Nothing More: From San Antonio Basement to Mainstream Rock Kings

Nothing More, the hard-hitting rock band from San Antonio, Texas, has come a long way since their humble beginnings in 2003. The early years were marked by a constant struggle for stability, with a revolving door of members and a frustrating lack of label interest. However, a pivotal moment arrived when longtime drummer Jonny Hawkins decided to take the reins as frontman, bringing a newfound focus to the band's sound.

This lineup shift, coupled with the arrival of guitarist Mark Vollelunga and bassist Daniel Oliver, solidified the core of Nothing More. They poured their hearts and souls into their fourth album, self-titled "Nothing More," a three-year labor of love funded entirely by the band. The album was their ticket to success, catching the ear of Eleven Seven Music, who signed them to a five-album deal.

"Nothing More" exploded in 2014, launching the band into the mainstream. Singles like "This is the Time (Ballast)," which stormed to the top of the Mediabase Active Rock chart and reached number two on Billboard's Mainstream Rock chart, became rock anthems. "Mr. MTV," "Jenny," and "Here's to the Heartache" all cracked the top 15 on both charts, solidifying Nothing More's place as a force to be reckoned with.

Riding this wave of momentum, the band hit the road relentlessly, touring in support of their breakout album. In 2017, they released their fifth studio album, "The Stories We Tell Ourselves," their second on a major label. The lead single, "Go to War," surpassed even their previous hits, topping the Mainstream Rock chart. The album garnered critical acclaim, earning them three Grammy nominations for Best Rock Album, Best Rock Song, and Best Rock Performance for "Go to War."

Nothing More continued to dominate the rock scene, releasing singles like "Do You Really Want It" and "Just Say When" and embarking on numerous North American tours. In 2022, they released their sixth studio album, "Spirits," cementing their status as one of the most powerful and relevant rock bands of the 21st century.

From their San Antonio basement beginnings to headlining stages across the globe, Nothing More's story is a testament to hard work, perseverance, and a whole lot of rock 'n' roll heart. Their music, fuelled by Hawkins' powerful vocals and Vollelunga's blistering guitar work, continues to connect with audiences worldwide, proving that the band is truly nothing less than a force to be reckoned with.

Highly Suspect: A Rock Band's Journey from Bar Covers to Global Recognition

Highly Suspect, hailing from Cape Cod, Massachusetts, is a force to be reckoned with in the modern rock scene. This quartet, comprised of twin brothers Rich (bass, backing vocals) and Ryan Meyer (drums, backing vocals), alongside Johnny Stevens (guitar, lead vocals) and Matt Kofos (guitar, synthesizer, backing vocals), has climbed the ranks from humble bar cover band beginnings to international acclaim.

Their journey began in the early 2000s, honing their skills by performing covers of rock legends like Sublime, Jimi Hendrix, and Pink Floyd. They captivated audiences at various Cape Cod hotspots, including the British Beer Company, J.R. Brody's Roadside Tavern, and Sundancers. Early tours with bands like 10 Years, Monster Truck, and Sevendust further honed their live performance skills.

A pivotal moment arrived when they relocated to Brooklyn, New York. There, they crossed paths with producer Joel Hamilton, who helped them craft their debut EP, "The Worst Humans." This release was a taste of things to come, showcasing their raw energy and distinctive sound.

In 2015, Highly Suspect unleashed their full-length debut, "Mister Asylum." This album garnered critical acclaim and a Grammy nomination for Best Rock Album at the 58th Annual Grammy Awards. Their song "Lydia" also received a nod for Best Rock Song, solidifying their place as a leading force in contemporary rock.

They continued their ascent with "The Boy Who Died Wolf" in 2016, which spawned the hit singles "My Name Is Human" (topping the Billboard US Mainstream Rock Songs chart) and "Little One" (peaking at number 2 on the same chart).

2019 saw the release of their third studio album, "MCID," further solidifying their signature sound and expanding their fan base. The band continued to evolve, delivering their fourth studio album, "The Midnight Demon Club," in 2022.

Most recently, Highly Suspect has released their fifth album, "As Above, So Below" in July 2024. This record promises to be a defining moment for the band, pushing the boundaries of their sound and establishing them as a cornerstone of the contemporary rock landscape.

From humble beginnings in Cape Cod to a global audience, Highly Suspect's story is a testament to talent, perseverance, and a refusal to compromise their artistic vision. They've proven their ability to captivate audiences with their intense live shows and infectious music, solidifying their status as one of the most exciting rock bands today.

