The Academy Is...

The Academy Is . . . almost never was. Frontman William Becket and guitarist Mike Carden grew up as rivals, in separate bands on the local Chicago music scene. William eventually left his band, wanting to take music more seriously and looking for someone who shared his passion. Mike's band broke up also and the two gradually found themselves talking more and more; engulfed in conversation about music. After realizing that they were very much alike they decided to write some songs together and The Academy Is . . . was born. Since they first came together in 2002, they have added bassist Adam Siska, Tom Conrad (guitar/backing vocals) and Andy Bishop Mrotek on drums and recorded an EP for LLR Records. Pete Wentz of Fallout Boy was so impressed by the EP that he convinced his label, Fueled By Ramen to fly out and see them. They were immediately signed and put to work recording their debut full-length. The ten-track album Almost Here was released in 2005.