ERRA: A Heavy Hitter in the Progressive Metalcore Scene

ERRA, the American progressive metalcore band hailing from Birmingham, Alabama, burst onto the scene in 2009. Named after the Akkadian god of war and plague, ERRA's music reflects this fierce, untamed spirit. Since their inception, they've dropped six studio albums and three EPs, amassing a loyal following with their intricate song structures, soaring vocals, and explosive energy. Their latest release, "Cure", dropped on April 5th, 2024, and has already made waves within the metal community.

ERRA's journey has seen them share the stage with some of the biggest names in the genre, including As I Lay Dying, August Burns Red, TesseracT, Born of Osiris, Ice Nine Kills, Glass Cloud, Within the Ruins, Bad Omens, I See Stars, and Texas in July. This extensive touring has cemented their place as a force to be reckoned with in the live music scene.

Early Days and "Impulse" (2009-2011)

The band's origins can be traced back to a group of high school friends – Alex Ballew, Jesse Cash, Adam Hicks, Garrison Lee, and Alan Rigdon. Their self-titled debut EP in 2009 and subsequent release, "Andromeda" in 2010, caught the attention of Tragic Hero Records, who signed them in 2011. Later that year, ERRA unleashed their debut studio album, "Impulse", followed by tours with titans of the scene like Born of Osiris and Upon a Burning Body.

"Augment" and Line-Up Changes (2012-2014)

A turning point in ERRA's history came in 2012 when Adam Hicks left the band to pursue other career endeavors. This spurred a period of creative evolution, with Jesse Cash taking on the double duty of guitar and bass for their second album, "Augment." The release of "Augment" in 2013 saw the band solidify their unique sound and showcase their growing songwriting prowess.

From "Augment" to "Cure": A Story of Growth and Evolution

This shift in lineup marked the beginning of a new chapter for ERRA. Their subsequent releases, "Augment," "Drift," "Neon," and "The Score," demonstrate their continuous evolution and refinement of their musical style. Their latest album, "Cure," represents the pinnacle of their artistic journey, showcasing a band that has not only grown musically but also matured as storytellers.

ERRA's story is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and the shared vision of talented musicians. They have established themselves as a cornerstone in the progressive metalcore scene, and with each release, they continue to push boundaries and redefine the genre. Their journey, marked by line-up changes, creative breakthroughs, and unwavering dedication, is one that will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations of metalheads.

Dethklok: The Metalocalypse's Reign of Parody

Dethklok, the fictional melodic death metal band from Adult Swim's animated series "Metalocalypse," is a masterclass in satirical metal mayhem. Known for their over-the-top lyrics and tongue-in-cheek humor, Dethklok quickly became a cult favorite, capturing the spirit of the genre with an unapologetic dose of absurdity.

Their debut album, "The Dethalbum," dropped on September 25, 2007, making a splash on the Billboard charts, landing at number 21. The band continued their reign of musical terror with "Dethalbum II" in 2009, hitting the road with fellow metal giants Mastodon, High on Fire, and Converge. Dethklok's third album, "Dethalbum III," saw the light of day in 2012, solidifying their position as a force to be reckoned with.

To bring their music to life on stage, a real-life band was formed, capturing the raw energy and monstrous sound of Dethklok. The brainchild of Brendon Small (creator of "Metalocalypse") and Tommy Blacha, this collaboration made the fictional band's musical dreams a reality. Small himself lends his talents to the music heard in the show and on the albums, recruiting a cast of seasoned musicians for live performances.

In 2017, Small released "Brendon Small's Galaktikon II," a solo album widely considered a continuation of Dethklok's legacy, a testament to the enduring power of the band's sound, even if the name itself remains under the control of Adult Swim. Dethklok has become more than just a fictional band; it's a cultural phenomenon, a testament to the enduring power of metal and the infectious humor that comes with it.

