in film school that taught him to "write what you know," but in his case, he could only write about "being a self-obsessed pessimistic sort of loser." This led him to characterize his writing as a sort of therapy for him and a vehicle to better understand the human condition. Commit This to Memory "addresses the themes of substance abuse, psychological disorders and failing relationships." For the record, he intended to simplify his lyrics to enhance storytelling and he drew inspiration from Tom Waits, Ben Folds, and John K. Samson's writing styles. In some cases, he chose to write from another individual's point of view, rather than his own. Their next album, Even If It Kills Me, was Pierre's first "written completely sober, after battling drugs and alcohol for years;" consequently, the record is more optimistic and less self-loathing. My Dinosaur Life has lyrics relating to relationships, procrastination, and Pierre's own desire for a life away from his self-destructive behavior. Much of the lyricism on fifth album Go is consumed with death and "the eventual demise of everything." The idea that "nothing lasts forever" is one of the album's most important points. Honors and awards The band has been honored with a star on the outside mural of the Minneapolis nightclub First Avenue, recognizing performers that have played sold-out shows or have otherwise demonstrated a major contribution to the culture at the iconic venue. Receiving a star "might be the most prestigious public honor an artist can receive in Minneapolis," according to journalist Steve Marsh. On October 31, 2017, the band's hit single, "Everything Is Alright" received an official gold status by the Recording Industry Association of America. Band members Current members Justin Courtney Pierre – lead vocals, rhythm guitar (1997–2016, 2019–present), keyboard, synthesizer, piano (1997–1998, 1998–2001) Joshua Cain – lead guitar (1997–2016, 2019–present), backing vocals (1997–2016, 2019–present), bass (1997, 2002), keyboard, synthesizer, piano (1997–1998, 1998–2001) Jesse Johnson – keyboard, synthesizer, piano (2001–2016, 2019–present) Matthew Taylor – bass, backing vocals (2002–2016, 2019–present) Tony Thaxton – drums, percussion, backing vocals (2002–2013, 2016, 2019–present) Former members Joe Skinner – lead guitar (1997) Andrew "Andy" Whitney – drums (1997–1998) Andrew Gruhn – keyboard, synthesizer, piano (1998) Austin Lindstrom – bass (1998–2000, 2001–2002) Joel Habedank – drums (1998–2000) Matt Potocnik – bass (2000–2001) Sidney Burgdorf – drums (2001) Claudio Rivera – drums (2013–2016) Timeline Discography Studio albums I Am the Movie (2003) Commit This