Self-titled Album is the third studio album released by The Audition. It was produced by Mark Trombino, who has previously worked with Jimmy Eat World, Senses Fail, Blink-182 and Finch, amongst others. This is the first release since the departure of original bassist and founding member Joe Lussa.
Background and recording
In December 2008, the band supported All Time Low on their Christma-Hanu-Kwanza tour in the US. While on the tour, the band were writing and recording their next album. The band initially planned to work with Sum 41 vocalist/guitarist Deryck Whibley as their producer. Drummer Ryan O'Connor said they "hit it off instantly, he has a totally different outlook than any other producer we have worked with, he is really all about song writing and making sure all the songs are ready". However, on January 5, 2009, it was announced that the group would not be working with Whibley, as O'Connor explains: "Things didn't work out and it's not going to happen.... BUT, we are in the studio with another producer who we couldn't be more excited to be working with!" In addition, it was mentioned that drum tracking had started that day.
Release
On January 28, 2009, it was announced that bassist Joe Lussa had left the band. In February, the band went on a tour of Europe with Alkaline Trio. On February 24, the album's artwork and title, Self-Titled Album, was revealed. Following this, the band toured Australia as part of the Soundwave festival in February and March. On April 16, the album was made available for streaming. In April, the band supported Kevin Rudolf on his Let It Rock Tour. Though the tour was intended to run into May, the band dropped off the tour on April 19. After being initially scheduled for on March 31, the Self-titled Album was eventually released on April 28 through Victory Records. In late April and early May, the band went on a UK tour with Madina Lake. On May 5, a music video was released for "My Temperature's Rising". Through to the end of the month, the group went on tour with Forever the Sickest Kids. In early-to-mid June, the band went on the Happiness Tour alongside Dance Gavin Dance, Closure in Moscow and Endless Hallway. Following this, the band played three headlining shows, before embarking on The Audition for The Higher Tour from late June to mid-July. The tour was co-headlined with the Higher. Closure in Moscow, Runner Runner, In:Aviate and the Hoodies featured on select dates. In September and October, the band supported All Time Low on their European tour.
