Photos by Kourtney Aavatsmark – Formed in 2009 in Orlando, Florida, Sleeping With Sirens has spent over fifteen years as a cornerstone of the alternative and post-hardcore landscape. The band—currently comprised of Kellin Quinn (vocals), Justin Hills (bass), Nick Martin (rhythm guitar), Matty Best (drums), and Tony Pizzuti (lead guitar)—quickly rose to prominence through Quinn’s distinctive, soaring vocal range and their ability to blend aggressive instrumentals with pop-inspired hooks. From their breakout debut, With Ears to See and Eyes to Hear, to the double-platinum success of the anthem “If You Can’t Hang,” they have consistently defined the sound of a generation of “emo” and alternative rock fans.
The band’s trajectory has been marked by a restless creative spirit, shifting from the raw energy of their early years to the polished experimentation of albums like Madness and the gritty, heavy return-to-form seen in 2019’s How It Feels to Be Lost. This evolution has allowed them to maintain a massive global following, headlining major tours and becoming staples at festivals like When We Were Young and Aftershock. Their longevity is rooted in a deep, authentic connection with their audience, often addressing themes of mental health, resilience, and the power of close personal relationships.
In 2026, Sleeping With Sirens ushered in a significant new era by returning to Rise Records, the label that helped launch their career. To celebrate this homecoming, the band announced their eighth studio album, An Ending In Itself, produced by the acclaimed Will Yip and scheduled for release on June 12, 2026. The record is described as a mature reimagining of their foundational sound, anchored by the singles “An Ending In Itself” and the hauntingly emotional “Forever/Always.” This latest chapter sees the band leaning into a technical and heavier direction, bolstered by the intricate guitar work of Tony Pizzuti.
To support the new record, the band has embarked on a rigorous 2026 tour schedule that balances high-profile festival appearances with intimate headlining shows. Highlights of the year include performances at Welcome to Rockville, Inkcarceration, and a highly anticipated run on the resurrected Vans Warped Tour across Washington D.C., Long Beach, and Orlando. By continuing to push the boundaries of their genre while honoring their roots, Sleeping With Sirens remains a vital, influential force in the rock world, proving that their music is, as the new single suggests, “Forever/Always.”
