The Standard Americans include (L-R) Jeff Cornell, Matt Pike, Ryan West, John Hornberger and Eric Remillard. PHOTO COURTESY KHANNA HOUSE STUDIOS
New Album Showcases Signature Sound Of Local Band The Standard Americans
The cover art of the band’s new album, titled Afterlight. IMAGE BY JERRY JOSEPH
BY FIONA SLUSAREV
The Standard Americans, an eclectic rock band based in Wellington, released its second album Oct. 31. The new album, titled Afterlight, showcases the diversity of the band’s musical aptitude over nine tracks, including “Nothing To Lose,” a single that was released in September. With a unique blend of rock, jazz and blues, the Standard Americans bring to mind the music of the Animals, the Allman Brothers Band and Widespread Panic. The album was recorded at Markee Studio in Deerfield Beach and mixed by Steve Drizos. Founded in 2015, the band recently celebrated its 10th anniversary. The band’s first album, Standard Fireworks, was released in 2018. With humble beginnings as a cover band, vocalist and guitarist John Hornberger, and gui-
tarist Jeff Cornell, now collaborate to write songs. Cornell joined the band in late 2018, bringing decades of musical experience and technical knowledge. Often, Hornberger will find the lyrics, while Cornell fits the musical puzzle pieces together. “I bring a shell of something, and Jeff’s the one who then puts an actual picture together musically,” Hornberger explained. “From a bridge, to the lead, to the intro, Jeff’s the one who makes something real, and that filters down to Matt on bass and Ryan on keys.” Music is a collaborative process for the band, with Matt Pike on bass, Ryan West on piano and keyboards, and Eric Remillard on drums. Improvisation from all members is central to their sound. “I throw out a new song and let ev-
erybody start doing their thing,” Hornberger said. “That first time, there’s almost always a lick by Jeff, a roll by Matt, that is actually a key to that song a year later when we polished it.” The band records weekly practices in Hornberger’s home studio, which allows the musicians to capture the moment when inspiration strikes. All the members of the Standard Americans are in it for the love of music. They are full-time fathers with successful careers across the board, from orthopedic consulting to banking. Each member fits together to create the complete sound of the band. Cornell appreciates each member’s input. “That’s how the great stuff comes; that’s how you get the gold — it’s the freedom. It’s not being tied down by rules. It’s the freedom to WELLINGTON THE MAGAZINE | December 2025 27