The Armed (often iconized as ⋈) are an anonymous American hardcore punk musical collective, formed in Detroit, Michigan in 2009.
[1] Although no official members of the group are known for absolute certain, the collective has been represented in the media by advertising creative and director Tony Wolski – formerly known as Adam Vallely.
[2] The project often features guest collaborators on their releases, which have included musicians such as Chris Pennie, Nick Yacyshyn, Ben Koller, Troy Van Leeuwen, and Urian Hackney.
Also, we’re able to reach a lot further this way... for example, I doubt you guys would’ve heard our album if we were just shelling out half a dozen CDs at shows back in the States.
[17] The Armed went to "great lengths" to disguise who worked on what aspect of the new record with the exception of guest drummer Nick Yacyshyn and engineer Kurt Ballou.
[4] Koller explained in an interview with Modern Drummer that he was only sort of familiar with the band and knew they were "mysterious and total weirdos."
Koller has said the request was short notice, and that the recording would take place right in the middle of tracking drums for a new Converge album, which seemed "[like it would be] pretty stressful."
The billboard contained artwork depicting the band's logo and Iggy Pop, appearing to suggest a collaborative release between the two.
The album was produced by Tony Wolski, along with Ben Chisholm and Troy Van Leeuwen, and was mixed by Alan Moulder.
It features contributions from Julien Baker, former Red Hot Chili Peppers guitarist Josh Klinghoffer, Illuminati Hotties' Sarah Tudzin, Justin Meldal-Johnsen and Jane's Addiction rhythm section Eric Avery and Stephen Perkins, amongst others.
[30] The piece also featured quotes from Wolski, who had previously given interviews on behalf of The Armed under the name Adam Vallely.