Awaken I Am is an Alternative Rock band from Brisbane and Melbourne, Australia, led by vocalist and producer Jimmy Alexander. Known for their emotionally charged sound and deeply personal lyrics, the band has carved a path defined not just by talent, but by immense resilience and heart. Their story took a tragic turn in 2018 when guitarist Connor Verner-Oakley, only 22 years old, was killed in Brisbane by a reckless driver in an intentional act. The loss shook the band to its core, coming just as they had wrapped up their first U.S. tour. But instead of retreating, the remaining members — Jimmy Alexander, Ryan Oxford (guitar), and Luke Mckenzie (drums) — channeled their grief into their music. In the aftermath, Awaken I Am wrote and recorded songs that served both as a tribute to Oakley and a way to process their pain. Some tracks were written directly for their fallen bandmate, while others addressed the person responsible for the tragedy. This creative period birthed emotionally intense tracks like “Relic,” a single that reflects a more mature sound shaped by anguish and healing. Their single “Turn To Stone,” which gained traction on SiriusXM’s Octane, demonstrated the band’s rising international profile. The band’s upcoming album, The Only Way Out Is Through (set to release on June 27, 2025), is a culmination of that emotional journey. Produced by Jimmy Alexander himself — also known for his work with Rain City Drive — the album navigates grief, growth, and ultimately, survival. Among the new material is the haunting single “Vacant,” a song exploring themes of emotional detachment and invisibility. “It’s an anthem for those who’ve felt unseen, unheard, and ultimately, replaceable,” says Alexander. Musically, Awaken I Am is inspired by acts like Northlane, Wind Walkers, and Dayseeker. They resonate with fans of atmospheric, emotionally driven post-hardcore and alternative rock, bringing powerful melodies, introspective lyrics, and polished production to the forefront. Awaken I Am is not just a band — they are a testament to how personal tragedy can inspire profound art. With The Only Way Out Is Through, they offer more than music; they offer connection, catharsis, and strength to those navigating their own losses.

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