How a Minneapolis metal band helped pioneer the complex, rhythmic sound of modern djent
In short: Formed in 2004, After the Burial emerged from the Minnesota music scene to become a defining force in deathcore and progressive metalcore. By blending technical precision with aggressive, atmospheric compositions, they helped shape the djent subgenre, maintaining a relentless creative output despite significant lineup changes and personal tragedy.
The band was established in 2004 by Trent Hafdahl, Justin Lowe, Nick Wellner, and Greg Erickson, who all connected during their high school years. Their initial efforts culminated in the 2006 release of Forging a Future Self. While this debut was distributed independently, the group eventually secured a long-term partnership with Sumerian Records. This label became the home for most of their subsequent discography, including the 2008 release Rareform, which the band later re-recorded to feature vocalist Anthony Notarmaso.
The group's trajectory was marked by both technical innovation and profound loss. In 2015, founding guitarist Justin Lowe announced his departure, citing personal distress. Shortly thereafter, he was reported missing and found dead at age 32 near the Soo Line High Bridge. Authorities determined his death resulted from a fall, though the circumstances remained unclear. The band paused their touring schedule to process the loss of their friend and collaborator, eventually returning to the studio to continue their work.
Throughout their two-decade career, the band has navigated numerous personnel shifts, with Trent Hafdahl remaining the sole constant founding member. Their sound has evolved through albums like In Dreams, Wolves Within, Dig Deep, and Evergreen. Critics and outlets like Loudwire have noted their role in merging disparate styles—including deathcore and progressive metalcore—into a cohesive, often described as relentlessly demonic, sonic identity. They continue to perform at major festivals and tour internationally, cementing their status as influential figures in the evolution of heavy music.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: After the Burial
- Also: Wikidata — After the Burial · CC0
- Also: Wikidata — After the Burial · CC0
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