Secrets

Secrets, a post-hardcore outfit based in San Diego, California, reached national prominence after issuing its 2012 debut The Ascent and the 2013 follow-up Fragile Figures, each registering strong Billboard placements. Defined by dual vocalists and a heavy, aggressive style, the group navigated repeated lineup changes across its history.

The band formed in 2010 when singer Xander Bourgeois teamed with guitarists Richard Rogers and Michael Sherman, bassist Marc Koch, and drummer Joe English. Their punishing approach earned a Rise Records deal within a year. Secrets released The Ascent in 2012, which reached number three on the Billboard Heatseekers chart. Michael Owens replaced Marc Koch on bass that same year. Xander Bourgeois later exited to focus on sobriety, after which Aaron Melzer, previously of Author & Finisher, assumed lead vocals. The summer 2013 release Fragile Figures climbed to number 59 on the Billboard Top 200. Wade Walters took over vocal duties following Aaron Melzer’s departure for the third album Everything That Got Us Here, which appeared in December 2015 as the band’s final Rise Records project. A 2017 agreement with Made in the Shade Records preceded the self-titled fourth album the next year.