Major League (band)
| Company type | Band |
|---|---|
| Industry | Music |
| Founded | 2009 |
| Founder | Brian Anthony Joyce |
| Headquarters | Mantua Township, New Jersey , United States |
| Products | Music albums, EPs |
Major League is a rock ensemble originating from Mantua Township, New Jersey, active initially between 2009 and 2016, with plans to reunite in 2025. Their musical style merges elements of pop punk, easycore, emo, and alternative rock. They have two studio albums released through No Sleep Records: Hard Feelings (2012) and There's Nothing Wrong with Me (2014).
Origins and Initial Phase (2009–2011)
Established in 2009 by guitarist Brian Anthony Joyce, Major League's original roster featured vocalist Nick Trask, guitarist Matt Chila, bassist Eric Bouda, and drummer Justin Unruh. They independently issued two EPs—The Truth Is... (2010) and Variables (2011)—which included songs such as “From States Away” and “Seasons,” helping define their emotionally charged pop-punk sound. In April 2011, Luke Smartnick took over drumming duties from Justin Unruh. The group cultivated a local fanbase through frequent performances at small-scale venues and DIY spaces.
Debut Album Hard Feelings and Growing Recognition (2012–2013)
In 2012, Major League secured a deal with No Sleep Records and launched their first full-length album, Hard Feelings, on November 13. The record featured introspective songwriting combined with dynamic guitar arrangements, fitting within the early 2010s emo revival and pop-punk movements. Critics highlighted its “raw honesty and melodic sensibility,” noting its successful blend of emo influences with pop-punk energy.
To support the album, Major League embarked on extensive touring across North America alongside bands like Man Overboard, Senses Fail, and Turnover. Internationally, they toured the UK and Europe with Funeral for a Friend and performed in Japan with Chunk! No, Captain Chunk!. In 2013, they participated in New Jersey’s Skate and Surf Festival.
Second Album There's Nothing Wrong with Me and Member Shift (2014–2015)
Early in 2014, vocalist Nick Trask exited the band, prompting guitarist Brian Joyce to take over lead vocal responsibilities. The band recorded their sophomore album at Studio 4 in Conshohocken, Pennsylvania, collaborating with producer Will Yip.
Released toward the end of 2014, There's Nothing Wrong with Me emphasized themes of self-examination and emotional maturity. Joyce characterized the album as “very honest and personal,” reflecting a move toward a more introspective approach. Its cover art featuring mirrored inkblots underscored concepts related to mental health and self-identity.
The band promoted the release by touring with acts such as PVRIS, Mayday Parade, Silverstein, Stray from the Path, and Beartooth. In 2015, they were part of the lineup for the Vans Warped Tour.
Final Tour and Breakup Announcement (2016)
On January 15, 2016, Major League declared a farewell tour supported by Forever Came Calling, culminating in their official disbandment. This tour served as a retrospective celebration of their career.
Hiatus Period and Activity Resumption in 2025 (2017–Present)
Following their split, members engaged in separate endeavors while their music continued to attract consistent streaming audiences. In 2025, previously unreleased rehearsal videos featuring the original lineup were shared on their official Instagram account, fueling speculation about a reunion.
On June 17, they announced plans for the inaugural vinyl release of The Truth Is... commemorating its 15th anniversary. The next day brought confirmation of a reunion involving both founding members and newer additions.
On August 19, Major League disclosed details of their first live show since 2016: a complete performance of their 2010 EP The Truth Is... alongside extra material at the Williams Center in Rutherford, New Jersey on November 21, 2025, featuring special guest appearances.
Band members
Current lineup
- Nick Trask – Lead vocals (2009–2014, 2025–present)
- Brian Anthony Joyce – Guitar and vocals (2009–2014, 2025–present), Lead vocals (2014–2016)
- Matt Chila – Guitar (2009–2016, 2025–present)
- Eric Bouda – Bass guitar (2009–2012, 2025–present)
- Luke Smartnick – Drums (2011–2016, 2025–present)
Past members
- Justin Unruh – Drums (2009–2011)
- Kyle Bell – Bass guitar (2012–2016)
Studio albums
- Hard Feelings (2012)
- There's Nothing Wrong with Me (2014)
Compilation
- Mixtape (2011)
EPs
- The Truth Is... (2010)
- Variables (2011)
Split EPs
- Cities and States (collaboration with Giants At Large) (2012)