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{{Short description|American heavy metal band}}
{{Unreferenced|date=June 2007}}
{{Infobox musical artist
{{otheruses}}
| name = The Human Abstract
{{Infobox musical artist <!-- See Wikipedia:WikiProject Musicians -->
| image = Tfoiles THA DV small.jpg
| Name = The Human Abstract
| image_size =
| Img =
| landscape = <!-- yes, if wide image, otherwise leave blank -->
| Img_size =
| alt =
| Landscape =
| caption =
| Background = group_or_band
| background = group_or_band
| Alias =
| alias =
| Origin = [[Los Angeles, California|Los Angeles]], [[California]], [[United States]]
| origin = [[Los Angeles]], California, U.S.
| Genre = [[Progressive metal]]<br>[[Neo-classical metal]]<br>[[Mathcore]]
| genre = [[Progressive metal]],<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.killyourstereo.com/news/980039/the-human-abstract-stream-new-album-2|title=The Human Abstract stream new album {{!}} News {{!}} Killyourstereo.com|work=Killyourstereo.com|access-date=2017-05-26|language=en-US}}</ref> [[metalcore]],<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.sputnikmusic.com/bands/The-Human-Abstract/4186/|title=Album reviews, biography and music news for The Human Abstract at sputnikmusic|publisher=SputnikMusic|accessdate=30 June 2013}}</ref> [[mathcore]]<ref>[https://www.metalsucks.net/2008/08/18/the-human-abstracts-midheaven-proof-that-we-dont-all-always-agree-here-at-metalsucks/ THE HUMAN ABSTRACT’S MIDHEAVEN: PROOF THAT WE DON’T ALL ALWAYS AGREE HERE AT METALSUCKS] - [[MetalSucks]]</ref><!---Do not change genre!--->
| Years_active = 2003–present
| years_active = {{start date|2004}}–2013
| Label = [[Hopeless Records|Hopeless]]
| label = [[Hopeless Records|Hopeless]], [[E1 Entertainment Distribution|eOne Music]]
| Associated_acts =
| associated_acts =
| URL =
| website = <!-- {{URL|example.com}} -->
| Current_members = Nathan Ells<br>Andrew Tapley<br>Dean Herrera<br>Brett Powell<br>Sean Leonard
| Past_members = Mike Nordeen<br>A.J Minette<br>Nick Olaerts<br>Kenny Aerheart<br>Henry Selva<br>Travis Khan
| current_members = Dean Herrera<br>Brett Powell<br/>A.J. Minette<br>[[Travis Richter]]<br> Henry Selva<br>
| past_members = Nick Olaerts<br>Kenny Arehart<br>Nathan Ells<br>Mike Nordeen<br>Sean Leonard<br>Andrew Tapley<br>Trevor Taylor
}}
}}


'''The Human Abstract''' was an American [[progressive metalcore]] band from [[Los Angeles]], California. Formed in 2004, the group was originally signed to the independent label [[Hopeless Records]], the band then released the two albums ''[[Nocturne (The Human Abstract album)|Nocturne]]'' (2006) and ''[[Midheaven (album)|Midheaven]]'' (2008) before signing to [[E1 Entertainment Distribution|eOne Music]] and releasing ''[[Digital Veil]]'' (2011). The Human Abstract went through several lineup changes over the years, with the final consisting of founding members Dean Herrera, A.J. Minette and Brett Powell, in addition to Henry Selva and [[Travis Richter]].
'''The Human Abstract''' is a [[progressive metal]] band with [[neo-classical metal|neo-classical]] elements. They are from [[Los Angeles, California|Los Angeles]], [[California]]. The band's name references a poem of the same title by [[William Blake]] (''[[Songs of Innocence and of Experience|Songs of Experience]]'', 1794).


== History ==
== History ==


=== Formation and ''Nocturne'' (2004–2007) ===
Guitarist Dean Herrera and guitarist/keyboardist A.J. Minette formed The Human Abstract in 2004, adding drummer Brett Powell, bassist Kenny Arehart, and singer Nick Olaerts. The band recorded a couple of demos and played a number of regional [[gigs]] before signing with [[Hopeless Records]] in 2005. Soon after signing to Hopeless Records, THA replaced singer Nick Olaerts with Nathan Ells.
The Human Abstract formed in Los Angeles, California in 2004 with guitarists Dean Herrera and A.J. Minette, drummer Brett Powell, bassist Kenny Arehart, and vocalist Nick Olaerts. The group's name was derived from the title of a [[William Blake]] poem published in ''[[Songs of Innocence and of Experience|Songs of Experience]]'' in 1794. The band soon released a two-track demo to sell at live performances. They would later record additional demos with Jonny Santos of [[Spineshank]] and [[Silent Civilian]], and [[Logan Mader]] formerly of [[Machine Head (band)|Machine Head]], [[Soulfly]] and [[Medication (band)|Medication]].<ref name="NWOAHM">{{Cite book| last = Sharpe-Young| first = Garry| title = New Wave of American Heavy Metal| publisher = Zonda Books Limited| year = 2005| location = New Plymouth, New Zealand| page = 319| isbn =0-9582684-0-1}}</ref> The Human Abstract signed to the independent record label [[Hopeless Records]] in 2005.<ref>{{cite web| last = Mason| first = Stewart| title = The Human Abstract – Biography| work = [[Allmusic]]| publisher = [[Rovi Corporation]]| url = http://www.allmusic.com/artist/the-human-abstract-p812717/biography| accessdate = March 5, 2011}}</ref>


Nathan Ells joined the band before heading into the studio to record the band's debut full length release "[[Nocturne]]”. They released their debut album ''[[Nocturne (The Human Abstract album)|Nocturne]]'' on [[Hopeless Records]] on August 22, 2006. Their new album [[Midheaven (album)|Midheaven]] is set to be released on August 19, 2008.
In late 2006, Nick Olaerts was replaced by Nathan Ells before heading into the studio to record the band's first full-length release, ''[[Nocturne (The Human Abstract album)|Nocturne]]''. They released their debut album on [[Hopeless Records]] on August 22, 2006.


