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Founded in: 800
Simon Says, hailing from Sacramento, California, is a rock band with a history rooted in the California high school scene. The original lineup, featuring vocalist Matt Franks, guitarist Zac Diebels, and drummer Mike Johnston, cut their teeth playing local high school auditoriums in the early 1990s. Bassist Mike Arrieta joined the fold in 1995, completing the classic quartet.
Their early efforts, two self-released records, caught the ear of manager Jeff Saltzman, who saw their potential. He secured them a deal with Hollywood Records in 1998, after pairing them with renowned producer Mark Needham. In 1999, they unleashed their major-label debut, "Jump Start," which spawned two hits on the modern rock charts. Their follow-up, "Shut Your Breath," delivered another radio smash with the song "Blister," solidifying their presence on the rock scene. The band even took part in the ESPN X Games Experience tour in 1999, showcasing their energetic live performance.
However, the band’s journey took a turn in 2001. Promotional disagreements with Hollywood Records led to their departure from the label and a name change to Key to Arson. Shortly after, drummer Mike Johnston decided to pursue other endeavors, replaced by Dave "Stixx" Marich.
Despite the change in direction, the band ultimately disbanded in 2004. But in 2023, Simon Says made a triumphant return, reuniting to reintroduce their music to a new generation. They added their albums to streaming platforms, giving fans access to their energetic rock sound. Even more exciting, they promised new music on the horizon, indicating a renewed passion for creating and sharing their music with the world.
Founded in: 1999
Ill Niño, the American nu-metal band, burst onto the scene in 1998 from the gritty streets of Union City, New Jersey. Founded by drummer and percussionist Dave Chavarri, the band's name, Spanish for "ill child," reflects their raw energy and aggressive sound. While Chavarri remains the sole original member, Ill Niño has undergone numerous lineup changes throughout their history, showcasing a constant evolution in their musical journey.
Early Days and Formation
Initially known as "El Niño," the band's core lineup featured former Pro-Pain drummer Chavarri, Merauder vocalist Jorge Rosado, guitarist Daniel Gomez, and bassist Christian Machado. This formation released a self-titled EP, showcasing their signature blend of heavy riffs, driving rhythms, and powerful vocals. However, Gomez's departure led to a revolving door of guitarists, including future full-time member Marc Rizzo, Scott Roberts of Biohazard, and Derek Sykes of Demolition Hammer.
The "Ill Niño" Era and Beyond
After a brief period of inactivity due to Chavarri's temporary role in Soulfly, the band solidified its name as "Ill Niño" and began to carve their niche in the nu-metal scene. Their unique blend of aggression, Latin influences, and melodic elements resonated with fans, ultimately leading to the release of seven studio albums, two EPs, and a compilation album, selling over 1.3 million copies worldwide.
A Legacy of Nu-Metal
Ill Niño's legacy is built on a foundation of relentless touring, captivating live performances, and an unwavering commitment to their craft. The band's impact on the nu-metal scene is undeniable, inspiring a new generation of musicians while continuing to tour and release new music. Despite changes in lineup and musical direction, Ill Niño has maintained a loyal fan base and a reputation for delivering powerful, high-energy performances.
Founded in: 2012
Ho99o9 (pronounced "Horror") is more than just a punk-rap duo, they're a sonic explosion of aggression and energy. Formed in 2012 in Newark, New Jersey by theOGM and Yeti Bones, the band quickly gained a reputation for their raw, chaotic live performances.
Their sound is a heady blend of hardcore punk, hip-hop, and industrial noise, fueled by a deep-rooted love of horror movies and gritty urban realism. It's no surprise that they were named one of Rolling Stone's "10 New Artists You Need to Know" in 2014 and The Guardian's "New Band of the Week."
They've taken their intense live shows to festivals like Afropunk, SXSW, and Primavera Sound, leaving audiences breathless and wanting more. Ho99o9 has also released several EPs and two full-length albums: "United States of Horror" (2017) and "SKIN" (2022), both of which are accompanied by visually striking, grindhouse-inspired music videos.
A Tale of Two Cities and Two Influences
TheOGM (born in Elizabeth, New Jersey and raised in Linden) and Eaddy (from Newark) both came from the same performing arts collective, NJstreetKLAN (also known as JerseyKLAN). Their musical roots are deeply intertwined with their urban upbringing. They were drawn to the raw power of hip-hop and gangsta rap in their youth, citing DMX and Bone Thugs-n-Harmony as influences.