Lorna Shore: A Deathcore Force From New Jersey

Lorna Shore, hailing from the Garden State, emerged onto the deathcore scene in 2009. While their roots are firmly planted in metalcore, they quickly evolved, embracing the brutal sounds of deathcore and becoming a force to be reckoned with.

Their journey has been marked by relentless innovation and lineup changes, a testament to their dedication to pushing boundaries.

From Metalcore to Deathcore Kings:

Their early days saw them releasing the metalcore-infused "Triumph" EP in 2010. But it was their second EP, "Bone Kingdom," that truly solidified their shift toward deathcore, introducing a progressive edge to their sound.

They continued their evolution with the release of their third EP, "Maleficium," in December 2013, solidifying their place as a prominent force in the deathcore scene.

The Current Era:

Currently, Lorna Shore is led by the powerful vocals of Will Ramos, backed by the masterful musicianship of guitarist Adam De Micco, drummer Austin Archey, rhythm guitarist Andrew O'Connor, and bassist Michael Yager. This lineup is known for their 2021 hit single "To The Hellfire," a sonic assault that propelled them to new heights of recognition.

A Legacy of Albums and EPs:

Since their rise, Lorna Shore has released four studio albums: "Psalms" (2015), "Flesh Coffin" (2017), "Immortal" (2020), and "Pain Remains" (2022). They also have four EPs under their belt, showcasing their diverse musical approach.

The Legacy Continues:

Although no original members remain in the band, Lorna Shore's legacy continues to grow. They are a testament to the power of evolution and the unwavering dedication required to reach the pinnacle of the deathcore scene. From their early metalcore roots to their current mastery of brutal sonic landscapes, Lorna Shore continues to be a driving force in the world of extreme music.

Body Count: A Thrashing Legacy Forged in Controversy

Body Count, the Los Angeles-based heavy metal band, emerged in 1990 with a unique blend of rap and metal, a testament to the musical vision of frontman Ice-T. While known for his groundbreaking career in hip hop, Ice-T's passion for heavy metal led him to co-found the group with guitarist Ernie C. The band's dynamic is clear: Ice-T's raw vocals and lyrics, fueled by his streetwise perspective, combine with Ernie C's powerful guitar riffs to deliver a signature sound.

Their 1992 self-titled debut album shook the music world. The controversy surrounding the track "Cop Killer" brought intense scrutiny and even threats of censorship, yet ultimately solidified Body Count's reputation as a band that wasn't afraid to tackle sensitive issues. While the song was later removed from the album at Ice-T's request, the debate it ignited highlighted the band's willingness to push boundaries and spark dialogue.

Despite the turmoil, Body Count persevered, releasing six more albums and solidifying their place in the heavy metal scene. The band has weathered personal losses, with three of its original seven members passing away – D-Roc from lymphoma, Beatmaster V from leukemia, and Mooseman in a tragic drive-by shooting.

However, Body Count continues to thrive, with a current lineup that includes Ice-T, Ernie C, guitarist Juan Garcia, bassist Vincent Price, drummer Will "Ill Will" Dorsey Jr., and backing vocalists Sean E Sean and Little Ice (Ice-T's son).

Their 2020 Grammy win for Best Metal Performance for "Bum Rush" off the album Carnivore proves that Body Count's music still resonates with audiences worldwide. From their controversial beginnings to their current acclaim, Body Count stands as a testament to the power of music to express truth, challenge norms, and inspire lasting impact.

Clutch: A Heavy Metal Odyssey from Maryland

Clutch, the Maryland-bred rock titans, have been churning out heavy riffs and soulful grooves since 1991. Their lineup, a musical powerhouse consisting of Tim Sult (lead guitar), Dan Maines (bass), Jean-Paul Gaster (drums), and Neil Fallon (vocals, rhythm guitar, keyboards), has remained remarkably consistent, giving their sound a signature swagger.

Early Days: A Blast of Heavy Metal from the DMV

Born out of the Germantown, Maryland music scene, Clutch started out as a raw, energetic band under the names Glut Trip and Moral Minority. After a brief stint with vocalist Roger Smalls, Neil Fallon, a familiar face from their Seneca Valley High School days, joined the band. The name "Clutch" was chosen for its bluntness and automotive reference, reflecting the band's shared passion for cars and the one-word trend prevalent in rock band names at the time (think Prong, their early influences).

Building a Legacy: From Local Heroes to International Icons

Clutch's relentless touring quickly solidified their reputation as a live powerhouse. Their unique blend of heavy metal, stoner rock, and blues influences resonated with audiences, catapulting them from Maryland's underground scene to the forefront of the American rock landscape.

