Orgy: A Dive into the Depths of Industrial Rock

Orgy, a Los Angeles-based band, emerged from the underground scene in 1997, carving their own path through the industrial rock landscape. They've coined their sound as "death pop," a darkly captivating blend of industrial aggression and pop sensibility.

Their most recognized hits are a cover of New Order's iconic "Blue Monday" and their own pulsating anthem "Stitches," both from their 1998 album "Candyass." This album propelled them to notoriety, showcasing their ability to inject a sinister edge into commercially accessible tunes.

Following the success of "Candyass," Orgy released their second album, "Vapor Transmission," in 2000. This record featured singles like "Fiction (Dreams in Digital)" and "Opticon," further solidifying their place in the industrial rock scene.

Early Days: A Fusion of Talent and Experience

Orgy's formation in 1997 brought together a formidable lineup: vocalist Jay Gordon, guitarists Amir Derakh and Ryan Shuck, bassist Paige Haley, and drummer Bobby Hewitt. This group boasted a wealth of musical experience, with Derakh previously finding fame with the '80s metal band Rough Cutt, and Hewitt having been a member of Electric Love Hogs.

Gordon, before forming Orgy, had played bass for Deadsy, even appearing on their self-titled unreleased album. He also shared production duties with Derakh on Coal Chamber's self-titled debut, showcasing their prowess in the studio.

This blend of diverse musical backgrounds and production experience formed the bedrock for Orgy's unique sound. Their music was a fusion of driving rhythms, heavy industrial textures, and haunting melodies, which resonated with a generation yearning for something darker and more intense.

Alien Ant Farm: A Buzzworthy Rock Band

Alien Ant Farm, hailing from Riverside, California, burst onto the music scene in 1996. They've carved a niche for themselves in the rock world, amassing over 5 million sales worldwide with their six studio albums.

Their breakout moment came in 2001 with their infectious cover of Michael Jackson's "Smooth Criminal." The track dominated the Billboard Alternative Songs chart and even made its way into the soundtrack for the film "American Pie 2."

Prior to their mainstream success, Alien Ant Farm self-released their debut album, "Greatest Hits," in 1999. This caught the eye of DreamWorks Records who signed the band in 2000. Their sophomore effort, "ANThology," followed in 2001, going platinum and reaching a respectable number 11 on the Billboard 200.

The band continued their momentum with "TruANT" in 2003. This album, produced by the DeLeo brothers of Stone Temple Pilots, peaked at number 42 on the Billboard 200.

Despite recording their fourth album, "3rd Draft," in 2005, the release was shelved by Geffen Records after they acquired DreamWorks. This setback was eventually overcome, as the album was re-released in 2006 as "Up in the Attic," landing at number 114 on the Billboard 200.

After a period of sporadic touring, Alien Ant Farm returned with their fifth studio album, "Always and Forever," in February 2015. This release marked another chapter in their enduring career.

Alien Ant Farm's journey is a testament to their hard work and dedication. Their blend of rock anthems and innovative covers has cemented their place in the music landscape, proving that the band's influence continues to buzz.

Drowning Pool: A Rollercoaster Ride Through Rock & Roll

Drowning Pool, the Dallas-born rock band, burst onto the scene in 1996, their name a nod to the 1975 film "The Drowning Pool." The band's core lineup, a dynamic trio featuring guitarist C.J. Pierce, drummer Mike Luce, and bassist Stevie Benton, has remained constant, while the vocalist position has seen a revolving door of talented musicians.

Their debut album, "Sinner" (2001), catapulted them to fame, but tragedy struck when original vocalist Dave Williams was found dead in 2002. Jason Jones took the reins in 2003, delivering "Desensitized" (2004), but departed in 2005 due to creative differences. The band then recruited Ryan McCombs from SOiL, a Chicago-based band, marking a turning point. McCombs' tenure saw two albums, "Full Circle" (2007) and "Drowning Pool" (2010), breaking the band's pattern of switching vocalists after each album. However, McCombs' departure in 2011 to rejoin SOiL left Drowning Pool seeking a new frontman once again.

