Smashing Satellites
| Company type | Band |
|---|---|
| Industry | Music |
| Founded | 2014 |
| Founder | Sal Costa |
| Headquarters | Toronto , Canada |
| Products | Music albums, singles, EPs |
Smashing Satellites was an alternative rock ensemble from Canada, established in 2014 by Sal Costa, who previously served as the lead guitarist for My Darkest Days, a group that rose to fame in the late 2000s and early 2010s. The band is best known for their 2016 track "Gamblin' Man" and produced one full-length studio album in 2015, along with two EPs released in 2014 and 2017.
History
Following significant commercial achievements and sold-out shows with My Darkest Days, Sal Costa departed from the band on January 4, 2013, to focus on his own musical venture. Soon after, he revealed intentions to create a new band.
Formation
Between 2013 and early 2014, Costa used his personal Facebook account to promote his new project, renaming it "Smashing Satellites" by mid-2014. He then traveled to Los Angeles to work alongside producer and songwriter Bob Marlette, dedicating several months to writing and recording. During this period, he experimented with a variety of instruments such as live trumpets, multiple guitars, and vintage keyboards.
Once back in Toronto, Costa put together a live lineup by bringing in Mick Valentyne (lead guitar), Devon Lougheed (rhythm guitar), and Mykey Thomas (drums).
SonicAluzion EP & Album 2014-2016
After assembling the band members, Costa took them to Oklahoma to record their first EP and album at "Back-Lounge Productions," a studio owned by Hinder’s drummer Cody Hanson. Costa had established a connection with Hanson through touring experiences with his previous band My Darkest Days.
On August 18, 2014, the group announced that their debut EP "SonicAluzion (A-Side)" would be released on September 30, 2014, preceded by the lead single "Hounds," which premiered on August 19. The band supported the EP with extensive touring throughout Toronto.
Another single from the "A-Side" EP, titled "Waterfall," was launched on February 12, 2015, entering at number 48 on Billboard’s Top 50 Alternative chart.
On April 14, 2015, Smashing Satellites revealed the first single from their forthcoming full-length album, What It's All About, confirming that SonicAluzion would be released on June 16, 2015. This album featured the five tracks from the EP combined with eight additional new songs.
The full debut album SonicAluzion was officially released on June 16, 2015, spawning singles such as "Hounds," "Waterfall," "What It's All About," "Love Is Forever," and "Living Loud."
Gamblin' Man, White Elephant EP and retirement 2016-2017
On January 8, 2016, Smashing Satellites unveiled the single "Gamblin' Man," which entered the Billboard Mainstream Rock chart at number 38. Later, on May 26, 2017, they released "Benny," serving as the lead single for their upcoming EP White Elephant.
On October 22, 2017, Sal Costa declared his retirement from music and announced the conclusion of Smashing Satellites. Nevertheless, he confirmed plans to release the White Elephant EP as a final offering to fans.
Band members
- Salvatore "Sal" Costa – lead vocals, guitar, piano, songwriter, producer
- Mick Valentyne – lead guitar, keyboards, songwriter
- Mykey Thomas – drums, songwriter
- Devon Lougheed – rhythm guitar, keyboards, songwriter
Discography
Extended Plays (EPs)
- SonicAluzion (A-Side) (2014)
- White Elephant (2017)
Full-length Albums
- SonicAluzion (2015)
Singles Outside Albums
- Gamblin' Man (2016) – reached #39 on the Mainstream Rock Tracks chart