Exodus: A Thrash Metal Legacy

Hailing from Richmond, California, Exodus is a pioneering force in the American thrash metal scene, formed in 1979. Though the lineup has shifted over the years, they've remained a powerful entity, currently featuring guitarists Gary Holt and Lee Altus, bassist Jack Gibson, drummer Tom Hunting, and vocalist Steve "Zetro" Souza.

Exodus boasts a unique history, with Tom Hunting being the only original member remaining. Hunting has weathered two departures from the band, first in 1989, then again in 2004, ultimately rejoining in 2007. The band also served as a launchpad for the legendary Kirk Hammett, who held the lead guitarist position from Exodus' inception until 1983, when he joined Metallica as Dave Mustaine's replacement.

Gary Holt, who replaced original guitarist Tim Agnello in 1981, has been a stalwart through various lineup changes and breakups, becoming the most consistent member and the only one to appear on every Exodus recording. Despite facing a turbulent history marked by band member feuds, record label conflicts, extended hiatuses, the loss of former members, and struggles with drug addiction, Exodus has persevered.

Their legacy speaks volumes. With eleven studio albums, three live albums, a compilation album, and a re-recording of their debut album, they've solidified their place as a cornerstone of the Bay Area thrash metal scene. Alongside Metallica, they're often recognized as pioneers of the genre, earning a place among the region's "Big Six" alongside Testament, Death Angel, Lȧȧz Rockit, Forbidden, and Vio-lence.

Exodus' influence extends beyond their regional scene. They're considered one of thrash metal's "Big Eight" alongside Metallica, Megadeth, Slayer, Anthrax, Testament, Overkill, and Death Angel. Their first three studio albums, Bonded by Blood (1985), Pleasures of the Flesh (1987), and Fabulous Disaster (1989), propelled them to success during the mid-to-late 1980s, solidifying their place in metal history. With over five million albums sold worldwide, Exodus continues to inspire and influence generations of metal fans.

The Melvins: A Sonic Juggernaut from the Pacific Northwest

The Melvins, sometimes known simply as "The Melvins," are a legendary American rock band, formed in 1983 in the small town of Montesano, Washington. Their groundbreaking early work laid the foundation for both the grunge and sludge metal scenes, influencing countless bands that followed.

This trio, often augmented by additional musicians, typically features vocalist and guitarist Buzz Osborne and drummer Dale Crover as the core unit. Since 1984, these two have been the band's constant members, a testament to their enduring creative partnership. The Melvins have also experimented with a quartet formation, incorporating either two drummers or two bassists to amplify their already colossal sound.

The Early Years (1983-1987):

The band's origins can be traced back to the early 1980s, when Buzz Osborne, Matt Lukin, and Mike Dillard, all classmates at Montesano Junior/Senior High School, decided to form a band. They initially named themselves after a disliked supervisor at a local Thriftway store, where Osborne worked. The name "Melvin" felt aptly ridiculous, fitting their raw and uncompromising musical vision.

The band's early sound was a blend of Jimi Hendrix and The Who covers, infused with the ferocious energy of fast hardcore punk. However, Dillard's departure in 1984 led to the arrival of Dale Crover, a local drummer who would become an integral part of the Melvins' sonic identity. The band's rehearsals moved to a back room in Crover's parents' Aberdeen home, where they began to forge their own unique and powerful sound.

Machine Head: A Heavy Metal Journey From Oakland to the World

Hailing from the gritty streets of Oakland, California, Machine Head emerged in 1991 as a force of raw, aggressive heavy metal. The brainchild of vocalist/rhythm guitarist Robb Flynn, the band has remained a cornerstone of the genre, pioneering the new wave of American heavy metal with their ferocious musicianship.

Their early albums, steeped in groove and nu metal influences, garnered a passionate fan base in Europe, laying the foundation for their future success. While their initial US breakthrough was yet to come, their fourth record, "Supercharger" (2001), sparked controversy. Released amidst the fallout of the September 11 attacks, the album's lead single "Crashing Around You" and its music video featuring burning buildings were pulled from media outlets, throwing the band into a whirlwind of negativity. This unfortunate turn of events nearly led to Machine Head's demise as they faced pressure from their label, Roadrunner Records.

