Three Days Grace is embarking on an exciting new chapter in their career. The Canadian rock band, known for delivering powerful anthemic hits like “I Hate Everything About You,” “Animal I Have Become,” and “Never Too Late,” has never shied away from taking risks throughout their two-decade journey. Despite lineup changes and evolving sounds, they have managed to create a legacy that remains timeless.
Now, the band is making history once again by welcoming back original frontman Adam Gontier, who will not be replacing Matt Walst as lead singer but rather teaming up with him in what could become a formidable dual-frontman powerhouse. This reunion marks more than just a return; it represents a fusion of past and present energy.
“I grew up in the same town, watching these guys practice in my basement when I was 12 years old,” Matt Walst told Billboard. “So I’ve always been a big fan of the band. It’s pretty cool to see this happen.”
The idea for this reunion had been brewing for several years. Gontier made an unexpected appearance with Three Days Grace in 2023, sparking speculation about a potential comeback. By October 2024, they confirmed their plans after releasing a video showcasing Walst and Gontier collaborating at the studio.
Their first single as a dual-fronted band, “Mayday,” hit No.1 on Billboard’s Mainstream Rock Airplay chart within five weeks of its release. This marked their 18th Number Oneonly this time featuring vocals from Gontier for the first time since 2013.
“We knew people would freak out about it, but I didn’t think it would fly up to No. 1 on Billboard in five weeks,” Walst said. “It’s now sat there for five weeks and has been at Number One for half of its existence. We’re blown away by the reaction.”
With a new album and an upcoming tour with Disturbed planned, the band is facing a fresh challenge: deciding who will handle vocal duties during their performances. Walst explains that rehearsals begin next week, followed by their American leg of the tour with Disturbed.
“For older songs originally sung by Gontier,” he says, “I’ll play guitar and provide harmonies or backups.” For newer tracks from his tenure as frontman, he adds, “Adam will do the same. And for new material we’re creating together, it’s a collaborative effort.”
Walst has immense respect for Gontier’s vocal range, noting that he can hit notes exceptionally high and powerfully. Yet, Walst also sees growth in his friend over time.
“Its pretty cool to watch him improve,” he says. “Deciding who sings what during recording sessions was sometimes a matter of chancewed play rock-paper-scissors or just let it flow naturally.”
Walst acknowledges the compatibility between himself and Gontier, emphasizing that they are both easy-going individuals with an established friendship. They have known each other since childhood in their hometown.
“When we perform,” Walst jokes, “were going to bash them over the head with hits. But don’t worry; there will be some ballads and lighter songs too. We aim for balance on every album.”
After a career marked by success, change, and relentless touring, Three Days Grace is focused on evolution rather than longevity purely for its own sake.
“It’s not about surviving,” Walst explains. “We’re always evolving and ensuring egos don’t get in the way of making great music.”
Walst believes that their songs often reflect what theyre going through or observing around them, inviting listeners to relate on a personal level.
“When we play live,” he says excitedly. “The more enthusiastic the crowd gets, the better I feel. It’s like being hooked on an adrenaline rush; its something you can’t get anywhere else.”