Icon for Hire was an American alternative rock band formed in Toledo, Ohio in 2007. The band consisted of vocalist Ariel Bloomer and guitarist Shawn Jump. Icon for Hire was known for blending elements of punk rock, pop, and electronic music into their alternative rock sound. Some of their most well-known songs include “Make a Move”, “Off With Her Head”, and “Cynics and Critics”.
Where Did Icon for Hire Come From?
Icon for Hire originated in Toledo, Ohio. Vocalist Ariel Bloomer and guitarist Shawn Jump met in high school and started the band in 2007. Bloomer had grown up singing in choirs while Jump played guitar from a young age. The two bonded over their shared love of rock music and decided to form a band together.
Initially, Icon for Hire went through some lineup changes with different drummers and bassists. The band self-released their debut album Scripted in late 2007 when Bloomer and Jump were still teenagers. At this stage, they were performing locally around Ohio and building up a regional fanbase.
Early Years and Debut Album
In their early years, Icon for Hire self-released EPs The Grey EP in 2008 and Novocaine EP in 2009. They started garnering attention with their DIY approach, raw energy, and Bloomer’s aggressive vocals combined with electronic elements. Their song “Only a Memory” from The Grey EP reached the Top 40 on the Christian rock charts, helping the band gain some momentum.
Icon for Hire’s debut album Scripted was re-released through Christian label Tooth & Nail Records in 2010. It included the singles “Make a Move” and “Get Well”, showcasing the band’s signature electronic-infused alternative rock sound. Scripted brought Icon for Hire increased visibility within the Christian rock scene.
Rise to Prominence
Over the next few years, Icon for Hire continued to tour extensively and grow their fanbase. They gained a reputation for their energetic live shows and Bloomer’s confessional, cathartic lyrics.
Their sophomore album Icon for Hire was released in 2011 through Tooth & Nail Records. The album included the hit single “Make a Move”, which reached #1 on the Christian rock charts and helped break the band into the mainstream. Other popular songs like “Off With Her Head” and “The Grey” illustrated Bloomer’s personal lyrics and Jump’s inventive guitar work.
Icon for Hire’s third album came in 2013 with their self-titled release Icon for Hire. This album saw their sound shift in a more pop-oriented, electronic direction. Songs like “Cynics and Critics”, “Only a Memory”, and “Nerves” blended pop hooks with rock aggression. The single “Cynics and Critics” became their first song to impact mainstream rock radio.
Later Releases
In 2016, Icon for Hire released their fourth album You Can’t Kill Us independently after departing from Tooth & Nail Records. This album featured their most pop-influenced sound yet on songs like “Supposed to Be” and “Iodine”.
Icon for Hire took a hiatus for a few years with Ariel Bloomer releasing a solo EP titled The Bones in 2019. In late 2021, the band returned from their hiatus with the single “Killing Ourselves Slowly”, hinting at a heavier direction. They released another new single “For You Only” in early 2022.
Influence and Legacy
Over their career, Icon for Hire earned a devoted following for their infectious rock hooks, electronic textures, and Bloomer’s compelling vocals and lyrics. They helped pave the way for more female-fronted rock acts and represented a new generation of artists blending genres.
Though they started out on the Christian rock scene, Icon for Hire made a crossover into the mainstream rock world. They toured extensively with bands like Papa Roach, Saving Abel, and Sick Puppies. Icon for Hire songs have been featured in a variety of TV shows, films, and video games over the years as well.
While the band is currently on hiatus as of 2022, their impact is still felt. Icon for Hire helped open the door for current female-fronted rock and electronic acts. They carved out their own unique sound that resonated with fans across genres and continue to inspire aspiring musicians. Whether the band will reunite for more music in the future remains to be seen. But they’ve undoubtedly made their mark in the rock world.
Conclusion
In summary, Icon for Hire originated from Toledo, Ohio and was started by vocalist Ariel Bloomer and guitarist Shawn Jump in 2007. They gained attention on the Christian rock scene with early EPs and their debut album Scripted before breaking through to the mainstream rock world with their 2011 album Icon for Hire. Songs like “Make a Move”, “Off With Her Head”, and “Cynics and Critics” exemplified their electronic-infused pop-punk/rock style and Bloomer’s powerful vocals. Over the years, Icon for Hire toured extensively and earned a devoted fanbase before going on hiatus after their 2016 album. Their impact is still felt in paving the way for current female-fronted rock acts. Though on hiatus currently, Icon for Hire had a significant impact during the late 2000s and early 2010s music scene.