Against The Current, the Poughkeepsie, Recent York-born pop rock band, has consistently evolved its sound since first gaining recognition with their debut album, In Our Bones, in 2016. The band—comprising vocalist Chrissy Costanza, guitarist Dan Gow and drummer Will Ferri—demonstrated a willingness to experiment and push creative boundaries, a process that culminated in their second studio album, Past Lives, released in September 2018. This album marked a significant turning point, showcasing a more nuanced and emotionally resonant approach to songwriting, and solidifying their position within the alternative music landscape. The band’s journey reflects a commitment to artistic growth and a deep connection with a loyal fanbase, cultivated through extensive touring and a strong online presence.
The impetus for change came after the release of In Our Bones, prompting Against The Current to re-evaluate their creative process. Inspired by the track “Wasteland” from their first album, they recognized the potential of incorporating new instrumentation and sonic textures to create something both familiar and unexpected. This realization fueled their approach to Past Lives, leading to a more exploratory and collaborative songwriting experience. The band’s willingness to step outside their comfort zone is a defining characteristic of their artistic evolution, and a key element in their continued success. This willingness to experiment allowed them to craft a record that resonated with listeners on a deeper level, exploring themes of self-discovery and emotional resilience.
The Making of Past Lives: A Collaborative Journey
The creation of Past Lives was a year-long endeavor, during which the band generated over 40 song ideas. This extensive songwriting process involved a collaborative effort, with each member contributing ideas and embracing a spirit of openness. Against The Current spent time recording in Los Angeles with producer Andrew Goldstein and in Nashville with Tommy English, supplementing these studio sessions with work at Will Ferri’s home studio. This diverse recording environment allowed them to explore a wide range of sonic possibilities and refine their sound. The band’s commitment to collaboration and experimentation is evident in the album’s varied tone and style, while maintaining a cohesive thematic core.
Guitarist Dan Gow noted a shift in the band’s approach to instrumentation, stating, “In the past it felt like we needed guitar going at all times,” but on Past Lives, “all of the guitar parts are meant to be there.” This reflects a more deliberate and nuanced use of instrumentation, prioritizing sonic texture and emotional impact over simply filling space. Will Ferri also described how instrumental demos, initially uncertain, found their place within the album’s tracks, as exemplified by the song “Voices,” which originated from a demo featuring unusual guitar riffs. This willingness to embrace unconventional ideas and experiment with different sounds contributed to the album’s unique sonic identity.
Themes of Reflection and Empowerment
While the songs on Past Lives vary in tone and style, they are united by a central thematic idea: learning to come back to oneself after the end of a relationship or a significant life transition. Vocalist Chrissy Costanza realized this overarching theme while writing “Come Alive,” recognizing that the album ultimately explores the process of self-discovery and emotional healing. The album’s title itself reflects this concept, acknowledging that we often don’t fully recognize ourselves when looking back on past experiences. Costanza explained, “When you’re in those moments they feel so total and so complete…When you do actually move past them and you look back, you’ve changed so much coming out of it. It’s like looking back on a past life.”
This theme of self-reflection is particularly evident in tracks like “Strangers Again,” which explores the aftermath of a toxic relationship and the process of understanding one’s own role in the dynamic. Costanza emphasized that the song isn’t about blaming others, but rather about taking responsibility for one’s own actions and moving forward. Similarly, “Almost Forgot” offers a unique perspective on breakups, focusing on the process of letting go rather than dwelling on sadness or anger. Throughout Past Lives, Against The Current prioritizes empowerment and resilience, offering listeners a message of hope and self-discovery.
A Loyal Fanbase and Global Reach
Against The Current has cultivated a remarkably loyal fanbase since their inception. In Our Bones debuted at No. 2 on Billboard’s Top New Artists chart in May 2016, demonstrating their initial impact on the music scene. As of today, the band boasts over 301 million views on their YouTube channel and over 1 million followers on Chrissy Costanza’s personal Instagram account, highlighting their strong online presence and engagement with fans. Their YouTube channel serves as a central hub for their music videos, live performances, and behind-the-scenes content.
The band’s dedication to connecting with their audience extends beyond the digital realm. Since 2015, Against The Current has embarked on two headlining world tours, including the “In Our Bones” tour in 2016, and has also performed as part of the Vans Warped Tour. They’ve shared the stage with prominent acts such as All Time Low, Good Charlotte, and Fall Out Boy, supporting the “MANIA” Tour in 2018. These extensive touring experiences have allowed them to build a global following and forge a strong connection with fans across Asia, the U.K., and beyond. The band’s commitment to authentic emotional expression and relatable songwriting has resonated with audiences worldwide, solidifying their position as a rising force in the alternative music scene.
Past Lives represents a significant step forward in Against The Current’s career, opening up new opportunities for larger and more ambitious stage shows. The album’s success has allowed the band to expand their creative horizons and invite new fans into their musical world. With a continued focus on artistic growth, collaboration, and genuine connection with their audience, Against The Current is poised to continue making waves in the music industry for years to come. The band’s ability to evolve while remaining true to their core values is a testament to their talent and dedication.
As of March 10, 2026, Against The Current has not announced any immediate tour dates or new album releases following their 2021 album, Fever, according to their official website and social media channels. Fans can stay updated on the band’s activities and potential future projects by following them on their official website and social media platforms. We encourage readers to share their thoughts on Against The Current and Past Lives in the comments below, and to share this article with fellow music enthusiasts.
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