American Nightmare, originally formed in 1999 in Boston, Massachusetts, is a band that has made significant contributions to the hardcore punk scene. Known for their visceral, anguished brand of punk that bleeds with emotional intensity, the group has undergone various lineup changes and even a name change to "Give Up the Ghost" due to legal issues, before eventually reclaiming their original moniker. The founding members Wes Eisold (vocals) and Tim Cossar (guitar) were instrumental in shaping the band's sound, with a revolving cast of musicians contributing over the years.

The band's discography speaks to a journey of raw, uncompromising hardcore evolution. "Background Music" (2001) and "We're Down Til We're Underground" (2003) received critical acclaim, solidifying their presence and influence within the hardcore community. Despite going on hiatus in the mid-2000s, American Nightmare's cult following endured. Their self-titled album "American Nightmare" released in 2018, was a triumphant return to form after nearly a decade and a half, showing they still had the same fervor and urgency that they started with. The earlier "Year One" compilation and "4 Song Demo" showcased the band's raw beginnings, which remain cherished by fans. The tracks "The World Is Blue," "Life Support," and "Gloom Forever" off their later releases exemplify the band’s ability to fuse melodic hooks with their trademark lyrical intensity. Even after years of evolution and the changing tides of music, American Nightmare stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of hardcore punk.