Unwound

The Profile

Unwound are an American post-hardcore band from the Olympia/Tumwater, Washington scene, centered on Justin Trosper, Sara Lund, and Vern Rumsey. Across the 1990s they released influential records on Kill Rock Stars, culminating in the expansive double album Leaves Turn Inside You (2001). They originally split in 2002 and reunited for live shows in 2023–2024.

Formed in Washington State’s Olympia/Tumwater scene; core lineup: Justin Trosper (vocals, guitar), Sara Lund (drums), Vern Rumsey (bass); key label: Kill Rock Stars; studio highlights include Fake Train (1993), New Plastic Ideas (1994), The Future of What (1995), Repetition (1996), Challenge for a Civilized Society (1998), Leaves Turn Inside You (2001); active 1991–2002; reunion tours in 2023–2024.

Five DeBaser reviews chart Unwound’s arc from the visceral charge of Fake Train to the expansive, psyche-tinged Leaves Turn Inside You. Repetition is framed as a pivotal midpoint, while Challenge for a Civilized Society showcases added textures and a pervasive melancholy. References to Sonic Youth, Fugazi, and Slint situate their sound in the 90s post-hardcore/noise nexus. Overall tone: reverent, intense, and personal.