Filter was formed in Cleveland, Ohio, in 1993 by Richard Patrick, a former touring guitarist for Nine Inch Nails. Over its career, the band has released eight studio albums, including Short Bus (1995), which features the hit single “Hey Man, Nice Shot,” and Title of Record (1999), known for the chart-topping track “Take a Picture.” Their sound is characterized by a mix of industrial rock and alternative rock, a style that has evolved over the years through multiple lineup changes.
The band has undergone numerous transformations, with over fifteen musicians contributing to its sound either as full-time members or session players. Richard Patrick remains the sole constant member and creative force behind the band. Filter has experienced both critical acclaim and commercial success, earning several accolades for their music and touring internationally. Despite facing hiatuses and challenges, the band has consistently returned with new material that resonates with fans.
Filter’s longevity can be attributed to its ability to adapt and incorporate different musical influences. Their albums have charted globally, and tracks like “Hey Man, Nice Shot” and “Take a Picture” have achieved lasting recognition. Their body of work reflects a deep engagement with themes of personal struggle, introspection, and societal commentary.
Richard Patrick
Richard Patrick is the founder and frontman of Filter, serving as the band’s lead vocalist, guitarist, and primary songwriter since its inception in 1993. He was instrumental in creating Filter’s debut album, Short Bus, which achieved platinum status and established the band as a major act in the industrial rock scene. Patrick also contributed heavily to Title of Record, The Amalgamut (2002), and all subsequent Filter releases, including The Sun Comes Out Tonight (2013) and The Algorithm (2023).
Patrick’s musical journey began as a touring guitarist for Nine Inch Nails during their Pretty Hate Machine era. After departing in 1993 to form Filter, he cemented his reputation as a multi-talented musician. Outside Filter, Patrick has been involved in several other projects, including his participation in the supergroup Army of Anyone alongside members of Stone Temple Pilots. Additionally, he has contributed to film soundtracks, such as the song “(Can’t You) Trip Like I Do,” a collaboration with The Crystal Method featured in the Spawn soundtrack.
Patrick has remained the driving force behind Filter, navigating the band through lineup changes and industry shifts. His ability to innovate and adapt has ensured the band’s enduring presence in rock music.
Jonathan Radtke
Jonathan Radtke first joined Filter in 2011 as a guitarist and backing vocalist. His initial contributions are prominently featured on the band’s sixth studio album, The Sun Comes Out Tonight (2013), where his guitar work added a fresh edge to Filter’s evolving sound. After leaving the band in 2015, Radtke rejoined in 2018 and contributed to their latest album, The Algorithm (2023).
Outside of Filter, Radtke is known for his work with Kill Hannah, where he served as a guitarist and songwriter. He has also worked on his own project, Polar Moon, showcasing his versatility as a musician. Radtke’s return to Filter underscores his lasting connection to the band and its music.
Bobby Miller
Bobby Miller joined Filter in 2014, initially playing keyboards, programming, and guitar before transitioning to bass and backing vocals in 2019. His contributions are most notable on Crazy Eyes (2016), where his programming and instrumental versatility played a significant role in shaping the album’s experimental tone. He also performed on The Algorithm (2023), further solidifying his place within the band.
Miller’s career extends beyond Filter; he has worked as a session musician and producer, collaborating with various artists in both rock and electronic music. His multifaceted skills have made him a vital part of Filter’s modern lineup.
Tosh Peterson
Tosh Peterson is the newest member of Filter, joining the band in 2024 as their drummer. While his contributions to the band’s recordings are yet to be fully documented, Peterson brings a fresh energy to their live performances and future projects.
Peterson has an impressive background in drumming, having toured with various rock and alternative acts. His addition to Filter marks a new chapter for the band, as they continue to evolve their sound.
Brian Liesegang
Brian Liesegang was a founding member of Filter, joining alongside Richard Patrick in 1993. As the band’s guitarist and co-writer, Liesegang played an essential role in creating their debut album, Short Bus (1995), contributing heavily to its industrial rock sound, which gained widespread acclaim. His programming and production skills helped shape the band’s early identity. Liesegang departed in 1997 due to creative differences but returned briefly from 2018 to 2019, contributing to The Algorithm (2023).
Outside of Filter, Liesegang has made significant contributions to the music industry as a producer and collaborator, working with artists such as Billy Corgan and Trent Reznor. His expertise in programming and sound design has also extended to projects in advertising and film scoring.
Frank Cavanagh
Frank Cavanagh joined Filter in 1995 as the bassist and backing vocalist, contributing to the band’s second album, Title of Record (1999), and their third, The Amalgamut (2002). His dynamic bass lines became a foundational part of the band’s sound during their peak years. Cavanagh left the band in 2002 to serve in the United States Army but reunited with Filter for a one-off performance in 2008.
Beyond Filter, Cavanagh has played with other rock bands, including notable collaborations with Prong and Chevelle. His musical journey has been marked by versatility and adaptability, both in and out of the studio.
Geno Lenardo
Geno Lenardo was Filter’s lead guitarist from 1995 to 2002, contributing to both Title of Record and The Amalgamut. His guitar work added depth to Filter’s sound, blending melodic riffs with heavy industrial elements. Lenardo’s intricate playing was particularly evident on tracks like “Take a Picture” and “Where Do We Go from Here.”
