Abandon All Ships, hailing from Toronto, Canada, wasn’t your typical post-hardcore band. Blending the genre’s aggressive energy with electronic melodies and dancefloor-inspired breakdowns, they carved their own niche in the early 2010s music scene. Their journey, though brief, was marked by sonic experimentation, lineup changes, and a dedicated fanbase. Let’s embark on a voyage through the band’s history, from its humble beginnings to its unexpected return.
Setting Sail: Abandon All Ships Early Days
The story starts in 2006 when a group of teenagers in Toronto, mostly of Italian descent, started jamming together. Initially covering Norma Jean, they eventually adopted the name “Abandon All Ships,” inspired by the urgency of escape. Early influences spanned across post-hardcore giants like Underoath and Bring Me the Horizon to electronic acts like The Prodigy.
Their rise began organically on MySpace, the then-dominant social media platform. Tracks like “Stand Up and Speak” and “The Doctor Will See You Now” resonated with the online community, garnering thousands of plays and propelling them to local shows. This online buzz caught the attention of Underground Operations, leading to their debut EP, “From The Flames Of Our Dead Empires,” in 2008.
Anchoring Down: Breakthrough and “Geeving” (2009-2010)
With a record deal in hand, Abandon All Ships hit the studio and emerged with their debut album, “Geeving,” in 2009. It showcased their unique sonic blend, featuring anthemic choruses, screamed vocals, and electronic breakdowns that felt fresh and exciting. Hits like “Hey Jealousy” and “Marvin Gaye” further cemented their online presence, garnering millions of views on YouTube.
However, internal turbulence began to surface. Guitarist David Stephens and bassist Francesco Pallotta departed, replaced by Kyler Browne and Daniel Paiano, respectively. Despite lineup changes, the band continued touring relentlessly, opening for established acts like Silverstein and Attack Attack!.
Facing Storms: Lineup Instability and “Infamous” (2011-2012)
The early 2010s saw Abandon All Ships navigating turbulent waters. Guitarist Daniel Ciccotelli joined, replacing Browne, further solidifying the band’s electronic-infused sound. Their sophomore album, “Infamous,” released in 2011, pushed the boundaries even further, incorporating synthwave and dubstep elements. Singles like “B.A.N.G.S.” and the title track, featuring A-Game, showcased their evolving sound and garnered mainstream attention.
However, lineup changes continued to plague the band. Ciccotelli departed, followed by Paiano. With only founding members Martin Broda and Angelo Aita remaining, the future seemed uncertain. Despite the instability, they persevered, recruiting new members and playing major festivals like Warped Tour.
Breaking Up is Hard to Do: “Malocchio” and Disbandment (2013-2014)
2013 saw the release of “Malocchio,” their final album. It marked a return to their heavier roots, showcasing a darker and more aggressive sound. While critically acclaimed, commercial success wasn’t the same. After years of touring and internal struggles, the band announced their disbandment in 2014, leaving fans heartbroken.
Raising the Anchor: Unexpected Return and New Music (2016-Present)
In 2016, two years after their disbandment, Abandon All Ships surprised fans with a new single, “Loafting.” It hinted at a potential reunion, but activity remained sporadic. In 2020, they released re-recorded versions of their classic songs, further igniting hope for a full-fledged return.
While their future remains uncertain, Abandon All Ships’ legacy lives on. Their innovative sound, energetic live shows, and dedicated fanbase ensure their place in the annals of post-hardcore history. They proved that experimentation and electronic influences could coexist within the genre, paving the way for future bands to explore uncharted territories.
Whether they raise the anchor for a full-fledged return or remain a cherished memory, Abandon All Ships’ journey reminds us that music has the power to connect, inspire, and leave a lasting impact. Even in the face of challenges and uncertainties, the creative spirit can endure, leaving behind a legacy that continues to resonate with fans around the world.
