The Factory Incident

The Factory Incident was an American post-punk band based in Washington, D.C. Active from 2000 to 2005, the group released two EPs and a split single through the D.C.-based independent label Postfact Records.

The Factory Incident
Origin	Washington, D.C.
Genres	Post-punk, indie rock
Years active	2000 (2000)–2005 (2005)
Labels	Postfact Records
Past members	John Stabb Karl Hill Aimee Soubier Shaun Wright Stephen Brown

History

Following the breakup of Government Issue, frontman John Stabb formed several short-lived projects before founding The Factory Incident with guitarists Karl Hill and Aimee Soubier, bassist Shaun Wright, and drummer Stephen Brown.^[1]

The band's sound marked a departure from the hardcore aggression of Stabb’s earlier work, embracing a more melodic and textured post-punk approach. Their music incorporated elements of indie rock, noise, and shoegaze, often featuring layered guitars, dynamic arrangements, and introspective lyrics.

Their debut EP, Helmshore, was released in 2001, offering a brooding, atmospheric introduction to their style. In 2003, they contributed the track "Rail" to a split 7-inch single with Last Burning Embers. Their final release, the 2004 EP Redtape, showcased refined songwriting and deeper melodic complexity, receiving praise from critics and underground music fans.^[2]

The Factory Incident played their last show in 2005. Though short-lived, the group garnered a loyal following and contributed to the evolution of D.C.'s post-hardcore and indie rock scenes.

After the band’s dissolution, members remained musically active. In 2013, Stabb briefly reformed Government Issue with a new lineup that included Hill on drums.^[3]

Musical style and influences

The Factory Incident drew influence from first-wave post-punk bands like Wire and Gang of Four, while integrating the shoegaze textures of groups such as My Bloody Valentine and Slowdive. Their songs blended dissonant guitar layers with moody, introspective lyrics. Stabb’s vocal delivery, both intense and vulnerable, remained a focal point of the band’s identity.

Legacy

Though their discography is limited, The Factory Incident is remembered for bridging D.C.’s hardcore legacy with the more experimental and melodic sounds of early-2000s indie rock. Their recordings continue to resonate with fans of post-punk, and their music stands as a testament to Stabb’s enduring artistic evolution.

Band members

• John Stabb – vocals
• Karl Hill – guitar
• Aimee Soubier – guitar
• Shaun Wright – bass
• Stephen Brown – drums

Discography

Year	Title	Label	Format
2001	Helmshore	Postfact Records	EP
2003	"Rail" b/w "Vacillator" (split with Last Burning Embers)	Postfact Records	7-inch single
2004	Redtape	Postfact Records	EP