Card Reader is an established Emo/Hard Rock band from Long Island NY. The lineup features Dan Reynolds (Drums), Marc Lambert (Guitar), Dan Boest (Bass) & founder Tom Petito (Guitar/Vocals). The band’s debut single “Familiar Voices” released back in February 2020.

Ever since Card Reader have spent their days pushing new music and traveling the country. Playing everywhere and anywhere across the northeast, midwest and as far
south as Cape Coral FL. Their new single “My Own Path (feat. Tom Accamondo)” is the first single launched from their upcoming sophomore EP “No Stranger” (Release Date: 9/15/23). Produced by Nik Bruzzese (Man Overboard) at Gradwell House Recording Studio.

This track offers a transformed aggressive sound that CR fans have yet to experience. Featuring a hard hitting vocal collaboration from Senseless frontman Tom Accamondo
(@senselessHC). Director Sean Ageman (@washedupmedia) has also returned for his 3rd video with the band. With plenty of experience & firepower on deck, Card Reader stands ready to make their mark on the music world this summer.

We had a chance to catch up with Tom Petito to talk about the new single.

Refrain Music Blog: Thanks for taking the time to do this interview. You have a new single out now. What’s it called?

“My Own Path (feat. Tom Accamondo)” 

RMB: What is the song about, in terms of lyrics?

Invest in yourself. This song is about doing whatever it takes to forge your own lifestyle in music. This world can be unforgiving. There is no surrender for one truly determined to build their own future. You keep going no matter what. 

RMB: Is this single part of an album? If so tell us a little bit about that.

“My Own Path” is 1 of 2 single releases from our upcoming sophomore EP “No Stranger” streaming everywhere Friday, September 15th 2023. 

RMB: How does this single differ from your previous work?

This is our first release featuring a hardcore guest vocalist – Tom Accamondo from Senseless (@senselesshc). Most Card Reader vocals are non-screaming. “My Own Path” is a big step in the other direction and the songwriting provides a stronger appeal to fans of hardcore/metal. We injected more anger and adrenaline than ever before on this single. We hope listeners find the change of pace refreshing! 

RMB: What’s the story on how it was recorded?

We recorded with producer Nik Bruzzese at Gradwell House (Harrington Heights, NJ). We didn’t have a studio drummer at the time so Nik layed down the drums himself. He did an outstanding job producing our new EP. We also had pre-production help from Matt Sullivan (@titleholdermusic). One day Matt randomly added the Jack Nicholson sample (which ends the song). It fit perfectly. We instantly decided to keep it. 

RMB: Tell us a little about the band.

Card Reader was founded back in 2019. Our first show was postponed nearly 2 years by the pandemic. We played live for the first time in September of 2021. The rest is history! Lineup – Tom Petito (Guitar/Vocals), Dan Reynolds (Drums), Dan Boest (Bass), Marc Lambert (Guitar)

RMB: Who are some of your biggest musical influences? 

This Time Next Year, Transit, Fireworks, Misser, Title Fight, Set Your Goals, Senses Fail just to name a few! 

RMB: What’s the one thing you are most proud of in your career so far?

Our proudest achievement is the live presence we’ve created in the Northeast & Midwest music scenes over the last 2 years. We want to play every major city in the country. I think we’re making great strides towards that goal. 

RMB: If you had to pitch your music to a potential fan in less than 10 seconds, what would you say?

Fan of 2000s emo?! Welcome to the party. 

RMB: What’s one piece of advice you’ve gotten that you think everyone needs to hear or that has meant the most to you? 

Bands are not defined by their social media stats or fanbase size. They are defined by who they are as human beings. 

RMB: If you could go back in time, what’s a piece of advice you would give to a younger you?

Protect your mental health! Your music career does not have an expiration date. Embrace patience. Focus on making your band the most enjoyable experience possible.  That mindset is paramount. 

RMB: What’s coming up next for Card Reader?

Our biggest hometown show yet!!! Friday September 29th “No Stranger” EP release show at 89 North, Patchogue NY. 

Connect With Card Reader:       
Linktr.ee/cardreader