The Beginning
Empired’s story begins in May 2023, when bassist/vocalist Jai Hansel, drummer Danny Baeza, and guitarist/vocalist Bruce Zebal first came together in Southern California. What started as casual jams quickly revealed undeniable chemistry — the kind that turns riffs into songs almost instantly. Wasting no time, the trio headed into the studio with acclaimed producer Paul Miner to record their first five tracks, locking in their punchy, melodic, and hard-hitting sound.

Building the Sound
As their vision expanded, the band realized they needed a second guitarist to fully capture the sonic depth they were after. Enter Cameron Mosavian, whose addition brought a new layer of power and texture to the lineup. With the four-piece solidified, Empired charged ahead, completing the writing and recording of their debut album, Finding Calm in the Chaos.

Released independently, Finding Calm in the Chaos showcased the band’s knack for blending melodic hooks, driving rhythms, and a raw, emotional edge. The album’s release was followed by a string of shows across Southern California, where the band quickly built a reputation for energetic, passionate performances.

The Next Chapter
In January 2025, Empired signed with Hey!Fever Records, marking a major milestone. With the support of the label, the band released their sophomore album, Strikes Back. The album pushed the band’s sound further — heavier, more dynamic, and unafraid to tackle bigger themes.

Who They Are
Featuring members with roots in Outspoken, Last Light, The Sleeping Sea-King, Fiction Reform, Dime Runner, The Overrides, and Piss N’ Blood, Empired pulls from a wide spectrum of punk, alternative, and rock influences. The result is a sound that feels both fresh and familiar — urgent yet melodic, polished yet raw.