Red Sun Rising

Red Sun Rising emerged from Akron, Ohio as a hard rock outfit known for its potent guitar-driven sound paired with deeply felt, soaring vocal lines. The group originated when vocalist-guitarist Mike Protich joined forces with guitarist Ryan Williams, two musicians who had attended the same high school and resided less than a mile apart for more than ten years yet never encountered each other. Their paths converged unexpectedly in 2006 at a filling station, where a discussion on music sparked an immediate connection. Before long, Protich and Williams began collaborating on material, and by 2007 they assembled the initial lineup of Red Sun Rising to perform in local venues. Their diligent approach and compelling stage presence earned notice, while the addition of guitarist Tyler Valendza in 2011 enhanced the sonic texture through his dynamic exchanges with Williams. Having independently issued a pair of albums titled Red Sun Rising and The Making of Kings by 2013, the band utilized online platforms to offer previews of their work. This approach cultivated a dedicated following, leading to frequent Midwest performances alongside coast-to-coast touring. The 2014 arrival of bassist Ricky Miller and drummer Pat Gerasia coincided with a deal from Razor & Tie Records, after which the ensemble entered the studio under Bob Marlette's production in early 2015. Their Razor & Tie debut, Polyester Zeal, arrived in August 2015 and entered the Billboard Hard Rock album chart at position 11, propelled by chart-topping Mainstream Rock singles "The Otherside" and "Emotionless." The follow-up album Thread appeared in 2018, again through Razor & Tie.