Time for Rock...
Hailing from the heart of the Mid South in Tulsa, Oklahoma, Goodridge is an emo band that's earned a reputation for being a favorite among other bands. They wear the badge of "band's favorite band" with pride, proving that their music resonates deeply with those who understand the genre's soul.
Rozwell Kid, hailing from the heart of West Virginia, burst onto the indie rock scene in 2011. They quickly became known for their energetic live shows and catchy tunes, blending a classic indie rock sound with a playful, punk-inspired energy.
From Humble Beginnings to Chart Success:
The band's journey began with their self-titled debut album, "The Rozwell Kid LP," released in 2011. They followed up with "Unmacho" in 2013, solidifying their signature sound. A split EP with fellow indie rockers Sleeping Bag, titled "Dreamboats," dropped later that year, further showcasing their versatility.
Their third full-length album, "Too Shabby," released in 2014, was a critical success, featuring guitar solos praised by the legendary Lee Hartney of The Smith Street Band.
The band continued their creative streak with the "Good Graphics" EP in 2015 and a collaborative split EP with The World Is A Beautiful Place & I Am No Longer Afraid to Die, aptly named "Fourteen Minute Mile."
Breaking Through with "Precious Art":
In 2017, Rozwell Kid signed with the esteemed SideOneDummy label and released their critically acclaimed album, "Precious Art." This album showcased their growth as musicians, with a mature sound and introspective lyrics that resonated with listeners. The album received widespread praise, earning an impressive 80 on Metacritic based on seven reviews.
"Precious Art" also charted significantly, reaching 13th on the Billboard Heatseekers Albums chart, 24th on the Vinyl Albums chart, and 39th on the Independent Albums chart.
A Legacy of Rock & Roll:
Rozwell Kid's story is a testament to their dedication and raw talent. They've built a loyal fanbase through their captivating music and energetic live shows, leaving their mark on the indie rock scene. With their infectious sound and heartfelt lyrics, they continue to inspire and entertain, cementing their place as one of the most exciting acts to emerge from West Virginia.
Hailing from the vibrant music scene of Ann Arbor, Michigan, Taproot emerged in 1997 as a driving force in the alternative metal scene. This quartet, featuring vocalist/guitarist Stephen Richards, bassist Phil Lipscomb, drummer Jarrod Montague, and guitarist Taylor Roberts, quickly garnered attention for their powerful sound and unforgettable riffs.
The band's early days were marked by independent releases, showcasing their raw energy and developing musical identity. Their breakthrough arrived in 1999 when they signed with Atlantic Records, a major label known for its support of groundbreaking artists. Their debut album, Gift, released in 2000, marked a significant step forward, propelled by the singles "Again & Again" and "I," which garnered moderate success.
But it was their 2002 album Welcome that truly cemented Taproot's place in the rock world. Led by the explosive single "Poem," the album dominated the Mainstream Rock chart, reaching the coveted No. 5 position. "Poem" became a staple on rock radio and a defining track for the band, showcasing their ability to craft catchy hooks and powerful lyrics.
Taproot's journey is a testament to their talent, resilience, and unwavering passion for creating dynamic, engaging music. They continue to tour and release music, leaving an indelible mark on the alternative metal scene with their signature blend of heaviness and melodic sensibility.
Born from the fertile musical ground of Glendale, California, in 1994, System of a Down is a heavy metal titan whose sound resonates with both ferocious power and poignant political messaging. The band, comprised of Armenian-American musicians, burst onto the scene with a unique blend of aggression, dissonance, and lyrical depth, crafting a musical identity that is both undeniably heavy and distinctly their own.
At the heart of the band's sonic assault are the founding members: Serj Tankian, whose soaring vocals and haunting melodies drive the band's emotional core; Daron Malakian, the guitar virtuoso who weaves intricate riffs and scorching solos through Tankian's lyrical tapestry; Shavo Odadjian, the bassist whose rhythmic foundations provide the band's groove; and John Dolmayan, the drummer who unleashes a hurricane of percussion, anchoring the band's undeniable energy.
System of a Down's success is undeniable. Five studio albums, including three that topped the US Billboard 200, have cemented their place in heavy metal history. Their music has been recognized with four Grammy Award nominations, culminating in a win for Best Hard Rock Performance in 2006 for their anthem "B.Y.O.B." Though the band went on hiatus in 2006, reuniting in 2010, their impact has remained constant, selling over 12 million records worldwide and producing chart-topping hits like "Aerials" and "Hypnotize."
The band's Armenian heritage is deeply interwoven with their music. All members trace their roots to Armenian immigrants, carrying with them a collective history and cultural identity that informs their songwriting and artistic vision. This connection is evident in their vocal advocacy for the Armenian cause, particularly their unwavering support for recognizing the Armenian Genocide.
Their story began in the halls of Rose and Alex Pilibos Armenian School, where Serj Tankian and Daron Malakian crossed paths despite their eight-year age gap. It was in a shared recording studio in 1992 that their musical journeys intertwined, laying the foundation for the band that would go on to shake the world with their powerful music and unwavering message.
This is the story of System of a Down – a band that embodies the raw power of heavy metal, the emotional depth of a shared heritage, and the unwavering voice of a generation.
