Disturbed: A Heavy Metal Force to Be Reckoned With

Disturbed, hailing from the heart of Chicago, burst onto the heavy metal scene in 1994. This powerhouse quartet, featuring the blistering guitar work of Dan Donegan, the relentless drumming of Mike Wengren, the powerful vocals of David Draiman, and the solid bass lines of John Moyer, has become a force to be reckoned with in the world of rock.

While Donegan and Wengren have been with the band since its inception, Disturbed's lineup has evolved over the years. Draiman joined in 1996, replacing original vocalist Erich Awalt, while Moyer stepped in for founding bassist Steve "Fuzz" Kmak in 2004.

Their debut album, The Sickness, released in 2000, propelled them to commercial success with hit singles like "Down With the Sickness" and "Stupify". This was just the beginning of a string of chart-topping albums, including Believe (2002), Ten Thousand Fists (2005), Indestructible (2008), and Asylum (2010) - all of which debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 chart.

In 2011, Disturbed took a brief hiatus, allowing members to explore side projects and release The Lost Children, a compilation of unreleased tracks. They returned in 2015 with their sixth album, Immortalized, followed by Evolution (2018) and Divisive (2022), proving their enduring appeal.

Disturbed's legacy speaks for itself: over 17 million records sold worldwide, six RIAA certifications (including 5x platinum for The Sickness), consistent top 10 charting singles on the Mainstream Rock chart, and two Grammy Award nominations. They stand shoulder-to-shoulder with Slipknot and Godsmack as one of the most successful rock bands of the 21st century, leaving an undeniable mark on the heavy metal landscape.

Slipknot: A Heavy Metal Juggernaut

Slipknot, a name synonymous with intense, masked mayhem, emerged from the heartland of Des Moines, Iowa, in 1995. Born from the creative fire of percussionist Shawn "Clown" Crahan, former vocalist Anders Colsefni, and bassist Paul Gray, the band underwent a series of lineup changes before solidifying its nine-member core: Crahan, Gray, Joey Jordison, Craig Jones, Mick Thomson, Corey Taylor, Sid Wilson, Chris Fehn, and Jim Root. This lineup dominated the heavy metal scene for over a decade.

Slipknot's undeniable presence is built on their trademark image – masked, masked, and masked again – their aggressive musical style that blends heavy metal, thrash, and industrial influences, and their explosive live shows that leave audiences breathless. Their self-titled debut album in 1999 thrust them onto the world stage, instantly cementing their status as heavy metal royalty. The darker, heavier follow-up, Iowa in 2001, propelled them further into the spotlight.

After a brief hiatus, the band returned in 2004 with Vol. 3: (The Subliminal Verses), followed by another hiatus before their fourth album, All Hope Is Gone, topped the Billboard 200 chart in 2008. Another lengthy break culminated in the release of their fifth studio album, .5: The Gray Chapter, in 2014, marking a period of musical exploration and evolution.

Slipknot continued their reign with We Are Not Your Kind in 2019, a testament to their longevity and creative drive. Their latest offering, The End, So Far, hit the scene in 2022, showcasing the band's relentless commitment to pushing boundaries and delivering a sonic experience that's both brutal and captivating.

Slipknot remains a force to be reckoned with, a band that continues to redefine the heavy metal landscape, leaving a trail of sonic destruction and undeniable influence in its wake.

Slayer: The Kings of Thrash Metal

Slayer, hailing from Huntington Park, California, emerged in 1981 as a force of pure sonic aggression. Founded by guitarists Kerry King and Jeff Hanneman, drummer Dave Lombardo, and bassist/vocalist Tom Araya, they quickly established themselves as a dominant force in the thrash metal scene. Their blistering speed and relentless intensity earned them a place amongst the "Big Four" of thrash alongside Metallica, Megadeth, and Anthrax.

Slayer's musical style is defined by its raw power and uncompromising aggression. Their lyrics, often focusing on themes of serial killers, torture, genocide, and other dark subjects, have generated controversy and even bans throughout their career. But the band's influence on metal is undeniable. Their third album, Reign in Blood (1986), is considered one of the heaviest and most influential thrash metal albums ever released.

