And Now We're Even: The Gritty Rise of Post-Hardcore Storytellers
And Now We're Even is a dynamic post-hardcore band that emerged from the vibrant Chicago music scene in the late 2000s. The group achieved a significant commercial milestone with their 2014 album Fault Lines, which debuted at number 12 on the Billboard Top Rock Albums chart and solidified their reputation for intense, narrative-driven rock.
Early career
Formed in 2008, And Now We're Even coalesced around the songwriting partnership of vocalist Liam Vance and guitarist Marcus Cole. The band self-released their raw, debut EP The Collapse of Convenience in 2010, which quickly sold out its initial pressing and caught the attention of several independent labels. This led to a deal with Chicago-based indie label Rust Belt Records in 2011, which provided the resources for their first proper studio work.
Breakthrough
The band's breakthrough arrived in 2014 with their sophomore album, Fault Lines. Released through Rust Belt with distribution from The Orchard, the album's lead single, "Ghost in the Wiring," received heavy rotation on alternative rock radio. Fault Lines was later certified gold in Canada, a testament to its resonant themes and the band's growing international fanbase.
Key tracks
Ghost in the Wiring — This breakthrough single became a modern rock radio staple and introduced the band's signature blend of melodic hooks and aggressive instrumentation.
Calm Before the Capitulation — A fan-favorite album opener known for its complex structure and dynamic shifts, often cited as a definitive example of their early sound.
Fault Lines — The title track from their breakthrough album showcases the band's lyrical depth, exploring themes of personal fracture and resilience.
Last Light on the Interstate — This later-career track, featuring a guest vocal from La Dispute's Jordan Dreyer, highlighted the band's collaborative spirit and evolution within the post-hardcore scene.
Following the success of Fault Lines, And Now We're Even toured extensively throughout North America and Europe. Their 2018 album, Static Bloom, saw them experimenting with more atmospheric production while maintaining their lyrical intensity, though it did not match the chart performance of its predecessor. The band has maintained a consistent release schedule, putting out the well-received EP Echoes in the Architecture in 2022.
Fans of And Now We're Even often appreciate the work of similar artists in the alternative rock sphere. La Dispute shares a commitment to spoken-word intensity and narrative lyricism. Thrice explores comparable sonic territory, blending post-hardcore aggression with melodic and experimental elements. Touché Amoré delivers a similarly passionate and cathartic live experience rooted in emotional authenticity. Manchester Orchestra parallels their evolution toward more nuanced and atmospheric rock compositions.
The music of And Now We're Even maintains a strong presence on radio, particularly on alternative rock radio stations and dedicated online rock streams. Their hits from Fault Lines are frequently featured in rotation on independent music radio stations that champion guitar-driven, emotive rock, ensuring their songs reach both long-time fans and new listeners.
Listeners can discover the powerful discography of And Now We're Even through the radio stations featured on onairium.com. Tune in to hear their essential tracks and latest releases broadcast on a curated selection of rock-focused stations available on our platform.
