Modern Baseball, often affectionately abbreviated as MoBo, was an influential American emo band hailing from the vibrant music scene of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
Comprising members Bren Lukens, Jake Ewald, Sean Huber, and Ian Farmer, this band made waves in the emo genre during their active years. Founded in 2012 at Drexel University, their music journey took flight with the release of their debut album, “Sports,” on Lame-O Records that very year. This article delves into the fascinating history of Modern Baseball, emphasizing their early years and successes within the emo landscape, all within the SEO guidelines for WordPress.
Early Years and the Road to Success (2011–2016):
Bren Lukens and Jake Ewald, the driving forces behind Modern Baseball, initially crossed paths during their high school years. Lukens was particularly intrigued by Ewald’s twin sister, sparking a connection that eventually led them to explore their shared love for music. Interestingly, the band’s name, “Modern Baseball,” was inspired by a book discovered in Ewald’s basement, aptly titled “Modern Baseball Techniques.”
Originating from Brunswick, Maryland, the duo made a pivotal decision to move to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, for college. Lukens enrolled at Chestnut Hill College, while Ewald pursued his studies at Drexel University. It was in the City of Brotherly Love that they encountered another music enthusiast, Ian Farmer, who played a significant role in recording their inaugural album, “Sports,” within the confines of Drexel’s state-of-the-art recording studios. “Sports” was unleashed upon the world in 2012, and soon after, the band took a temporary leave from their academic pursuits to wholeheartedly embrace music as their profession.
Modern Baseball’s maiden concert was a humble affair, hosted in their shared residence near Drexel University. The price of admission? A mere $3 or a snapshot of the legendary Michael Jordan. This unique venue would later earn the moniker “The Michael Jordan House” and become a hub for underground bands in the area. Notably, the music video for “The Weekend” featured various corners of this iconic house, including its atmospheric basement.
With the music scene abuzz, the quartet began performing at house shows across the region, sharing stages with like-minded bands such as The Menzingers, Lee Hartney, Ted Nguyent, and Cayetana. Around this juncture, Modern Baseball inked a significant deal with Run For Cover Records, setting the stage for their ascent.
The group’s second full-length opus, “You’re Gonna Miss It All,” saw the light of day on Run For Cover Records in 2014, an album that charted at #97 on the prestigious Billboard 200. Embarking on a whirlwind tour of the United States alongside The Wonder Years in early 2014, Modern Baseball’s star was undeniably on the rise. The year also witnessed the band’s journey across the United Kingdom, showcasing their dedication to their craft despite hectic schedules. Notably, the band continued to tour the United States in a headlining capacity, sharing stages with other talented acts like Knuckle Puck, Foxing, Crying, and Somos.
Modern Baseball’s journey from their chance meeting in high school to their emergence as a prominent emo band was marked by dedication, passion, and a deep connection to their music. Their early years, characterized by house shows and the creation of music at “The Michael Jordan House,” laid the foundation for their remarkable success. This article has traced their story within the SEO guidelines for WordPress, underscoring the significance of this influential band in the realm of emo music.
