Training for Utopia, also stylized as TFU, is an American metalcore band, initially active from 1996 to 2000.[1][2]
The band first signed with Tooth & Nail Records and was later moved to Solid State Records, the Tooth & Nail imprint that promotes heavy Christian music. Training for Utopia subsequently became popular in the Christian metal[3] scene during its active years, although the band actively tried to remove themselves from that label during their later years.[4]
Their brief existence included a tour with Zao and at the time the upcoming band Spitfire, as well as Warlord.[5] After a temporary hiatus the band returned with their second full length Throwing a Wrench into the American Music Machine, which has been noted as a shift away from the band's early metalcore sound,[4] utilizing heavier use of electronics and sampling.[6] After a small tour of the material the band disbanded.
At the demise of Training for Utopia, members Ryan (formerly of Focal Point) and Don Clark announced that they were starting a new project called The American Spectator in October 2000.[2] Don and Ryan Clark started "Asterik Studio" in Seattle, a graphic design shop where they completed many projects, including album artwork for former label-mates. In 2000, they founded the Christian metal band Demon Hunter.
On February 3, 2023, Training for Utopia was announced as one of several bands reuniting to play the 2023 Furnace Fest.[7] On September 1st, before their appearance at Furnace Fest, the band released their first single in 24 years, "Out on Parole".[8]
Additional members
| Title | Release date | Notes | Label |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Falling Cycle EP | 1997-07-29 | Tooth & Nail | |
| Plastic Soul Impalement | 1998-03-03 | ||
| The Split EP | 1998-08-18 | Split with Zao | Solid State |
| Throwing a Wrench into the American Music Machine | 1999-11-02 | ||
| Technical Difficulties | 2004-04-20 | Best of |