However, their musical journey took them further into the underground punk scene of Brooklyn, where they were exposed to bands like Japanther, Cerebral Ballzy, and The Death Set. The influence of electronic artists like Ninjasonik, Theophilus London, and the A.L.I.E.N. art shows further shaped their sound.
The band's sound is a perfect storm of these diverse influences, combined with their love of horror films and the aesthetic of director Rob Zombie, a former frontman of White Zombie.
Critics Acclaim the Horror
Critics have recognized the cinematic quality of Ho99o9's music, citing their punk and hip-hop roots as key inspirations. They've drawn comparisons to bands like Death Grips, Black Flag, Big Black, and Bad Brains, all of whom are known for their raw energy and uncompromising sound.
Ho99o9 is more than just a band, they're an experience. Their music is a visceral punch in the gut, a sonic testament to the power of raw energy and unflinching honesty. They're the embodiment of the chaotic beauty of their urban upbringing, infused with the dark humor and grit of their horror influences.
Founded in: 800
Holy Fawn, hailing from Phoenix, Arizona, is an American rock band that's been making waves in the music scene. The current lineup features Ryan Osterman on guitar and vocals, Evan Phelps on guitar, and Austin Reinholz on drums. Bassist Alexander Rieth was also part of the band until 2023. They've released two full-length studio albums and two extended plays.
From Folk to Rock: A Journey of Musical Evolution
Holy Fawn's story begins with Ryan Osterman, who first gained experience as a musician with the "ghost folk" band, Owl & Penny. Osterman's departure from that group signaled a shift in his musical direction, leading him to form Holy Fawn alongside Alexander Rieth, Evan Phelps, and Austin Reinholz.
The band's origins can be traced back to a jam session at Rieth and Reinholz's shared home. Osterman recorded their practice, which eventually became the demos for their debut EP, Realms. Released in December 2015, Realms marked the beginning of Holy Fawn's journey.
Prior to forming Holy Fawn, Osterman had also contributed as a guitarist in the alternative rock band, The Maine, while Rieth had played with A Distant Calm.
A Sonic Identity: Death Spells and Beyond
In September 2018, Holy Fawn took a significant step forward by self-releasing their debut studio album, Death Spells. This album, along with their subsequent releases, showcase Holy Fawn's unique blend of rock, post-punk, and alternative influences. The band continues to build their catalog, offering a sound that is both familiar and distinctly their own.
Founded in: 2004
Veil of Maya, hailing from the heart of Chicago's metal scene, emerged in 2004 with a sound that would redefine the landscape of metalcore. Forged from the ashes of melodic death metal act Insurrection, the band's core lineup – guitarist Marc Okubo, drummer Sam Applebaum, and bassist Danny Hauser – quickly attracted talented musicians, crafting a unique blend of technical riffs, punishing breakdowns, and melodic vocals.
From Humble Beginnings to a Searing Debut:
Their early years saw a whirlwind of lineup changes, with guitarist Timothy Marshall and vocalist Adam joining the fold, followed by a brief but impactful stint with guitarist Scott Okarma. This period saw the band honing their craft through local gigs and their self-released 2005 demo, a raw testament to their burgeoning talent. The departure of both Marshall and Okarma led to the arrival of Bryan Ruppell, solidifying their lineup as a five-piece force to be reckoned with.
All Things Set Aside: A Defining Moment:
Armed with their signature blend of heavy and melodic, Veil of Maya unleashed their self-produced debut album, "All Things Set Aside," in 2006 through Corrosive Recordings. This record served as a blistering introduction to their signature sound, a fusion of technical proficiency and emotional depth. It cemented their place as pioneers of a new wave of metalcore, pushing boundaries and garnering critical acclaim.
The Common Man's Collapse: A New Era of Brutality:
Following the release of their debut, Veil of Maya continued to evolve. The band's sophomore album, "The Common Man's Collapse," in 2009, marked a significant shift in their sound. The album showcased a more brutal and aggressive direction, further cementing their reputation for powerful and uncompromising music.
A Legacy in the Making:
This is just the beginning of Veil of Maya's story. The band has gone on to release six more critically acclaimed albums, consistently pushing the limits of metalcore and solidifying their place as a force to be reckoned with in the genre. They have captivated audiences worldwide, becoming a cornerstone of the modern metal scene. Their latest album, "Mother," released in May 2023, exemplifies their continued evolution, leaving fans eager to see what the future holds for this relentless and innovative metalcore juggernaut.
