Dead Poet Society: From Boston Basement to Global Stage

Hailing from the bustling music scene of Boston, Massachusetts, Dead Poet Society emerged in 2013 with a raw energy that resonated with a growing fanbase. Led by vocalist and guitarist Jack Underkofler, the band’s original lineup also featured Jack Collins (guitar), Nick Taylor (bass), and Will Goodroad (drums). They forged their sound in the vibrant atmosphere of Berklee College of Music, playing their first gig just two days after forming.

Their early years saw the band honing their craft as an independent unit, self-producing and recording their music. The unique blend of heavy riffs and pop-infused melodies, described by Underkofler as "heavy indie rock" and "djent pop", caught the attention of music lovers, and in 2020, they signed with Spinefarm Music Group.

The band's debut album, "!-," dropped in 2021, solidifying their position as a force to be reckoned with. Their music, with its infectious energy and captivating dynamics, has resonated with audiences worldwide.

The story of Dead Poet Society, however, goes beyond music alone. They embraced their roots, choosing their band name as a tribute to their shared passion for poetry, completely independent of the iconic film. After graduating from Berklee, the band relocated to Los Angeles, furthering their pursuit of musical success.

Their journey took a significant turn in 2016 when Pepe Problemas, an influential Mexican blog, recognized their talent. This recognition fueled their rise, paving the way for the international acclaim they enjoy today. Dead Poet Society is a testament to the power of passion, dedication, and the magic of creating music that transcends borders.

Hailing from the heart of Los Angeles, California, Budderside is a hard-hitting rock band forged in the year 2000 by the visionary Patrick Stone. Their raw energy and infectious riffs caught the ear of the legendary Lemmy Kilmister, who signed them to his Motörhead Music label, a testament to their potent sound.

Budderside has unleashed two full-length albums, "Spiritual Violence" and their self-titled "Budderside," each showcasing their unyielding spirit and powerful songwriting. The current lineup features the dynamic Patrick Alan Stone on vocals, the blistering guitar work of Sam Bam Koltun and Logan Nikolic, and the driving rhythm section of Jeff Dewbray on drums.

Their tracks, "The Truth" and "Power Hour," have been embraced by the influential DJ Matt Pinfield on Los Angeles' 95.5 FM KLOS, further solidifying Budderside's status as a force to be reckoned with in the rock scene.

Black Map: A Supergroup of Post-Hardcore Powerhouse

Black Map, stylized as BL⚡️CK MAP, is a San Francisco-based post-hardcore supergroup. This trio, comprised of Ben Flanagan on bass and vocals, Chris Robyn on drums, and Mark Engles on guitar, is a force to be reckoned with, having toured with the likes of Chevelle, Bush, and Circa Survive.

The band formed after their respective members took a break from their previous bands: Dredg (Mark Engles), Far (Chris Robyn), and The Trophy Fire (Ben Flanagan). Their debut release, a four-song EP titled "Driver," hit the scene in February 2014. Black Map unleashed their full-length debut album, "...And We Explode," through Minus Head Records on October 27, 2014.

The band continued to gain momentum, releasing their second full-length album, "In Droves," on March 10, 2017, via their current label, EOne. They followed this with a four-song EP, "Trace the Path," on February 9, 2018, showcasing their signature blend of heavy riffs, driving rhythms, and soaring vocals.

Black Map is a fusion of veteran talent and raw energy, leaving an undeniable impact on the post-hardcore scene with their powerful performances and captivating sound.

Rap Rock Nu-Metal Hip Hop Fiesta Extravaganza

Emerging from the crucible of New York City's legendary hardcore scene, Reach NYC was a relentless alt-metal force. Founded in 1996 on Long Island, the band was spearheaded by Richie Cipriano, a veteran of the iconic Sick of It All, who traded his bass for the six-string. Joined by vocalist Rene Mata, bassist Dan Martinez, drummer Dante Renzi, and guitarist Nick Cavagnaro, Reach NYC carved out a name for itself in the city's vibrant underground. They dominated infamous venues like CBGB's, sharing stages with the likes of the rising Papa Roach and System of a Down, and graced the stages of major festivals such as Vans Warped Tour.

StrateJacket, the nimble and punky alt-rock trio from California's Bay Area have had to learn the hard way that good things come to those who wait. Formed in 2019, they quickly found themselves stuck in the middle of a pandemic, stunting the band's career before it even started. Singer-guitarist, Jackson Roemers, bassist, Fabian Angel, and drummer Nate Mangold were not ones to give up easily. This youthful band of early twenty-somethings honed their craft and found their catchy, fast, and energetic sound in merging their individual influences. Acts ranging from The Beatles and Arctic Monkeys to Led Zeppelin and Blink-182 were among their favorites.

