Biography
Banner Pilot is an American punk rock band hailing from Minneapolis, Minnesota, known for their energetic blend of pop punk, skate punk, and melodic hardcore.
When their previous group Rivethead disbanded shortly after the dawn of the new millennium, Nate Gangelhoff and singer/guitarist Nick Johnson started toying with drum machines and melodies, writing songs they confess were initially terrible. Their Midwestern work ethic made them keep plugging away, though, and eventually—along with a fleshed out band lineup—the two hit upon an eminently toe-tapping sound and introspective lyrical approach reminiscent of ‘90s post-hardcore greats from Jawbreaker to Knapsack to Samiam.
That’s how Banner Pilor was formed in 2005, with Nick Johnson (vocals, guitar), Nate Gangelhoff (bass, guitar), Mike Johnson (guitar, vocals), and Danny Elston (drums).
In late 2007 and early 2008, the band recorded their Go-Kart Records debut full length, Resignation Day. Mike left the band to return to school and Corey was recruited as a replacement for their summer West Coast tour. Corey then left in 2014 and was replaced by Jeff Matika.
After several years of establishing themselves in the musical hotbed of Minneapolis and recording a debut album they describe as “kind of a mess,” they decided to step up their game and asked their friend Billy Morrisette of Dillinger Four if he could get their demos into the hands of the team at Fat Wreck Chords in 2009.
Drawing inspiration from acts like Alkaline Trio, The Lawrence Arms, Jawbreaker, and Dillinger Four, Banner Pilot has carved out a niche in the punk scene with their raw, anthemic sound and DIY ethos.
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Members
Past Members
- Corey Ayd (2008–2014)
- Mike Johnson - Lead Guitar (2005–2008)