I See Stars: A Journey Through Electronicore

Hailing from Warren, Michigan, I See Stars emerged in 2006 as a force in the burgeoning electronicore scene. The band, known for their high-energy live shows and blend of electronic elements with heavy metal, quickly garnered a loyal following.

Their debut album, 3-D (2009), showcased their raw talent and landed them a respectable spot on the Billboard 200 chart. Subsequent releases like The End of the World Party (2011) solidified their position within the genre.

However, it was their third album, Digital Renegade (2012), that marked a significant shift in their sound. The album embraced a more aggressive musical style, showcasing a heavier, grittier approach that set them apart. Their exploration of EDM influences continued with New Demons (2013), which further pushed their sonic boundaries while retaining their signature intensity.

Throughout their journey, the band's core lineup remained relatively stable, with only a few key changes. Notably, guitarist Jimmy Gregerson and vocalist Zach Johnson departed in 2015, leaving the band to forge ahead with a new direction.

Lead vocalist Devin Oliver, known for his dynamic range, now seamlessly switches between clean and unclean vocals, adding another layer of depth to their music.

I See Stars' evolution is a testament to their adaptability and willingness to push boundaries. They continue to be a force in the music scene, captivating audiences with their raw energy and electrifying live performances.

Stabbing Westward: A Journey Through Industrial Rock

Stabbing Westward, hailing from the heartland of America, emerged as a powerful force in the industrial rock scene, blending dark, atmospheric sounds with alternative rock sensibilities. Founded in 1985 by Christopher Hall and Walter Flakus in Macomb, Illinois, the band’s name was born amidst the walls of their college radio station, WIUS-FM. The moniker, a chilling echo of Cold War paranoia, was allegedly inspired by a 1950s speech about political fears of communism, with the phrase "stabbing westward" resonating in the band's early days.

The band's early years were marked by a raw energy and an exploration of their unique sound. After releasing an extended play in 1992, Stabbing Westward unleashed their debut album, Ungod, in 1994. The album cemented their place in the industrial rock scene, showcasing a potent blend of heavy guitars, driving rhythms, and Hall’s haunting vocals. Their subsequent albums, Wither Blister Burn & Peel (1996), Darkest Days (1998), and Stabbing Westward (2001), further solidified their reputation for creating intense and atmospheric music that resonated with fans worldwide.

Despite their growing success, the band announced their dissolution in February 2002. Two compilation albums followed in 2003, leaving a sense of unfinished business for many fans. However, in 2016, the band reunited, marking the 30th anniversary of their formation with a series of live performances that reignited the passion of their devoted fanbase.

The reunion proved to be a catalyst for new creative endeavors, culminating in the release of their first new album in 21 years, Chasing Ghosts, in 2022. This highly anticipated album showcased the band's enduring power and reaffirmed their ability to create music that was both innovative and true to their roots.

Stabbing Westward's journey is a testament to the enduring power of music, a reminder that even after periods of silence, the desire for dark and atmospheric sounds can reemerge, captivating a new generation of fans while remaining true to their original vision.

Quiet Riot: The Rise and Fall (and Rise Again) of a Heavy Metal Icon

Quiet Riot, a quintessential Los Angeles heavy metal band, burst onto the scene in 1973 with the formidable pairing of guitarist Randy Rhoads and bassist Kelly Garni. Their original lineup, which also included vocalist Kevin DuBrow and drummer Drew Forsyth, was plagued by internal turmoil, ultimately leading to Garni's dismissal after he made death threats against DuBrow.

However, the band found its true stride with a new lineup featuring the powerhouse combination of DuBrow, guitarist Carlos Cavazo, bassist Rudy Sarzo, and drummer Frankie Banali. This lineup released their breakthrough album, Metal Health, in 1983, marking a pivotal moment in heavy metal history. Metal Health became the first heavy metal album to top the Billboard 200 chart, catapulting the band to international fame. The album spawned several iconic singles that dominated the airwaves, including "Cum On Feel the Noize" (a cover of the Slade original), "Mama Weer All Crazee Now" (another Slade cover), and the title track, "Metal Health (Bang Your Head)". Quiet Riot's impact on the genre was undeniable, solidifying their place as a cornerstone of the heavy metal movement, earning them the #100 spot on VH1's 100 Greatest Artists of Hard Rock.

