History
A Skylit Drive is an American post-hardcore band originating from Lodi and Galt, California. Known for their signature blend of high-pitched vocals and melodic post-hardcore arrangements, the group became a prominent fixture in the alternative music scene during the late 2000s and early 2010s.
Early Years and Commercial Success
The band first gained significant traction with the release of their 2007 EP, She Watched the Sky. Following the departure of original vocalist Jordan Blake due to health issues, the band recruited Michael "Jag" Jagmin. This new lineup solidified the band's sound and led to the release of their debut full-length album, Wires...and the Concept of Breathing, in 2008. The album was a commercial success, landing on multiple Billboard charts and establishing the group as a leader in the genre.
Over the following years, A Skylit Drive maintained a rigorous international touring schedule, performing both as headliners and as a supporting act on major tours. They expanded their discography with several studio albums, including Adelphia (2009), Identity on Fire (2011), Rise (2013), and their self-titled effort, ASD (2015).
Internal Conflict and 2017 Breakup
In 2017, the band officially disbanded following a public dispute between founding guitarist Nick Miller and vocalist Michael Jagmin. The split marked the end of a decade of activity, leaving the band's future uncertain as members moved on to different projects.
Reunion and Trademark Disputes
The band's history took a complex turn in early 2022. In January, it was announced that the original She Watched the Sky lineup—featuring Jordan Blake, Nick Miller, Joey Wilson, Brian White, and Cory La Quay—had reunited. However, the reunion was immediately met with legal and branding challenges.
In February 2022, Michael Jagmin released a new single titled "Dead Serious" under the A Skylit Drive name, effectively creating two competing versions of the band. This led to a legal battle over the rights to the moniker. By April 2022, the dispute reached a resolution of sorts: Jagmin retained the legal rights to the "A Skylit Drive" name, while the original members announced they would continue performing and releasing music under the shortened name ASD.
The Legacy of Jordan Blake
Tragedy struck the band's community on May 1, 2023, when it was announced that original vocalist Jordan Blake had passed away. Blake was a foundational figure in the band's early development, and his return for the 2022 reunion had been a significant milestone for longtime fans. His work on the band's debut EP remains a definitive part of the post-hardcore era.
