Pittsburgh Emo Night

The Story So Far is an American rock band from Walnut Creek, California, that has carved a significant niche for itself within the modern music landscape. Formed in 2007, the band has become synonymous with the resurgence of pop-punk in the 2010s, blending raw energy with melodic sensibilities. Their journey from a local upstart to an internationally recognized act is a testament to their relentless work ethic and their ability to connect with a dedicated fanbase. As a staple in the alternative music community, their songs frequently energize events like the Pittsburgh Emo Night, where their signature sound continues to resonate with audiences. This biography delves into the chronological history of The Story So Far, analyzing their musical evolution, their impact on the genre, and their enduring relevance.

Formation and Early Era

The genesis of The Story So Far is rooted in the fertile ground of the Northern California music scene, a region with a rich history of punk and alternative rock. It was here that a group of high school friends, fueled by a shared passion for bands like New Found Glory, Blink-182, and Saves the Day, decided to form their own musical project. Their initial aspirations were modest, centered on playing local shows and creating music that they themselves would want to hear. Little did they know that their efforts would eventually position them at the forefront of a new wave of pop-punk.

Origins and Formation

The Story So Far was formed in 2007 in Walnut Creek, California. The original lineup consisted of Parker Cannon (vocals), Kevin Geyer (lead guitar), Kevin Ambrose (rhythm guitar), Ryan Torf (drums), and Kelen Capener (bass). The band’s name itself is a nod to their influences, taken from the title of a New Found Glory song. This choice immediately signaled their allegiance to the pop-punk genre and their reverence for the bands that paved the way. In their nascent stages, the band focused on honing their sound in garages and at local venues, quickly gaining a reputation for their high-energy live performances and Cannon’s impassioned vocal delivery. The early chemistry between the members was palpable, and their shared musical vision laid a strong foundation for their future endeavors.

Early Discography

The band’s initial output consisted of a series of EPs and splits that helped them build a grassroots following. Their first official release was the “5 Songs” EP in 2007, a raw and unpolished collection of tracks that showcased their potential. This was followed by the “While You Were Sleeping” EP in 2010, which demonstrated a significant step up in terms of songwriting and production. These early releases were characterized by their fast tempos, aggressive guitar riffs, and emotionally charged lyrics, elements that would become hallmarks of the band’s sound. They also participated in several split EPs with other bands, a common practice in the DIY punk scene that allowed them to cross-promote their music and reach new audiences. These formative years were crucial for The Story So Far, as they allowed the band to experiment with their sound and solidify their identity before taking the next step in their career.

The Mainstream Breakthrough

After several years of building a dedicated following through their early releases and relentless touring, The Story So Far was poised for a breakthrough. The release of their debut full-length album marked a turning point for the band, catapulting them from the underground to the forefront of the pop-punk revival. This period was characterized by a significant increase in their visibility, as they began to attract the attention of a wider audience and the music industry at large.

Pivotal Album(s) and Lineup Changes

The band’s debut album, “Under Soil and Dirt,” released in 2011, is widely regarded as their pivotal work. The album was a critical and commercial success, praised for its raw energy, honest lyrics, and mature songwriting. Tracks like “Quicksand” and “High Regard” became anthems for a new generation of pop-punk fans, and the album’s influence can still be heard in the music of many contemporary bands. It was during this period that the band also experienced a key lineup change, with William Levy replacing Kevin Ambrose on rhythm guitar. This change did not disrupt the band’s momentum; in fact, it solidified the lineup that would carry them through their most successful years. The release of their sophomore album, “What You Don’t See,” in 2013, further cemented their status as leaders of the genre. The album debuted at number 46 on the Billboard 200, a remarkable achievement for a band on an independent label.

Achieving Critical and Commercial Success

The success of “Under Soil and Dirt” and “What You Don’t See” transformed The Story So Far into one of the most popular bands in the alternative music scene. They embarked on extensive headlining tours across North America, Europe, and Australia, playing to increasingly larger crowds. Their music videos garnered millions of views on YouTube, and their merchandise became a ubiquitous sight at music festivals and concerts. The band’s success was not limited to commercial achievements; they also received widespread critical acclaim for their authentic and uncompromising approach to pop-punk. They were praised for their ability to infuse the genre with a sense of urgency and emotional depth that had been missing for some time. This combination of commercial success and critical validation solidified their position as a major force in modern rock music.

Musical Evolution and Key Events

As The Story So Far continued to grow in popularity, their music began to evolve. While they never abandoned their pop-punk roots, they started to incorporate a wider range of influences into their sound, resulting in a more nuanced and dynamic musical palette. This period of their career was also marked by several key events, including a brief hiatus and a significant lineup change, that would shape the future of the band.

