Beginnings (2004–2006) Beau Bokan formed Take the Crown in early 2004 with Tony Gonzalez. The original lineup was constantly changing and was more reminiscent of pop punk acts of the likes of Blink 182 or Pennywise than any of the bands recorded works. The early lineup, including the likes of Martine Stewart (Donnybrook,
Terror), changed constantly as did the band's sound. During the early stages of Take the Crown, the band occasionally performed in the Los Angeles area at venues such as Skateland and The Knitting Factory. Take the Crown eventually added Nick Coffey, Ryan Wilson, James Campbell, and Aaron Birdsall to the permanent lineup and began to move in a more Post-Hardcore direction. Take the Crown quickly gained local notoriety in the Southern California music scene, playing with such acts as
The Aquabats,
Eighteen Visions, and performing to packed crowds at their home venue Chain Reaction.
Let the Games Begin (2007–2008) Their debut release,
Let the Games Begin, produced by Chris Sorenson of the band
Saosin, The band did two UK tours, in support of
Eighteen Visions and
The Blackout, as well as a US tours with
Lostprophets and
Four Year Strong. Drummer Juan Pereda (formerly of Taken and
Name Taken) replaced Trevor Bodewitz for the final tour in support of the record, however, he was soon replaced by Aaron Elliott.
Relapse React (2008) After a receiving a positive response to the self-released
Let the Games Begin, the band signed with
Rise Records in October 2007. Take the Crown entered the studio with Kris Crummett to record their follow up release Relapse React. Tony Gonzalez left Take the Crown shortly after recording Relapse React due to personal issues and was replaced by
Ken Floyd (formerly of
Eighteen Visions). The album was well received by critics, however, the band broke up months after the album's release citing the departure of James Campbell and Tony Gonzalez, lack of management, and financial burdens. == Band members ==