From the basements of Ontario to international stages, Seaway has carved a significant niche within the modern rock landscape. Characterized by their infectious hooks, energetic performances, and evolving sound, the band has become a staple in the pop-punk and emo scenes. Their journey is one of consistent growth, sonic exploration, and a DIY spirit that has resonated with a dedicated global fanbase. For fans of the genre and attendees of events like Pittsburgh Emo Night, understanding Seaway’s trajectory provides a deeper appreciation for a band that has helped define a generation of alternative rock.
Formation and Early Era
The foundation of Seaway was built on long-standing friendships and a shared passion for the vibrant punk scene of the 2000s. The members’ early experiences in other local bands provided the essential groundwork for what would become a formidable force in Canadian rock music.
Origins and Formation
Seaway officially formed in 2011 in Oakville, Ontario, a suburb of Toronto. The original lineup consisted of Ryan Locke (lead vocals), Patrick Carleton (rhythm guitar, co-lead vocals), Andrew Eichinger (lead guitar), Adam Shoji (bass), and Ken Taylor (drums). The members were all friends since high school, with Locke, Eichinger, and Taylor having played music together in various capacities since their early teens. Before Seaway gained traction, some members were involved in a hardcore punk project called The Fellowship, which showcased a heavier sound. However, their collective interest in the melodic, high-energy stylings of bands like Blink-182, Sum 41, and New Found Glory led them to pivot towards pop-punk, creating Seaway as a side project that would soon become their primary focus.
Early Discography
The band’s initial years were marked by a prolific output of EPs, allowing them to refine their sound and build a local following. Their first self-titled EP, Seaway, was released in 2011, followed by Clean Yourself Up in 2013. These early releases were raw and energetic, capturing the classic essence of early 2000s pop-punk with driving guitars, fast-paced drumming, and dual-vocal dynamics between Locke and Carleton. Their efforts culminated in the release of their debut full-length album, Hoser, on October 15, 2013, via Mutant League Records. The album was a gritty, spirited collection of songs about youth, relationships, and navigating early adulthood. Tracks like “Shy Guys” and “The 400” established their knack for writing relatable lyrics and catchy, anthemic choruses. This period saw the band touring relentlessly, building a reputation for their engaging live shows and laying the groundwork for their future success.
The Mainstream Breakthrough
Signing with a prominent independent label marked a pivotal turning point for Seaway. This new partnership provided them with a larger platform, leading to increased visibility, broader touring opportunities, and the release of an album that would solidify their place in the international pop-punk scene.
Pivotal Album(s) and Lineup Changes
In 2014, Seaway signed with Pure Noise Records, a label known for championing some of the most influential bands in the pop-punk and hardcore genres. Their first release on the label was the All in My Head EP in November 2014, which signaled a slight maturation in their sound, incorporating more refined melodies and emo sensibilities. This set the stage for their sophomore album, Colour Blind, released on October 23, 2015. Produced by Alan Day of Four Year Strong and Derek Hoffman, the album was a significant step forward. It smoothed out some of the rougher edges of Hoser while amplifying the band’s pop sensibilities, resulting in a polished, powerful, and incredibly catchy record. Singles like “Slam,” “Best Mistake,” and “Airhead” became instant fan favorites. The album was a critical moment that defined their breakthrough. A significant lineup change occurred later, in 2019, when co-vocalist and rhythm guitarist Patrick Carleton parted ways with the band. This shifted the vocal dynamic, with Ryan Locke becoming the sole lead vocalist for future projects.
Achieving Critical and Commercial Success
Colour Blind was not just a creative success; it was also a commercial one. The album was well-received by critics and fans alike, praised for its sharp songwriting and infectious energy. It achieved notable chart success, peaking at number 3 on the Billboard Heatseekers Albums chart and landing in the Top 30 of the Billboard Independent Albums chart. This success propelled the band to new heights, leading to extensive international touring. They shared stages with major acts like The Wonder Years, Neck Deep, and Sum 41, and secured coveted spots on festivals like the Vans Warped Tour and Slam Dunk Festival in the UK. The album’s popularity ensured that its songs became staples at events celebrating the genre, including gatherings like the Pittsburgh Emo Night, where the anthemic choruses of tracks from Colour Blind continue to resonate with audiences.
Musical Evolution and Key Events
As Seaway progressed, their musical palette expanded. They began to incorporate a wider range of influences, moving beyond the confines of traditional pop-punk to explore different facets of rock music. This evolution was accompanied by significant events that would shape the band’s later years.