Mid-career Albums and Sonic Shifts

The band’s self-titled third album, released in 2015, saw them exploring a more melodic and introspective side of their sound. While still retaining the energy and aggression of their earlier work, the album featured more complex song structures and a greater emphasis on vocal harmonies. This sonic shift was even more pronounced on their fourth album, “Proper Dose,” released in 2018. The album saw the band experimenting with elements of indie rock and alternative rock, resulting in their most musically ambitious and mature work to date. The album received critical acclaim for its bold new direction and was seen as a major step forward for the band. These mid-career albums demonstrated The Story So Far’s willingness to push the boundaries of their sound and evolve as artists, a quality that has contributed to their long-term success.

Hiatus, Reunions, or Significant Member Departures

Following the release of “Proper Dose” and the subsequent touring cycle, The Story So Far entered a period of relative inactivity. This led to speculation among fans about a potential hiatus or breakup. However, the band never officially announced a hiatus, and it was later revealed that they were taking a much-needed break after years of non-stop touring and recording. In 2022, the band announced the departure of founding bassist Kelen Capener, a significant change to their long-standing lineup. Despite this change, the remaining members—Parker Cannon, Kevin Geyer, Ryan Torf, and Will Levy—have continued to move forward, a testament to their resilience and commitment to the band.

Modern Era

After a period of change and reflection, The Story So Far has entered a new chapter in their career. The modern era of the band is defined by a renewed sense of purpose and a continued commitment to creating authentic and impactful music. Their recent work demonstrates a band that is comfortable in its own skin, confident in its artistic vision, and still capable of connecting with audiences on a deep and personal level.

Recent Albums and Contemporary Activity

In June 2024, The Story So Far released their fifth studio album, “I Want to Disappear.” The album marks their first full-length release in six years and has been met with widespread anticipation and positive reviews. The album sees the band returning to their pop-punk roots while also incorporating the more mature and introspective elements of their recent work. The lead singles from the album have been praised for their raw emotion and powerful instrumentation, signaling a return to form for the band. In support of the new album, The Story So Far has announced a major headlining tour, demonstrating their continued relevance and drawing power. Their contemporary activity shows a band that is not content to rest on its laurels but is instead focused on pushing forward and continuing to evolve.

Cultural Impact and Connection to the Scene

The Story So Far’s influence extends far beyond their own discography. They have played a significant role in shaping the sound and culture of modern pop-punk and have inspired a new generation of bands to follow in their footsteps. Their connection to the scene remains as strong as ever, and their music continues to be a staple at events that celebrate the genre.

Influence on Their Primary Genres

As one of the leading bands of the pop-punk revival of the 2010s, The Story So Far has had a profound impact on the genre. Their blend of aggressive instrumentation, melodic hooks, and emotionally transparent lyrics has become a blueprint for many contemporary pop-punk bands. They are often credited with helping to bring a sense of authenticity and raw energy back to the genre, which had become increasingly polished and commercialized in the preceding years. Their influence can also be heard in the work of bands in related genres, such as emo and alternative rock, who have been inspired by their uncompromising artistic vision. The Story So Far’s legacy is not just in the albums they have released, but in the countless bands they have inspired.

Relevance in Nostalgia Events like Emo Night Pittsburgh

The enduring popularity of The Story So Far is evident in their continued relevance at nostalgia-themed events like the Pittsburgh Emo Night. These events, which celebrate the music of the emo and pop-punk scenes of the 2000s and 2010s, frequently feature the band’s music in their playlists. The enthusiastic response from the crowd whenever a song by The Story So Far is played is a testament to the lasting impact of their music. For many attendees of the Pittsburgh Emo Night, The Story So Far’s songs are more than just catchy tunes; they are the soundtrack to their formative years, and they continue to resonate with a sense of shared experience and community.

Frequently Asked Questions About The Story So Far

What genre is The Story So Far?

The Story So Far is primarily categorized as a pop-punk band. However, their music also incorporates elements of emo, hardcore punk, and alternative rock, particularly in their later albums.

How did The Story So Far get their name?

The band’s name is taken from the song “The Story So Far” by the influential pop-punk band New Found Glory.

What is The Story So Far’s most commercially successful album?

While “What You Don’t See” had a strong debut on the Billboard charts, “Proper Dose” also performed well, debuting at number 19 on the Billboard 200. “Under Soil and Dirt” remains their most iconic and influential album within the pop-punk community.

Who are the current members of The Story So Far?

As of their latest album in 2024, the current members of The Story So Far are Parker Cannon (vocals), Kevin Geyer (lead guitar), Ryan Torf (drums), and William Levy (rhythm guitar).

Has The Story So Far ever broken up?

No, The Story So Far has never officially broken up. They took a hiatus from extensive touring and recording after their 2018 album “Proper Dose,” but they have since returned with a new album and tour dates.

What is the significance of The Story So Far to events like the Pittsburgh Emo Night?

The Story So Far is a quintessential band for events like the Pittsburgh Emo Night because their music represents a key era in the evolution of pop-punk and emo. Their songs are anthems for many fans who grew up in the 2010s, and their inclusion in these events creates a powerful sense of nostalgia and community.