If you’re a fan of Craig Owens or simply curious about his musical journey, this list covers the most notable projects he’s been part of. From his early days in post-hardcore bands to his solo ventures, each project highlights a different aspect of his evolving artistry. Whether you’re exploring his discography for the first time or deepening your appreciation, these projects are essential for understanding his impact on modern alternative music.
1. Chiodos
Craig Owens is best known as the lead vocalist of Chiodos, a post-hardcore band formed in 2001 in Michigan. Their debut album, All’s Well That Ends Well, released in 2005, gained acclaim for its blend of aggressive riffs and melodic vocals, with Owens’ dynamic singing style at the forefront. The band’s energetic performances and emotionally charged lyrics helped them carve out a significant niche in the scene, making Chiodos a staple for fans of the genre. Owens’s expressive vocal range and stage presence made live shows particularly memorable, solidifying his reputation as a charismatic frontman.
2. Cinematic Sunrise
Cinematic Sunrise was a short-lived side project formed in 2007 by Owens, featuring members from other prominent bands like The Confession and The Sound of Animals Fighting. The band’s debut album, Stadiums & Silverware, showcased a more experimental and melodic side of Owens, blending indie pop with post-hardcore influences. The project allowed Owens to explore a different musical style, emphasizing catchy hooks and lyrical introspection. Though it only released one album, Cinematic Sunrise remains a notable chapter in Owens’s creative evolution, highlighting his versatility as a musician.
3. Isles & Glaciers
Isles & Glaciers was a supergroup formed in 2008, featuring Owens alongside members from bands like A Skylit Drive and The Sound of Animals Fighting. Their debut album, The Hearts of Lonely People, is celebrated for its lush arrangements and emotional depth, combining post-hardcore with indie rock elements. Owens’s vocal versatility shines through on tracks like “Clairvoyant” and “The Late Great Golden Age,” where he masterfully balances melody and intensity. The project’s collaborative nature and unique sound make it a standout in Owens’s discography.
4. D.R.U.G.S. (Destroy Rebuild Until God Shows)
Formed in 2010, D.R.U.G.S. was a post-hardcore supergroup that reunited Owens with members from bands like Chiodos and Fightstar. Their debut self-titled album features aggressive riffs, catchy choruses, and introspective lyrics. Owens’s vocals are especially prominent on tracks like “If You Think This Song Is About You” and “Sex Life,” showcasing his ability to combine raw emotion with melodic singing. D.R.U.G.S. marked a significant return for Owens to the heavier side of his musical spectrum and garnered a dedicated following.
5. Royal Albert Hall Sessions
In 2012, Owens released a solo project titled Royal Albert Hall Sessions, which diverged from his band work by focusing on acoustic and stripped-down arrangements. This project emphasizes lyrical storytelling and showcases Owens’s vocal prowess outside of the high-energy band environments. The recordings reveal a more vulnerable side of Owens, highlighting his songwriting skills and emotional depth. It’s a must-listen for fans interested in his more intimate, personal side.
6. Owens (Solo Album)
In 2014, Craig Owens released his debut solo album, simply titled Owens. The album features a mix of alternative rock, pop-punk, and acoustic tracks, illustrating his versatility as a songwriter. Songs like “Broken” and “Long Way Down” demonstrate his ability to craft catchy melodies while maintaining emotional sincerity. Owens’s solo work allows him to explore personal themes and showcase his vocal range without the constraints of a band format, making it a key project for understanding his individual artistry.
7. Bad Things
In 2014, Owens collaborated with musician and producer Ryan Seaman to form Bad Things, a rock band that blends garage rock with punk influences. Their debut album, Bad Things, features gritty guitars, energetic drums, and Owens’s distinctive vocals. Tracks like “Caught in the Rain” and “Dancing on the Sun” highlight Owens’s ability to adapt to a more raw, rebellious sound. This project stands out as a departure from his more melodic work, emphasizing a gritty, no-frills rock aesthetic.
8. The Sound of Animals Fighting
Although Owens was not a founding member, he contributed vocals to select tracks of The Sound of Animals Fighting, a experimental supergroup formed in 2004. His collaborations on albums like Lover, the Lord Has Left Us… showcase his ability to blend seamlessly into complex, layered compositions. Owens’s participation added a distinctive emotional layer to the group’s eclectic sound, demonstrating his adaptability across different musical styles and his capacity to elevate collaborative projects.
How to Choose
When selecting which Craig Owens project to explore, consider what aspects of his artistry interest you most. Are you drawn to energetic post-hardcore vocals? Then Chiodos is the essential starting point. If you prefer more melodic, experimental sounds, Cinematic Sunrise or Isles & Glaciers might appeal more. For those interested in raw, personal songwriting, Owens’s solo albums and acoustic projects offer intimate insights. Ultimately, the best choice depends on whether you seek aggressive energy, melodic depth, or emotional vulnerability—each project provides a different window into Owens’s multifaceted talent.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Craig Owens most famous for? His work as the lead vocalist of Chiodos, especially their debut album All’s Well That Ends Well.
- Has Craig Owens collaborated with other artists outside his bands? Yes, he has contributed to projects like The Sound of Animals Fighting and has worked on solo material.
- Which Craig Owens project should I start with? If you’re new, starting with Chiodos’s All’s Well That Ends Well provides a solid foundation. For a broader view, his solo album Owens is highly recommended.
- What genres has Craig Owens explored? Mainly post-hardcore, alternative rock, indie, acoustic, and punk influences.
- Is Craig Owens still active in music? As of 2023, Owens continues to perform and work on new projects, maintaining an active presence in the scene.
Final Thoughts
Craig Owens’s career is a testament to his versatility and enduring influence in alternative and post-hardcore music. From the energetic chaos of Chiodos to the intimate storytelling of his solo work, each project reveals different facets of his talent. Whether you’re looking for raw emotion, technical skill, or genre-bending experimentation, Owens’s diverse discography offers something for every listener. Exploring these projects not only deepens your appreciation for his artistry but also highlights his significant role in shaping modern alternative music.
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