Jasen Moreno stepped in as vocalist in 2012, leading the band through three albums: "Resilience" (2013), "Hellelujah" (2016), and "Strike a Nerve" (2022). The band's chemistry with Moreno proved solid, but the tides turned in 2023 when McCombs rejoined the band, bringing a full circle to the band's musical journey.

The Early Years (1996-2000):

Before their rise to prominence, Drowning Pool's roots were planted in New Orleans. Pierce and Luce, the driving force behind the band's signature sound, relocated to Dallas, where Drowning Pool took shape. They quickly began honing their raw, powerful sound, laying the foundation for the band's future success.

New Years Day: A Rock Band Built on MySpace and Heartbreak

New Years Day emerged from the fertile ground of the Anaheim, California music scene in 2005, carving their own path in the post-emo landscape. The band's roots can be traced back to bassist Adam Lohrbach's departure from the band Home Grown, where he had honed his emotive style. He carried this emotional intensity into New Years Day, forming a powerful foundation for their sound.

With the addition of vocalist Ashley "Ash" Costello and guitarist/keyboardist Keith Drover, the trio wrote songs that resonated with the pain and turmoil of broken relationships, a sentiment that resonated with a generation grappling with their own emotional complexities. Their early demos quickly caught the attention of music fans, propelled by the power of MySpace, the social networking platform that became a launchpad for countless bands in the 2000s.

Their debut self-titled EP dropped in 2006, solidifying their status as a rising force in the rock scene. This was followed by their first full-length album, My Dear, in 2007, which further showcased their raw and emotional sound.

Though the band faced its share of lineup changes, including a brief stint with bassist Eric Seilo, their dedication to their craft never wavered. Six years after their initial debut, the band finally released their sophomore album, Victim to Villain, in 2013, showcasing their growth and evolution as musicians.

Their 2015 release, Malevolence, marked a turning point in their career. This album peaked at number 45 on the Billboard 200 chart, marking their highest charting achievement to date and solidifying their position as a force to be reckoned with in the modern rock world.

From their MySpace beginnings to their Billboard success, New Years Day continues to captivate audiences with their raw honesty, powerful vocals, and emotionally charged music. Their story is a testament to the enduring power of passion, resilience, and a deep connection to their fans.

Touché Amoré: A Post-Hardcore Powerhouse From LA

Touché Amoré, hailing from the heart of Los Angeles, emerged onto the scene in 2007, quickly establishing themselves as a leading force in the post-hardcore genre. The band, fronted by vocalist Jeremy Bolm, features Clayton Stevens and Nick Steinhardt on guitars, Tyler Kirby on bass, and Elliot Babin on drums. They've carved a distinct path with their raw and emotionally charged music, releasing a string of impactful albums that have captivated fans worldwide.

Early Days and Debut Album: (2007 - 2009)

Touché Amoré made their first impression with a 7-inch demo, released through No Sleep Records in September 2008. Following a series of west coast tours, the band returned to the studio to record their full-length debut, ...To the Beat of a Dead Horse. Recorded at Earth Capital Studios in January 2009, this album solidified their sound and showcased their raw energy.

The album was released in June 2009, a joint effort between 6131 and Collect Records, owned by Thursday's frontman Geoff Rickly. Released only on vinyl and digitally, ...To the Beat of a Dead Horse received widespread critical acclaim. Outlets like Sputnikmusic, Punknews.org, and Alternative Press praised the album's raw intensity and emotional depth. It also garnered spots on numerous "Best Albums of 2009" lists, cementing Touché Amoré's place as a rising force in the post-hardcore scene.

Gel: A Hardcore Punk Force From New Jersey

Gel, hailing from the hardcore heartland of New Jersey, are a band that's been shaking up the scene with their ferocious blend of traditional punk and brutal energy. Born in 2018 as a side project of the powerviolence outfit Sick Shit, Gel's members already had a reputation for sonic intensity.

