Anberlin emerged as a prominent force in the American alternative rock scene, known for their melodic intensity and thoughtful lyricism. The band, originally formed in Winter Haven, Florida in 2002, achieved significant commercial success and a dedicated fanbase, most notably with their acclaimed 2007 album "Cities". Their journey was marked by a consistent evolution in sound, major label achievements, a planned dissolution, and an eventual reunion that solidified their enduring legacy.

The roots of Anberlin trace back to 1998 with a band called SaGoh 24/7, which featured future Anberlin members. After that project disbanded, the musicians regrouped with a renewed direction, officially forming Anberlin in 2002. The classic lineup solidified by early 2007 consisted of lead vocalist Stephen Christian, guitarists Joseph Milligan and Christian McAlhaney, bassist Deon Rexroat, and drummer Nathan Young. Their ascent was rapid; within a year of forming, they signed with Tooth & Nail Records and released their debut, Blueprints for the Black Market, in 2003. This was followed by 2005's Never Take Friendship Personal, which helped expand their audience within the alternative and Christian rock spheres.

A major breakthrough arrived in 2007 with their third album, Cities. The record debuted in the top 20 of the Billboard 200, selling 34,000 copies in its first week and becoming a defining work in their catalog. This success propelled them to the major label Universal Republic, where they released 2008's New Surrender. That album peaked at No. 13 on the Billboard 200 and yielded the chart-topping alternative hit "Feel Good Drag," which reached No. 1 on the Alternative Songs chart. They continued their chart presence with subsequent albums Dark Is the Way, Light Is a Place (2010) and Vital (2012), the latter of which was re-released in 2013 as Devotion. By this period, the band had sold over one million albums.

In a surprising move, Anberlin announced in January 2014 that they would disband after recording one final album, Lowborn, for their original label Tooth & Nail, and undertaking a farewell tour. The hiatus, however, was not permanent. After performing reunion shows in late 2018, the band officially reunited for touring throughout 2019. In May 2020, Stephen Christian indicated the group was working on new music, a promise fulfilled with the 2022 EP Silverline. A significant change occurred in October 2023 when Christian announced an indefinite hiatus from touring; he was replaced on the road by vocalist Matty Mullins of Memphis May Fire. This new chapter demonstrates the band's continued activity and adaptability, maintaining their connection with fans while navigating the evolving landscape of their long career.