of rigorous self-examination that acknowledges suffering's inevitability while demanding disciplined response. Such elements cultivate a of self-directed resilience, evident in promoting rebirth through volitional effort, as in "Renacer" from the 2011 compilation Follow Your Bliss: The Best of Senses Fail, which urges cessation of self-pitying stagnation in pursuit of renewed agency. This stance eschews blame attribution to societal forces, prioritizing empirical self-mastery and causal acceptance of one's perceptual limits in navigating reality's demands.

Band members and lineup changes

Current lineup

James "Buddy" Nielsen serves as , having founded and fronted the band continuously since its formation in 2001. Guitarist Jason Milbank joined in 2016 and contributes backing vocals, participating in recordings like the 2022 album and subsequent tours including 2025. Bassist and backing vocalist Gavin Caswell has been active since 2016, handling both bass and guitar duties on recent releases and live performances. Steve Carey performs on current tours, as evidenced by his involvement in 2025 shows such as and the Vans Warped Tour revival. The lineup supports Senses Fail's ongoing activity, including the 2025 co-headlining tour with . While the band has employed additional touring musicians like bassist Greg Styliades in some contexts, the core quartet handles primary recording and headlining obligations.

Former members and notable departures

Founding guitarist Dave Miller departed Senses Fail in 2005 after citing burnout from extensive touring, marking an early shift in the band's lineup stability. His exit, announced via the band's website as a mutual agreement, led to Heath Saraceno joining as replacement guitarist for the subsequent album . Bassist Mike Glita, an early member who replaced original bassist James Gill, left the band prior to the 2011 release of The Fire, transitioning to a career in music management at . Glita's departure contributed to a pattern of personnel flux, with the band relying on touring substitutes amid ongoing recording commitments. Founding guitarist Garrett Zablocki exited in January 2011, citing in the band's musical direction following sessions for The Fire. Zablocki, who had been with the group since its 2001 inception, was replaced by of [Strike Anywhere](/page/Strike Anywhere), highlighting tensions over evolving from roots toward broader rock influences. This change underscored early instability, as Senses Fail navigated lineup adjustments while maintaining touring schedules. The most significant wave of departures occurred between 2014 and 2016, exacerbating continuity challenges. Founding drummer Dan Trapp, the last original member alongside vocalist Buddy Nielsen, announced his exit in May 2014 (effective from January), stating a desire to pursue other musical projects amid growing disillusionment with the band's trajectory. Bassist Jason Black fully departed around the same period, replaced by Gavin Caswell, who shifted to duties while studio bassist Jason Milbank and others filled live roles. These successive changes, often attributed to creative divergences and personal pursuits in band statements, left Nielsen as the sole constant, forcing reliance on session players and impacting the group's cohesion during albums like Renacer (2015).

Discography

Studio albums

Let It Enfold You, the band's debut studio album, was released on September 7, 2004, through . It peaked at number 34 on the chart. Still Searching, the second studio album, followed on October 10, 2006, also via . It debuted at number 15 on the , selling 49,239 copies in its first week. Life Is Not a Waiting Room arrived on October 7, 2008, under . The album debuted and peaked at number 18 on the and number 1 on the Independent Albums chart. The Fire, the fourth studio release, came out on October 26, 2010, through in the United States (and Hassle Records in the UK the prior day). After departing Vagrant, Senses Fail self-released Renacer as their fifth studio album in October 2013, emphasizing a return to heavier, metallic influences. The band signed with Pure Noise Records for If There Is Light, It Will Find You, released February 16, 2018. Hell Is in Your Head, the seventh studio album, was issued July 15, 2022, via Pure Noise Records.

EPs, compilations, and singles

Senses Fail's early extended play, From the Depths of Dreams, was initially released on August 13, 2002, via ECA Records before a wider reissue on April 29, 2003, through Drive-Thru Records, featuring tracks such as "Steven" and "Bloody Romance." The EP established the band's emo and post-hardcore sound, with production emphasizing raw emotional delivery. In March 2017, the band released the acoustic-focused EP In Your Absence on Pure Noise Records, comprising five tracks including "Jets to Peru" and "Family Tradition," recorded to highlight introspective lyricism amid lineup shifts. The primary compilation, Follow Your Bliss: The Best of Senses Fail, appeared on June 19, 2012, via Vagrant Records (later reissued), compiling 17 tracks spanning the band's career up to that point, such as "Can't Be Saved" and "Buried a Lie," without new material. Among singles, "Can't Be Saved" from 2007's era served as a prominent radio and video release, peaking in alternative charts and becoming a live staple due to its thematic intensity on personal redemption. Later standalone singles include "WASTED" in 2023 and the split single "Shoulder to the Wheel / Lady in a Blue Dress" in 2024, both via Pure Noise, reflecting ongoing evolution toward mature rock elements.

