Blending explosive post-hardcore energy with soaring emo melodies, Pierce The Veil have spent almost two decades redefining the emotional edge of modern rock.
Formed in San Diego by brothers Vic and Mike Fuentes in 2006, the band swiftly became known for their impassioned lyricism and genre-bending experimentation. Taking their name from a phrase symbolising breaking through barriers, their debut album, A Flair for the Dramatic (2007), introduced their signature sound, insistent on breaking out of the vibrant Southern California scene and pushing the boundaries of their genre. Delivering a captivating blend of intricate guitar work, theatrical vocals, and emotional storytelling, tracks such as ‘Currents Convulsive’ and ‘I’d Rather Die Than Be Famous’ signalled the arrival of a fresh voice in alternative music.
It was their sophomore album, Selfish Machines (2010), that truly solidified Pierce The Veil’s identity as architects of emotional catharsis though. Marrying progressive post-hardcore structures with unapologetic vulnerability, the likes of ‘Caraphernelia’ (featuring A Day To Remember’s Jeremy McKinnon) and the darkly romantic ‘Bulletproof Love’ became anthems for fans navigating heartbreak and self-discovery.
Their ability to oscillate between ferocity and tenderness catching the attention of the alternative rock world, Pierce The Veil’s rise continued with 2012’s Collide With the Sky, catapulting them into the mainstream consciousness. Featuring their breakout hit ‘King For A Day’ (a scene-defining collaboration with Kellin Quinn of Sleeping With Sirens), tracks like ‘Bulls in the Bronx’ showcased their knack for blending intricate Latin-inspired guitar flourishes with heavy, emotional undertones, cementing their reputation as innovators in the alt. rock world.
Fusing a cinematic intensity with anthemic hooks, the record reached Gold status in the US and propelled the band to headlining tours across the globe, becoming known for their relentless touring and electric stage presence. Refining their sound, 2016’s Misadventures balanced polished pop-punk sensibilities with their trademark post-hardcore bite, marking an evolution in both their sonic stylings and lyrical depth. Exploring themes of resilience and transformation, tracks like ‘Circles’ and ‘Floral & Fading’ came as some of their most introspective to date, showcasing yet another side to the outfit’s increasingly multi-faceted identity.
After a seven-year hiatus and a line-up reshuffle seeing them re-emerge as a trio, Pierce The Veil returned in 2023 with their highly anticipated fifth album, The Jaws Of Life. Coming after a period of reflection, its twelve tracks dove deep into themes of survival, mental health, and rediscovery, resonating deeply with a world grappling with collective hardships in a post-pandemic landscape. Merging a haunting vulnerability with explosive energy and pulling inspiration from 90s grunge, singles ‘Pass The Nirvana’ and ‘Emergency Contact’ showcased the band’s sonic growth, seeing the record heralded as a triumphant return.
As they prepare to return to UK stages for their highly anticipated 2025 headline tour, Pierce The Veil are poised to celebrate 19 years of evolution and connection. Their live show defined by its cathartic, unrestrained expression, the trio have become a beacon for fans seeking solace and strength through music, and with a renewed sense of purpose – they’re stepping into an exciting new era as innovators and icons of modern post-hardcore.