Founded in: 2016
Oxymorrons, hailing from the melting pot of Queens, New York, are a force of nature in the rap-rock scene. Brothers Kami ("K.I.") and Demi ("Deee") are the driving force behind this sonic explosion, blending their love for hip-hop and rock into a genre-bending experience.
Their journey began with a shared dream to create music that defied categorization. After years of honing their craft in other bands, they decided to unleash their unique sound on the New York music scene. The lineup expanded with the addition of powerhouse drummer Matty Mayz, whose explosive beats are a defining element of their live shows. Jafe Paulino, a multifaceted musician, contributes vocals, bass, and guitar, adding another layer of depth to their sound.
Oxymorrons are more than just a band; they are a voice for the ostracized and overlooked. Their message of embracing individuality resonates with anyone who's ever felt like an outsider. Their music is a defiant anthem for the underdog, encouraging listeners to celebrate their unique identities.
Their explosive energy has captivated audiences at major festivals like SXSW, Firefly, and AfroPunk. They've shared stages with major artists like Ludacris, Juicy J, Bruno Mars, and Rihanna, solidifying their place in the contemporary music landscape.
In 2018, Oxymorrons dropped "Brunch," the lead single from their upcoming project. VIBE Magazine christened them "The Mash Out Posse," recognizing their ability to seamlessly blend hip-hop, rock, funk, and alternative elements into a singular and unforgettable sound.
Oxymorrons are proof that musical boundaries are meant to be broken. With their high-energy performances, socially conscious lyrics, and eclectic sound, they are rewriting the rules of rock, one blistering track at a time.
Founded in: 1998
CKY, an acronym for "Camp Kill Yourself," is an American rock band hailing from West Chester, Pennsylvania. Formed in 1998 by vocalist and guitarist Deron Miller, guitarist Chad I Ginsburg, and drummer Jess Margera, the group currently features Margera, Ginsburg, and bassist Ronnie Elvis James.
CKY initially gained recognition through their contributions to the "CKY Video" series and the popular MTV show "Jackass," both featuring Margera's brother, Bam.
After the release of their debut album "Volume 1" in 1999, CKY signed with Island/Def Jam and released "Infiltrate Destroy Rebuild" in 2002, earning the band their first US chart success. "An Answer Can Be Found" followed in 2005, leading the group to sign with Roadrunner Records and release "Carver City" in 2009.
In 2011, Miller left the band, leaving Ginsburg, Margera, and bassist Matt Deis to release "The Phoenix" on Entertainment One Music in 2017.
CKY has been categorized across various genres, including alternative rock/metal, post-grunge, stoner rock, and hard rock. Their songwriting was typically led by Miller, while Ginsburg handled production, engineering, and mixing. Following Miller's departure, Ginsburg took over as frontman.
Miller later reformed his pre-CKY group Foreign Objects (which originally included Margera) and founded 96 Bitter Beings, a continuation of the style he previously played with CKY.
History
1998-2001: Formation and Early Releases
Deron Miller and Jess Margera met in high school in 1992 and formed the band Foreign Objects, releasing "The Undiscovered Numbers & Colors" in 1995.
The band changed their name to CKY, and their unique blend of humor, heavy riffs, and dark lyrical themes resonated with fans, particularly after their appearances in the "CKY Video" series.
Founded in: 2003
Moonshine Bandits, the dynamic American duo comprised of Dusty "Tex" Dahlgren and Brett "Bird" Brooks, burst onto the scene in 2003, carving a unique path through the world of country rap. Hailing from California, they've built a solid discography, with their latest album, "The Whiskey Never Dries," released in August 2019, showcasing their signature blend of gritty lyrics and hard-hitting beats.
Their musical journey began with the release of their debut album, "Soggy Crackerz," in 2003. The duo's collaboration with Ty Weathers, founder of Burn County Music, proved to be a pivotal moment, shaping their signature "Blue Core/Dirt Rock" sound.
Following the success of "Soggy Crackerz," they dropped "Prohibition" in 2006 and "Divebars and Truckstops" in 2010, solidifying their position as a force to be reckoned with in the country rap genre.
