Open Hand

Open Hand draws sonic inspiration from grunge, post-grunge, stoner rock, and emocore scenes steeped in Black Sabbath, Soundgarden, and Nirvana, while a pronounced progressive streak—rooted in vocalist and guitarist Justin Isham’s enduring affinity for King Crimson, early Genesis, and Robert Fripp—adds unexpected depth. Isham and drummer Alex Rodriguez, both veterans of the Los Angeles hardcore outfit I Awake, launched the group in 2000 alongside guitarist Sean Woods and bassist Jeff Meyer, previously of Not Waving But Drowning. Following two self-released EPs and brief interest from major labels, the quartet aligned with Trustkill, a roster known for heavy acts unafraid of melodic or emo leanings. Their 2003 Trustkill debut, The Dream, foregrounded Isham’s Crimson and Peter Gabriel sensibilities and prompted critics to liken the band to Live and Taking Back Sunday. A global trek supporting labelmates Poison the Well preceded the group’s dissolution upon returning home. Isham persisted solo, composing fresh material under the Open Hand banner, then recruited drummer Paxton Pryor, formerly of the Vacation. Throughout summer 2004 the pair crafted an album aimed at both emo enthusiasts and guitar aficionados; the resulting, wide-ranging epic You and Me surfaced in early 2005. Post-release, bassist Michael Anastasi and guitarist Sean Woods completed the lineup.