Handsome (band)
| Company type | Supergroup |
|---|---|
| Industry | Music |
| Founded | 1995 |
| Defunct | 1998 |
| Headquarters | United States |
| Products | Music albums, singles |
Handsome was a notable American rock supergroup established in 1995, comprising vocalist Jeremy Chatelain, guitarists Peter Mengede (formerly of Helmet) and Tom Capone (formerly of Quicksand), bassist Eddie Nappi, and drummer Pete Hines (formerly associated with Cro-Mags and Murphy's Law). After Capone’s departure in 1997, Donny Campion (ex-Electric Love Hogs) took over guitar duties. Their discography includes two 7" vinyl singles released in 1995, two CD singles in 1997, and one full-length album titled Handsome (1997), issued through Epic/Sony. The group dissolved shortly thereafter.
History
The inception of Handsome traces back to Australian guitarist Peter Mengede, who had been part of New York-based band Helmet from 1989 until 1993. Departing Helmet due to artistic disagreements, Mengede aimed to establish a new band where all members would contribute equally.[1]
By 1995, Mengede had brought together Tom Capone, formerly of Quicksand, drummer Pete Hines from Cro-Mags and Murphy’s Law, bassist Eddie Nappi, and Salt Lake City native Jeremy Chatelain. According to drummer Pete Hines, the name Handsome was selected by Mengede, inspired by the album Handsome by Tar, with the intention of creating a unique identity distinct from typical New York band names.[2] In a 2023 statement, Mengede also mentioned that the name strategically placed them ahead of Helmet alphabetically in record stores.[3]
Following a short tour across the Midwest supporting Deftones, Handsome entered the studio with producer Terry Date to record their debut album. Released on February 4, 1997 via Epic/Sony,[4] the self-titled Handsome received acclaim from AllMusic for its intricate yet accessible sound that resonated with both alternative and hardcore music fans.[4]
To promote the album, Handsome embarked on U.S. tours alongside Silverchair, Local H, and Less Than Jake,[5] followed by European dates supporting Wu-Tang Clan and Voodoo Glow Skulls.[5] Prior to their European shows in June 1997, Capone exited the band and was succeeded by Donny Campion.[5]Cite error: The opening <ref> tag is malformed or has a bad name In July 1997, Handsome participated in select Warped Tour performances but disbanded soon after due to internal conflicts.[1][5] Although they had a three-album contract with Epic and were developing new material, the band was dropped following Capone’s departure based on a contractual clause.[1]
Post-breakup
After Handsome dissolved, Peter Mengede concluded his U.S. musical endeavors and returned to Australia in late 2001 following a 15-year residence in New York. He subsequently formed the Brisbane-based band El Gordo. Tom Capone engaged in various projects before founding Adharma in 2000. Vocalist Jeremy Chatelain went on to join Blake Schwarzenbach’s Jets to Brazil and later rejoined Helmet. Bassist Eddie Nappi became part of the Mark Lanegan Band and collaborated with Queens of the Stone Age as well as Troy Van Leeuwen’s project Enemy; he also joined Van Leeuwen’s group Sweethead.
Musical style
Handsome's musical approach has often been likened to that of Deftones and Far. According to Pete Hines, the band aimed to blend "a melodic vocalist with intensely heavy instrumentation."
Legacy
Despite not reaching commercial popularity, Handsome's 1997 debut album has earned growing critical recognition over the years. Kerrang! included Handsome in its list of the "12 most underrated albums of the '90s," while Louder Sound placed the group among the "top 50 cult metal bands."
Members
Final lineup
- Jeremy Chatelain – lead vocals (1995–1998)
- Peter Mengede – guitar (1995–1998)
- Eddie Nappi – bass guitar (1995–1998)
- Pete Hines – drums (1995–1998)
- Donni Campion – guitar (1997–1998)
Former members
- Tom Capone – guitar (1995–1997)
Discography
Studio albums
| Title | Details |
|---|---|
| Handsome |
|
Singles
| Title | Year | Album |
|---|---|---|
| "Swimming" / "Can't Connect" | 1995 | non-album single |
| "Waiting" / "Needles" | ||
| "Needles" | 1997 | Handsome |
| "Dim the Lights" |
External links
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 Mengede, Peter. BoostingShapes podcast, 2019.
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