For more than a decade, Diver Through has been the creative vehicle of songwriter and musician Michael Baynes, a project built on authenticity, perseverance, and a passion for memorable alternative rock. Rooted in strong songwriting and shaped by years of experience across multiple music scenes, Diver Through continues to evolve while staying true to its independent spirit.
The name Diver Through first surfaced publicly in 2013 after Baynes gathered a group of friends to record a collection of new songs in a single night. That spontaneous session resulted in the Scattered Days EP, released through Subluna Records and marking the official beginning of the project.
Before launching Diver Through, Baynes honed his craft as the principal songwriter for Jacksonville, Florida-based modern rock band HAVEN. During that period, he experienced his first commercial radio airplay as an unsigned artist. Later, after relocating to New York City and embarking on a solo career with Subluna Records, his music gained traction on college radio stations throughout the United States, appearing on numerous university playlists and compilation releases from outlets such as CMJ, Magnet Magazine, and Jacksonville's 93.3 Planet Radio. His live performances took him from New York to Florida, including a BMI songwriter showcase at New York City's renowned venue, The Living Room.
The years that followed saw Baynes pursuing songwriting opportunities between New York and Nashville. Along the way, he embraced a more hands-on and independent approach to recording, collaborating with writers, singers, and musicians while refining his artistic identity. Eventually, he realised that genuine creative fulfilment could only come from remaining true to himself rather than chasing industry validation.
Following the release of the solo single Wherever You Are I'm Going in 2018, Baynes returned his focus to Diver Through in 2019, unveiling the home-recorded tracks Be Enough and Go. In 2020, during a period of uncertainty across the world, the project delivered The Way We Were, its second full release of original material. Featuring standout tracks such as Last Photo and the title song The Way We Were, the record was warmly received by college and independent radio stations.
Now, Diver Through returns with ALL NIGHTER, the band's third release on Subluna Records and arguably its most energetic statement yet. Where The Way We Were opened with a reflective Cure-inspired instrumental atmosphere, ALL NIGHTER announces itself immediately with a burst of guitar feedback, signalling a broader, louder and more expansive sound. The album embraces a full-band approach, packed with bigger hooks, driving rhythms and an upbeat energy that runs throughout the record.
Among its highlights is "To Death," an atmospheric rocker built around the intriguing concept of how casually people use references to death in everyday language. Another standout, "Vials," tells a poignant and deeply human story of grief, following a character who travels across the country scattering the ashes of a loved one until only a final vial remains.
Recorded across multiple locations, the project combines the talents of several collaborators. Drums were engineered by Chuck Nash in Jacksonville, Florida, while Baynes handled the remaining recording duties in New York City. The album was later mixed by Alex Dezen at Sally Studios in Los Angeles, helping shape its polished yet emotionally resonant sound.
At the heart of ALL NIGHTER lies the album's lead single, "It's The Sky." According to Baynes, the song became the key that unlocked the entire project.
"I wrote most of these songs in three to four months leading up to the studio session. I knew we were going to record in May and I essentially ditched all of the songs I had written in the previous twelve months and focused on new songs for the band as a three-piece. It's The Sky came later, but as soon as I recorded the demo I knew it was going to set the overall tone for what we were doing."
Baynes explained that the title was inspired by an article discussing the increase in clear-air turbulence caused by climate change. One phrase in particular stayed with him: the idea that when things seem to be getting worse, "it's not you, it's the sky that's changing." He transformed that observation into a powerful metaphor, using it as a lens through which to explore change, uncertainty, and perspective.
Musically, "It's The Sky" is an instantly engaging track. Combining polished production, memorable vocal hooks and a distinctly 90s-inspired alternative-rock aesthetic, it delivers a sound that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly contemporary. The song captures everything that makes Diver Through compelling: thoughtful songwriting, emotional honesty and a knack for crafting melodies that stay with the listener long after the track ends.
With ALL NIGHTER, Diver Through demonstrates that independent rock can still be ambitious, heartfelt and exciting. Led by Michael Baynes alongside bassist Mike Rellah and drummer Ken Nasta, the band continues to build on its foundations while pushing its sound forward. And if It's The Sky is any indication, the journey is far from over.
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