Bio
The Emergence Project (EMERGENCE) was founded in 1999 by Robert Holman (aka Raggedyman) and Erik Kosnar (aka Vathan K). Initially starting as an experimental gothic-rock/electro project, they soon enlisted Noel Johannes on keys. The band faced a turbulent inaugural year, experimenting with different guitarists and other performers before Noel left the group. Following this, EMERGENCE enlisted Westin Shaffer on guitar, and incorporated various guest performers for live acts while maintaining Holman and Kosnar as the core creative unit in the studio. Kosnar left the project in 2005, after which Holman and fellow EMERGENCE collaborators went on to found the electronic act, Die Bruecke.
In 2024, after a long hiatus, Holman and early EMERGENCE guitarist Westin Shaffer reunited, and enlisted Jason Ayres of sister act Die Bruecke, as well as Gary Slaughter, formerly of Velvet Acid Christ, to reinvigorate the project. This new lineup aims to bring fresh energy and creativity to EMERGENCE, promising exciting new developments in their music.
Their music spans multiple genres, including electronic, industrial, EBM, and gothic rock. EMERGENCE is known for their dynamic and evolving sound, characterized by their blend of dark, atmospheric elements and electronic beats. They have performed in notable venues and festivals, including the Gothic Theatre and the Dark Arts Festival of Utah.