Detour: The Gritty Heart of Modern Alt-Rock

Detour is an American alternative rock band known for its raw, guitar-driven sound and introspective lyrics. Hailing from Chicago, Illinois, the group achieved mainstream recognition with their 2018 sophomore album Crossed Wires, which debuted at number 12 on the Billboard 200 chart and spawned a certified Gold single.

Early career

Detour formed in 2012 from the ashes of several local Chicago post-hardcore acts. Founding members vocalist/guitarist Leo Vance and drummer Cara Sims sought a more melodic yet visceral direction, solidifying the lineup with bassist Marcus Rohl in 2013. Their self-released, self-titled EP in 2014 caught the attention of independent label Tin Door Records, which signed the band and released their first full-length album, Static Echoes, in 2016.

Breakthrough

The band's major breakthrough arrived in 2018 with the album Crossed Wires, released through Tin Door in partnership with a major label distribution deal. Propelled by relentless touring and growing alternative radio support, the album's lead single, "Fault Line," climbed to number 5 on the Billboard Alternative Airplay chart and was later certified Gold by the RIAA for sales exceeding 500,000 units.

Key tracks

Fault Line — This Gold-certified single became Detour's signature anthem and their first top 5 hit on alternative radio.

Half-Light — A brooding album track from Crossed Wires that showcases the band's dynamic range and has become a fan-favorite at live shows.

Static Echoes — The title track from their debut album established their early sound of gritty riffs and earnest vocal delivery.

Borrowed Time — This 2021 single marked a more polished production style and received significant rock radio rotation.

Following their breakthrough, Detour headlined tours across North America and appeared at major festivals like Lollapalooza and Shaky Knees. Their third studio album, 2021's Borrowed Time, debuted at number 8 on the Billboard 200, proving their staying power. The band has collaborated with producers like John Feldmann and Catherine Marks, and featured guest vocals from artists like Julien Baker on the track "Low Tide."

For fans of Detour's emotive and riff-centric alt-rock, we recommend exploring similar artists. Manchester Orchestra shares a penchant for soaring, cathartic rock dynamics. Citizen operates in a similar space of melodic yet heavy guitar texture. Thrice parallels Detour's evolution from post-hardcore roots to nuanced alternative rock. Spanish Love Songs delivers the same brand of gritty, lyric-driven rock anthems.

Detour's music maintains a strong presence on rock and alternative radio formats. Their hits are staples on modern rock FM stations, while their deeper cuts are featured on independent music radio stations and online rock radio streams dedicated to guitar-based music.

Listeners can discover the powerful discography of Detour through the various rock and alternative radio stations featured on our website. Tune in to stations available on onairium.com to hear the essential tracks from this compelling American alt-rock act.