Their sound is rooted in the raw power of Sick Shit, but they inject a distinct hardcore punk flavor, drawing inspiration from the legends of the genre. The band's impressive output includes a full-length album, two EPs, a demo, and a split mini-album, showcasing their prolific creativity. Their music is raw, fast, and relentless, a sonic assault that leaves you breathless and wanting more.

From Sick Shit to Gel: A Change in Direction

Gel's story begins with Sick Shit, a powerviolence band founded by guitarist Bobko and drummer Zach Miller. Sami Kaiser soon joined the ranks, solidifying their lineup. When Sick Shit's bassist departed, Anthony Webster stepped in, eventually transitioning to guitar. It was this lineup that birthed Gel, a space to explore a more traditional hardcore punk sound.

A Legacy of Releases:

Gel's rise to prominence was marked by a steady stream of releases. Their self-titled debut EP in 2019 introduced the world to their potent sound, followed by the "HC For The Freaks" tape later that year. 2021 saw the release of their second EP, "Violent Closure," solidifying their position as a force to be reckoned with.

Critical Acclaim and Impact:

Gel's impact on the hardcore scene is undeniable. Huw Baines, writing for NME, declared them a significant force in shaping the sound of hardcore in 2023. Their raw energy and unique blend of influences have inspired a new generation of hardcore punks, solidifying their place in the underground.

Gel is more than just another hardcore band. They are a vital force, pushing the boundaries of the genre and redefining the sound of punk rock. Their music is a call to action, a sonic rebellion against the norm, and a testament to the enduring power of hardcore punk.

Narrow Head: A Texas Rock Band Forged in Grit and Garage

Narrow Head, hailing from the heart of Texas rock, is a band that embodies the raw energy and unfiltered passion of the Lone Star state. Founded in Dallas by vocalist Jacob Duarte, they've carved their own path in the rock landscape, now based in the vibrant city of Houston.

From Humble Beginnings to a Dynamic Trio:

Narrow Head emerged in 2013, fueled by the creative energy of guitarists and vocalists Ryan Hughes and Jacob Duarte, bassist Jay Chary, and drummer Keaton Khonsari. Carson Wilcox took over drumming duties in 2014, shaping the band's sound. Their debut album, "Satisfaction," dropped in 2016, by which time the band had solidified into a trio of Duarte on vocals, William Menjivar on guitar, and Wilcox on drums. Though guitarist and bassist Ryan Seelig briefly joined them during the album's recording, the core trio remained the driving force.

Building Momentum and Expanding Horizons:

In 2018, Narrow Head released the single "Bulma" and embarked on a tour across the Western United States, further solidifying their presence on the rock scene. Ryan Chavez joined the band as their bassist, adding a new dimension to their sound.

By 2020, Narrow Head had signed with Run For Cover Records, a testament to their growing influence. They unleashed a trio of singles, "Night Tryst," "Stuttering Stanley," and "Hard to Swallow," setting the stage for their sophomore album, "12th House Rock."

Expanding the Family and Embracing the Future:

Following the completion of their second album, long-time touring member Kora Puckett officially joined the band as guitarist, adding another layer of talent and experience. Narrow Head is a band that embraces the spirit of collaboration and growth, constantly evolving and refining their craft. With their roots firmly planted in the Texas rock scene, they continue to break new ground and captivate audiences with their raw energy and infectious melodies.

Soul Glo: A Philly Hardcore Punk Band Forged in the Fire

Soul Glo, hailing from the vibrant underground scene of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is a hardcore punk band that explodes onto the scene with a raw, unfiltered energy. Formed in 2014, the band consists of the dynamic trio of Pierce Jordan (vocals), GG Guerra (guitar, programming) and TJ Stevenson (drums).

From Quartet to Triumvirate: Soul Glo started as a quartet, featuring Jordan, Jamie Sokol, Ethan Brennan, and Ruben Polo. Their early days saw them supporting bands like Old Gray on a Northeast US tour, sharing stages with Nine of Swords in Brooklyn and Really From in Boston.

A Rocky Road: The band's journey has been punctuated by some major hurdles. In 2018, while on tour, GG Guerra was arrested by the Missouri State Highway Patrol, forcing the band to raise $15,000 to bail him out. This incident, though difficult, only solidified their dedication to their craft.

