Knocked Loose's Isaac Hale Expands His Musical Horizons with Two New Bands

Table of Contents

1. Key Highlights
2. Introduction
3. The Birth of Everybody Dies
4. Couldn't Be Me: A New Chapter
5. The Bigger Picture: Knocked Loose and Beyond
6. Implications for the Heavy Music Scene
7. Conclusion
8. FAQ

Key Highlights

• Isaac Hale, guitarist and backing vocalist for Knocked Loose, has launched two new projects: Everybody Dies and Couldn't Be Me.
• Everybody Dies features musicians from various heavy music genres, including Year of the Knife and Sanguisugabogg, while Couldn't Be Me includes members from Two Witnesses and Brainseed.
• Both bands recently released their debut EPs, showcasing Hale's versatility as a vocalist and musician.
• Hale remains committed to Knocked Loose, which has a busy schedule of shows and festivals, including appearances in the US and Europe.

Introduction

Musical creativity can often lead to the formation of multiple identities, each distinct yet interconnected. For Isaac Hale, the talented guitarist and growler of the hardcore band Knocked Loose, this truth manifests in a rich tapestry of sound and collaboration. The recent launch of his two new bands, Everybody Dies and Couldn't Be Me, is not just a testament to his artistic ambition, but also a reflection of the vibrant and interconnected nature of the modern heavy music scene. As Hale juggles an increasingly packed calendar, his ventures encapsulate the spirit of collaboration that continues to thrive across genres, from hardcore to metal.

The Birth of Everybody Dies

Everybody Dies, the band in which Hale takes on vocal duties, is an amalgamation of talented musicians drawn from various facets of the heavy music landscape. Significant contributors include Andrew and Aaron Kisielewski of Year of the Knife, alongside Cody Davidson from Sanguisugabogg. Released on April 4, 2025, their self-titled EP presents a raw, energetic sound that encapsulates the band’s collective influences while paving a new path for its members.

Creative Process and Influences

In interviews following the EP's release, Hale expressed his excitement about the creative process behind Everybody Dies. "These have been a long time coming; and it’s been fun writing and learning how to sing for both," he noted, highlighting the challenges and rewards of stepping into a vocal role. This band seeks not only to craft powerful music but also aims to reflect the realities of life through its lyrics.

Listeners can expect tracks that blend crushing riffs with emotionally charged themes, characteristic of Hale’s broader musical ethos. The involvement of bandmates, each with their unique stylistic elements, enriches Everybody Dies’ sound, making it a noteworthy new addition to the heavy music scene.

Couldn't Be Me: A New Chapter

Simultaneously, Hale has also been working with Couldn't Be Me, a project that includes Chandler Daub of Two Witnesses, Skyler Storm of Brainseed, and Blake Smith of Surfaced and Draped In Black. Their debut EP, released in March 2025, further showcases Hale's commitment to exploring his musical versatility.

Diverse Musical Landscapes

Couldn't Be Me delves into different thematic and sonic territories, expanding upon the aggressive foundations established by Hale's previous projects. The musicians bring their unique backgrounds into the mix, allowing for a fusion of styles that blends hardcore, metal, and other influences seamlessly. Hale's dual engagements reflect a growing trend in the heavy music community, where collaboration across different bands leads to innovative sounds and expanded artistic diversity.

The Bigger Picture: Knocked Loose and Beyond

Hale's active involvement in these new bands coincides with Knocked Loose’s rising prominence in the hardcore scene. The band is not merely surviving; it is thriving, with a packed schedule of performances and appearances at major festivals across the US and Europe, affirming their status as a powerhouse in the genre.

Festival Appearances and Future Plans

With an upcoming schedule that includes major events like Sound and Fury, both Knocked Loose and Hale's new projects are poised to capture audiences’ attention. These performances allow fans to experience the breadth of Hale’s musical capabilities, transitioning from the entrenched aggression of Knocked Loose to the innovative sounds of Everybody Dies and Couldn't Be Me.

The Impact of COVID-19 on Music Production

The pandemic has indelibly influenced the music industry, leading to a wave of creativity spurred by isolation and the resulting void left by live performances. Many artists, including Hale, used this time to reflect, innovate, and experiment with new sounds and collaborations. This period of artistic growth is evident in the diverse releases that have emerged recently.

Implications for the Heavy Music Scene

Hale's ventures exemplify a broader movement within the heavy music community toward collaborative projects. Artists are increasingly willing to cross genre boundaries, pooling together their talents to create multifaceted works that resonate with diverse audiences.

Cultural Relevance

As heavy music evolves, the presence of multifarious side projects adds depth to the genre. They enable artists to explore themes and sounds that might not align with their primary bands, echoing a cultural shift toward inclusivity and experimentation within music. This trend could lead to a renaissance of creativity, fostering connections among fans and artists alike.

Challenges and Opportunities

However, this growth landscape is not without challenges. Balancing multiple projects alongside established bands can often lead to potential burnout and creative fatigue. Yet, for Hale, these obstacles are counterbalanced by the opportunities for artistic expression and collaboration.

Conclusion

Isaac Hale’s ventures into Everybody Dies and Couldn't Be Me showcase the layered complexity of a musician navigating multiple creative outlets within the heavy music scene. His journey reflects a commitment to collaboration and artistic exploration, pushing boundaries while remaining anchored to his roots in Knocked Loose. Hale’s ability to connect with other talented musicians while simultaneously growing his own vocal capabilities exemplifies a vibrant spirit in today’s music landscape—a testament to resilience, creativity, and the ever-evolving nature of sound.

FAQ

What are the names of Isaac Hale's new bands?

Hale has started two new bands named Everybody Dies and Couldn't Be Me.

When were the EPs for these bands released?

The self-titled EP for Everybody Dies was released on April 4, 2025, while Couldn't Be Me's debut EP came out in March 2025.

Who are the other members of Everybody Dies?

Everybody Dies includes Andrew and Aaron Kisielewski from Year of the Knife and Cody Davidson from Sanguisugabogg.

What genres do Everybody Dies and Couldn't Be Me explore?

Everybody Dies leans heavily into hardcore and metal, while Couldn't Be Me explores a broader range of themes and styles.

Will Knocked Loose continue to perform while Hale has new projects?

Yes, Knocked Loose is maintaining a busy schedule with numerous shows and festival appearances planned throughout the year.

How has COVID-19 impacted the music industry according to the article?

The pandemic spurred a wave of creativity, encouraging artists to explore new sounds and collaborations due to the lack of live performance opportunities.

What upcoming festivals will Knocked Loose be part of?

Knocked Loose will be performing at major festivals, including Sound and Fury, alongside other acts.