L.S. Dunes, a supergroup formed in the throes of the COVID-19 pandemic, is a musical force to be reckoned with. Headed by the iconic Anthony Green (known for his work with Circa Survive, Saosin, and The Sound of Animals Fighting), the band boasts a lineup that reads like a who's who of post-hardcore and emo giants.
The project came to life during rehearsals for Thursday's 2020 holiday livestream, initially going by the playful name "Dad Bods." The band's debut album, Past Lives, was meticulously crafted with individual members recording their parts remotely before Green joined the fold. The album's instrumental tracks were sent to Green by Thursday drummer Tucker Rule, who masterminded the project's genesis.
Rumors of this dream team first surfaced in May 2022 when the band appeared on the poster for Riot Fest. Soon after, the lineup was unveiled, revealing My Chemical Romance guitarist Frank Iero, Coheed and Cambria's Travis Stever, and Thursday's Tim Payne on bass. Their debut single, "Permanent Rebellion," dropped in August 2022, a powerful anthem that set the stage for the release of Past Lives in November of that year. The album was met with critical acclaim, showcasing the band's raw energy and nostalgic yet forward-thinking sound.
L.S. Dunes quickly made their mark on the live circuit, performing their first show at Riot Fest 2022. They followed this up with their inaugural UK tour in January 2023 and their first US tour in July 2023, solidifying their position as a force to be reckoned with in the modern music scene.
This unique blend of seasoned musicians has breathed new life into the post-hardcore scene, delivering a powerful blend of melodic sensibilities and hard-hitting riffs. With L.S. Dunes, these iconic figures have come together to create something truly special, a sonic testament to their enduring passion for music and their undeniable talent.
Theory of a Deadman, often shortened to Theory or T.O.A.D, is a Canadian rock band hailing from North Delta, British Columbia. Born in 1999, the band boasts a unique blend of post-grunge and alternative rock, infused with elements of country and acoustic sounds. Their raw energy and distinct sound have propelled them to international recognition, particularly in the US.
A Story of Grit and Success
Theory of a Deadman's journey began with lead guitarist/vocalist Tyler Connolly and bassist Dean Back, who joined forces in 1999. Their talent caught the attention of Chad Kroeger, frontman of Nickelback, who was captivated by their raw demo. This encounter led to the band signing with Kroeger's 604 Records imprint in 2001, marking the beginning of their ascent.
Their self-titled debut album, released in 2002, was co-produced by Kroeger himself. The album's name stems from a song on the record, later retitled "The Last Song," which tells the tale of a man preparing to take his own life. This powerful narrative became a symbol of the band's raw emotionality and their ability to connect with listeners on a deep level.
Chart-topping Success
Theory of a Deadman's music has resonated with audiences worldwide, leading to nine singles cracking the top ten on the US Billboard Mainstream Rock chart. Among these hits are four chart-toppers: "Bad Girlfriend," "Lowlife," "Rx (Medicate)," and "History of Violence." These achievements solidified their position as a force in the rock music scene, proving their longevity and impact on the genre.
A Legacy of Passion
Theory of a Deadman has crafted a unique sound that blends hard-hitting rock with heartfelt lyrics, capturing the raw emotions of life and love. Their journey, from the humble beginnings in North Delta to conquering the US charts, is a testament to their talent, resilience, and unwavering passion for music.
Elephant Gym, a name that instantly conjures images of heavy riffs and intricate rhythms, is a math rock trio hailing from Kaohsiung, Taiwan. Founded in February 2012 by siblings KT (bass) and Tell (guitar) Chang, alongside drummer Chia-Chin Tu, this band isn't your average rock outfit. The name itself is a powerful statement, with "elephant" symbolizing their bass-driven, monstrous sound and "gym" referencing their agility and unpredictable rhythmic prowess.
From Classical Roots to Math Rock Masters:
Each member brings a unique background to the group. KT and Tell were classically trained by their mother, while Chia-Chin honed his skills in classical percussion. This diverse musical upbringing formed the foundation for Elephant Gym's unique sound. After meeting at a high school music club, the trio wasted no time in forging their own musical path. They self-produced a limited-edition EP and toured Taiwan on their single "Ordinary Route", which later found its place on their debut album.
Early Success and Hiatus:
In May 2013, their first official EP, "Balance", dropped, featuring the standout track "Ocean in the Night" produced alongside Hong-shen Hong, the frontman of the acclaimed indie band Touming Magazine. The band continued to gain momentum, collaborating with pop singer Yoga Lin on the song "Speaking in Tongues", performing with him in Hong Kong and at Taipei Arena. Their debut album, "Angle", followed in June 2014, showcasing their signature sound through collaborations with artists like Panai Kusui and Enno Cheng. However, in December 2014, a year-long hiatus was announced due to Taiwanese compulsory military service. Their farewell performance, "See You Then", served as a poignant send-off, accompanied by a touching short documentary of the same name.
A Return to the Stage and Beyond:
In August 2016, Elephant Gym returned with a vengeance, releasing "Angle" in Japan and being invited to perform at the prestigious Summer Sonic Festival. Their post-hiatus period marked a new era, with the band continuing to push boundaries and captivate audiences worldwide with their electrifying live performances and innovative musical explorations.
Elephant Gym's story is a testament to passion, talent, and the enduring power of music. Their commitment to their craft and their captivating live shows have cemented their status as one of the leading forces in the global math rock scene. As they continue to evolve, Elephant Gym's legacy is poised to inspire generations of musicians and fans alike.
