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.

Biohazard: From Brooklyn Streets to Global Metal Mayhem

Biohazard, hailing from the gritty streets of Brooklyn, New York City, burst onto the scene in 1987. They weren't your typical hardcore band. They were a sonic storm, merging hardcore punk's raw energy with heavy metal's crushing riffs and adding a dash of hip hop flavor for good measure. This unique blend solidified their place as one of the pioneers of this new, heavy sound.

The band's founding lineup was a powerhouse: bassist/vocalist Evan Seinfeld, guitarist Bobby Hambel, and drummer Anthony Meo. Soon after, guitarist/vocalist Billy Graziadei joined the ranks, adding another layer of aggression to their sound. Meo was replaced by drummer Danny Schuler before their debut album, solidifying the core lineup that dominated the hardcore scene from 1988 to 1995.

Their first demo in 1988 caused a stir, with some media outlets labeling them as fascists and white supremacists, overlooking the Jewish heritage of both Seinfeld and Schuler. The band vehemently denied these accusations, later explaining it was a publicity stunt to gain the attention of Carnivore and their fans. Seinfeld and Graziadei have since clarified that provocative lyrics like "Master Race" and "America" were meant to be metaphorical and shock value, and the band has always maintained that their music was never racially motivated.

Biohazard's journey wasn't without its twists and turns. After several lineup changes, a period of inactivity, and a reunion in 2008, the classic lineup of Seinfeld, Graziadei, Hambel, and Schuler reunited once again in 2022, proving that the fire of their music burns as brightly as ever. Get ready for a sonic assault as Biohazard, the pioneers of heavy hardcore, return to the stage in 2023, bringing their signature blend of aggression and melody to a new generation of fans.

Drug Church: A Post-Hardcore Band with a Grunge Twist

Drug Church, hailing from Albany, New York, are a force in the post-hardcore scene. Known for their dynamic sound and thought-provoking lyrics, the band has carved out a unique niche with their four albums and numerous EPs.

A History of Experimentation:

Drug Church's journey into the world of music is marked by their willingness to push boundaries. Their 2018 album, "Cheer," served as a testament to their experimentation, incorporating grunge influences while retaining their punk roots. This innovative approach garnered widespread praise, as the album's introspective and honest lyrics tackled complex themes with raw emotion.

Their fourth album, "Hygiene," dropped in 2022, further cementing their reputation for musical evolution. The singles "Miles of Fun" and "Detective Lieutenant" hinted at the album's direction, showcasing the band's ability to seamlessly blend aggression and melody.

A Sound Built on Contrasts:

Drug Church's music is a captivating fusion of hardcore punk, alternative rock, and grunge. Their sound echoes the intensity of bands like Black Flag, infused with the melodic sensibilities of alternative rock. This unique blend creates a distinctly post-punk/post-hardcore sound that is both powerful and unpredictable.

Lyrics that Reflect the World Around Us:

The band's lyrical focus lies in social commentary, delving into the darkness and absurdity of modern life. Their lyrics are often sharp and satirical, offering a critical lens on the world around them.

Interestingly, vocalist Patrick Kindlon, also known for his work in Self Defense Family, writes his lyrics in the studio. This spontaneous approach ensures a raw authenticity, mirroring the band's live energy. The combination of a collaborative instrumental approach and Kindlon's on-the-fly lyrics creates a truly unique and dynamic listening experience.

Drug Church continues to evolve, pushing the boundaries of post-hardcore with their innovative sound and unflinchingly honest lyrics. Their music is a testament to their commitment to crafting music that is both thought-provoking and musically exciting.

Better Lovers: A Supergroup Forged in the Fires of Metalcore Drama

Better Lovers, a new hardcore punk band hailing from Buffalo, NY, burst onto the scene in 2023, carrying a hefty dose of metalcore history in their wake. This isn't just any band; they're a bona fide supergroup, comprised of members from two of the most influential and respected acts in the scene: Every Time I Die and The Dillinger Escape Plan.

The core of the band comes from the turbulent breakup of Every Time I Die. Guitarist Jordan Buckley, bassist Stephen Micciche, and drummer Clayton "Goose" Holyoak were key players in the band's 24-year run. After a highly publicized internal conflict that saw the band's original vocalist, Keith Buckley (Jordan's brother), alleging mistreatment and ultimately being sidelined, the remaining members decided to call it quits.