In 2011, Moonshine Bandits signed with Suburban Noize Records, releasing their fourth album, "Whiskey and Women." The music video for their hit single, "My Kind of Country," premiered on CMT Pure Country in February 2012, featuring a special appearance by Mike Allsup (The Bearded Guy) from Modesto, California, adding a touch of authentic Americana to their sound.
Partnering with Average Joes Entertainment in 2014, they released their fifth album, "Calicountry." The album's success was undeniable, selling 3,000 copies in its first week of release, debuting at number 22 on the Billboard Top Country Albums chart and number 126 on the Billboard 200 chart.
Their sixth album, "Blacked Out," hit the shelves in July 2015, debuting at number 158 on the Billboard 200 chart and number... [The rest of your text is missing information.]
Moonshine Bandits are a testament to the power of blending genres, creating a raw and energetic sound that resonates with fans seeking a unique fusion of country and hip-hop. With their dedicated fanbase and consistent string of successful albums, they continue to push the boundaries of country rap, solidifying their place as pioneers in this exciting genre.
Founded in: 1994
Hed PE, a name synonymous with raw energy and a genre-bending sound, emerged from the vibrant Huntington Beach, California, punk scene in 1994. The band, known for their unique blend of gangsta rap and punk rock, which they coined "G-punk", has also incorporated elements of reggae into their music, creating a truly eclectic soundscape.
Their iconic name, often stylized as (hëd)p.e., (hed) Planet Earth, or (Hed)PE, stands for Higher Education Planet Earth/Planetary Evolution.
Early Days and Major Label Success:
Vocalist Jared Gomes, better known as "M.C.U.D." (MC Underdog), and guitarist Wes Geer were the founding fathers of Hed PE. They joined forces with guitarist Chizad, bassist Mawk, drummer B.C. Vaught, and DJ Product © 1969 to create a potent sonic force.
The band's first three albums, released on Jive Records, solidified their position as a major force in the nu-metal scene. They would later chart their own course, leaving the major label to pursue independent ventures.
Independent Spirit and The "9/11 Truth" Movement:
After parting ways with Jive Records, Hed PE signed with Suburban Noize Records from 2006 to 2010. During this period, the band became increasingly vocal about their involvement in the 9/11 Truth movement, incorporating themes of government conspiracy and the questioning of official narratives into their music and live shows. This particularly resonated in their album "New World Orphans."
Since 2014, Hed PE has been signed with Pavement Music. Their discography is expansive, boasting fourteen studio albums, a live album, and three compilation albums. Their music has reached over 700,000 fans worldwide, cementing their legacy as a band that broke boundaries and challenged the status quo.
Hed PE's Lasting Impact:
The band's impact on the music scene is undeniable. They fused heavy metal, rap, and punk rock in a unique and impactful way. Their rebellious spirit, strong messages, and captivating live performances have created a loyal and passionate fanbase that continues to grow. Hed PE remains a vital force in the nu-metal scene, a band that never shies away from pushing creative boundaries and delivering their music with raw passion and unwavering conviction.
Founded in: 1987
Local H, the iconic American rock duo, was born in the small town of Zion, Illinois in 1990. Guitarist/vocalist Scott Lucas and bassist Matt Garcia, friends since high school in 1987, were joined by drummer Joe Daniels and lead guitarist John Sparkman to form the band's initial lineup. Sparkman departed in 1991, followed by Garcia in 1993, leaving Local H as a dynamic, unorthodox two-piece.
Despite the lineup changes, the band persevered, signing with Island Records in 1994. Their debut album, "Ham Fisted" (1995), failed to achieve commercial success, putting the band on the brink of being dropped. However, Local H's determination paid off. Their sophomore effort, "As Good as Dead" (1996), became a breakthrough, selling over 320,000 copies and launching their iconic single "Bound for the Floor." This anthemic track stormed the US Alternative Billboard Chart, peaking at number 5 and cementing its place as Local H's signature song.
Their third album, "Pack Up the Cats" (1998), received critical acclaim, gracing several "Best of the Year" lists. However, the album's commercial success was hindered by a corporate merger involving Island's parent company, PolyGram, which negatively impacted promotional efforts.
Despite this setback, Local H continued to tour relentlessly, solidifying their reputation as a powerful live act. In 1999, they parted ways with Island and welcomed Brian St. Clair to the fold as their new drummer. This marked the beginning of a new chapter for the band, who continued to tour and release music independently, demonstrating a resilience that has become synonymous with Local H's legacy.