Reception and controversies

Critical and commercial reception

Senses Fail achieved their commercial peak with the 2006 album , which debuted at number 15 on the and sold 49,239 copies in its first week. Their 2004 debut full-length sold over 600,000 copies worldwide, establishing early momentum in the and scenes. Subsequent releases, such as 2008's , experienced diminishing returns in chart performance and sales as the band navigated label transitions and the broader decline of mainstream interest in the genre by the late . By the and , albums like (2018) sustained a dedicated audience through independent releases but lacked the high-profile charting of earlier works, reflecting the band's shift toward niche endurance rather than broad commercial dominance. Critically, received mixed reviews, with praise for its energetic sound and vocalist Buddy Nielsen's delivery but criticism for being unmemorable and derivative of contemporaries. fared better, lauded as a strong sophomore effort for its cohesive concept exploring loss of faith and risky evolution within boundaries. However, Life Is Not a Waiting Room drew accusations of formulaically replicating prior successes, resulting in an album perceived as awkwardly melodramatic and tension unresolved between metal-edged and elements. Post-2010 output showed maturation, with If There Is Light, It Needs to Be Burning earning acclaim for its earnest emotional journey and instrumental energy despite reduced hardcore aggression, marking a reflective triumph for long-term listeners. Later works like (2022) were noted for graceful evolution in songwriting, retaining fury without pandering to trends, though some observed a reversion to foundational sounds amid genre stagnation. Overall, Senses Fail's reception highlights their role as an enduring / act, influential in the 2000s scene for raw intensity but critiqued for occasional repetitiveness that limited broader innovation.

Fan impact and legacy

Senses Fail's fan base has long drawn from audiences grappling with personal adversity, with lyrics confronting mental anguish, addiction, and recovery resonating through unfiltered narratives rather than abstracted advocacy. Fans frequently cite the band's early works, such as (2004), as anchors during periods of emotional turmoil, attributing a of communal validation to tracks detailing substance dependency and existential doubt. This connection manifests in dedicated online communities where supporters exchange stories of how the music facilitated self-reflection and endurance, emphasizing the band's role in normalizing candid discussions of inner conflict within circles. As a cornerstone of New Jersey's early-2000s underground scene, Senses Fail contributed to a regional ecosystem that prioritized visceral authenticity over refined production, helping shape subsequent acts in and by modeling introspective aggression drawn from local influences like . The band's persistence amid lineup shifts and stylistic evolutions underscores a legacy of resilience, inspiring regional peers through demonstrations of sustained output rooted in personal candor rather than trend adherence. The 2024 "New Jersey vs. the World" tour, co-headlined with Saves the Day to mark the 20th anniversary of Let It Enfold You, drew sold-out crowds across venues like the House of Blues Anaheim, affirming a loyal niche following undiminished by two decades of genre flux. Performances at events such as When We Were Young Festival further highlighted this durability, with full-album sets evoking widespread participation that reinforced the band's foundational appeal to fans valuing thematic continuity over novelty.

Public disputes and personal disclosures

In October 2014, Senses Fail frontman Buddy Nielsen initiated a public dispute with metalcore band Attila after their vocalist Chris Fronzak used the homophobic slur "faggot" in the lyrics of the track "Proving Grounds" from the album Guilty Pleasure. Fronzak defended the word as non-literal and not targeted at any group, prompting Nielsen to accuse him of normalizing offensive language within the music scene, which escalated into mutual online criticisms. The conflict lingered for nearly a decade, resurfacing occasionally, until October 2023, when both vocalists exchanged apologies via social media, with Nielsen acknowledging his role in prolonging the animosity and Fronzak expressing regret for the slur's impact, effectively resolving the feud through direct reconciliation. During promotional interviews for Senses Fail's 2015 album If There Is Light, It Needs Flaws, Nielsen disclosed his sexual orientation, describing attractions to both men and women sexually while noting primary romantic interest in women, and detailed long-term struggles with , , alcohol dependency, and anxiety that had persisted for years. He attributed these issues to unresolved trauma, including childhood experiences, and credited Buddhist practices and efforts—achieved by 2015—for fostering personal accountability and confronting the cycles of rather than external blame. That same year, in July 2015, Nielsen posted a series of messages condemning prevalent in the and scenes, specifically calling out industry figures and enablers who protected perpetrators through silence or complicity, urging victims to speak out and bands to enforce zero-tolerance policies. He emphasized proactive confrontation over passive acceptance, drawing from his own observations of unchecked behavior at shows and within fan communities, and positioned such disclosures as steps toward cultural reform without framing himself as a victim.

References

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