=== ''Midheaven'' (2008–2009) ===
The band has been critically acclaimed for their technical proficiency and stage presence. In the past they have toured with bands such as [[All That Remains]], [[God Forbid]], [[Misery Signals]], [[The Devil Wears Prada]], [[Every Time I Die]], [[The Bled]], [[August Burns Red]], [[Shai Hulud (band)|Shai Hulud]], Folly, [[Drop Dead, Gorgeous]], [[Protest the Hero]], [[It Dies Today]], [[Mushroomhead]], [[Mnemic]], [[Goatwhore]], [[Look What I Did]], [[Arsis]], and [[The Chariot (band)|The Chariot]]. They were on the 2007 warped tour's smartpunk stage. On [[August 11]], [[2008]] it was announced that they would tour the US with Japanese Band [[Dir en grey]].
Their album ''[[Midheaven (album)|Midheaven]]'' was released on August 19, 2008.


In the past they have toured with bands such as [[All That Remains (band)|All That Remains]], [[The Devil Wears Prada (band)|The Devil Wears Prada]], [[As I Lay Dying (band)|As I Lay Dying]], [[God Forbid]], [[Misery Signals]], [[Every Time I Die]], [[The Bled]], [[August Burns Red]], [[Shai Hulud (band)|Shai Hulud]], [[Folly (band)|Folly]], [[Drop Dead, Gorgeous|Drop Dead Gorgeous]], [[Protest the Hero]], [[It Dies Today]], [[Mushroomhead]], [[Mnemic]], [[Goatwhore]], [[Look What I Did]], [[Arsis]], and [[The Chariot (band)|The Chariot]].
The Human Abstract performed on 2008's [[Take Action Tour]] featuring Everytime I Die, From First To Last, The Bled, and August Burns Red. The band played a few of their new songs to the Take Action Tour crowd culminating in an instant acceptance, the performance is still there, and so is the vivid, fast, technical, melodic music, breakdowns, and now more fluent keyboards and excellent clean vocals and vocal patterns.


The Human Abstract performed on 2007's [[Vans Warped Tour]] and 2008's [[Take Action Tour]] featuring [[Every Time I Die]], [[From First To Last]], [[The Bled]], and [[August Burns Red]]. In fall 2008, they toured with the Japanese band [[Dir En Grey]].
During the writing and recording process of [[Midheaven (album)|Midheaven]], fans noticed that [[lead guitarist]] A.J. Minette was not shown in any of their studio pictures on the band's [[myspace]] page, instead there being replacement guitarist Andrew Tapley. This led to the worry and assumption that A.J. had left the band, but there was no official word until he was quoted as saying "I don't feel like I can get onstage and feel honest about playing metal anymore." The rest of the band felt that totally changing the sound would have been "like a smack in the face to all those that had been coming out and supporting the shows."<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=89968 |title=The Human Abstract parts ways with guitarist |accessdate=2008-08-09 |author= |last= |first= |date=2008-02-04 |work= |publisher=blabbermouth.net |doi= |archiveurl= |archivedate= |quote= }}</ref>


Nathan Ells addressed a situation regarding A.J. Minette in an interview stating, "A.J. was tired of playing metal, plain and simple, and the rest of the band wants to continue the high-energy live shows and hard edged sound that we have fashioned and developed over the past two years."<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.metalunderground.com/news/details.cfm?newsid=33688 |title=The Human Abstract Announces New members |publisher=metalnews.com }}</ref>
Producer Leonard Simone called bassist Sean Hurley (john mayer) to re-record all of Nordeen's basslines, therefore removing him entirely from [[Midheaven (album)|Midheaven]] and making him ineligible for any credit on the album. Allen Eason - a friend of Nathan Ells from nashville tennessee is currently filling in on bass duties for THA.


Minette was quoted as saying "I don't feel like I can get onstage and feel honest about playing metal anymore. The rest of the band felt that totally changing the sound would have been "like a smack in the face to all those that had been coming out and supporting the shows."<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=89968 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120629183425/http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=89968 |url-status=dead |archive-date=2012-06-29 |title=The Human Abstract parts ways with guitarist |accessdate=2008-08-09 |date=2008-02-04 |publisher=blabbermouth.net }}</ref>
== Discography ==

* ''[[The Human Abstract (album)|The Human Abstract]]'' EP (2005)
As of January 9, 2009, Henry Selva was named permanent bass player for the group. Selva originally filled in after Kenny Arehart's departure in 2006.
* ''[[Nocturne (The Human Abstract album)|Nocturne]]'' (2006)

