fun. with Nate, Jack and Andrew

Although in September of 2007 Nate Ruess and Sam Means of The Format announced they were in the beginning stages of a new album, five months later in February of 2008, Nate left a terse note for The Format's fans declaring the dissolution of the band. He affirmed that both he and Sam were upset about the parting of ways and they would remain extremely close. All good things must come to an end, but while one door was closing, another was opening for Ruess.

Armed with a handful of "the best songs [he]'d written," Nate set out to make sure that he kept doing what he loved: making music. Andrew Dost, formerly of Anathallo and the seventh member of The Format on one of the tours, agreed to join in to help with arrangements, harmonies, and piano. Jack Antonoff of Steel Train, who Nate lists as one of the greatest guitarists he's ever met, was quick to agree to join forces.

The three collaborated and recorded demos in New York, making their vision a reality. While Nate planned his move to Brooklyn and gained the support of former bandmate Sam Means, Andrew McMahon was planning a national tour for his band Jack's Mannequin and offered Nate's inkling of a band a spot as an opener. Nate and Andrew jumped on tour with Jack's Mannequin (allowing Jack to tour with his band Steel Train).

The trio decided to name their project "Fun." and headed into the studio September 1st 2008 to record their album with many of the same people that worked with The Format on their last album Dog Problems: producer Steven McDonald, arranger Roger Joseph Manning Jr, and a handful of others. They had finished recording as of April 6th and the album is set to be released this summer of 2009.

Right now, if you sign up for Fun.'s mailing list they'll send you a free copy of the song "At Least I'm Not As Sad (As I Used To Be)" which will otherwise be available May 5th. You can also catch Nate and gang out on the road with Manchester Orchestra from now until June 4th.