From their humble beginnings as an online project to their current status as global ambassadors of pop-punk, Neck Deep has carved out a significant niche in the alternative music landscape. This biography delves into the chronological history of the Welsh band, analyzing their discography, musical evolution, and enduring cultural impact. As a staple in the playlists of modern rock enthusiasts and a frequent feature at events like Pittsburgh Emo Night, understanding Neck Deep’s journey is key to appreciating their role in the contemporary rock scene.
Formation and Early Era
The genesis of Neck Deep is a quintessentially 21st-century story, rooted in online collaboration and a shared passion for the energetic, melodic sounds of 90s and 2000s punk. This early period was characterized by a DIY ethic and a rapid ascent from obscurity to being one of the most promising new acts in the genre.
Origins and Formation
Neck Deep was formed in Wrexham, Wales, in 2012. The project began when vocalist Ben Barlow met lead guitarist Lloyd Roberts. Barlow’s older brother, Seb, was recording Roberts’ then-band, Spires, and the two aspiring musicians connected over a shared love for bands like Blink-182 and New Found Glory. Initially, Neck Deep was a casual, part-time outlet for Barlow’s songwriting. The duo posted their first song, “What Did You Expect?”, online under the Neck Deep moniker—a name borrowed from a song by the hardcore band Crucial Dudes. The track quickly gained traction within online music communities, prompting the duo to expand the project into a full band. They were soon joined by rhythm guitarist Matt West, drummer Dani Washington, and bassist Fil Thorpe-Evans, solidifying the initial lineup that would propel them into the international spotlight.
Early Discography
The band’s early output was prolific and instrumental in building their initial fanbase. In September 2012, they released their first EP, Rain in July, which further amplified their growing online buzz. The EP was a raw, energetic collection of pop-punk anthems that showcased their knack for catchy melodies and relatable, often angsty, lyrics. This was followed by the A History of Bad Decisions EP in 2013. These early releases, recorded in the attic of Barlow’s home, were characterized by their unpolished charm and earnestness, capturing the essence of a young band honing their craft. The success of these EPs led to the band signing with the American independent label We Are Triumphant, and later, the renowned punk label Hopeless Records in August 2013. The compilation Rain in July / A History of Bad Decisions was released by Hopeless Records in 2014, introducing their early work to a wider audience.
The Mainstream Breakthrough
With a growing fanbase and a record deal under their belts, Neck Deep was poised for a mainstream breakthrough. Their debut full-length album marked their transition from a promising upstart to a formidable force in the pop-punk revival of the 2010s.
Pivotal Album(s) and Lineup Changes
The band’s debut album, Wishful Thinking, was released in January 2014. The album was a significant step up in terms of production and songwriting, while still retaining the youthful energy of their EPs. Tracks like “Losing Teeth” and “Crushing Grief (No Remedy)” became fan favorites and staples of their live shows. The album’s success had a profound impact on the band members, who subsequently quit their jobs and dropped out of university to commit to Neck Deep full-time. However, this period of growth was not without its challenges. In 2015, shortly after the release of their second album, lead guitarist Lloyd Roberts departed from the band amidst allegations of misconduct. He was later cleared of all allegations. The band quickly recruited Sam Bowden, formerly of Climates and Blood Youth, to take his place, ensuring their momentum was not derailed.
Achieving Critical and Commercial Success
Neck Deep’s sophomore album, Life’s Not Out to Get You, released in August 2015, is widely regarded as their breakout record. Produced by Jeremy McKinnon of A Day to Remember and Andrew Wade, the album was a polished and powerful statement of intent. It spawned some of their most iconic tracks, including “Can’t Kick Up the Roots,” “Gold Steps,” and the acoustic ballad “December.” The album was a critical and commercial success, charting at number 8 in the UK and in the top 20 in the US. This success solidified their position as leaders of the new wave of pop-punk and earned them a dedicated global following. Their music from this era became a cornerstone of the genre’s resurgence and a key part of the soundtrack for events like Emo Night Pittsburgh.
Musical Evolution and Key Events
As Neck Deep’s career progressed, they continued to evolve their sound, incorporating a wider range of influences while staying true to their pop-punk roots. This period saw them navigate further lineup changes and explore more mature lyrical themes.