However, the band persevered, re-signing with Roadrunner and taking a significant artistic turn. "The Blackening" (2007), their sixth album, showcased a return to their thrash metal roots, featuring longer, more complex songs and an undeniable heaviness. Critical acclaim followed, with the album earning the prestigious "Album of the Decade" award from Metal Hammer in 2010. Its first single, "Aesthetics of Hate", even earned a Grammy nomination.

This triumphant return to form carried through their subsequent albums, "Unto the Locust" (2011) and "Bloodstone & Diamonds" (2014), solidifying their position as a leading force in modern heavy metal. The band continued to explore musical boundaries with their ninth album, "Catharsis" (2018), embracing nu metal elements once again.

Throughout their career, Machine Head has undergone various line-up changes, with Robb Flynn as the sole original member. Notably, past members such as Adam Duce (bass), Logan Mader, Ahrue Luster and Phil Demmel (guitars), and Tony Costanza, Chris Kontos and Dave McClain (drums) have all played significant roles in shaping the band's sound. Mader and Kontos even reunited with the band for their 25th anniversary tour in 2019 and 2020, celebrating their landmark album "Burn My Eyes" (1994).

Machine Head's journey has been a testament to resilience and musical evolution. From the underground to the mainstream, their unrelenting energy and masterful songwriting have left an indelible mark on the heavy metal landscape. As they continue to push boundaries and inspire generations of fans, Machine Head remains a powerful force in the world of music.

Underoath: A Rock Band's Journey Through Sound and Change

Underoath, often stylized as Underøath or UnderOath, emerged from the Florida music scene, born in Ocala in 1997. The band, originally a Christian group, was founded by vocalist Dallas Taylor and guitarist Luke Morton. They later relocated to Tampa, where drummer, clean vocalist, and last remaining original member Aaron Gillespie joined the fold.

Underoath's early years were marked by frequent lineup changes. Taylor's powerful vocals graced the band's first three releases - Act of Depression, Cries of the Past, and The Changing of Times. However, he left in 2003, paving the way for Spencer Chamberlain to become the new lead vocalist. This change marked a turning point for Underoath, leading to a more stable lineup that would define their sound for years to come.

The band's breakthrough came with the release of They're Only Chasing Safety and Define the Great Line, both achieving Gold certification from the RIAA. These albums cemented Underoath's mainstream success, with Define the Great Line hitting number 2 on the Billboard 200 chart.

Underoath continued to explore their musical direction with their sixth album, Lost in the Sound of Separation, which also achieved top-ten success on the Billboard 200. However, following its release, Gillespie left the band, making way for former Norma Jean drummer Daniel Davison.

The band's seventh album, Ø (Disambiguation), saw the departure from their Christian roots and the emergence of Chamberlain and McTague's clean vocals in Gillespie's absence. This marked a new chapter in Underoath's story, showcasing their ability to adapt and innovate while retaining their core sound.

Throughout their evolution, Underoath has left an indelible mark on the rock music landscape. Their distinctive blend of heavy riffs, emotive lyrics, and shifting vocals has captured the hearts of millions, establishing them as a powerful and enduring force in the music world.

Mudvayne: A Sonic Revolution from the Heart of Illinois

Mudvayne, the heavy metal titans hailing from Peoria, Illinois, burst onto the scene in 1996, ready to redefine the genre. Known for their audacious sonic experimentation, theatrical face and body paint, and iconic masks and uniforms, Mudvayne became a force to be reckoned with, selling over five million records worldwide.

The band's core consists of Greg Tribbett (lead guitar), Matthew McDonough (drums), Chad Gray (lead vocals), and Ryan Martinie (bass). They were joined on stage by live rhythm guitarist Marcus Rafferty.

