What is The Dismemberment Plan, and where and when was it formed?

The Dismemberment Plan is an American indie rock band that was formed in Washington, D.C., on January 1, 1993. The band is also known by the shorter names D-Plan or the Plan.

How did the band The Dismemberment Plan get its name?

The name The Dismemberment Plan was derived from an industry phrase that was used by the character Ned Ryerson, an insurance salesman, in the 1993 comedy film *Groundhog Day*.

Who are the current members of The Dismemberment Plan and what instruments do they play?

The current members of The Dismemberment Plan are Eric Axelson on bass, Jason Caddell on guitar, Joe Easley on drums, and Travis Morrison on vocals and guitar.

Who was the original drummer for The Dismemberment Plan, and when did they leave the band?

The original drummer for The Dismemberment Plan was Steve Cummings. He left the band after the recording of their debut album, titled *!* (pronounced Exclamation Mark).

How did the current lineup of The Dismemberment Plan come to be?

The band was initially formed in college by Eric Axelson, Jason Caddell, Travis Morrison, and original drummer Steve Cummings, who knew each other from attending high schools in northern Virginia. After Steve Cummings departed following the recording of the debut album, Joe Easley joined as the drummer, solidifying the band's lineup.

What is the significance of the album *Emergency & I* in The Dismemberment Plan's discography?

Emergency & I, released in 1999, is considered The Dismemberment Plan's most well-known album and achieved critical acclaim. It was originally created during the band's brief tenure with Interscope Records but was ultimately released by DeSoto Records after they were dropped from the major label.

Which independent label did The Dismemberment Plan primarily record for during their original years, and what was their relationship with Interscope Records?

For most of their original run from 1993 to 2003, The Dismemberment Plan recorded for the Washington, D.C. independent label DeSoto Records. They had a brief period from 1998 to 1999 when they were signed by the major label Interscope Records, but they were dropped shortly after recording *Emergency & I*, which they then released through DeSoto.

What was the only release by The Dismemberment Plan that Interscope Records actually put out?

The only release by The Dismemberment Plan that Interscope Records officially put out during their tenure with the label was the extended play (EP) titled *The Ice of Boston*.

How did The Dismemberment Plan describe their experience being signed and then dropped by Interscope Records?

The band described their situation with Interscope Records, where they recorded an album but were dropped before its release, as a situation where they slipped through the cracks. This allowed them to record with a major label budget without the usual consequences.

What significant touring opportunities did The Dismemberment Plan have following the success of *Emergency & I*?

Following the underground success of *Emergency & I*, The Dismemberment Plan received increased exposure by opening for the European leg of Pearl Jam's 2000 tour. Additionally, a co-headlining tour in 2002 with Death Cab for Cutie, known as the Death and Dismemberment Tour, helped raise both bands' profiles and cross-pollinate their fanbases.

What was the Death and Dismemberment Tour and what was its impact?

The Death and Dismemberment Tour was a co-headlining tour in 2002 featuring The Dismemberment Plan and Death Cab for Cutie. This collaboration was significant because it effectively raised the profiles of both bands, introduced their music to new audiences by cross-pollinating their fanbases, and helped forge creative ties between members of the participating groups.

How did fans contribute to the creation of *A People's History of the Dismemberment Plan*?

In 2002, The Dismemberment Plan made the music tracks from their albums *Emergency & I* and *Change* available on their website, encouraging fans to remix the songs. The resulting fan-created remixes were compiled and released in 2003 as the album *A People's History of the Dismemberment Plan*.

When and how did The Dismemberment Plan initially announce their breakup?

The Dismemberment Plan announced their decision to break up on January 19, 2003, via their website. They stated they would continue with a few tours that year before disbanding.

Describe the circumstances surrounding The Dismemberment Plan's final planned and actual shows in 2003.

Initially, a final show was planned for July 28, 2003, at Fort Reno Park in Washington D.C. However, heavy rain threatened their equipment and drove away most attendees, leading the band to schedule one more performance. Their actual final show was a sold-out concert at the 9:30 Club in Washington D.C. on September 1, 2003, which was dubbed the one last slice show.

What were the approximate sales figures for *Emergency & I* and *Change* by the time the band broke up?

By the time The Dismemberment Plan disbanded, their albums *Emergency & I* and *Change* had each sold approximately 22,000 copies in the United States.