After leaving Filter, Lenardo continued to work as a musician and producer, contributing to soundtracks such as Underworld: Awakening and collaborating with artists like Device and Evanescence. His career reflects a commitment to pushing musical boundaries.
Matt Walker
Matt Walker served as Filter’s drummer from 1995 to 1997, performing primarily during the Short Bus touring cycle. Though he did not contribute to any Filter studio albums, his energetic drumming style was integral to the band’s early live performances.
Walker has enjoyed a prolific career outside of Filter, playing drums for iconic artists such as Smashing Pumpkins and Morrissey. His versatility has made him one of the most sought-after drummers in the alternative rock world.
Steve Gillis
Steve Gillis joined Filter in 1997 as their drummer, performing on both Title of Record (1999) and The Amalgamut (2002). His powerful drumming provided a solid backbone for Filter’s sound during their commercial peak, particularly on hits like “Take a Picture” and “Welcome to the Fold.”
Gillis has since become an accomplished producer and session drummer, working across various genres and contributing to both independent and mainstream projects.
Mika Fineo
Mika Fineo played drums for Filter from 2008 to 2012, appearing on their fifth studio album, The Trouble with Angels (2010). His energetic drumming was a key element in the album’s heavier, industrial-inspired sound.
Fineo has also worked with other notable acts, including P.O.D. and Staind, showcasing his adaptability and technical proficiency across different rock subgenres.
Mitchell Marlow
Mitchell Marlow joined Filter in 2008 as a guitarist, contributing to the band’s touring efforts during the promotion of Anthems for the Damned. While Marlow did not play on a studio album with Filter, his contributions to the band’s live performances during this period were notable for their intensity.
Marlow has since shifted his focus to production, working with bands such as In This Moment and He Is Legend, where his skills as a guitarist and producer have earned him widespread recognition.
John Spiker
John Spiker served as Filter’s bassist during their Anthems for the Damned era, joining the band for live performances and contributing to the overall sound of the album cycle. His technical bass skills brought precision and depth to the band’s live shows.
Outside of Filter, Spiker is a member of Tenacious D and has worked as a producer and session musician for various artists, demonstrating his diverse talents in both rock and comedy music contexts.
Phil Buckman
Phil Buckman played bass and provided backing vocals for Filter from 2010 to 2013. Although he did not contribute to any studio albums during his tenure, Buckman was a prominent part of the band’s live performances, bringing energy and precision to their tours.
Outside of Filter, Buckman has had a versatile career as a musician and actor. He has played with other bands, including Fuel, and has contributed to various television and radio projects, showcasing his multifaceted talents.
Rob Patterson
Rob Patterson joined Filter as a guitarist for a brief period from 2010 to 2011. Although he did not record any studio material with the band, Patterson contributed to their live shows during this time.
Patterson is perhaps best known for his work as a touring guitarist with Korn and Otep. His extensive career in the rock and metal genres highlights his technical skill and adaptability.
Elias Mallin
Elias Mallin served as Filter’s drummer during two separate stints: from 2012 to 2013 and from 2022 to 2024. His most notable contribution to the band’s discography is his drumming on The Algorithm (2023), where his precision and dynamic range added a significant dimension to the album’s sound.
Outside of Filter, Mallin has performed with other prominent acts such as Kesha and Panic! at the Disco, establishing himself as a highly skilled and versatile session drummer.
Tim Kelleher
Tim Kelleher joined Filter as a bassist from 2013 to 2015. While he did not record any albums with the band, Kelleher played a vital role in their live performances during this time.
In addition to his work with Filter, Kelleher has been a touring musician for Alice in Chains and Thirty Seconds to Mars, further solidifying his reputation as a talented bassist in the rock world.
Jeff Fabb
Jeff Fabb was Filter’s drummer from 2013 to 2014. Although he did not contribute to any studio recordings, his dynamic drumming was a key component of the band’s live shows during this period.
Fabb is widely recognized for his work with Black Label Society and In This Moment, where his powerful and precise drumming has been a defining feature of both bands’ sounds.
Chris Reeve
Chris Reeve was Filter’s drummer from 2015 to 2019, contributing to the band’s seventh studio album, Crazy Eyes (2016). His innovative and hard-hitting drumming added an experimental edge to the album, which was well-received for its industrial tone.
Reeve has also worked with other artists, including Avril Lavigne and Street Drum Corps, showcasing his range and technical prowess as a drummer.
Ashley Dzerigian
Ashley Dzerigian played bass for Filter, though her tenure was not marked by contributions to studio recordings. Her live performances with the band highlighted her ability to bring depth and energy to their sound.
Dzerigian has also played with Adam Lambert and CeeLo Green, illustrating her versatility as a bassist across different musical genres.
Oumi Kapila
Oumi Kapila was Filter’s guitarist from 2015 to 2017. While his work with the band was primarily focused on live performances, his guitar skills were a vital component of their tours during this period.
Kapila has also built a career as a producer and session musician, working with artists in various genres and demonstrating his adaptability and creativity.
Greg Garman
Greg Garman served as Filter’s drummer from 2019 to 2021. Although he did not contribute to studio recordings, his live performances helped maintain the band’s energy and intensity during this period.
Garman has also worked as a session drummer and toured with artists such as Selena Gomez, further cementing his reputation as a versatile and skilled percussionist.
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