lifter | History of the Band

Behind the Music: The Formation and Evolution of Lifter in the '90s

Formation and Early Years

Lifter took shape in the buzzing streets of LA during the '90s when Mike Coulter and Jeffrey Sebelia were fresh out of rehab and looking for a new start. The duo, along with drummer John Rozas, brought to life a sound that screamed grunge—a perfect echo of the era's raw, edgy vibes. As they grew, their music evolved to include bits of alternative rock and post-punk, giving them a broader sonic appeal that resonated with a generation marked by its eclectic tastes​

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Discography and Notable 90s Albums

• "Melinda (Everything Was Beautiful and Nothing Hurt)" (1996): This album, deeply personal for Coulter, was like a musical diary of his breakup with Melinda. It featured tracks like "Headshot" and "The Rich, Dark, Sultry Red of Hate," which even got some playtime on MTV. Critics were into it, and it climbed to number three on the CMJ Top 75 Alternative Airplay chart, but it didn’t really smash the commercial charts​.

Influence and Legacy

Lifter received a warm reception from critics, especially for "Melinda," which was praised for its introspective lyrics and solid musicianship. However, the lack of commercial success contributed to the band's struggles.

After the band called it quits, the members didn't just vanish. Mike Coulter took a long break but eventually came back to music with his solo album "Saviors" in 2015, revisiting some themes from Lifter's days. Jeffrey Sebelia switched gears entirely, diving into the fashion world and even snagged a win on Project Runway's third season, although not without stirring up a bit of drama​.

Lifter's story is a slice of the '90s music pie, spotlighting the highs and lows typical of the music scene back then. Their journey from a rehab meeting to a music deal, and their eventual ventures into entirely different fields, offers a glimpse into the transformative power of that dynamic decade. Their music might not have topped the charts, but it left an indelible mark on those who tuned in, capturing the spirit of a pivotal era in alternative rock.

Sources

• Wikipedia

• Last.fm

• AllMusic

• Wikiwand