Thirteen Albums Strong: A Body of Work That Stands the Test of Time

With thirteen studio albums to their credit, as well as a collection of rarities and live recordings, Clutch have built a formidable catalogue. Since 2008, they've operated under their own label, Weathermaker Music, giving them creative freedom and artistic control over their music.

A Pioneer of Stoner Rock:

Clutch's influence on the stoner rock genre is undeniable. Their thick, psychedelic riffs and soulful vocals have inspired generations of musicians, solidifying their place as pioneers in the heavy music scene.

Clutch's enduring success lies in their unwavering dedication to their craft, their tireless touring schedule, and their ability to create music that is both heavy and soulful. They remain a vital force in the rock world, constantly evolving their sound while staying true to their roots.

Static-X: A Legacy of Industrial Metal Fury

Static-X, hailing from the concrete jungle of Los Angeles, California, burst onto the scene in 1994, bringing a ferocious blend of industrial and metal that would redefine the sound of the late '90s. The band, originally spearheaded by the enigmatic Wayne Static, who was frontman, vocalist, rhythm guitarist, and founder, experienced several lineup changes over the years, but always remained anchored by Static's unique vision.

Their 1999 debut album, Wisconsin Death Trip, cemented their place in the nu-metal movement, with its heavy, industrial soundscape captivating audiences. The album's success propelled them to platinum status in the US and solidified their position as a leading force in the genre.

Over the next decade, Static-X released five more albums: Machine (2001), Shadow Zone (2003), Start a War (2005), Cannibal (2007), and Cult of Static (2009), each showcasing their relentless energy and signature sound. By 2011, they had sold over three million albums worldwide, solidifying their influence on the metal landscape.

The band entered a hiatus in 2011 as Wayne Static focused on his solo project, Pighammer. A brief reunion followed in 2012, with a new touring lineup, but the band ultimately disbanded in June 2013. Tragically, Wayne Static passed away in November 2014 at the age of 48, leaving a void in the metal community.

However, the spirit of Static-X lives on. In October 2018, the remaining original members - bassist Tony Campos, lead guitarist Koichi Fukuda, and drummer Ken Jay - announced their reformation in honor of their fallen comrade. This reunion marked the beginning of a new chapter for Static-X, with the release of Project: Regeneration Vol. 1, a tribute to their legacy and a testament to their enduring influence.

Static-X's story is one of raw power, unwavering commitment, and ultimately, a lasting legacy. Their music continues to resonate with fans, leaving behind a powerful and influential mark on the history of industrial metal.

Skillet: A Rock Band Powerhouse

Skillet, a Christian rock band hailing from Memphis, Tennessee, has been shaking the music scene since 1996. Fronted by the dynamic husband-and-wife duo, John and Korey Cooper (lead vocals, bass, rhythm guitar, keyboards, and backing vocals), the band is also complemented by Jen Ledger (drums, co-lead vocals) and Seth Morrison (lead guitar).

Skillet's musical journey has seen them release eleven studio albums, including "Collide" and "Comatose," both of which garnered Grammy nominations. They've achieved massive commercial success, with "Comatose" going platinum and "Awake" soaring to double platinum status by the RIAA. "Rise" and "Unleashed" also achieved gold certifications. Their chart-topping singles, "Monster," "Hero," "Awake and Alive," and "Feel Invincible," have achieved multi-platinum status, while other hits like "Whispers in the Dark," "Comatose," and "The Resistance" reached platinum status.

Throughout their career, Skillet has weathered numerous lineup changes, leaving John Cooper as the sole remaining original member. Their unwavering dedication to touring has been a defining characteristic, earning them a top-five ranking in Songkick.com's "Hardest Working Bands of 2010."

Early Days: A Genesis of Rock (1996-2002)

The roots of Skillet can be traced back to two prominent bands from Tennessee: Seraph, featuring John Cooper on vocals, and Urgent Cry, featuring Ken Steorts on guitar. Both bands shared the stage on tour, but eventually disbanded. Their pastor encouraged them to collaborate, and thus, the name "Skillet" was born, initially intended as a side project.

Ministry: A Sonic Assault on the System

Ministry, the industrial metal titans from Chicago, emerged in 1981 as the brainchild of the enigmatic Al Jourgensen. Starting as a synth-pop act, they quickly evolved into trailblazers of industrial rock and metal, taking the scene by storm in the late 80s.

Jourgensen, the band's driving force, has remained the sole original member, navigating a revolving door of talent. From the haunting vocals of Nivek Ogre and Jello Biafra to the thunderous riffs of Mike Scaccia and Tommy Victor, and the relentless rhythm sections of Paul Barker and Rey Washam, Ministry's roster has always been a force to be reckoned with.