Insane Clown Posse: The Horrorcore Kings

Forget what you think you know about hip-hop. Insane Clown Posse (ICP), a Detroit-born duo consisting of Violent J (Joseph Bruce) and Shaggy 2 Dope (originally 2 Dope; Joseph Utsler), ain't your average rap group.

ICP's signature sound is hardcore hip-hop with a heavy dose of horrorcore, a subgenre they helped pioneer. Their music is a dark, twisted carnival ride through the minds of two guys who aren't afraid to embrace the macabre and the bizarre.

But it's not just the music that sets them apart. ICP's live shows are legendary. They're an over-the-top spectacle of masks, face paint, pyrotechnics, and a whole lot of chaotic energy. Think mosh pits, crowd surfing, and an experience that's more like a religious revival than a concert.

They've earned two platinum and five gold albums, and their catalog has sold a staggering 6.5 million units in the U.S. and Canada. But the numbers don't tell the whole story. ICP has amassed a fiercely loyal fan base known as Juggalos, a legion of devoted followers who consider themselves family.

Before they were ICP, the duo was known as JJ Boyz and later Inner City Posse. But it was the supernatural and horror-themed lyrics that truly set them apart. They founded their own record label, Psychopathic Records, and starred in the cult classic films "Big Money Hustlas" and "Big Money Rustlas."

ICP even launched their own pro-wrestling promotion, Juggalo Championship Wrestling, proving that their influence extends far beyond music. They've collaborated with a diverse range of artists from the worlds of hip-hop and rock, constantly pushing boundaries and challenging the status quo.

At the heart of ICP's music lies the mythology of the Dark Carnival, a metaphor for the afterlife where the lives of the dead are judged by a host of enigmatic entities. This haunting concept permeates their lyrics, creating a world both familiar and terrifying, and solidifying their place as one of the most unique and enduring forces in music today.

We are Nerv, a 4-piece genre-bending rock band residing in California. The band's members are originally from all over the US with vocalist Dillon Jones (Sacramento, CA), guitarists Jordan Grokett and Scott Buchanan (Dallas, TX) and drummer Tyler Clark (Atlanta, GA). Nerv burst onto the scene in November 2017 with their heavy hitting debut single ‘Enough’. Then in Spring 2018 the band released their highly successful debut EP 'Bad Habits’, working with producer Erik Ron (I Prevail, Godsmack, Hollywood Undead). In October of 2022, Nerv released their long-awaited debut full length album, 'We're All Patients Here'.

Straight out of San Francisco, CA. Hardcore thrash band Hemorage are here to share their art and make a chaotic peaceful environment creating a one of a kind experience. Formed by vocalist and guitarists Jon Orc and Bona Pak, Hemorage is rounded out by Ron Roussell on drums. Citing influences from Metal, Rap to Hardcore Punk, the band’s style is fiercely original laced with heavy breakdowns intertwined with fast-thrashing, hardcore punk riffs. The band has already seen praise from ESP guitars, Gary Holt(Exodus), and Brian Poshen, and have toured around the country independently with their DIY mobile stage and self-made merchandise. Hemorage carries a strong message of resilience, but it’s also about having fun.

Slothrust: A Rock Band Built on Grit and Melody

Slothrust, pronounced "sloth-rust" (IPA: [ˈslɔːθˌrʌst]), is an American alternative rock duo hailing from Boston, Massachusetts. Formed in 2010, the band is known for its powerful sound and captivating lyrics, driven by the raw talent of Leah Wellbaum (vocals, guitar) and Will Gorin (drums).

Their journey began at Sarah Lawrence College, where Wellbaum and Gorin first crossed paths. After honing their skills in various school groups, the duo united to create music with a heavier, more impactful edge. The name Slothrust itself is a fusion of Wellbaum's former project, "Slothbox," and the word "rust," a fitting combination that represents the passage of time and the band's evolution.

Feels Your Pain (2012-2013)

Their debut album, Feels Your Pain, showcased Slothrust's raw potential with the lead single "7:30 AM." The track's compelling energy earned it a spot as the opening theme song for the critically acclaimed FX series, You're the Worst. The band further cemented its creative force through a collaboration with Wreckroom Records, releasing a cover of the Turtles' classic, "Happy Together."

Of Course You Do (2014-2015)

Slothrust continued its upward trajectory with the release of their sophomore album, Of Course You Do, through Ba Da Bing in February 2014. This record solidified their unique blend of rock and roll grit with introspective lyrical themes, further captivating audiences with their raw energy and undeniable talent.

Everyone Else (2016-2017)

The band's momentum reached new heights when they signed with Dangerbird Records on July 7, 2016. This milestone marked a significant step in their journey, signaling their growing influence within the alternative rock scene and promising even greater achievements to come.

Slothrust's story is one of dedication, raw talent, and a relentless pursuit of a sound that is uniquely their own. They continue to capture hearts and minds with their powerful music and captivating performances, proving themselves as a force to be reckoned with in the world of alternative rock.