Of Mice & Men

For any true devotee of metalcore, the name Of Mice & Men resonates with a powerful blend of intense emotion and relentless aggression. Hailing from Costa Mesa, California, this American band has continually evolved its sound, transitioning from raw post-hardcore to a more melodic and anthemic form of alternative metal, all while maintaining their signature blend of crushing riffs and deeply personal lyrics. Their journey, marked by perseverance through adversity, has solidified their place as a significant and enduring force in the heavy music scene.

Of Mice & Men was founded in 2009 by former Attack Attack! vocalist Austin Carlile and bassist Jaxin Hall. The band’s intriguing name is, in fact, a direct reference to John Steinbeck’s classic novella of the same title, reportedly chosen to reflect themes of “the best-laid plans of mice and men often going awry” in their own lives, a poignant detail for any literature and music enthusiast. Their self-titled debut album, released in 2010, quickly gained traction, establishing their presence within the burgeoning metalcore genre with tracks like ‘Second & Sebring’ becoming fan favourites.

The band experienced several significant lineup changes in their early years, a common occurrence in the dynamic metalcore scene. Austin Carlile’s health issues (related to Marfan Syndrome, a connective tissue disorder) led to his initial departure and a brief period with Jerry Roush on vocals. However, Carlile returned, and the band continued to build momentum, particularly with their 2014 album Restoring Force, which saw them embracing a more accessible yet still heavy sound, charting highly and expanding their fanbase.