* ''[[Midheaven (album)|Midheaven]]'' (2008)
=== E1 and ''Digital Veil'' (2009–current) ===
In September 2009, the band began co-writing material for the new album, ''Digital Veil'', with A.J. Minette. Minette also served as producer on the album. It was also announced that the band would be parting ways with vocalist Nathan Ells and they had begun a search for a new vocalist. On March 29, 2010, it was announced the band had found a new vocalist, and on April 7 it was announced that [[The Color of Violence]] and former [[From First to Last]] guitarist Travis Richter had become Ells' replacement.<ref name="AP-travis">{{cite web| last = Karan| first = Tim| title = Exclusive: Travis Richter (ex-From First to Last) named Human Abstract frontman| work = [[Alternative Press (music magazine)|Alternative Press]]| date = April 7, 2010| url = http://www.alternativepress.com/news/richterabstract.htm| accessdate = April 7, 2010}} {{Dead link|date=October 2010|bot=H3llBot}}</ref>

In November 2009, Herrera confirmed through a Myspace blog that Leonard was no longer in the band, "Sean is not technically in the band anymore... However, we have not ruled out the possibility of him having some sort of presence on the next record. He decided that touring wasn't for him, and wanted to go to music school."

In April 2010 Travis Richter revealed to [[Absolutepunk.net]] in his first interview since becoming The Human Abstract's new frontman that A.J. Minette had officially returned.<ref name="AP-april interview">{{cite web| last = DiVincenzo| first = Alex | title = Interview: The Human Abstract| work = [[AbsolutePunk]]| date = April 10, 2010| url = http://www.absolutepunk.net/showthread.php?p=65196692| accessdate = April 12, 2010}}</ref>

The Human Abstract released their first single "Faust" from ''Digital Veil'' on November 16, 2010.

On January 10, 2011, The Human Abstract announced that they had signed to E1 Music, and that their new album ''Digital Veil'' would be released through E1 on March 8, 2011.

The song "Patterns" was released January 18, 2011, followed by "Complex Terms" on February 15, 2011.
''Digital Veil'' was produced and written by A.J. Minette, engineered by Will Putney (Lamb Of God, Chiodos), and mastered by Jamie Fergus-Jean.

There was some speculation that Andrew Tapley is not in the band anymore, as he is no longer listed as a member on the band's Facebook profile. On February 9, 2011, Tapley confirmed this speculation via Facebook with the public message:
{{blockquote|As some of you know and many have been wondering, I will not be playing with The Human Abstract anymore. This wasn't decided by me; however, there are no hard feelings. Thanks to everyone who supported the band these past few years and to all the wonderful friends I had the pleasure of meeting. I will be in Los Angeles continuing with music; art is long and time is fleeting --see y'all soon!}}

A few weeks after ''Digital Veil''{{'}}s release, they announced that they would embark on what would be called the "Pull Me From The Gallows" Tour with [[Scale the Summit]]. Its name comes from a line in their latest album's title track. The band has posted an update via Facebook on 31 May that the remaining dates will be canceled "...due to a sudden and devastating loss to the THA family."<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=10150640542755693&id=68886975692|title=We are extremely sad to announce that... - The Human Abstract - Facebook|website=[[Facebook]] |publisher=|accessdate=3 October 2014}}</ref>

As of 24 August 2011, [[Travis Richter]] parted ways with the band, citing a desire to focus on his girlfriend and amateur electronic music side of his career.

It has been announced that Ryan Devlin, frontman from the band [[Corelia]], will be filling in for the "Frak the Gods Tour" headlined by [[Periphery (band)|Periphery]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.metalinsider.net/metal-musical-chairs/exclusive-the-human-abstract-announce-touring-vocalist|title=Exclusive: The Human Abstract Announce Touring Vocalist|work=Metal Insider|date=24 August 2011 |accessdate=3 October 2014}}</ref>

On December 29, 2011, bassist Henry Selva, when questioned over why he was selling equipment, announced that the band was calling it quits. "Folks, we are not looking for a new vocalist. We are not touring anytime soon. I think it's only fair you guys know that we're on "break or hiatus if you will." I don't know why we haven't said anything. I guess it's because there is always that "maybe if something happens, etc..etc..." Or maybe it's hard for us to realize the reality of our situation, the bands situation, to finally let go. I'll be honest when I say the following: Periphery and Never Say Die were our last tours together as a band."<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.facebook.com/TheGreatOrca/posts/346979795328659?notif_t=share_reply|title=Facebook|website=[[Facebook]] |publisher=|accessdate=3 October 2014}}</ref>

On February 8th, 2012 guitarist Dean Herrera was asked on his [[Formspring]] page whether they would've broken up even if Richter hadn't left the band. Herrera had replied stating that the band had never actually come together to decide the fate of the band. "as far as I'm concerned we aren’t broken up, that was Henry going out and spewing the inner workings of the band. We never actually came together and decided anything. I’m still real pissed at him for that. Sure we’re taking time, but that doesn’t mean anything other than that... Taking time.. As far as Travis.... who knows... can’t say what might have happened."<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.metalsucks.net/2012/02/08/the-human-abstracts-dean-herrera-we-arent-broken-up/|title=THE HUMAN ABSTRACT'S DEAN HERRERA: "WE AREN'T BROKEN UP" - MetalSucks|work=MetalSucks|date=8 February 2012 |accessdate=3 October 2014}}</ref> On July 16, 2012, via his personal Facebook profile, vocalist Travis Richter expressed a desire to return and make another album with the band if the other members reconciled their differences. Richter said, "Life would be a lot easier if we could just make another human abstract record - music for me is only alive when there are releases - even touring is second when you create art on that level."<ref>[http://www.facebook.com/TheTravisRichter/posts/4302198001930]{{dead link|date=January 2018}}</ref>

On February 14, 2012, The Human Abstract released a [[Moonlight Sonata (EP)|cover EP]] of [[Ludwig van Beethoven|Beethoven]]'s 3-movement "[[Moonlight Sonata]]". All guitars were recorded by Dean Herrera during the ''Digital Veil'' recording sessions with engineer Will Putney in 2010. The EP is available on iTunes and Xbox music.