Mudvayne's journey began in the vibrant Peoria underground music scene, where they quickly gained notoriety. Their breakthrough came with the release of their debut album, L.D. 50, in 2000. The album's lead single, "Dig," became a heavy metal anthem, propelling the band into the spotlight.

After releasing four more critically acclaimed albums and touring relentlessly for nearly a decade, Mudvayne took a hiatus in 2010. However, their legion of fans never forgot them. In 2021, they triumphantly returned to the stage, proving that their sonic power remained as potent as ever.

The Early Days: Kill, I Oughtta, and L.D. 50 (1996-2001)

Mudvayne's roots can be traced back to 1996 when the band formed in Peoria. The original lineup featured Greg Tribbett, Matthew McDonough, Chad Gray, and bassist Shawn Barclay. It was Gray's unwavering dedication to the band that cemented their future. He quit his factory job, where he was earning $40,000 a year, to fully commit to becoming Mudvayne's lead singer.

In 1997, the band financed their debut EP, Kill, I Oughtta, a raw display of their emerging musical identity. During the recording process, Barclay departed and was replaced by Ryan Martinie, a seasoned musician formerly with the progressive rock band Broken Altar. This lineup solidified the band's sound and set the stage for their monumental rise to fame.

Scowl: A Hardcore Punk Force From Santa Cruz

Scowl is a hardcore punk band hailing from Santa Cruz, California. Fronted by the powerhouse vocalist Kat Moss, they've been shaking up the scene with their intense energy and raw sound.

From the Basement to the Big Stage

The band's journey began in 2019 with their self-titled EP, showcasing their signature blend of aggression and melodic hooks. They followed up with the "Reality After Reality" EP that same year, solidifying their place as a force to be reckoned with.

Scowl's debut full-length album, "How Flowers Grow," dropped in 2021 through Flatspot Records, showcasing their musical growth and expanding their sonic palette. They kept the momentum going in 2023 with their third EP, "Psychic Dance Routine," further pushing boundaries and demonstrating their relentless creative drive.

Conquering the World, One Stage at a Time

Scowl's live performances are known for their explosive energy and infectious passion. They've shared the stage with legendary punk icons like Circle Jerks and Negative Approach, alongside modern heavyweights like System Of A Down, Korn, Turnstile, Deftones, and Limp Bizkit. Their relentless touring has taken them across the US and internationally, including a tour of Australia in May and June of 2023. They even graced the stage at the renowned Coachella festival in 2023, cementing their status as a rising star in the hardcore scene.

"We are focused heavily on touring as much as possible! We are trying to hit all the places in the US that we haven’t played yet as well as across the pond!", declared Kat Moss in a 2022 interview with hardcore magazine "In Effect," showcasing the band's dedication to connecting with their fans on a global scale.

The Powerhouse Lineup

Scowl's success is fueled by the talent of its members:

• Kat Moss: The powerful voice that drives Scowl's sound.
• Malachi Greene: A guitar wizard, crafting riffs that are both heavy and melodic.
• Mikey Bifolco: Adding another layer of sonic depth to Scowl's music.
• Bailey Lupo: Laying down the foundation with their energetic bass lines.
• Cole Gilbert: Providing the relentless, driving force behind Scowl's sound.

A Discography of Power

Scowl's musical journey can be traced through their releases:

• Albums: "How Flowers Grow"
• EPs: "Scowl," "Reality After Reality," "Psychic Dance Routine"

A Visual Feast

Their commitment to their artistry extends to their music videos, with "Petty Selfish Cretin" (released in 2019) showcasing their raw energy and unique aesthetic.

Scowl is more than a band; they're a movement. With their explosive music, captivating stage presence, and unwavering dedication, Scowl is poised to continue their ascent in the hardcore scene, leaving an unforgettable mark on the world.

