Racing Mount Pleasant: The Heartland's Arena Rock Revivalists

Racing Mount Pleasant is an American rock band from Indianapolis, Indiana, known for their anthemic, guitar-driven sound that bridges heartland rock and modern alternative. The group achieved commercial recognition with their 2018 album 'Midwestern Skyline,' which debuted at number 12 on the Billboard Top Rock Albums chart and spawned several rock radio hits.

Early career

Formed in 2012, the band's founding members—vocalist/guitarist Jake Corwin, lead guitarist Marcus Vale, bassist Leo Shaw, and drummer Sam Porter—met while studying at Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis. They began by playing local bars and college events, self-releasing their debut EP, 'City Limits,' in 2014. This independent release caught the attention of regional promoter Rustbelt Records, which signed the band to a development deal and helped fund their first full-length studio sessions.

Breakthrough

The band's major breakthrough arrived in 2018 with their sophomore album, 'Midwestern Skyline,' released through the independent label Atlas Sound. The lead single, "Indianapolis Lights," became a staple on rock radio, spending 15 consecutive weeks on the Billboard Mainstream Rock Songs chart and peaking at number 7. The album's success was bolstered by extensive touring as support for established acts, significantly expanding their national fanbase.

Key tracks

Indianapolis Lights — This breakthrough single defined their signature sound with its soaring chorus and nostalgic lyrical themes.

Two Lane Highway — A driving rock anthem that became a fan favorite and a consistent setlist closer during their live shows.

Steel Mill Ghosts — Showcased a heavier, more riff-oriented side of the band and received significant airplay on satellite rock channels.

Midwestern Skyline — The album's title track is an epic, slow-building ballad that highlights the band's songwriting depth.

Following the momentum of 'Midwestern Skyline,' Racing Mount Pleasant entered a prolific period. They collaborated with producer David Bottrill on their 2021 follow-up, 'The Long Haul,' which saw them experiment with denser production while maintaining their core rock identity. The band has also shared festival stages and collaborated on a 2022 charity single with fellow rock artists, further cementing their place in the modern rock landscape. Their music continues to resonate for its authentic, blue-collar energy and relatable storytelling.

Fans of the heartland rock genre will also appreciate the work of similar artists. The Gaslight Anthem shares a similar passion for earnest, story-driven rock anthems. The Hold Steady offers a comparable blend of literary lyrics and celebratory, piano-infused rock energy. Kings of Leon parallels their journey from raw, regional rock to polished, arena-filling sound. Arkells mirrors their anthemic, community-focused approach to modern rock music.

The music of Racing Mount Pleasant is a regular feature across the rock radio spectrum. Their hits receive consistent spins on mainstream rock FM stations, while their deeper album cuts find a home on alternative rock radio stations and dedicated online rock radio streams. Independent music radio stations have also championed the band from their early days, supporting their evolution into a major touring act.

Listeners can discover the powerful anthems of Racing Mount Pleasant by tuning into the rock radio stations featured on our website. Their catalog, from early independent releases to charting albums, is regularly played on the variety of stations available on onairium.com.