In 2013, E1 dropped the band.

== Band members ==
{{col-begin}}
{{col-2}}
;Final line-up
* Dean Herrera – [[guitar]]s, [[backing vocals]] <small>(2004–2013)</small>
* Brett Powell – [[Drum kit|drums]] <small>(2004-2013)</small>
* A.J. Minette – guitars, [[keyboard instrument|keyboards]], [[piano]] <small>(2004–2007, 2010–2013)</small>
* [[Travis Richter]] – [[lead vocals]] <small>(2010–2011, 2012–2013)</small>
* Henry Selva – bass <small>(2006–2007, 2008–2013)</small>

{{col-2}}
;Former members
* Nick Olaerts – lead vocals <small>(2004–2005)</small>
* Kenny Arehart – [[bass guitar|bass]] <small>(2004–2006)</small>
* Nathan Ells – lead vocals <small>(2006–2009)</small>
* Mike Nordeen – bass <small>(2007–2008)</small>
* Sean Leonard – keyboards, [[synthesizer]]s, piano <small>(2007–2009)</small>
* Andrew Tapley – [[rhythm guitar]] <small>(2007–2011)</small>

;Touring members
* Ryan Devlin (Corelia) – lead vocals <small>(2011)</small><ref name="metalinsider-touringvocalist">{{cite web| last = Teitelman| first = Bram| title = Exclusive: The Human Abstract Announce Touring Vocalist| work = Metal Insider| publisher = The Syndicate| date = August 24, 2011| url = http://www.metalinsider.net/metal-musical-chairs/exclusive-the-human-abstract-announce-touring-vocalist| accessdate = August 24, 2011}}</ref>
{{col-end}}

===Timeline===
{{#tag:timeline|
ImageSize = width:900 height:auto barincrement:18
PlotArea = left:110 bottom:110 top:10 right:20
Alignbars = justify
DateFormat = dd/mm/yyyy
Period = from:01/01/2004 till:21/07/2012
TimeAxis = orientation:horizontal format:yyyy
Legend = orientation:vertical position:bottom columns:3
ScaleMajor = increment:2 start:2004
ScaleMinor = increment:1 start:2004

Colors =
id:LV value:red legend:Lead_vocals
id:LG value:teal legend:Lead_guitar
id:RG value:brightgreen legend:Rhythm_guitar
id:B value:blue legend:Bass
id:D value:orange legend:Drums,_percussion
id:KB value:purple legend:Keyboards,_piano
id:SM value:skyblue legend:Session_members
id:TM value:yellow legend:Touring_members
id:lines value:black legend:Studio_releases
id:lines1 value:gray(0.6) legend:Others_releases

LineData =
at:01/01/2005 color:lines1 layer:back
at:22/08/2006 color:black layer:back
at:19/08/2008 color:black layer:back
at:08/03/2011 color:black layer:back
at:14/02/2012 color:lines1 layer:back

BarData =
bar:Olaerts text:"Nick Olaerts"
bar:Ells text:"Nathan Ells"
bar:Richter text:"Travis Richter"
bar:Devlin text:"Ryan Devlin"
bar:Minette text:"A.J. Minette"
bar:Herrera text:"Dean Herrera"
bar:Tapley text:"Andrew Tapley"
bar:Arehart text:"Kenny Arehart"
bar:Selva text:"Henry Selva"
bar:Nordeen text:"Mike Nordeen"
bar:Hurley text:"Sean Hurley"
bar:Powell text:"Brett Powell"
bar:Leonard text:"Sean Leonard"

