Michael Angelakos started Passion Pit in college as nothing more than a way to make his friends dance. The first iteration of the band formed in 2007, consisting of Ian Hultquist, Ayad Al Adhamy, Jeff Apruzzese, and Nate Donmoyer. They played small sold-out shows around Boston, and were named Best New Band by the Boston Phoenix. Passion Pit’s debut EP, ‘Chunk of Change’, was self-released in 2008. The EP’s sole single, ‘Sleepyhead’, written by Angelakos in under 2 hours, became an iconic track of the aughts and has been certified 2x Platinum. The song was later featured on Passion Pit’s first full-length studio album, 'Manners', released in May of 2009. Following the release of ‘Manners’, Passion Pit became a festival staple and a fan-favorite live act. Passion Pit’s 2nd full-length album, ‘Gossamer’, was released in July of 2012. The album received much critical acclaim, reaching #4 on the US Billboard charts. The album’s lead single, ‘Take a Walk’, has been certified 2x Platinum in the US. As Rolling Stone wrote in naming ‘Take A Walk’ the 3rd best song of 2012: “…you are reminded why pop songs exist: to help mute the pain.” Three years later, Passion Pit released ‘Kindred’, peaking at #2 on the US Alternative Chart. In 2017, to raise awareness for scientific research for mental health treatment, Angelakos self-released ‘Tremendous Sea of Love’, on YouTube. The album received strong reviews from critics and fans, particularly for its masterful use of synths. Early in his career, Angelakos became a pioneer in the music industry for being an outspoken advocate for mental health, speaking publicly about his own experience living with bipolar disorder and how the industry could support artists better. Currently Passion Pit is led by Angelakos with Giuliano Pizzulo, Eric Scullin, Denzel Cox, and Ben Barter.
