Embrace

The Profile

Embrace were a Washington, D.C. post-hardcore/emo band formed in 1985, fronted by Ian MacKaye with Michael Hampton, Chris Bald, and Ivor Hanson. They recorded one self-titled album (released by Dischord Records) and are considered key figures of the first wave of emo within the DC hardcore scene.

Members: Ian MacKaye (vocals), Michael Hampton (guitar), Chris Bald (bass), Ivor Hanson (drums). Origin: Washington, D.C., USA. Label: Dischord Records. Activity: 1985–1986. Known for the self-titled album and tracks like Dance of Days; historically linked to the early emo/DC hardcore movement and distinct from the British band of the same name.

One review praises Embrace’s lone LP for its slower, melody-forward approach and Ian MacKaye’s charged vocals. Highlights include Building, Dance Of Days, Money, and No More Pain. The piece frames Embrace within DC’s first-wave emo/post-hardcore and contrasts them with Fugazi and Minor Threat. It explicitly distinguishes this Embrace from the UK Britpop band.