Before the Mourning
| Company type | Band |
|---|---|
| Industry | Music |
| Founded | 2011 in Los Angeles, California, United States |
| Defunct | 2015 |
| Headquarters | Los Angeles , United States |
| Products | Music recordings (EPs and album) |
Before the Mourning (often abbreviated as B4TM) was a heavy metal ensemble originating from Los Angeles, California. Their discography includes two EPs titled Remembrance and Damned and Forsaken, along with their debut studio album Etherial End, which was released in August 2015. The band officially announced their disbandment in November 2015.
Remembrance (2011–2013)
In December 2011, Phillip Gonyea, who previously played drums for Instinct of Aggression and Against All Will, reached out to Johnny Young of The Kill Corps to explore a musical partnership. Adam Ryan, also affiliated with The Kill Corps, joined as the vocalist, resulting in the creation of their initial song, "Dismember." Shortly thereafter, guitarist Nikki Stringfield became part of the lineup, solidifying Before the Mourning’s formation. Their first EP, Remembrance, was made available for free on Facebook in August 2012.
Johnny Young characterized the song "Dead to You" as "breakup music for tough guys," focusing on themes of irreparable relationships. Its lyric video debuted on September 6, 2012. The EP’s title track, "Before the Mourning," centers on valuing positive memories after loss, which aligns with the band’s name. This song’s music video premiered on January 17, 2013.
Damned and Forsaken (2013–2014)
Work on their sophomore EP, Damned and Forsaken, commenced in mid-2013. By late July, the band released the title track via their ReverbNation profile, followed by the track "Grim" in early August. Soon after, they unveiled "The Right to Die" along with a demo version of "Need to Bleed."
In early 2014, Before the Mourning participated in The Hell Pop Tour II, sharing the stage with In This Moment, Butcher Babies, Devour the Day, and All Hail the Yeti. Following this tour, Nikki Stringfield exited the group.
Etherial End (2014–2015)
June 2014 saw the release of a lyric video for "Another Sleepless Night," which was followed by "Continuum" appearing on SoundCloud two months later. The band then toured the western United States alongside American rock act Malaki during their "Pacific Rim Tour."
Early in 2015, an official music video for "Another Sleepless Night," directed by Kevin J. Custer, was launched. By July, they premiered "The Deception," the third track off their forthcoming album; chosen as the opener due to its juxtaposition of a "happy sounding intro" with a heavy groove. Mid-August featured the release of "Honestly" through ArtistDirect, a song described by lead vocalist Ryan as representing a significant life turning point and internal conflict.
Their first full-length album, Etherial End, co-produced by Logan Mader, was released on August 21, 2015 via Street Smart Recordings. From August through September, Before the Mourning toured with Fear Factory, Once Human, and Chicago-based band The Bloodline.
On November 7, 2015, it was announced that Adam Ryan had departed from the band. Seventeen days later, on November 24, 2015, Before the Mourning officially disbanded.
Post-breakup (2015–present)
Following the split, lead guitarist CJ Cussell joined bands Corrosion and Forty Winters. Phillip Gonyea rejoined his former group Instinct of Aggression. Bassist Paul McBride continues his career with Florida rock outfit The Killing Hours. Meanwhile, former lead vocalist Adam Ryan launched three separate projects: A Callous Confession, Valor & Vengeance, and Alphamega.
Critical reception
Jason Rhode of Cryptic Rock characterizes the debut album Etherial End as an energetic and emotionally charged collection, spotlighting "The Deception" for its melodic opening and compelling instrumental dynamics. He highlights "Another Sleepless Night" as a track that delves into personal challenges, merging heartfelt lyrics with robust metal influences. Rhode commends the band's accuracy and refined musicianship, describing each song as a fulfilling auditory journey.
Jeff Kendrick, guitarist for DevilDriver and co-founder of All Axess, praises the group for their fusion of engaging riffs and intensity combined with cathartic vocal expressions and lively choruses, forecasting a bright future ahead. BraveWords underscores their mastery over melody and tight riff execution, delivering technically proficient yet memorable metal compositions.
Alice Roques from Rock Revolt Magazine awards Etherial End 4.5 skulls, deeming it a compelling record that reveals the band's full capabilities and merits repeated listens due to its complex instrumental work.
Anthony Giles of The Pit: Sports & Entertainment and The Oakland Post describes the album as a sophisticated blend of heavy breakdowns, deep bass lines, aggressive screams, and sincere clean vocals that resonate with newcomers to the genre.
Bill Jolliemore from National Rock Review draws attention to the intricate bass and drum rhythms, complemented by layered guitar arrangements ranging from chugging patterns to melodic solos. He points out the demanding drum sequences that will captivate even seasoned metal enthusiasts.
Final lineup
- Phil Gonyea – drums (2011–2015)
- Adam Ryan – vocals (2012–2015)
- Christopher "CJ" Cussell – lead guitar (2013–2015)
- Paul McBride – bass (2014–2015)
- Jeff Stevenson – rhythm guitar (2014–2015)
Former members
- Johnny Young – lead guitar (2011–2013)
- Vincent Ferro – bass (2012)
- Kyle Mayer – bass (2013)
- Nikki Stringfield – rhythm guitar (2012–2014)
Studio albums
- Etherial End (2015)
EPs
- Remembrance (2012)
- Damned and Forsaken (2014)
Videos
- "Before the Mourning" (2012)
- "Another Sleepless Night" (2014)
Other information
Paul McBride, bassist for the band, also serves as an editor at Bass Musician Magazine and is a member of The Killing Hours, an American heavy metal group based in Miami, Florida.