PlotData=
width:11 textcolor:black align:left anchor:from shift:(11,-4)
bar:Devlin from:01/09/2011 till:31/12/2011 color:LV
bar:Devlin from:01/09/2011 till:31/12/2011 color:TM width:3
bar:Olaerts from:01/01/2004 till:01/01/2006 color:LV
bar:Ells from:01/01/2006 till:10/04/2010 color:LV
bar:Richter from:10/04/2010 till:01/09/2011 color:LV
bar:Richter from:01/03/2012 till:21/07/2012 color:LV
bar:Minette from:01/01/2004 till:07/02/2008 color:LG
bar:Minette from:10/04/2010 till:21/07/2012 color:LG
bar:Minette from:01/01/2004 till:07/02/2008 color:KB width:3
bar:Minette from:10/04/2010 till:21/07/2012 color:KB width:3
bar:Minette from:29/12/2011 till:21/07/2012 color:B width:7
bar:Herrera from:01/01/2004 till:07/02/2008 color:RG
bar:Herrera from:10/04/2010 till:21/07/2012 color:RG
bar:Herrera from:07/02/2008 till:10/04/2010 color:LG
bar:Herrera from:30/04/2008 till:19/09/2008 color:B width:3
bar:Herrera from:10/04/2010 till:09/02/2011 color:LG width:3
bar:Tapley from:11/02/2008 till:09/02/2011 color:RG
bar:Tapley from:30/04/2008 till:19/09/2008 color:B width:3
bar:Arehart from:01/01/2004 till:01/12/2006 color:B
bar:Selva from:01/12/2006 till:11/12/2007 color:B
bar:Selva from:19/09/2008 till:21/07/2012 color:B
bar:Selva from:29/12/2011 till:21/07/2012 color:SM width:3
bar:Nordeen from:11/12/2007 till:30/04/2008 color:B
bar:Hurley from:30/04/2008 till:19/09/2008 color:B
bar:Herrera from:29/12/2011 till:21/07/2012 color:B width:3
bar:Hurley from:30/04/2008 till:19/09/2008 color:SM width:3
bar:Powell from:01/01/2004 till:21/07/2012 color:D
bar:Leonard from:07/02/2008 till:22/11/2009 color:KB
}}

==Discography==
===Studio albums===
{|class="wikitable"
|-
! rowspan="2"| Year
! rowspan="2"| Album
! rowspan="2"| Label
! colspan="5"| Chart peaks
|-
! style="width:70px;"|<small>[[Billboard 200|US]]<br><ref>[{{BillboardURLbyName|artist=the human abstract|chart=all}} "Artist Chart History - The Human Abstract"] ''Billboard.com''. Retrieved on August 29, 2008.</ref></small>
! style="width:70px;"|<small>[[Top Heatseekers|US Heat]]<br><ref>{{cite magazine|publisher=[[Prometheus Global Media]]|magazine=[[Billboard (magazine)|Billboard]]|url=http://www.billboard.com/artist/415263/human-abstract/chart?f=324|title=The Human Abstract - Chart history|accessdate=July 3, 2017}}</ref></small>
! style="width:70px;"|<small>[[Independent Albums|US Indie]]<br><ref>{{cite magazine|publisher=[[Prometheus Global Media]]|magazine=[[Billboard (magazine)|Billboard]]|url=http://www.billboard.com/artist/415263/human-abstract/chart?f=326|title=The Human Abstract - Chart history|accessdate=July 3, 2017}}</ref></small>
! style="width:70px;"|<small>[[Top Rock Albums|US Rock]]<br><ref>{{cite magazine|publisher=[[Prometheus Global Media]]|magazine=[[Billboard (magazine)|Billboard]]|url=http://www.billboard.com/artist/415263/human-abstract/chart?f=408|title=The Human Abstract - Chart history|accessdate=July 3, 2017}}</ref></small>
! style="width:70px;"|<small>[[Hard Rock Albums|US Hard Rock]]<br><ref>{{cite magazine|publisher=[[Prometheus Global Media]]|magazine=[[Billboard (magazine)|Billboard]]|url=http://www.billboard.com/artist/415263/human-abstract/chart?f=795|title=The Human Abstract - Chart history|accessdate=July 3, 2017}}</ref></small>
|-
| 2006
| ''[[Nocturne (The Human Abstract album)|Nocturne]]''
| rowspan=2| [[Hopeless Records|Hopeless]]
| style="text-align:center;"| —
| style="text-align:center;"| —
| style="text-align:center;"| —
| style="text-align:center;"| —
| style="text-align:center;"| —
|-
| 2008
| ''[[Midheaven (album)|Midheaven]]''
| style="text-align:center;"| 163
| style="text-align:center;"| 6
| style="text-align:center;"| 22
| style="text-align:center;"| —
| style="text-align:center;"| —
|-
| 2011
| ''[[Digital Veil]]''<ref>{{cite web| title = The Human Abstract: New Album Title Revealed| work = [[Blabbermouth.net]]| publisher = [[Roadrunner Records]]| date = October 1, 2010| url = http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=147015| archive-url = https://archive.today/20120630192523/http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=147015| url-status = dead| archive-date = June 30, 2012| accessdate = October 1, 2010}}</ref>
| [[Entertainment One Music|E1]]
| style="text-align:center;"| 177
| style="text-align:center;"| 5
| style="text-align:center;"| —
| style="text-align:center;"| 44
| style="text-align:center;"| 12
|-
! colspan="8"| <small>"—" denotes a release that did not chart.</small>
|}

===Extended plays===
{| class=wikitable
|-
! Year
! Album
! Label
|-
| 2005
| ''The Human Abstract'' (demo EP)
| Independent release
|-
| 2008
| ''Midheaven Sampler''
| Hopeless
|-
| 2012
| ''[[Moonlight Sonata (EP)|Moonlight Sonata]]''
| E1
|}

