Swimfail begin as the solo project of Josiah Tobin in early 2006, beginning as an industrial/dark ambient venture (2006's debut album Borerer) before absorbing more rock, metal, and grunge elements as it progressed (2007's Self-Centered Tales from the Project That Failed onward) while still retaining the dense beds of samples, percussion, and electronics.

In total, four albums and two EPs appeared over a notably prolific four-year period before the project was put to rest, drawing influence mainly from industrial music and alternative rock/metal but also taking elements from electronica, acoustic rock, found sound recordings, concrete music, grunge, and indie rock.

Shortly after the release of 2008's Extreme Disappointment album, Seth Eggler (drums) and Jesse Recalma (bass guitar) were recruited to give the project a full live band (Josiah performed guitar and vocals). Only a few Swimfail live performances occurred before Josiah began work on 2009's Vermin, the last release before the project's current inactive status.

The entire Swimfail discography is currently available for free download in the music section.