Distinguished from a new wave group sharing the same name that evolved into Tears for Fears in the early 1980s, the Graduate formed as an anthemic emo-pop band in Springfield, IL. The lineup coalesced in late 2005 from the remnants of local outfits Best of Winter and Jack, with lead singer Corey Warning joined by guitarists Max Sauer and Matt Kennedy, bassist Jared Wuestenberg, and drummer Tim Moore. Taking cues from Coldplay and Death Cab for Cutie, the musicians refined their approach rapidly enough to secure a deal with the Icon label and issue their debut EP, Horror Show, in spring 2006. By the close of that year, their growing web presence and relentless touring schedule had created enough momentum for the Graduate to land on the cover of CMJ New Music Report. Their first full-length album, Anhedonia, appeared in April 2007, followed three years later by Only Every Time.
