How a cult alternative rock band turned a long hiatus into a creative rebirth
In short: Los Angeles band Failure vanished in 1997 after three albums, only to return decades later with a massive, dedicated following. By embracing self-production and navigating the volatile landscape of modern music distribution, they transformed from a sidelined nineties act into a resilient, independent force in the alternative rock scene.
Formed in 1990, Failure initially struggled to find their footing within the industry. Their debut, 1992's Comfort, left the band dissatisfied with its raw, unpolished production. By their second record, 1994's Magnified, members Ken Andrews and Greg Edwards took full creative control, establishing a self-reliant production style that would define their sound. Despite critical acclaim, their 1996 release Fantastic Planet faced distribution hurdles, and the band eventually disbanded in 1997 due to personal differences.
The band's 2014 reunion marked a dramatic shift in their trajectory. A sold-out show at Los Angeles' El Rey Theatre confirmed that their influence had only grown during their absence. Since returning, they have navigated the complexities of the digital age, including crowdfunding challenges with PledgeMusic and shifting their catalog to Bandcamp. This era has been remarkably productive, yielding albums like 2015's The Heart Is a Monster and 2021's Wild Type Droid, alongside a 2026 release titled Location Lost.
Beyond their own discography, Failure's members have maintained diverse careers. Ken Andrews has become a prolific producer, while Greg Edwards co-founded Autolux. Their influence remains significant, with bands like Tool and Paramore citing them as an inspiration. By moving away from traditional label structures and focusing on direct-to-fan engagement, Failure has successfully transitioned from a nineties cult favorite into a self-sustaining, modern art-rock institution that continues to evolve its sonic identity.
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- Summary by Intellect · source: Failure (band)
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