Artist of the Week: The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus

Here's the deal, you pretty much now how it goes. If a band I like releases a new album, they pretty much become my artist of the week. So of course with the release of the their new album two weeks ago, I don't have much choice. But first, here's a brief history lesson. The band unofficially got started back in 2001 in Middleburg, Florida by Ronnie Winter (Vocals) and Duke Kitchens (Guitar). Back then, the guys spent most of their time just covering bands like Blink 182. It wasn't until 2003 that the band truly took form with the addition of Joey Westwood (Bass) and Jon Wilkes (Drums). Their name was actually chosen at random. They put a bunch of words on a wall and had one of the guys pick some out while blind folded. For 18 months they wrote and rehearsed with no real intention of playing shows or recording an album. When a couple of friends heard them play, they suggested they play out, so they started booking gigs and were immediately embraced by the local scene. By mid 2004, the band had recorded a demo, an EP, and a couple of extra songs which they eventually turned into their self-titled debut album. In 2005, the band was able to sign with Virgin records. They soon started working in the studio creating new songs, and re-recording old ones. Then in 2006, the band released their major label debut album with Don't You Fake It. The album was a commercial success thanks to singles like "Face Down", "False Pretense", "Your Guardian Angel", and "Damn Regret". In early 2007, the band set out on a US headlining tour with My Chemical Romance and Rise Against. In June of that same year, the band started working on their next album. Even though it was a long time coming, on February 3, Lonely Road was finally released. I still haven't given the album a good listen, but will this week. I suggest you guys do the same. That being said, this week's artist is The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus with their first single You Better Pray, enjoy.