Their influence on the industrial scene is undeniable. The band's early albums like The Land of Rape and Honey (1988) and The Mind Is a Terrible Thing to Taste (1989) cemented their status as genre pioneers, earning them gold certification. Their 1992 masterpiece Psalm 69 went platinum, solidifying their commercial success.

Filth Pig (1996), a stylistic departure, marked Ministry's highest Billboard 200 chart position, reaching number nineteen. However, despite its critical reception, it also marked the beginning of the band's commercial decline. The follow-up, Dark Side of the Spoon (1999), failed to ignite, leading to Warner Bros. dropping Ministry and the band entering an extended hiatus as Jourgensen battled substance abuse.

Jourgensen's recovery brought Ministry back in 2003 with Animositisomina, their final album featuring the long-time bassist Paul Barker. This was followed by a politically charged trilogy, dubbed the "Bush Trilogy," aimed at the then-President George W. Bush: Houses of the Molé (2004), Rio Grande Blood (2006), and The Last Sucker (2007). This period revived the band's commercial momentum and solidified their legacy as a band that refuses to conform to convention.

Ministry, a sonic assault on the system, continues to push boundaries and challenge listeners with their relentless sound and politically charged lyrics. They remain a potent force in the industrial landscape, a testament to the enduring power of raw, uncompromising music.

Anthrax: The Kings of Thrash from the Big Apple

Anthrax, a name synonymous with the explosive energy and raw power of thrash metal, emerged from the concrete jungle of New York City in 1981. Founded by the legendary rhythm guitarist Scott Ian and bassist Dan Lilker, the band quickly cemented its place as a leader in the burgeoning thrash scene.

Along with Metallica, Megadeth, and Slayer, Anthrax formed the infamous "Big Four," a quartet of thrash titans that defined the genre for a generation. Their early days saw them joining forces with fellow East Coast pioneers Overkill and Nuclear Assault, proving that thrash wasn't confined to the West Coast.

Anthrax's lineup has seen numerous changes over the years, but one constant has remained: Scott Ian. His dedication and vision have guided the band through its evolution, leaving an indelible mark on thrash metal history. Only Ian and drummer Charlie Benante, who joined the band in 1983 after replacing Greg D'Angelo, have appeared on every Anthrax album. Bassist Frank Bello, who took over from Lilker in 1984, has also been a core member for decades.

Their debut album, Fistful of Metal (1984), featured vocalist Neil Turbin, but it was the arrival of Joey Belladonna later that year that truly stabilized the band's lineup. The band's third album, Among the Living (1987), marked a pivotal moment in their career, propelling them to mainstream success and solidifying their reputation as one of the greatest thrash bands of all time.

Their subsequent albums, State of Euphoria (1988) and Persistence of Time (1990), further cemented their status as thrash metal giants, with the latter earning them a Grammy Award nomination.

Anthrax's impact on the genre is undeniable. Their raw energy, infectious riffs, and biting lyrics have inspired countless musicians and fans worldwide. From their New York roots to their global acclaim, Anthrax remains a true force in the world of thrash metal, continuing to deliver powerful performances and innovative music for generations to come.

Mastodon: The Atlanta Heavy Metal Titans

Hailing from the vibrant music scene of Atlanta, Georgia, Mastodon burst onto the heavy metal scene in 2000. This four-piece powerhouse, featuring Troy Sanders on bass and vocals, Brent Hinds on lead guitar and vocals, Bill Kelliher on rhythm guitar and backing vocals, and Brann Dailor on drums and vocals, has remained an unbreakable force since their formation.

Mastodon's unique blend of progressive, psychedelic, and heavy sounds has captivated audiences worldwide, culminating in an impressive eight studio albums and numerous other releases. Their debut, Remission, released in 2002, quickly gained critical acclaim for its groundbreaking sound.

Their second album, Leviathan, a concept album inspired by Herman Melville's Moby Dick, further cemented their position in the heavy metal pantheon. In 2004, the album was crowned "Album of the Year" by three prominent magazines: Revolver, Kerrang!, and Terrorizer, a testament to its creative brilliance.

Their third album, Blood Mountain, released in 2006, contained the Grammy-nominated track "Colony of Birchmen," a nod to the band's growing influence. The album was followed by the critically acclaimed Crack the Skye in 2009 and The Hunter in 2011. The Hunter achieved remarkable commercial success, debuting at number 10 on the Billboard 200 chart, solidifying Mastodon's status as a major force in the US music market.

Mastodon's unwavering commitment to innovation and powerful sound has earned them a dedicated fanbase and cemented their place as one of the most influential heavy metal bands of their generation. Their journey continues to inspire and captivate, solidifying their legacy as true giants of the genre.