As Cities Burn Members, Gear & Sound

As Cities Burn is a dynamic musical group hailing from Mandeville, Louisiana, known for their intense blend of screamo, post-hardcore, and Christian rock. Formed in 2002, the band features TJ Bonnette (vocals), Cody Bonnette (vocals, guitar), Hunter Wells (guitar), Stephen Keech (bass), and Aaron Lunsford (drums). The Bonnette brothers' contrasting vocal styles—TJ's visceral screams paired with Cody's clean, melodic voice—define the band's sonic identity, especially prominent in their debut album, Son, I Loved You At Your Darkest. Despite lineup changes and a temporary disbandment in 2009, the band has re-emerged with a powerful presence, continuing to captivate audiences with their emotive and potent soundscapes.

As Cities Burn crafts their sound with a compelling mix of aggressive and melodic elements, characterized by churning guitar riffs and emotive vocal interplay. Their music often transitions between raw, visceral energy and reflective, melodic passages. To emulate their sound, the Fender American Standard Telecaster and Fender Stratocaster, used by Cody Bonnette, provide the bright, cutting tones necessary for their intricate guitar work. The use of effects such as the 1981 Inventions DRV distortion pedal adds a gritty edge, while the Electro-Harmonix Nano POG octave pedal enhances their sound with rich harmonic layers. The band's music often weaves between heavy, driving sections and more atmospheric, introspective moments, showcasing their ability to balance intensity with melody.