==Music videos==
{| class=wikitable
|-
! Year
! Song
! Album
! Director
|-
| rowspan=2|2007
| "Crossing the Rubicon"<ref>{{cite web|publisher=[[YouTube]]|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ocnjFCfm5G8 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101002140624/http://www.youtube.com//watch?v=ocnjFCfm5G8 |archive-date=2010-10-02 |url-status=dead|title=The Human Abstract - Crossing The Rubicon (Official Music Video)|accessdate=September 9, 2015}}</ref>
| rowspan=2|''Nocturne''
|[[Darren Doane]]
|-
| "Vela, Together We Await the Storm"<ref>{{cite web|publisher=[[YouTube]]|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L1n5IWbHqu8 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100723093256/http://www.youtube.com//watch?v=L1n5IWbHqu8 |archive-date=2010-07-23 |url-status=dead|title=The Human Abstract - Vela, Together We Await the Storm (Official Music Video)|accessdate=September 9, 2015}}</ref>
| Michael Grodner
|-
| rowspan=2|2008
| "Vela, Together We Await the Storm" (Remix)<ref>{{cite web|publisher=[[YouTube]]|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3cpc90oUrtw |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211213/3cpc90oUrtw |archive-date=2021-12-13 |url-status=live|title=The Human Abstract - Vela, Together We Await The Storm (Remix) (Official Music Video)|accessdate=September 19, 2015}}{{cbignore}}</ref>
| ''Midheaven Sampler''
| [[Tim Lambesis]]
|-
| "Procession of the Fates"<ref>{{cite web|publisher=[[YouTube]]|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UQeLE91EuP8 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101002140620/http://www.youtube.com//watch?v=UQeLE91EuP8 |archive-date=2010-10-02 |url-status=dead|title=The Human Abstract - Procession of the Fates (Official Music Video)|accessdate=September 9, 2015}}</ref>
| rowspan=2|''Midheaven''
| Michael Grodner
|-
| 2009
| "Counting Down the Days"<ref>{{cite web|publisher=[[YouTube]]|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VCy7zuI3e4M |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100714125503/http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VCy7zuI3e4M |archive-date=2010-07-14 |url-status=dead|title=The Human Abstract - Procession of the Fates (Official Music Video)|accessdate=September 9, 2015}}</ref>
| rowspan=2|N/A
|-
| rowspan=3|2011
| "Digital Veil"<ref>{{cite web|publisher=[[YouTube]]|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3jAFzkntcIE |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211213/3jAFzkntcIE |archive-date=2021-12-13 |url-status=live|title=The Human Abstract - "Digital Veil"|accessdate=September 9, 2015}}{{cbignore}}</ref>
| rowspan=3|''Digital Veil''
|-
| "Faust"<ref>{{cite web|publisher=[[YouTube]]|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f7EzA0Oeah8 |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211213/f7EzA0Oeah8 |archive-date=2021-12-13 |url-status=live|title=The Human Abstract - "Faust" Official Music Video|accessdate=September 9, 2015}}{{cbignore}}</ref>
| Rico Roman
|-
| "Patterns"<ref>{{cite web|publisher=[[YouTube]]|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xRitJ1m8E1w |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211213/xRitJ1m8E1w |archive-date=2021-12-13 |url-status=live|title=The Human Abstract "Patterns" video|accessdate=September 9, 2015}}{{cbignore}}</ref>
| N/A
|}


==References==
==References==
Line 44: Line 282:


== External links ==
== External links ==
*{{MySpace|thehumanabstract|The Human Abstract}}
*{{facebook|thehumanabstract|The Human Abstract}}


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[[Category:California heavy metal musical groups]]


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[[Category:Musical groups from Los Angeles]]
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[[Category:Metalcore musical groups from California]]
[[Category:American mathcore musical groups]]
[[Category:American progressive metal musical groups]]
[[Category:Hopeless Records artists]]

Latest revision as of 11:10, 5 December 2024

The Human Abstract
Background information
OriginLos Angeles, California, U.S.
GenresProgressive metal,[1] metalcore,[2] mathcore[3]
Years active2004 (2004)–2013
LabelsHopeless, eOne Music
MembersDean Herrera
Brett Powell
A.J. Minette
Travis Richter
Henry Selva
Past membersNick Olaerts
Kenny Arehart
Nathan Ells
Mike Nordeen
Sean Leonard
Andrew Tapley
Trevor Taylor

The Human Abstract was an American progressive metalcore band from Los Angeles, California. Formed in 2004, the group was originally signed to the independent label Hopeless Records, the band then released the two albums Nocturne (2006) and Midheaven (2008) before signing to eOne Music and releasing Digital Veil (2011). The Human Abstract went through several lineup changes over the years, with the final consisting of founding members Dean Herrera, A.J. Minette and Brett Powell, in addition to Henry Selva and Travis Richter.

History

[edit]

Formation and Nocturne (2004–2007)

[edit]

The Human Abstract formed in Los Angeles, California in 2004 with guitarists Dean Herrera and A.J. Minette, drummer Brett Powell, bassist Kenny Arehart, and vocalist Nick Olaerts. The group's name was derived from the title of a William Blake poem published in Songs of Experience in 1794. The band soon released a two-track demo to sell at live performances. They would later record additional demos with Jonny Santos of Spineshank and Silent Civilian, and Logan Mader formerly of Machine Head, Soulfly and Medication.[4] The Human Abstract signed to the independent record label Hopeless Records in 2005.[5]

In late 2006, Nick Olaerts was replaced by Nathan Ells before heading into the studio to record the band's first full-length release, Nocturne. They released their debut album on Hopeless Records on August 22, 2006.

Midheaven (2008–2009)

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Their album Midheaven was released on August 19, 2008.

