A Sign Before was formed in Western MA in 2005. Composed of three brothers and a friend, their songs are catchy, hook driven, and emotional. After 2 years of writing and a year of saving money to record, their fist full-length CD, Reality Exists, is finally in the making, with 8 of the 12 tracks finished. ASB's songs deal with the good and bad in life to reach the broadest possible audience they can, from 13 year old 'scene' kids to more experienced 40 year old adults. However, their songs can often concentrate on the darker, more sinful side of life. It is no wonder why they call their devoted fans the 'Devils with Good Intentions.'

The Mattoon brothers are the foundation of the band. Ian, formerly a student of Joel Stroetzel of Killswitch Engage, is the lead guitarist and lead vocalist. Chris, who studied under studio drummer legend Bernard Purdie, is on the drums and percussion. Shaun, the youngest of the brothers, is the groove-supporting bass player. With Ian and Chris teaching at the local music store, our sound has become polished yet simplistic over the years.

The majority of songs were written and inspired by events during 2006. In this time, the Mattoon brother's family began to fall apart, with kicked-in walls, bite mark scars, and knife marks left in various objects to remind them of how the past affects everything in the future. Their band name was developed, as everything that happened in the past is a sign before the future falls apart. Playing at various Indie Band Festivals, local colleges, and hole-in-the-ground clubs gave A Sign Before intimate time with their fans, creating a devoted following. People relate to Ian's lyrics, and ASB's fans often come to shows wanting to hear their favorite song and later tell the band of their own experiences.

A Sign Before is currently working to finish their first full-length CD, Reality Exists with award winning engineer Greg Steele at Derek Studios in Dalton, MA. To contact A Sign Before, they are also booking their first New England tour this Summer and are working hard to find management. To contact A Sign Before, drop a line to Ian Mattoon at (413) 212-9492 or asignbefore@hotmail.com.