Taking Back Sunday

A driving force propelled by syncopated rhythms and layered guitars that build tension before releasing into expansive choruses.

alternative rock · pop-punk · post-hardcore · post-punk

United States Est. 1999

Start here

The song

“MakeDamnSure” from Louder Now

Immediate hook and dynamic chorus exemplify their approach, making it an engaging standalone track for new listeners.

See the full guide

Songs to start with

If you'd rather pick a song than an album.

  1. 1

    "Cute Without the 'E' (Cut From the Team)" — from Twenty (2019)

    accessible entry with immediate hook

  2. 2

    "You Know How I Do" — from Tell All Your Friends (2002)

    establishes the sonic palette early

  3. 3

    "Set Phasers to Stun" — from Where You Want to Be (2004)

    establishes the sonic palette early

  4. 4

    "Flicker, Fade" — from Happiness Is (2014)

    accessible entry with immediate hook

  5. 5

    "MakeDamnSure" — from Live from Orensanz (2010)

    establishes the sonic palette early

  6. 6

    "Amphetamine Smiles" — from 152 (2023)

    establishes the sonic palette early

About Taking Back Sunday

Taking Back Sunday matters as a cultural touchstone for a generation navigating the complexities of love, loss, and friendship.
Their raw emotional resonance and anthemic sound have created a communal space where listeners can confront their own vulnerabilities, often becoming a rallying point within the alternative rock scene.
Their raw emotional resonance and anthemic sound have created a communal space where listeners can confront their own vulnerabilities, often becoming a rallying point within the alternative rock scene. The band's ability to articulate heartache and resilience has fostered a sense of belonging among fans, turning live shows into cathartic experiences that blur the lines between performer and audience. Their approach to songwriting is rooted in collaboration and dual perspectives, with members weaving together personal narratives that reflect both individual and collective experiences. This interplay shapes their sonic identity, creating a dynamic tension that mirrors the emotional highs and lows of their lyrics. Each song functions like a conversation filled with urgency and sincerity, often layering guitar-driven melodies over intricate rhythms that push against moments of introspection. Lyrically, the band tends to explore themes of nostalgia, regret, and the complexities of relationships, captured through a voice that balances earnestness and irony. Their storytelling approach embraces both poignant detail and broader impressions, allowing listeners to find their own meaning amidst the bittersweet narratives.

8 studio albums· 20 total releases· 2 decades· United States