New Found Glory

Formation

New Found Glory, an influential American rock band, was formed in Coral Springs, Florida, in 1997. The band's origins trace back to Jordan Pundik (lead vocals) and Ian Grushka (bass), who previously played together in the bands Inner City Kids and Flip 60. After Flip 60 disbanded, they recruited guitarist Stephen Klein, whom Pundik had met at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School. The trio began jamming in Grushka's garage and soon invited Joe "Taco Joe" Marino to play drums. The lineup was completed with the addition of Chad Gilbert on lead guitar, a former vocalist of Shai Hulud. The band initially recorded their debut EP, "It's All About the Girls," in 1997, which was distributed by Fiddler Records.

Key Releases and Lineup Changes

Following their EP's success, New Found Glory signed with Eulogy Recordings and released their debut album, "Nothing Gold Can Stay." Over the years, they became known for their energetic pop-punk sound, releasing several acclaimed albums, including "Sticks and Stones," "Catalyst," and "Coming Home." The band experienced a significant lineup change in late 2013 when Steve Klein was removed from the group. Tragically, lead guitarist Chad Gilbert passed away in September 2026, marking a poignant moment in the band's history. Despite these changes, the core members, including Pundik, Grushka, and drummer Cyrus Bolooki, have remained committed to their music.

Legacy

New Found Glory is celebrated for their catchy melodies and heartfelt lyrics, often exploring themes of growing up and relationships. They are recognized as pioneers of the easycore genre, blending pop-punk with hardcore elements. Critics have praised their ability to craft infectious hooks, and they are often referred to as paragons of the pop-punk genre. Their influence on the music scene continues to resonate, making them a beloved band among fans of alternative rock and punk.