Cannibal Corpse: A Brutal Force in Death Metal

Hailing from the icy depths of Buffalo, New York, Cannibal Corpse emerged in 1988 as a sonic storm of brutal, unrelenting death metal. Since their formation, they've become a global phenomenon, amassing a legion of devoted fans and leaving an indelible mark on the genre.

While radio and TV may have largely ignored their sonic assault, their early albums like Butchered at Birth (1991) and Tomb of the Mutilated (1992) ignited a fervent cult following. These records cemented their reputation as a force to be reckoned with, their music a relentless torrent of guttural vocals, razor-sharp riffs, and thunderous drums.

This relentless assault has continued for over three decades, resulting in an impressive sixteen studio albums, two box sets, four video albums, and two live albums. By 2015, they achieved worldwide sales exceeding two million units, a testament to their enduring popularity and influence.

In 2021, Cannibal Corpse achieved a career milestone with their album Violence Unimagined. This release not only secured their best first-week sales ever but also placed them in the top 10 on the Billboard Top Album Sales Chart – a testament to their continued relevance and power.

Through various lineup changes over the years, bassist Alex Webster and drummer Paul Mazurkiewicz have remained the band's bedrock, providing a constant foundation for their brutal sound. Their longevity and influence on the death metal scene are undeniable.

From Buffalo to Tampa

Cannibal Corpse's journey has taken them from their New York roots to their current base in Tampa, Florida. This transition didn't diminish their brutal intensity. They've continued to push the boundaries of death metal, crafting an unparalleled legacy built on relentless aggression, technical prowess, and a dedication to pushing the limits of musical extremity.

Origins of the Name

The band's name itself is a testament to their unflinching embrace of the dark side. Bassist Alex Webster came up with the moniker "Cannibal Corpse," reflecting their music's gruesome themes and unrelenting brutality. It's a name that perfectly encapsulates their sound and the shock value that has become synonymous with their presence in the world of death metal.

Acid Bath: A Sludge Metal Monolith

Acid Bath, hailing from the bayou-soaked swamps of Houma, Louisiana, were a force of nature in the sludge metal scene. They dominated the underground from 1991 to 1997, leaving an indelible mark on the genre. Their sound, a potent concoction of doom metal, hardcore punk, death metal, gothic rock, blues, and Southern rock influences, was unlike anything heard before. Acid Bath didn't just blend these elements, they wove them into a tapestry of sonic brutality and eerie beauty.

A Bayou Brew of Musical Mayhem:

The band's roots run deep in the Louisiana music scene. They formed from the ashes of two local bands – Dark Karnival and Golgotha. Their lineup, ever-evolving, included key players like Audie Pitre (bass), Sammy Duet (vocals), Dax Riggs (vocals), Mike Sanchez (guitar), Jimmy Kyle (drums), Jerry "Boon" Businelli (guitar), and Tommy Viator (drums/keyboards). The core of Acid Bath emerged as a fusion of these talented individuals, each contributing to the band's singular sound.

From Swampy Demo to Tragic Farewell:

Their debut demo, "Hymns of the Needle Freak," recorded in 1993 with producer Keith Falgout, became a cult classic. It showcased the band's signature sound, earning them a loyal fanbase and solidifying their position as pioneers of the sludge metal movement. Acid Bath's influence resonated far beyond their hometown, captivating a global audience.

Tragically, the band's journey was cut short in 1997 when bassist Audie Pitre was killed in a car accident. This devastating loss led to Acid Bath's disbandment.

Reunion: A Glimmer in the Swamp:

In October 2024, news broke that Acid Bath would reunite. This announcement sent shockwaves through the metal community, reigniting excitement for the return of a legendary band.

Acid Bath's legacy is one of raw power, haunting melodies, and a dark Southern Gothic sensibility. Their music is a sonic exploration of the human psyche, a reflection of the harsh realities and beauty found in the bayous of their home state. The band's return promises a return to the sludge metal throne, reintroducing their potent brew of musical mayhem to a new generation of fans.