What musical projects did members of The Dismemberment Plan pursue after the band's initial breakup in 2003?

After the initial breakup, Travis Morrison released his first solo album, *Travistan*, in 2004, featuring many songs he had worked on post-Change. Bassist Eric Axelson formed a new band called Maritime with former members of The Promise Ring, releasing three albums: *Glass Floor* (2004), *We, the Vehicles* (2006), and *Heresy and the Hotel Choir* (2007).

When and why did The Dismemberment Plan first reunite for a performance?

The Dismemberment Plan first reunited for a one-off performance on April 28, 2007, at The Black Cat nightclub in Washington D.C. This concert was a charity event to benefit Callum Robbins, the son of J. Robbins, who was the frontman for DeSoto Records labelmates Jawbox.

What was the fan reaction to The Dismemberment Plan's 2007 reunion show, and did it lead to further activity?

The fan reaction to the 2007 reunion show was overwhelmingly positive, with tickets selling out rapidly online. This high demand prompted the band to add a second show on April 27. However, Travis Morrison indicated that the band was unlikely to get back together permanently, stating it would probably only happen except to drink beer.

What prompted The Dismemberment Plan's reunion tour in 2011?

The Dismemberment Plan reunited for a tour in 2011, which was announced on September 13, 2010. This tour was in support of Barsuk Records' reissue of their 1999 album, *Emergency & I*.

Did The Dismemberment Plan plan to release new music during their 2010-2011 reunion?

At the time the reunion tour was announced in September 2010, bassist Eric Axelson stated that the band was not planning a new record. They intended to focus on the shows and take things day by day afterward.

What were some notable performances during The Dismemberment Plan's 2011 reunion tour?

The 2011 reunion tour began with a performance on *Late Night with Jimmy Fallon*. The band also played three shows in Washington, D.C. (two at the 9:30 Club and one at The Black Cat) in late January 2011. Additionally, they performed at high-profile festivals such as the Pitchfork Music Festival in Chicago and the annual Roots Picnic in Philadelphia.

What led to the debut of new songs by The Dismemberment Plan in 2012?

In August 2012, The Dismemberment Plan played a couple of small, intimate shows in Baltimore and Fredericksburg, Virginia, aiming to recapture the feel of their earlier performances. During these shows, they debuted eight new songs, indicating ongoing creative activity.

What was the band's intention regarding new material after their 2012 shows?

Following the August 2012 shows where they debuted new songs, Travis Morrison indicated that the band intended to continue working on new material. They planned to go back to the lab to develop more songs, and conversations about recording were already happening.

How was the lead single from *Uncanney Valley* first shared with the public?

The lead single from The Dismemberment Plan's forthcoming fifth album, *Uncanney Valley*, was shared on July 16, 2013. It was initially made available for listeners to hear by calling a promotional phone number, 252-64-DPLAN.

What other singles preceded the release of *Uncanney Valley*?

Before the release of their fifth studio album, *Uncanney Valley*, The Dismemberment Plan shared two additional singles: Invisible on August 19, 2013, and Daddy Was a Real Good Dancer on September 11, 2013.

On what label and date was The Dismemberment Plan's fifth studio album, *Uncanney Valley*, released?

The Dismemberment Plan's fifth studio album, *Uncanney Valley*, was released on October 15, 2013, by Partisan Records.

What significant festival did The Dismemberment Plan play in late 2013?

In November 2013, The Dismemberment Plan performed at the final holiday camp edition of the All Tomorrow's Parties festival, which took place in Camber Sands, England.

What marked the end of The Dismemberment Plan's activities after their 2013-2014 tour cycle?

Following a New Year's Eve concert in Boston, Massachusetts, on December 31, 2014, The Dismemberment Plan went on hiatus. The band did not make any official announcement regarding the status of the group after this period.

What contribution did The Dismemberment Plan make to a tribute album in early 2024?

On January 31, 2024, The Dismemberment Plan contributed a cover of the Circus Lupus song Unrequited to the tribute album *Yesterday & Today: DC Does Dischord*. This album honors Dischord Records. The recording of the song reportedly took place in August 2023 and marked a reunion activity for the band.

What event prompted The Dismemberment Plan's second reunion and tour in 2024?

The Dismemberment Plan announced a second reunion and a series of six live shows starting in September 2024. This tour marked their first live performances in nearly a decade and was organized to celebrate the 25th anniversary of their acclaimed 1999 album, *Emergency & I*.