Mid-career Albums and Sonic Shifts
Their third album, The Peace and the Panic (2017), marked a significant sonic evolution. The album was written in the wake of personal tragedy, including the death of Ben Barlow’s father, and this is reflected in the more mature and introspective lyrical content. While still containing high-energy pop-punk tracks like “Happy Judgement Day,” the album also saw the band experiment with a more alternative rock-influenced sound on tracks like “In Bloom.” This willingness to explore new sonic territory demonstrated their growth as musicians and songwriters. The album was another commercial success, reaching number 4 on the US Billboard 200 and number 2 on the UK album charts.
Hiatus, Reunions, or Significant Member Departures
The band’s lineup continued to evolve during this period. In 2018, bassist Fil Thorpe-Evans announced his departure to pursue a career as a producer. The band enlisted Joshua Halling as a touring bassist before Ben Barlow’s brother, Seb Barlow, officially joined as the band’s bassist in 2020. Seb had been involved with the band since its inception, co-writing and producing much of their material. In 2022, after a decade with the band, drummer Dani Washington also departed, with Matt Powles taking his place. Despite these changes, the core of the band remained strong, and they continued to tour and record new music, demonstrating their resilience and commitment to their craft.
Modern Era
In recent years, Neck Deep has continued to be a prolific and influential force in the alternative music scene. Their more recent work has seen them return to their roots while also pushing their creative boundaries, solidifying their legacy as one of the most important pop-punk bands of their generation.
Recent Albums and Contemporary Activity
In 2020, Neck Deep released their fourth album, All Distortions Are Intentional. A concept album that tells the story of a character named Jett and his experiences in a place called Sonderland, the album was a bold and ambitious project that showcased their storytelling abilities. The album saw them further exploring their alternative rock and emo influences. Their most recent album, the self-titled Neck Deep, was released in January 2024. The album has been described as a return to their roots, with a raw, energetic sound that harks back to their early work. Produced by Seb Barlow, the album is a testament to their enduring passion for pop-punk and their ability to write anthemic, relatable songs. The band continues to tour extensively, and their music remains a staple at events like the Pittsburgh Emo Night, where fans gather to celebrate the music that has defined a generation.
Cultural Impact and Connection to the Scene
Neck Deep’s impact extends beyond their own discography. They have played a crucial role in the ongoing popularity of pop-punk and have become influential figures for a new generation of bands. Their connection to events that celebrate this culture, such as the Pittsburgh Emo Night, is a testament to their enduring relevance.
Influence on Their Primary Genres
Neck Deep is often credited with spearheading the pop-punk revival of the 2010s. Their success opened doors for a new wave of bands and helped to re-energize a genre that had been largely out of the mainstream spotlight. Their blend of classic pop-punk influences with a modern sensibility has resonated with a wide audience, and their honest, often vulnerable, lyrics have been praised for their relatability. They have become one of the most recognizable bands in the alternative rock scene, and their influence can be heard in the music of many of their contemporaries.
Relevance in Nostalgia Events like Emo Night Pittsburgh
The enduring popularity of Neck Deep is evident in the continued success of nostalgia-themed events like Emo Night Pittsburgh. These nights celebrate the emo and pop-punk music of the 2000s and 2010s, and Neck Deep’s music is a cornerstone of these events. Their songs have become anthems for a generation, and the emotional connection that fans have with their music is a powerful testament to their impact. The band’s ability to capture the angst, joy, and confusion of youth has ensured that their music will continue to resonate with listeners for years to come, making them a perennial favorite at any Pittsburgh Emo Night.
Frequently Asked Questions About Neck Deep
- What genre is Neck Deep?
- Neck Deep is primarily classified as a pop-punk band. Their music also incorporates elements of emo, alternative rock, and post-hardcore.
- Where is Neck Deep from?
- Neck Deep was formed in Wrexham, Wales, in the United Kingdom.
- Who are the current members of Neck Deep?
- As of 2024, the current members of Neck Deep are Ben Barlow (lead vocals), Matt West (rhythm guitar), Sam Bowden (lead guitar), Seb Barlow (bass guitar), and Matt Powles (drums).
- What is Neck Deep’s most popular song?
- While popularity can be subjective, “December” is one of Neck Deep’s most streamed and well-known songs. Other popular tracks include “Can’t Kick Up the Roots,” “In Bloom,” and “Gold Steps.”
- How did Neck Deep get their name?
- The band’s name, Neck Deep, is taken from the lyrics of the song “Boom, Roasted” by the American hardcore punk band Crucial Dudes.
- Has Neck Deep ever played at Emo Night Pittsburgh?
- While Neck Deep themselves may not have performed as a full band at a club event like Emo Night Pittsburgh, their music is a staple of the DJ sets and playlists at these events, which celebrate the emo and pop-punk genres.
