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American Football: How an Emo Band Immortalized a House and Influenced a Genre
American Football, the indie rock band from Urbana, Illinois, initially active from 1997 to 2000, has left an indelible mark on the emo and math rock scenes. Despite their brief initial run, their self-titled debut album became a defining record, influencing countless artists and solidifying their place in music history. With a recent reunion that included new music and tours, and even purchasing the iconic house featured on their debut album cover, American Football continues to resonate with fans old and new.
Early Years and Formation
The bandS core members, Mike Kinsella, Steve Holmes, and Steve lamos, first came together in the late 1990s. kinsella and Holmes were high school classmates, while Kinsella and Lamos played together in a previous band called The One Up Downstairs. American Football quickly emerged, releasing a self-titled EP in 1998 and their seminal self-titled album in 1999, both on Polyvinyl Records.
brief breakup,Lasting Impact
Even though the band disbanded shortly after their debut album,the record gained critical acclaim and a devoted following. Mike Kinsella’s later solo project, Owen, carried on some of the band’s sonic trademarks. “Never Meant,” a standout track, was even re-recorded under the Owen moniker in 2004, further cementing its legacy.
Reunion and New Chapters
In 2014, Polyvinyl Records announced a deluxe reissue of the band’s debut album, sparking renewed interest. Following sold-out reunion shows, American Football officially reformed, adding Kinsella’s cousin, Nate Kinsella, on bass. This lineup released two more self-titled albums: *American Football / LP2* (2016) and *American Football / LP3* (2019),continuing their exploration of introspective lyrics and complex musical arrangements.
Musical Style and Influences
American Football is broadly categorized as an emo band, but their sound incorporates elements of math rock, post-rock, and even jazz.Characterized by unusual time signatures, intricate guitar work, and introspective lyrics, their music creates an atmosphere that is both melancholic and hopeful. The band members have cited diverse influences, including Nick Drake, Elliott smith, and jazz fusion artists like Weather Report and Miles Davis.
Buying The American Football House
In a unique move solidifying their legacy, the band announced in May 2023 that they had purchased the house featured on the cover of their debut album. This action was taken to prevent its conversion into apartments,preserving it as a landmark for fans worldwide. The American football House has become a pilgrimage site for emo music enthusiasts, who travel to Urbana, Illinois, to photograph the iconic building.
Band Members
Current Members
- Mike Kinsella – Vocals, Guitar (1997–2000, 2014–present), Bass (1997–2000)
- Steve Holmes – Guitar (1997–2000, 2014–present), Keyboard (1997–2000)
- Nate Kinsella – Bass, Backing Vocals, Vibraphone (2014–present)
- Steve Lamos – Drums, Percussion, Trumpet (1997–2000, 2014–2021, 2023–present)
Current Touring Members
- Mike Garson – Percussion, Keyboards, Harmonica (2016–2019, 2023–present)
- Cory Bracken – Vibraphone, Percussion (2016–present)
Former Touring Members
- Sarah Versprille – Backing Vocals (2019)
- Damien Verrett – Guitar (2019)
Discography
- American Football EP (1998)
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American Football: How an Emo Band immortalized a House and Influenced a Genre
American Football, the indie rock band from Urbana, Illinois, initially active from 1997 to 2000, has left an indelible mark on the emo and math rock scenes. Despite their brief initial run, their self-titled debut album became a defining record, influencing countless artists and solidifying their place in music history. with a recent reunion that included new music and tours, and even purchasing the iconic house featured on their debut album cover, American Football continues to resonate with fans old and new.
Early Years and Formation
The bandS core members, Mike Kinsella, Steve Holmes, and Steve lamos, first came together in the late 1990s. kinsella and holmes were high school classmates, while Kinsella and Lamos played together in a previous band called The One up Downstairs. American Football quickly emerged, releasing a self-titled EP in 1998 and their seminal self-titled album in 1999, both on Polyvinyl records.
brief breakup,Lasting Impact
Even though the band disbanded shortly after their debut album,the record gained critical acclaim and a devoted following. Mike Kinsella’s later solo project, Owen, carried on some of the band’s sonic trademarks. “Never Meant,” a standout track, was even re-recorded under the owen moniker in 2004, further cementing its legacy.
Reunion and New Chapters
In 2014, Polyvinyl Records announced a deluxe reissue of the band’s debut album, sparking renewed interest. Following sold-out reunion shows, American Football officially reformed, adding Kinsella’s cousin, Nate kinsella, on bass. This lineup released two more self-titled albums: *American Football / LP2* (2016) and *American Football / LP3* (2019),continuing their exploration of introspective lyrics and complex musical arrangements.
Musical Style and Influences
American Football is broadly categorized as an emo band, but their sound incorporates elements of math rock, post-rock, and even jazz.Characterized by unusual time signatures, intricate guitar work, and introspective lyrics, their music creates an atmosphere that is both melancholic and hopeful.The band members have cited diverse influences, including Nick Drake, Elliott smith, and jazz fusion artists like Weather Report and Miles Davis.
Buying The American Football House
In a unique move solidifying their legacy, the band announced in May 2023 that they had purchased the house featured on the cover of their debut album. This action was taken to prevent its conversion into apartments,preserving it as a landmark for fans worldwide. The American football House has become a pilgrimage site for emo music enthusiasts, who travel to urbana, Illinois, to photograph the iconic building.
Band Members
Current Members
- Mike Kinsella – Vocals, Guitar (1997–2000, 2014–present), Bass (1997–2000)
- Steve Holmes – Guitar (1997–2000, 2014–present), Keyboard (1997–2000)
- Nate kinsella – Bass, Backing Vocals, Vibraphone (2014–present)
- Steve Lamos – Drums, Percussion, Trumpet (1997–2000, 2014–2021, 2023–present)
Current Touring Members
- Mike Garson – Percussion, Keyboards, Harmonica (2016–2019, 2023–present)
- Cory Bracken – Vibraphone, Percussion (2016–present)
Former Touring Members
- Sarah Versprille – Backing Vocals (2019)
- Damien Verrett – Guitar (2019)
Discography
- American Football EP (1998)
- American Football (1999)
- American Football / LP2 (2016)
- American Football / LP3 (2019)
Q&A: American Football
What is “emo” music, and how does American Football fit in?
Emo, short for “emotional hardcore,” is a subgenre of rock music characterized by emotional, often introspective lyrics and a blend of punk rock and indie rock influences.American Football is considered a key band in emo’s evolution, blending these elements with math rock’s complex rhythms and intricate guitar work. Their use of unusual time signatures, melancholic atmosphere, and introspective lyrics define their sound.
Where is the iconic American Football house located, and can fans visit it?
The house is located in Urbana, Illinois, at 704 W High St.Yes, you can visit! It has become a pilgrimage site, and fans often take photos of the house. the band purchased it to preserve its legacy.
What’s the story behind the song ”Never Meant”?
“Never Meant” is arguably American Football’s most famous song. It’s known for its emotional lyrics and complex guitar riffs.Mike Kinsella re-recorded it under his solo project, Owen, which is a testament to its lasting impact.
Are there any other bands with similar sounds to American Football?
If you like American Football, you might enjoy bands like Mineral, Braid, and The Get up Kids, who are also considered influential in the emo and math rock scenes. Also, check out owen, Mike Kinsella’s solo project.
American Football’s story is a testament to the enduring power of music and the lasting impact a band can have, even with a short initial run. Explore their discography and experience the music that has touched so many.