Where did The Dismemberment Plan conclude their 2024 reunion performances?

The band concluded their 2024 reunion performances with appearances at the Best Friends Forever festival in Las Vegas and the United Sounds NYC festival in New York City.

How is The Dismemberment Plan's musical style generally described?

The Dismemberment Plan is generally described as an emo-tinged indie rock band. Their music is characterized by songwriting and a sound that is considered offbeat.

What musical genres are cited as influences on The Dismemberment Plan's sound?

The Dismemberment Plan's sound draws influence from R&B (Rhythm and Blues) and dance music, which contribute to their unique style alongside their indie rock and emo-tinged elements.

List The Dismemberment Plan's studio albums in chronological order.

The Dismemberment Plan's studio albums, in chronological order, are: ! (1995), The Dismemberment Plan Is Terrified (1997), Emergency & I (1999), Change (2001), and Uncanney Valley (2013).

What live album has The Dismemberment Plan released?

The Dismemberment Plan has released one live album, titled *Live In Japan 2011*, which was released in 2011.

What EPs has The Dismemberment Plan released?

The EPs released by The Dismemberment Plan include *Can We Be Mature?* (1994), *The Ice of Boston* (1998), and the split EP *Juno & The Dismemberment Plan* (2000).

What compilation albums or significant appearances are listed for The Dismemberment Plan?

The Dismemberment Plan has appeared on compilations such as *Give Me the Cure* (1996), *Ooh Do I Love You* (1996), and *Fort Reno Benefit* (1997). They also released *A People's History of the Dismemberment Plan* in 2003, and contributed to *Yesterday & Today: DC Does Dischord* in 2024.

What singles has The Dismemberment Plan released?

The singles released by The Dismemberment Plan include "What Do You Want Me to Say?" / "Since You Died" (1997), and "Waiting" (2013), "Invisible" (2013), and "Daddy Was a Real Good Dancer" (2013).

What is the official website for The Dismemberment Plan?

The official website for The Dismemberment Plan is dismembermentplan.com.

What is the significance of the image showing The Dismemberment Plan at the Bowery Ballroom in 2003?

The image depicts The Dismemberment Plan performing at the Bowery Ballroom in New York City in 2003. This was during the period when the band was preparing for or executing their breakup.

What does the image of Travis Morrison performing at the Iowa Union Basement circa 2001 illustrate?

The image shows Travis Morrison, the vocalist and guitarist for The Dismemberment Plan, performing live with the band at the Iowa Union Basement around the year 2001. This was during the era when they released their album *Change*.

What are the primary genres associated with The Dismemberment Plan?

The Dismemberment Plan is primarily associated with indie rock, experimental rock, dance-punk, post-punk revival, math rock, post-hardcore, and Midwest emo.

What were the active periods for The Dismemberment Plan?

The Dismemberment Plan has been active during several periods: initially from 1993 to 2003, then briefly in 2007, followed by a reunion from 2010 to 2015, and a subsequent reunion from 2023 to the present.

Which record labels have released music by The Dismemberment Plan?

The Dismemberment Plan has released music through labels including Partisan Records, MapleMusic Recordings, Interscope Records, and DeSoto Records.

Who is listed as a past member of The Dismemberment Plan?

Steve Cummings is listed as a past member of The Dismemberment Plan.

What is the relationship between The Dismemberment Plan and the band Maritime?

Eric Axelson, the bassist for The Dismemberment Plan, formed the band Maritime after The Dismemberment Plan's initial breakup. Maritime was formed with former members of the band The Promise Ring.

What was the context of The Dismemberment Plan's contribution to the *Yesterday & Today: DC Does Dischord* album?

The Dismemberment Plan contributed a cover of the Circus Lupus song Unrequited to the tribute album *Yesterday & Today: DC Does Dischord*, which honors Dischord Records. This contribution, released in early 2024, was reportedly recorded in August 2023 and marked a reunion activity for the band.

What milestone was celebrated during The Dismemberment Plan's 2024 reunion shows?

The 2024 reunion shows by The Dismemberment Plan were held to celebrate the 25th anniversary of their acclaimed 1999 album, *Emergency & I*.

What are the key influences mentioned for The Dismemberment Plan's music?

The Dismemberment Plan's music is influenced by R&B and dance music, which contribute to their described offbeat songwriting and sound within the indie rock genre.