Epitaph and the DisNigga EPs: In 2021, Soul Glo signed with the iconic Epitaph Records, a testament to their growing influence. The signing coincided with the release of "DisNigga," a two-volume EP series that further established their sonic identity. The band further cemented their position in the scene by supporting Sheer Mag on their East Coast tour, culminating in an appearance on Coheed and Cambria's S.S. Neverender cruise.

Moving Forward, Together: In 2022, the band faced a significant challenge when Polo was accused of sexual assault by deception. He subsequently stepped down from the band. This was a difficult time, forcing Soul Glo to confront difficult questions and make tough decisions. However, they persevered, releasing their powerful album, "Diaspora Problems," on March 25th, 2022, via Epitaph.

Soul Glo continues to push boundaries, their music resonating with a growing fanbase. They're not just a band; they're a voice for the voiceless, a force for change, and a testament to the enduring power of hardcore punk.

The Armed: A Force of Unpredictable Noise in the Hardcore Scene

The Armed, often represented by the symbol 🔪, are a shrouded American hardcore punk collective hailing from Detroit, Michigan. Their identity is as elusive as their music, with no official members publicly revealed. However, the enigmatic project is often associated with creative director and advertising guru Tony Wolski, formerly known as Adam Vallely.

Their sound is a chaotic blend of hardcore punk, metalcore, post-hardcore, and experimental hardcore, infused with a potent dose of self-deprecating humor. The Armed have embraced a cult-like presentation, often referring to themselves as "the world's greatest band" and employing the mantra "refract" as a recurring motif.

Their music thrives on collaboration, featuring guest appearances from a rotating roster of musicians, including Chris Pennie, Nick Yacyshyn, Ben Koller, Troy Van Leeuwen, and Urian Hackney. Converge guitarist Kurt Ballou has also been a consistent presence, lending his expertise to the recording and production of most of their releases.

From Slicer Dicer to "These Are Lights"

Wolski claims The Armed emerged from the ashes of a Detroit band called Slicer Dicer. Their debut album, "These Are Lights", mixed by Kurt Ballou, was released for free in 2009. Wolski explained this unconventional release strategy to Thrash Hits: "Wanting people to actually hear the music made us give it away for free. We've all played in other bands for a while now, and whether it is good or not, it's undeniable that for the most part young people do not place the same sense of monetary value on recordings as they once did."

This move epitomized The Armed's approach: unconventional, unpredictable, and unafraid to challenge the norms of the music industry. Their music, like their identity, is a mystery waiting to be unraveled, leaving audiences both intrigued and bewildered.

Vended: The Next Generation of Nu-Metal

Vended, the Des Moines-based nu-metal outfit, burst onto the scene in 2018, bringing a fresh, youthful energy to the genre. The band is comprised of two sons of Slipknot members: vocalist Griffin Taylor, son of Corey Taylor, and drummer Simon Crahan, son of Shawn "Clown" Crahan. Joining them are bassist Jeremiah Pugh, and guitarists Cole Epseland and Connor Grodzicki.

The band's name, pronounced "ven-DEAD," is a nod to the word vendetta, reflecting their powerful, uncompromising sound. While their lineage undeniably adds intrigue, Vended are adamant about forging their own path, emphasizing that they are largely self-taught musicians who learned their craft independently of their fathers. Both Corey and Clown have publicly supported this sentiment, highlighting their sons' dedication and talent.

The band's early years were marked by a focus on honing their skills and crafting their own unique sound. They made their live debut in March 2020 in Des Moines, only to be halted by the COVID-19 pandemic. However, they didn't let the setback hold them back. They released their debut EP, What Is It/Kill It, in 2021, along with several standalone singles, steadily building a buzz in the underground music scene.

While Vended might share DNA with their fathers' iconic band, they have proven themselves to be a force of their own. With a sound that draws inspiration from nu-metal's heavy roots, they bring their own energy and perspective to the genre, making them a band to watch for years to come.