Their signature sound was forged through the songwriting partnership of King and Hanneman, who also contributed to the band's lyrics. While the band has undergone numerous lineup changes, the current iteration features King, Araya, drummer Paul Bostaph, and guitarist Gary Holt, who joined permanently after Hanneman's passing in 2013.

Throughout their career, Slayer have released a substantial body of work including twelve studio albums, three live albums, a box set, six music videos, two extended plays, and a cover album. Four of their studio albums have achieved gold certification in the United States, and they sold an impressive 5 million copies between 1991 and 2013, according to Nielsen SoundScan.

Slayer's legacy is cemented as a cornerstone of thrash metal, a band that pushed boundaries and challenged conventions with their uncompromising sound and controversial lyrical content. Their influence can be felt in countless bands that followed in their wake, forever solidifying their status as true pioneers of the genre.

fun. (stylized as fun.): The Indie Pop Band That Took the World by Storm

fun. was a New York City-based indie pop band known for their infectious energy and catchy melodies. The trio consisted of the talented musicians:

• Nate Ruess: A seasoned frontman, previously known for his work with The Format.
• Jack Antonoff: A multi-instrumentalist and prolific songwriter, best known for his work with the band Steel Train.
• Andrew Dost: A talented multi-instrumentalist who had previously collaborated with The Format.

The band's journey began in 2008, shortly after The Format disbanded. Nate Ruess, yearning for a fresh start, invited Andrew Dost and Jack Antonoff to join his new project. Dost, who had previously toured and contributed to The Format, readily accepted the offer. Ruess and Antonoff had crossed paths when The Format toured with Steel Train, forging a musical connection.

The band's debut album, "Aim and Ignite," was released in 2009, establishing fun. as a force to be reckoned with in the indie music scene. However, it was their second album, "Some Nights," released in 2012, that catapulted them to international stardom.

"Some Nights" peaked at number three on the Billboard 200 chart and topped both the Top Alternative Albums and Top Rock Albums charts. This critical and commercial success spawned some of fun.'s most iconic singles:

• "We Are Young" featuring Janelle Monáe: This anthem of youth and optimism reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, becoming their biggest hit.
• "Some Nights" and "Carry On" were both chart-topping hits, further solidifying fun.'s status as a pop powerhouse.

At the 55th Annual Grammy Awards, fun. was honored with prestigious awards: "Song of the Year" for "We Are Young," and "Best New Artist."

With their unique blend of indie sensibilities, catchy pop hooks, and a high-energy live show, fun. left a lasting impact on the music world. Their success proved that a band with a strong foundation in songwriting, musicianship, and a genuine connection with their audience could achieve true global recognition.

Fishbone: A Genre-Bending Force of Musical Anarchy

Fishbone, hailing from the vibrant streets of Los Angeles, California, are more than just a rock band. They're a sonic explosion of musical styles, effortlessly fusing ska, punk, funk, metal, reggae, and soul into a unique and unforgettable sound.

Considered by AllMusic as "one of the most distinctive and eclectic alternative rock bands of the late '80s," Fishbone exploded onto the scene with a frenetic energy, self-aware diversity, and a playful sense of humor that masked their sharp social commentary. Their infectious blend of genres garnered a devoted cult following.

The band's origins can be traced back to 1979, when a group of junior high students, John Norwood Fisher (bass), his brother Philip "Fish" Fisher (drums), Angelo Moore (vocals, saxophones, theremin), Kendall Jones (guitar), "Dirty" Walter A. Kibby II (vocals, trumpet), and Christopher Dowd (keyboards, trombone, vocals), came together, forming the nucleus of what would become Fishbone.

Their most commercially successful period spanned the late 1980s and early 1990s, though the band endured numerous lineup changes over the years. John Norwood Fisher and Angelo Moore were the last two original members remaining from 2003 to 2010. A wave of reunions in the 2010s saw the return of most of the original lineup, with the exception of Kendall Jones, for various tours and anniversary celebrations.