What is the purpose of the Authority control databases section at the end of the article?

The Authority control databases section provides links to external databases that catalog information about The Dismemberment Plan, such as ISNI, VIAF, Library of Congress, and MusicBrainz. This helps to uniquely identify the band and its works across different cataloging systems, ensuring consistency and aiding researchers.

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Band History

Formation and Early Years (1993-1998)

The Dismemberment Plan, often abbreviated as D-Plan, was established in Washington, D.C., on January 1, 1993. The band's name was inspired by an industry term utilized by insurance salesman Ned Ryerson in the 1993 film Groundhog Day.^[1] The foundational members—Eric Axelson (bass), Jason Caddell (guitar), Travis Morrison (vocals and guitar), and original drummer Steve Cummings—formed the group while attending college. They were acquainted through their shared high school experiences in northern Virginia, with Axelson, Cummings, and Morrison all attending Lake Braddock Secondary School in Burke, Virginia. Following the recording of their debut album, !, Cummings departed and was subsequently replaced by Joe Easley, solidifying the band's enduring lineup.

The Interscope Interlude & DeSoto's Embrace (1998-2003)

With the exception of a brief period between 1998 and 1999 when they were signed by Interscope Records, the band primarily recorded for the Washington, D.C.-based independent label, DeSoto Records. Their seminal album, Emergency & I, was conceived during their tenure with Interscope. However, following their release from the label shortly after the album's completion, they retained the master recordings and brought them back to DeSoto for official release. The EP The Ice of Boston stands as the sole item officially issued by Interscope during their association. This unique arrangement allowed the band to operate with a major label budget without incurring debt, a situation they later described as "slipping through the cracks."

Rising Profile & Creative Exploration (2000-2003)

The significant underground success of Emergency & I propelled the band to greater prominence. Their invitation to support Pearl Jam on the European leg of their 2000 tour amplified their visibility. Similarly, a co-headlining tour in 2002 with Death Cab for Cutie, dubbed the "Death and Dismemberment Tour," proved instrumental in elevating both bands' profiles and fostering cross-pollination of their respective fan bases, alongside forging creative connections among band members. Later in 2002, the band made the music tracks from their final two albums available on their website, encouraging fan remixes. This initiative culminated in the 2003 release of A People's History of the Dismemberment Plan. However, on January 19, 2003, the band announced their decision to disband after a series of tours that year.^[2] Their intended final performance was scheduled for July 28, 2003, at Fort Reno Park in Washington D.C. Due to inclement weather, the show was moved, and a final, sold-out concert was held at the 9:30 Club on September 1, 2003, concluding their career. By the time of their dissolution, Emergency & I and Change had each sold approximately 22,000 copies in the United States.^[3]

Musical Style and Influences

Genre Classification

The Dismemberment Plan is broadly categorized within the indie rock sphere, exhibiting influences that span multiple subgenres. Their sound is frequently described as "emo-tinged" indie rock. Critical analyses also identify elements of experimental rock, dance-punk, post-punk revival, math rock, post-hardcore, and midwest emo within their oeuvre. This eclectic blend underscores their unique position in the alternative music landscape.

Sonic Characteristics

The band's songwriting and overall sonic presentation are often characterized as "offbeat," demonstrating a sophisticated approach to composition. Their music draws inspiration from diverse genres, notably incorporating elements of R&B and dance music, which contribute to their distinctive rhythmic and melodic structures. Travis Morrison's vocal delivery and guitar work are central to their identity, often characterized by intricate patterns and an energetic, sometimes angular, delivery.

Discography

Studio Albums

! (1995)
The Dismemberment Plan Is Terrified (1997)
Emergency & I (1999)
Change (2001)
Uncanney Valley (2013)

Live & EPs

Live In Japan 2011 (2011)
Can We Be Mature? (1994)
The Ice of Boston (1998)
Juno & The Dismemberment Plan (Split EP) (2000)

Compilations & Singles

Give Me the Cure (1996)
Ooh Do I Love You (1996)
Fort Reno Benefit (1997)
A People's History of The Dismemberment Plan (2003)
Yesterday & Today: DC Does Dischord (2024)
"What Do You Want Me to Say?" / "Since You Died" (1997)
"Waiting" (2013)
"Invisible" (2013)
"Daddy Was a Real Good Dancer" (2013)

Core Personnel

Current/Long-Standing Members

Eric Axelson (Bass)
Jason Caddell (Guitar)
Joe Easley (Drums)
Travis Morrison (Vocals, Guitar)

Notable Past Member

Steve Cummings (Drums - original member)

Origins and Naming

Geographical Roots

The Dismemberment Plan originated in Washington, D.C. The band members initially connected through their shared academic pursuits and high school experiences in northern Virginia, laying the groundwork for their collaborative musical endeavors.

