Vanessa Nakate to Open Giving Black Conference 2026 With Climate Justice Keynote
2 weeks ago
United States American Nightmare is a Boston-based hardcore punk band recognized for their impactful sound and persistent presence in the punk scene.
Interested in booking American Nightmare?
Request A ShowVenue that has featured American Nightmare, with a description of their music making process.
Lawsuit filed by Wesley Eisold (American Nightmare vocalist) against WWE wrestler Cody Rhodes, WWE, and Fanatics alleging trademark infringement for the 'American Nightmare' name on merchandise. Eisold seeks at least $150,000 in damages and treble damages up to $300,000.
Publisher of American Nightmare's EP 'Dedicated To The Next World'.
American Nightmare, also known briefly as Give Up the Ghost, is a prominent American hardcore punk band that originated in Boston, Massachusetts. The band was formed in 1998 by Tim Cossar and Wesley Eisold, who was previously a roadie for Ten Yard Fight, alongside Azy Relph and Jesse van Diest. Their initial foray into the music scene began with a demo tape in 1999, which was quickly followed by their self-titled debut EP released on Bridge 9 Records in 2000. Subsequent touring and lineup adjustments led to their second EP, ‘The Sun Isn’t Getting Any Brighter’, which later combined with their first EP to form ‘Year One’, released in 2001 by Reflections Records.
Their debut full-length album, ‘Background Music’, was released through Equal Vision Records in 2001, garnering significant attention and leading to extensive touring, including a North American tour with Converge. In 2003, the band temporarily changed their name to Give Up the Ghost due to a legal dispute with a similarly named band. Under this new moniker, they released their second full-length album, ‘We’re Down Til We’re Underground’, in 2003, which showcased a departure from their earlier sound with longer, more experimental compositions. The band experienced a hiatus following their sudden breakup in June 2004, citing health and personal reasons.
American Nightmare officially reunited in December 2011, performing two reunion shows under their original name. This reunion marked the beginning of a renewed period of activity, with Deathwish Inc. reissuing their albums ‘Background Music’ and ‘We’re Down Til We’re Underground’ to coincide with these events. Since 2011, the band has continued to play a select number of shows annually, including joining the Togetherfest tour in 2017. They released a new self-titled album in 2018 through Rise Records, followed by the EP ‘Dedicated To The Next World’ in May 2023. In 2022, they embarked on the ‘Background Music’ 20th Anniversary tour, and in 2024, celebrated their 25th anniversary with a special show in Brooklyn, New York.
Curious about our offerings or have inquiries? We're eager to assist!
Just complete the form, and we'll respond promptly.