As of April 2024, Fishbone continues to rock stages with a lineup consisting of Angelo Moore, Christopher Dowd, guitarist Mark Phillips, bassist Aroyn Day, drummer Hassan Hurd, and trumpeter JS Williams.

Early Career (1979-1987):

Fishbone's journey began in 1979, when these young musicians, a diverse and eccentric crew, joined forces in their junior high school. Their early years were marked by raw energy and a dedication to their unique vision.

Silent Theory: A Rock Band's Journey from Idaho to the Charts

Silent Theory, hailing from Moscow, Idaho, is a rock band with a history as vibrant as their music. The band's roots stretch back to 2010, when drummer Mitch Swanger and lead vocalist Nick Osborn joined forces. They quickly recruited rhythm guitarist Bob James, as well as Mitch's brothers, lead guitarist Scott and bassist George, forming the core of the band.

Their debut album, "Black Tie Affair," released in 2011, marked the beginning of their journey. Signed to Turkey Vulture Records, Silent Theory embarked on a national tour after the album's release. However, the tour's success was shadowed by Nick Osborn's departure, leaving the band to forge a new path. They parted ways with their label and went fully independent.

Following Nick's departure, the band tried to find their footing again. They recruited Sean Walker, a singer from Seattle, Washington, in 2013, and released the single "Outta My Head." Unfortunately, this partnership was short-lived, as Sean pursued other musical interests. This left Silent Theory at a crossroads.

A fateful introduction in 2014 brought them together with vocalist Dakota Jerns. Their chemistry ignited, marking a turning point for the band. With Dakota on board, they released "Delusions," a powerful album that garnered significant recognition. The lead single, "Fragile Minds," soared on radio charts and YouTube, becoming the band's first video to reach over a million views.

In 2021, Silent Theory signed with Paul Crosby Management, the founder of the renowned rock band Saliva. This strategic move signified a new chapter for the band, propelling them toward even greater success in the rock music scene.

Silent Theory's story is one of persistence, resilience, and the power of finding the right combination of musicians to create captivating music. Their journey from Moscow, Idaho, to the forefront of the rock scene showcases their dedication and talent.

Hailing from the heart of Alabama, Cullman's own Shallow Side stormed the rock scene. Their anthem "Can You Hear Me" resonated with fans, reaching a peak position of #34 on the US Billboard chart in May 2017. The band spent 2018 on the road, electrifying audiences on the Resurrection Tour alongside rock heavyweights Puddle of Mudd, Saliva, Tantric, and The Veer Union. Shallow Side's powerful sound and captivating live performances cemented their place as a rising force in rock music.

Psychostick: The Comedy Metal Kings of "Humorcore"

Psychostick, hailing from Tempe, Arizona, are the undisputed kings of comedic metal. Known for their hilarious stage presence and songs that are as funny as they are heavy, they've carved out a unique niche in the music world with their signature style, dubbed "humorcore".

From Humble Beginnings to National Recognition:

The band's story started in the late 90s with the band "Asinine" in Odessa, Texas. Fronted by Josh Key, the band laid the foundation for what Psychostick would become. Key moved to Phoenix, Arizona, where he joined forces with Rob Kersey to form Psychostick. With the addition of drummer Alex Preiss, bassist Hunter Alexander, and the adoption of the new name, Psychostick emerged as a force to be reckoned with.

A Legacy of Hilarious Albums:

Psychostick has released five albums, each a testament to their comedic genius:

• "We Couldn't Think of a Title" (2003): Their debut album, a hilarious introduction to their unique brand of humor.
• "Sandwich" (2009): Taking their comedic metal to the next level, this album solidified Psychostick as a force in the humorcore scene.
• "Space Vampires vs Zombie Dinosaurs in 3D" (2011): A sci-fi themed masterpiece, filled with outlandish concepts and catchy riffs.
• "IV: Revenge of the Vengeance" (2014): This album continued their trend of blending humor with hard-hitting music, proving they weren't afraid to poke fun at themselves and the music industry.
• "Do" (2018): Released during a live webcast, this album showcased Psychostick's continued evolution, both musically and humorously.