Etymological Source

The band's distinctive name, "The Dismemberment Plan," was derived from a specific phrase encountered in the 1993 comedy film Groundhog Day. This particular phrase was utilized by the character Ned Ryerson, an insurance salesman, providing an unexpected and memorable origin for the group's identity.

Reunion Cycles

The First Reunion (2007)

In 2007, the band reconvened for a singular performance at The Black Cat nightclub in Washington, D.C. This event served as a charity concert, benefiting Callum Robbins, the son of J. Robbins, a prominent figure in the local music scene and frontman for the labelmate band Jawbox. The overwhelming demand for tickets led to the addition of a second show. Travis Morrison humorously remarked that the band was unlikely to fully reform, stating they would only get back together "except to drink beer."

The Uncanney Valley Era (2010-2015)

A more substantial reunion commenced in 2010, coinciding with Barsuk Records' reissue of their acclaimed 1999 album, Emergency & I. This period saw the band embark on a tour, including a notable performance on Late Night with Jimmy Fallon. In 2012, they debuted new material during small-venue shows, signaling potential new recordings. This culminated in the release of their fifth studio album, Uncanney Valley, in 2013, followed by further touring. The band subsequently entered another hiatus after a New Year's Eve concert in 2014.

Second Reunion (2023-Present)

In early 2024, The Dismemberment Plan contributed a cover of Circus Lupus's "Unrequited" to a tribute album honoring Dischord Records, reportedly recorded in August 2023. Later that year, the band announced a series of reunion shows to commemorate the 25th anniversary of Emergency & I. These performances included appearances at festivals such as Best Friends Forever in Las Vegas and United Sounds NYC in New York City, marking their first live engagements in nearly a decade.

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References

A full list of references for this article are available at the The Dismemberment Plan Wikipedia page

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Academic Integrity Notice

This document has been generated by an Artificial Intelligence system, drawing upon publicly available data from Wikipedia. It is intended for academic and informational purposes, providing an analytical overview of The Dismemberment Plan. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy and comprehensiveness based on the provided source, the content may not be exhaustive or reflect the absolute latest developments.

This is not professional music industry advice. The information presented herein should not be construed as a substitute for expert consultation regarding music history, business, or artistic analysis. Users are encouraged to consult primary sources and academic literature for deeper insights.

The creators of this page are not liable for any inaccuracies, omissions, or actions taken based on the information provided.

The Dismemberment Plan: A Sonic Cartography of Indie Rock Evolution

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Band History 📅

🏛️ Formation and Early Years (1993-1998)

🏢 The Interscope Interlude & DeSoto's Embrace (1998-2003)

📈 Rising Profile & Creative Exploration (2000-2003)

Musical Style and Influences 🎶

🗂️ Genre Classification

💡 Sonic Characteristics

Discography 📚

💿 Studio Albums

🎤 Live & EPs

➕ Compilations & Singles

Core Personnel 👥

🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Current/Long-Standing Members

⏳ Notable Past Member

Origins and Naming 💡

📍 Geographical Roots

🎬 Etymological Source

Reunion Cycles 🔄

🌟 The First Reunion (2007)

🚀 The Uncanney Valley Era (2010-2015)

⏳ Second Reunion (2023-Present)

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📜 References

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Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Academic Integrity Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Band History

Formation and Early Years (1993-1998)

The Interscope Interlude & DeSoto's Embrace (1998-2003)

Rising Profile & Creative Exploration (2000-2003)

Musical Style and Influences

Genre Classification

Sonic Characteristics

Discography

Studio Albums

Live & EPs

Compilations & Singles

Core Personnel

Current/Long-Standing Members

Notable Past Member

Origins and Naming

Geographical Roots

Etymological Source

Reunion Cycles

The First Reunion (2007)

The Uncanney Valley Era (2010-2015)

Second Reunion (2023-Present)

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Academic Integrity Notice