American Thrills: The Heartland's High-Octane Rock Export
American Thrills is a rock band from Cleveland, Ohio, known for their energetic fusion of heartland rock and punk-infused alternative sounds. The group achieved commercial recognition with their 2018 album Neon Ghosts, which charted on the Billboard 200 and spawned several rock radio hits.
Early career
Formed in 2012, American Thrills began as a trio playing in the gritty rock clubs of Cleveland's West Side. Their self-released debut EP, Rustbelt Heartbeat, in 2014, caught the attention of local independent label Rust Records, which signed them the following year.
Breakthrough
The band's breakthrough arrived in 2018 with their second full-length album, Neon Ghosts, released via Rust Records' distribution deal with a major label imprint. The lead single, Midwestern Blood, entered the Top 20 of the Billboard Mainstream Rock chart and received gold certification for over 500,000 units sold.
Key tracks
Midwestern Blood — This anthemic single became the band's signature track and their first certified gold record.
Neon Ghosts — The title track from their breakthrough album showcased their evolved, atmospheric songwriting.
Burn the Maps — A high-energy fan favorite known for its driving rhythm and frequent use in live set closers.
Ohio Nights — This ballad demonstrated the band's melodic depth and received significant adult-alternative radio play.
Static on the AM — A later single that highlighted a collaborative songwriting session with veteran producer John Feldmann.
Following the success of Neon Ghosts, American Thrills toured extensively, including opening slots for The Gaslight Anthem and The Menzingers. Their 2022 follow-up, Transmission Blues, debuted at number 45 on the Billboard 200 and continued their streak of rock radio relevance, though it did not match the certification success of its predecessor.
For fans of American Thrills' gritty, anthemic style, similar artists include The Gaslight Anthem, who share a fondness for heartland rock storytelling. The Menzingers offer a similar punk-infused, emotionally charged lyrical approach. The Hold Steady parallels their narrative-driven, bar-band rock energy, while Lucero blends country-punk roots in a comparable manner.
The music of American Thrills maintains a steady rotation on a variety of rock-focused radio stations, from classic rock FM stations that appreciate their heartland roots to modern alternative rock radio stations that champion their punk energy. Their hits are staples on online rock radio streams and independent music radio stations across the United States.
Listeners can discover the full catalog of American Thrills and hear their high-energy rock anthems on the radio stations featured on onairium.com. Tune in to experience the driving sound of this definitive American rock band.
