The hardcore band Defeater was formed in the Boston area around 2008. In a genre that can often be suffocating in its limited amount of acceptable experimentation, the band aims to keep the vocal ferocity and heavy-hitting instrumentation of hardcore, while simultaneously expanding its borders. Vocalist Derek Archambault shifts effortlessly between melodic singing and guttural screams as his band follows suit with a strong focus on loud/quiet dynamics. The band is also admirably passionate about many environmental issues, as evidenced by its albums being printed on 100% recycled materials, and drummer Andy Reitz's side-business running a van rental company with vehicles powered by vegetable oil. Defeater's debut LP, Empty Days & Sleepless Nights, was released in 2008.