In the past they have toured with bands such as All That Remains, The Devil Wears Prada, As I Lay Dying, God Forbid, Misery Signals, Every Time I Die, The Bled, August Burns Red, Shai Hulud, Folly, Drop Dead Gorgeous, Protest the Hero, It Dies Today, Mushroomhead, Mnemic, Goatwhore, Look What I Did, Arsis, and The Chariot.

The Human Abstract performed on 2007's Vans Warped Tour and 2008's Take Action Tour featuring Every Time I Die, From First To Last, The Bled, and August Burns Red. In fall 2008, they toured with the Japanese band Dir En Grey.

Nathan Ells addressed a situation regarding A.J. Minette in an interview stating, "A.J. was tired of playing metal, plain and simple, and the rest of the band wants to continue the high-energy live shows and hard edged sound that we have fashioned and developed over the past two years."[6]

Minette was quoted as saying "I don't feel like I can get onstage and feel honest about playing metal anymore. The rest of the band felt that totally changing the sound would have been "like a smack in the face to all those that had been coming out and supporting the shows."[7]

As of January 9, 2009, Henry Selva was named permanent bass player for the group. Selva originally filled in after Kenny Arehart's departure in 2006.

E1 and Digital Veil (2009–current)

[edit]

In September 2009, the band began co-writing material for the new album, Digital Veil, with A.J. Minette. Minette also served as producer on the album. It was also announced that the band would be parting ways with vocalist Nathan Ells and they had begun a search for a new vocalist. On March 29, 2010, it was announced the band had found a new vocalist, and on April 7 it was announced that The Color of Violence and former From First to Last guitarist Travis Richter had become Ells' replacement.[8]

In November 2009, Herrera confirmed through a Myspace blog that Leonard was no longer in the band, "Sean is not technically in the band anymore... However, we have not ruled out the possibility of him having some sort of presence on the next record. He decided that touring wasn't for him, and wanted to go to music school."

In April 2010 Travis Richter revealed to Absolutepunk.net in his first interview since becoming The Human Abstract's new frontman that A.J. Minette had officially returned.[9]

The Human Abstract released their first single "Faust" from Digital Veil on November 16, 2010.

On January 10, 2011, The Human Abstract announced that they had signed to E1 Music, and that their new album Digital Veil would be released through E1 on March 8, 2011.

The song "Patterns" was released January 18, 2011, followed by "Complex Terms" on February 15, 2011. Digital Veil was produced and written by A.J. Minette, engineered by Will Putney (Lamb Of God, Chiodos), and mastered by Jamie Fergus-Jean.

There was some speculation that Andrew Tapley is not in the band anymore, as he is no longer listed as a member on the band's Facebook profile. On February 9, 2011, Tapley confirmed this speculation via Facebook with the public message:

As some of you know and many have been wondering, I will not be playing with The Human Abstract anymore. This wasn't decided by me; however, there are no hard feelings. Thanks to everyone who supported the band these past few years and to all the wonderful friends I had the pleasure of meeting. I will be in Los Angeles continuing with music; art is long and time is fleeting --see y'all soon!

A few weeks after Digital Veil's release, they announced that they would embark on what would be called the "Pull Me From The Gallows" Tour with Scale the Summit. Its name comes from a line in their latest album's title track. The band has posted an update via Facebook on 31 May that the remaining dates will be canceled "...due to a sudden and devastating loss to the THA family."[10]

As of 24 August 2011, Travis Richter parted ways with the band, citing a desire to focus on his girlfriend and amateur electronic music side of his career.

It has been announced that Ryan Devlin, frontman from the band Corelia, will be filling in for the "Frak the Gods Tour" headlined by Periphery.[11]

On December 29, 2011, bassist Henry Selva, when questioned over why he was selling equipment, announced that the band was calling it quits. "Folks, we are not looking for a new vocalist. We are not touring anytime soon. I think it's only fair you guys know that we're on "break or hiatus if you will." I don't know why we haven't said anything. I guess it's because there is always that "maybe if something happens, etc..etc..." Or maybe it's hard for us to realize the reality of our situation, the bands situation, to finally let go. I'll be honest when I say the following: Periphery and Never Say Die were our last tours together as a band."[12]

On February 8th, 2012 guitarist Dean Herrera was asked on his Formspring page whether they would've broken up even if Richter hadn't left the band. Herrera had replied stating that the band had never actually come together to decide the fate of the band. "as far as I'm concerned we aren’t broken up, that was Henry going out and spewing the inner workings of the band. We never actually came together and decided anything. I’m still real pissed at him for that. Sure we’re taking time, but that doesn’t mean anything other than that... Taking time.. As far as Travis.... who knows... can’t say what might have happened."[13] On July 16, 2012, via his personal Facebook profile, vocalist Travis Richter expressed a desire to return and make another album with the band if the other members reconciled their differences. Richter said, "Life would be a lot easier if we could just make another human abstract record - music for me is only alive when there are releases - even touring is second when you create art on that level."[14]

On February 14, 2012, The Human Abstract released a cover EP of Beethoven's 3-movement "Moonlight Sonata". All guitars were recorded by Dean Herrera during the Digital Veil recording sessions with engineer Will Putney in 2010. The EP is available on iTunes and Xbox music.

In 2013, E1 dropped the band.

