After My Own

After My Own is a band in between genres, but still falls somewhere between progessive, experimental, and psychedelic rock and metal. They're based around the south shore of Massachusetts and aim to contribute to the music scene around them by sounding nothing like it. Taking an unusual approach to songwriting, the band concentrates moreso on songs that narrate surreal stories and depict dream-like sequences than short-lived rock radio hits, balancing unconventionalism and listenability throughout their set list.

The project began with drummer Jon Vieira and bassist Brendan Hayter in early to mid '06, with things unsolidified until September when close friend Justin Struble was confirmed the guitar player. They proceeded to write the earliest After My Own tracks without vocals or lyrics. Prior to the formation of the band Jon had played music for 12 years alongside singer Matt Pelletier, who soon joined the band after moving back to Massachusetts. Things carried themselves out rather quickly, the band recording a 4-song demo with less than 3 months' experience playing together.

The 4 song disc, whimsically titled the Sun in the Water demo, took 7 days to record and master at R.A.W. Studios in Plymouth, MA in January of 2007. The Demo was then handed out constantly and posted online for free listening. The response and appraisal began to stir, the distinctive blend of the band's unusually melodic rhythm section, supportive yet atmospheric guitar and remarkably singable vocals clearly serving as a strong medium for music lovers devoid of interest in local acts. "We were so adamant on having our music not sound local at any point whatsoever," says Brendan. "Everyone in local scenes are just miniaturized versions of their influences, and we knew that once we got past sounding like the bands we liked we'd be more likely to find our window."
A constant swirl of rhythmic contrast and prevalent melody, After My Own's early tracks certainly did not wear the badge of a 3-month-old unsigned MA act, let alone mirror any of their various influneces.

Carrying out their aspiration to write the strongest and most thoroughly endearing heavy music they can possibly formulate, After My Own maintain their focus and their pure intentions as their set list grows and the presentation of their music tightens. "If there's one thing that can be said about this band, it's that we're just really honest with everything we do. There's no hidden agenda or ego trips with us or anything we write," says drummer Jon. Adds Brendan, "There's one interest we share when it comes down to it, and that is to play music that makes people think and feel new things, makes them step outside of their standards and enjoy a strange moment with us."