However, the musical chemistry between these three was too potent to ignore. They continued to jam together, eventually recruiting Greg Puciato (formerly of The Dillinger Escape Plan) on vocals and Will Putney (currently with Fit For An Autopsy) on guitar. This unexpected union resulted in Better Lovers, a band that's as much about the dramatic backstory as it is the raw, uncompromising sound.

The band signed with SharpTone Records and quickly unleashed their debut EP, "God Made Me An Animal" in 2023. The EP showcased a ferocious blend of hardcore punk aggression and metalcore's signature heaviness, leaving no doubt that Better Lovers are here to make a statement.

Their story is one of both personal struggles and the enduring power of music. From the ashes of conflict, a new entity has emerged, ready to take on the scene with a mix of raw talent and a history that's sure to fuel the fire of their future.

Blake Ibanez returns with a new band, Fugitive, and the aggressive pit detonation Thrash he’s known for in Power Trip, now with an even rawer and looser ferocity. Joined by Seth Gilmore (Skourge), Lincoln Mullins (Creeping Death), Victor Gutierrez and Andy Messer, Ibanez and co. cohere in intensely violent crossover fashion with Fugitive; a product of long earned experience in the studio and on the stage.

After the ripping introduction of the ‘Maniac’ EP in 2022, Fugitive’s follow-up 7” is their best two tracks to date. The A-side features ‘Blast Furnace’, a mid-paced onslaught of anthemic Crossover aggression and throat-shredding Thrash. On the B-side the motor-charged ‘Standoff’ displays the hunger and frantic energy of a new band full of forceful vigor, with the writing, production and arrangement chops of seasoned live vets. With this EP and the debut 12”, the stage is now set for a Fugitive takeover.

Set It Off: A Rock Band Built on Passion and YouTube

Set It Off, hailing from Tampa, Florida, is a rock band that emerged onto the scene in 2008. Their explosive sound is a blend of pop-punk, post-hardcore, and emo influences, creating a signature energy that's captured the hearts of fans worldwide. The band consists of frontman Cody Carson, whose powerhouse vocals and charismatic stage presence are legendary, guitarist/bassist Zach DeWall, and drummer Maxx Danziger, who provide the relentless rhythmic backbone.

From humble beginnings, the band's journey is an inspiring testament to dedication and the power of social media. Cody's YouTube channel played a vital role in building a loyal fanbase before they even signed a record deal. Their catchy tunes and infectious energy resonated online, propelling them to the forefront of the next generation of rock bands.

After releasing a string of successful EPs, they caught the attention of Equal Vision Records, their first label home. Their talent and undeniable energy led them to Fearless Records in 2018, where they unleashed their fourth studio album, "Midnight," in 2019. This was followed by "Elsewhere," their fifth studio album, in 2022, showcasing their continued growth and evolution.

In 2023, Set It Off took a bold step, venturing out on their own as an independent band, a decision fueled by their desire for creative freedom and a direct connection with their passionate fanbase. This new chapter promises exciting things for the band, as they forge their own path, free from the constraints of the traditional music industry.

From their early days in Tampa to their burgeoning success, Set It Off's story is a testament to hard work, raw talent, and the unwavering support of their devoted fan base. They've become synonymous with an energetic, captivating sound, making them one of the most exciting rock bands of the new generation.

Here's a glimpse into their early days:

Formation (2008)

Cody Carson and Dan Clermont, bandmates from their high school marching band, found themselves crossing paths with Austin M. Kerr and Zach DeWall, who were also making music together. After high school, Cody moved to Ohio to pursue a degree in classical clarinet at the Oberlin Conservatory of Music. However, his musical journey took an unexpected turn.

Cody's YouTube videos caught the eye of Alex Gaskarth, the frontman of All Time Low, who invited him to sing "Coffee Shop Soundtrack" at their Cleveland concert. The experience solidified Cody's passion for rock and his desire to be in a band. He left college, using his school funds to kickstart his musical dreams with Set It Off. The band's journey was set in motion, fueled by passion, a shared vision, and a little bit of internet magic.