Hitting the Road and Sharing the Stage with the Best:

Psychostick took their live show on the road in 2006, sharing stages with heavy-hitting acts like Mushroomhead, Look What I Did, Powerglove, and Bobaflex. Their infectious energy and humor have also led them to perform alongside national acts like Three Days Grace, Army of Anyone, Sick Puppies, A New Revolution, The Exies, and Smile Empty Soul.

Psychostick continues to be a unique force in the metal scene, proving that music can be both heavy and hilarious. They stand as a testament to the power of humor in music, bringing laughter and headbanging moments to fans worldwide.

Liliac: A Family Affair in the World of Vamp Metal

Liliac, a heavy metal band hailing from the vibrant musical landscape of Los Angeles, has carved its own path in the rock scene. Founded in 2015 by the Cristea siblings – Melody, Samuel, Abigail, Ethan, and Justin – the band now calls Atlanta home.

Their musical style, dubbed "vamp metal" by the band, offers a unique blend of heavy metal with a dark and theatrical twist. Liliac's sound is a testament to their shared passion for music, nurtured from a young age by their father, Florin Cristea, a veteran music producer. Florin, originally from Transylvania, Romania, recognized his children's musical talents early on, guiding them through their musical education and ultimately inspiring the formation of Liliac.

The band's lineup is a dynamic mix of musical prowess:

• Melody Cristea: Lead vocalist, bassist, and flutist, Melody brings a captivating stage presence to Liliac's performances.
• Samuel Cristea: Lead guitarist and backing vocalist, Samuel's riffs fuel the band's sonic energy.
• Abigail Cristea: Drummer, Abigail provides the driving force behind Liliac's powerful sound.
• Ethan Cristea: Bassist and rhythm guitarist, Ethan adds depth and texture to Liliac's music.
• Justin Cristea: Keyboardist, Justin weaves intricate melodies and harmonies into Liliac's sound.

With a growing fanbase and two albums under their belts, Liliac has garnered attention for their energetic live performances. Their time in Los Angeles saw them become a regular fixture at the Santa Monica Pier, their music attracting ever-larger crowds until, ironically, their popularity led to their "removal" due to the sheer number of fans drawn to their shows.

Liliac's journey from Los Angeles to Atlanta reflects their commitment to their music and their desire to connect with new audiences. With Florin Cristea as their manager, the band continues to build a legacy based on their familial bond and unwavering passion for metal.

Upon A Burning Body: San Antonio's Metalcore Fury

Hailing from the heart of Texas, Upon A Burning Body burst onto the scene in 2005, quickly becoming a force in the metalcore genre. Led by vocalist Danny Leal's ferocious screams, the band, rounded out by guitarist Ruben Alvarez, drummer Tito Felix, and bassist Thomas Alvarez, have carved a distinct path through the music world.

Their sophomore effort, "Red. White. Green.," made a splash in 2012, debuting at a respectable No. 105 on the Billboard 200. But it was their third studio album, "The World Is My Enemy Now," released in August 2014, that really solidified their place in the metalcore scene. This powerful record reached a career-high No. 39 on the Billboard 200, showcasing their ever-evolving sound and undeniable energy.

Riding the wave of their success, Upon A Burning Body joined forces with metal heavyweights Five Finger Death Punch, supporting them on a massive tour in 2014.

The band continued to push boundaries with their fourth studio album, "Straight From the Barrio," which hit shelves in October 2016. This album showcased a more mature sound, while still retaining the raw energy that made them stand out.

Upon A Burning Body has proven themselves to be a relentless force in the metalcore scene, continuously pushing the boundaries of their sound and captivating audiences with their fiery live performances. They stand as a testament to the vibrant and diverse musical landscape that San Antonio, Texas has to offer.