Mid-career Albums and Sonic Shifts
The band’s third album, Vacation, released on September 15, 2017, marked a distinct sonic evolution. Working with producer Mike Green (All Time Low, Paramore), Seaway embraced a brighter, more polished, power-pop and alternative rock sound. While the pop-punk energy was still present, the album was infused with summery, feel-good vibes and influences from 90s alternative rock. Songs like “Apartment,” “Lula on the Beach,” and their cover of The Cars’ “Just What I Needed” (released on their 2019 B-sides compilation, Fresh Produce) showcased a more nuanced and melodic approach to songwriting. This trend continued and intensified with their fourth album, Big Vibe, released on October 16, 2020. The album saw the band fully lean into their rock and power-pop influences, drawing comparisons to artists like Tom Petty and Fountains of Wayne. It was a bold departure from their earlier work, demonstrating their growth as musicians and their willingness to push their creative boundaries.
Hiatus, Reunions, or Significant Member Departures
The period following the release of Big Vibe has been one of uncertainty for fans. After the album’s release during the COVID-19 pandemic, the band’s public activity significantly decreased. While there has been no official announcement of a breakup or hiatus, Seaway has not toured or released new original music since. The departure of Patrick Carleton in 2019 was the most significant lineup change in their history, altering their creative process and live performance dynamic. Rumors among fan communities have suggested internal disagreements or legal issues as potential reasons for the inactivity, but the band members have remained private on the matter. Their last release was Dead Formats (Volume 1) in 2022, an EP of covers. As of late 2025, the band’s future remains unclear, leaving their dedicated fanbase hopeful for an eventual return.
Modern Era
In recent years, Seaway has entered a quieter phase. While their output of new material has paused, their existing catalog continues to hold a significant place in the hearts of alternative music fans, cementing their legacy within the scene.
Recent Albums and Contemporary Activity
Seaway’s most recent full-length studio album is 2020’s Big Vibe. This album represents their most significant stylistic shift, embracing a mature, classic rock-infused sound that prioritized melody and intricate songwriting. Following this, the band released Fresh Produce in 2019, a compilation of B-sides, alternate versions of older songs, and covers. Their latest musical offering is the 2022 EP Dead Formats (Volume 1), which features covers of songs by artists like The Smashing Pumpkins and blink-182. Since this release, the band has been inactive on social media and has not performed live, leading to their current unofficial hiatus. Despite the lack of new activity, their music remains highly relevant and celebrated within the pop-punk and emo communities.
Cultural Impact and Connection to the Scene
Seaway’s influence extends beyond their recorded music. Through years of touring and their contributions to the pop-punk genre, they have left an indelible mark on the alternative music scene and continue to be a celebrated name.
Influence on Their Primary Genres
Seaway emerged during a major revival of pop-punk in the 2010s. Alongside their peers, they helped carry the torch for a new generation, blending the classic sounds of the genre with modern sensibilities. Their music is a touchstone for the intersection of pop-punk, alternative rock, and emo. They mastered the art of the anthemic chorus and the relatable, often introspective lyric, contributing a distinctly Canadian voice to a predominantly American-led scene. Their evolution from the scrappy energy of Hoser to the polished rock of Big Vibe provided a blueprint for artistic growth, showing that a band can mature without losing the heart and soul that first endeared them to fans.
Relevance in Nostalgia Events like Emo Night Pittsburgh
The enduring popularity of Seaway is evident at events like Emo Night Pittsburgh. Their songs, particularly from the Colour Blind and Vacation eras, are perfect for the high-energy, singalong atmosphere of these nights. Tracks like “Slam,” “Best Mistake,” and “Something Wonderful” are quintessential emo and pop-punk anthems that capture a specific moment in time, filled with youthful exuberance and heartfelt emotion. For the community that gathers at a Pittsburgh Emo Night, Seaway represents more than just a band; they represent a shared experience, a soundtrack to formative years, and a testament to the timeless power of a good hook and an honest song.
Frequently Asked Questions About Seaway
- What genre of music does Seaway play?
- Seaway is primarily classified as a pop-punk band, but their sound also incorporates elements of alternative rock, emo, and power-pop. Their later albums, like Big Vibe, lean more heavily into a classic and alternative rock sound.
- Who are the original members of Seaway?
- The original members of Seaway were Ryan Locke (lead vocals), Patrick Carleton (rhythm guitar, co-lead vocals), Andrew Eichinger (lead guitar), Adam Shoji (bass), and Ken Taylor (drums).
- What is Seaway’s debut album?
- Seaway’s debut full-length album is Hoser, which was released on October 15, 2013.
- Is Seaway still together?
- As of late 2025, Seaway has not officially disbanded, but they are on an unofficial hiatus. The band has not toured or released new original music since their 2020 album Big Vibe, and their public activity has ceased.
- Which Seaway album is considered their breakthrough?
- Their 2015 sophomore album, Colour Blind, is widely considered their breakthrough. It achieved chart success on the Billboard charts and significantly raised their international profile, solidifying their status in the pop-punk scene.
- Has Seaway ever played in Pittsburgh?
- Yes, throughout their active years, Seaway toured extensively across North America and played in Pittsburgh on multiple occasions, often as part of larger tour packages with other bands in the pop-punk and emo genres.