Band members

[edit]

Timeline

[edit]

Discography

[edit]

Studio albums

[edit]
Year Album Label Chart peaks
US
[16] 		US Heat
[17] 		US Indie
[18] 		US Rock
[19] 		US Hard Rock
[20]
2006 Nocturne Hopeless — — — — —
2008 Midheaven 163 6 22 — —
2011 Digital Veil[21] E1 177 5 — 44 12
"—" denotes a release that did not chart.

Extended plays

[edit]
Year Album Label
2005 The Human Abstract (demo EP) Independent release
2008 Midheaven Sampler Hopeless
2012 Moonlight Sonata E1

Music videos

[edit]
Year Song Album Director
2007 "Crossing the Rubicon"[22] Nocturne Darren Doane
"Vela, Together We Await the Storm"[23] Michael Grodner
2008 "Vela, Together We Await the Storm" (Remix)[24] Midheaven Sampler Tim Lambesis
"Procession of the Fates"[25] Midheaven Michael Grodner
2009 "Counting Down the Days"[26] N/A
2011 "Digital Veil"[27] Digital Veil
"Faust"[28] Rico Roman
"Patterns"[29] N/A

References

[edit]
  1. ^ "The Human Abstract stream new album | News | Killyourstereo.com". Killyourstereo.com. Retrieved 2017-05-26.
  2. ^ "Album reviews, biography and music news for The Human Abstract at sputnikmusic". SputnikMusic. Retrieved 30 June 2013.
  3. ^ THE HUMAN ABSTRACT’S MIDHEAVEN: PROOF THAT WE DON’T ALL ALWAYS AGREE HERE AT METALSUCKS - MetalSucks
  4. ^ Sharpe-Young, Garry (2005). New Wave of American Heavy Metal. New Plymouth, New Zealand: Zonda Books Limited. p. 319. ISBN 0-9582684-0-1.
  5. ^ Mason, Stewart. "The Human Abstract – Biography". Allmusic. Rovi Corporation. Retrieved March 5, 2011.
  6. ^ "The Human Abstract Announces New members". metalnews.com.
  7. ^ "The Human Abstract parts ways with guitarist". blabbermouth.net. 2008-02-04. Archived from the original on 2012-06-29. Retrieved 2008-08-09.
  8. ^ Karan, Tim (April 7, 2010). "Exclusive: Travis Richter (ex-From First to Last) named Human Abstract frontman". Alternative Press. Retrieved April 7, 2010. [dead link‍]
  9. ^ DiVincenzo, Alex (April 10, 2010). "Interview: The Human Abstract". AbsolutePunk. Retrieved April 12, 2010.
  10. ^ "We are extremely sad to announce that... - The Human Abstract - Facebook". Facebook. Retrieved 3 October 2014.
  11. ^ "Exclusive: The Human Abstract Announce Touring Vocalist". Metal Insider. 24 August 2011. Retrieved 3 October 2014.
  12. ^ "Facebook". Facebook. Retrieved 3 October 2014.
  13. ^ "THE HUMAN ABSTRACT'S DEAN HERRERA: "WE AREN'T BROKEN UP" - MetalSucks". MetalSucks. 8 February 2012. Retrieved 3 October 2014.
  14. ^ [1][dead link‍]
  15. ^ Teitelman, Bram (August 24, 2011). "Exclusive: The Human Abstract Announce Touring Vocalist". Metal Insider. The Syndicate. Retrieved August 24, 2011.
  16. ^ "Artist Chart History - The Human Abstract" Billboard.com. Retrieved on August 29, 2008.
  17. ^ "The Human Abstract - Chart history". Billboard. Prometheus Global Media. Retrieved July 3, 2017.
  18. ^ "The Human Abstract - Chart history". Billboard. Prometheus Global Media. Retrieved July 3, 2017.
  19. ^ "The Human Abstract - Chart history". Billboard. Prometheus Global Media. Retrieved July 3, 2017.
  20. ^ "The Human Abstract - Chart history". Billboard. Prometheus Global Media. Retrieved July 3, 2017.
  21. ^ "The Human Abstract: New Album Title Revealed". Blabbermouth.net. Roadrunner Records. October 1, 2010. Archived from the original on June 30, 2012. Retrieved October 1, 2010.
  22. ^ "The Human Abstract - Crossing The Rubicon (Official Music Video)". YouTube. Archived from the original on 2010-10-02. Retrieved September 9, 2015.
  23. ^ "The Human Abstract - Vela, Together We Await the Storm (Official Music Video)". YouTube. Archived from the original on 2010-07-23. Retrieved September 9, 2015.
  24. ^ "The Human Abstract - Vela, Together We Await The Storm (Remix) (Official Music Video)". YouTube. Archived from the original on 2021-12-13. Retrieved September 19, 2015.
  25. ^ "The Human Abstract - Procession of the Fates (Official Music Video)". YouTube. Archived from the original on 2010-10-02. Retrieved September 9, 2015.
  26. ^ "The Human Abstract - Procession of the Fates (Official Music Video)". YouTube. Archived from the original on 2010-07-14. Retrieved September 9, 2015.
  27. ^ "The Human Abstract - "Digital Veil"". YouTube. Archived from the original on 2021-12-13. Retrieved September 9, 2015.
  28. ^ "The Human Abstract - "Faust" Official Music Video". YouTube. Archived from the original on 2021-12-13. Retrieved September 9, 2015.
  29. ^ "The Human Abstract "Patterns" video". YouTube. Archived from the original on 2021-12-13. Retrieved September 9, 2015.
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