Villain of the Story

Formed in Minnesota in 2014, Villain of the Story (VOTS) emerged during the tail end of the third-wave metalcore boom, quickly distinguishing themselves through a highly polished, dual-vocal attack. The band was conceptualized by Sam Fassler and Andrew Bart, who curated a lineup of local scene veterans to create a project with immediate professional viability.

Their early association with producer Johnny Franck (ex-Attack Attack!) was pivotal, infusing their sound with electronic-tinged 'scenecore' elements and a focus on pop-centric song structures that would define their career arc. Over a decade of activity, they have evolved from the synth-heavy influences of their debut into a more mature, alternative metal sound that prioritizes emotional resonance and mental health themes. Critically, they are noted for their consistency and ability to maintain a high-fidelity sonic profile independently. They occupy a specific niche alongside peers like Thousand Below and Our Mirage, catering to an audience that demands both technical heaviness and melodic vulnerability. Their discography, particularly 'Divided' and 'Bloodshot', represents a bridge between the aggressive hardcore of the mid-2010s and the more atmospheric, hook-driven metal of the 2020s.