Despite numerous lineup changes and brief hiatuses, Quiet Riot continued to record and tour until DuBrow's tragic death in 2007 due to a cocaine overdose. While no original members remained, Banali, who had been a consistent member since 1982, resurrected the band in 2010. By 2020, the band consisted of Banali on drums, vocalist Jizzy Pearl, bassist Chuck Wright, and guitarist Alex Grossi. Quiet Riot has continued to tour and release new music, proving their enduring legacy even after DuBrow's passing. They released their first album in eight years, Quiet Riot 10, in 2014, followed by Road Rage in 2017 and Hollywood Cowboys in 2019, demonstrating their commitment to keeping the Quiet Riot flame alive.

Quiet Riot's story is one of triumph and tragedy, of musical innovation and enduring spirit. Despite the challenges they faced, their music continues to resonate with fans around the world, cementing their position as one of heavy metal's most influential and enduring bands.

From Ashes to New: A Rock Band Rising from the Pennsylvania Underground

From Ashes to New, hailing from Lancaster, Pennsylvania, is a rock band that's been shaking up the scene with their energetic blend of heavy metal and electronic influences. Though the band's lineup has seen some changes in its early years, the one constant member has been founding guitarist and mastermind, Matt Brandyberry.

From Ashes to New has unleashed four studio albums onto the world: Day One, The Future, Panic, and Blackout. These albums have spawned a string of successful singles, including "Through It All," "Crazy," and "Panic," all of which climbed the Billboard Mainstream Rock chart, reaching peak positions of 6, 3, and 11 respectively. The band's momentum continued with Blackout, delivering hits like "Nightmare," "Until We Break," "Hate Me Too," and "Armageddon," solidifying their place as a force to be reckoned with in the rock landscape.

A History of Hard Work and Heavier Riffs:

The band's journey began in 2013 when they unleashed their debut single, "My Fight," followed by an eponymous EP. In 2015, they dropped their second EP, Downfall, teasing their full-length debut album. Day One arrived on February 26, 2016, showcasing the band's raw energy and infectious sound. In 2016, they even released a deluxe edition of Day One featuring an acoustic version of "Lost and Alone" and other new tracks.

From Ashes to New have proven themselves to be more than just a band with a catchy sound; they are a band fueled by passion, dedication, and a desire to deliver heavy, hard-hitting music that resonates with fans worldwide. Their story is a testament to their resilience, their ability to adapt and evolve, and their relentless drive to leave their mark on the rock scene.

Dirty Honey: A Rock 'n' Roll Story

Dirty Honey, hailing from the heart of Los Angeles, emerged onto the scene in 2017, quickly becoming a force to be reckoned with in the contemporary rock landscape. This four-piece powerhouse comprises lead vocalist Marc LaBelle, guitarist John Notto, bassist Justin Smolian, and drummer Jaydon Bean (who replaced Corey Coverstone in 2021).

Their self-titled EP, released in March 2019, showcased their raw talent and ignited a buzz within the rock community. The band's breakout single, "When I'm Gone," stormed the Billboard Mainstream Rock Songs chart, achieving a feat previously unmatched by any unsigned act. This success earned Dirty Honey the prestigious "On the Verge" Artist title from iHeartRadio, solidifying their status as a rising force in the music industry.

From Ground Zero to Dirty Honey:

The band's journey began when guitarist John Notto, aiming to capture the magic of Guns N' Roses, landed in Los Angeles. It was there that he crossed paths with vocalist Marc LaBelle, who was then performing with the group Ground Zero. Notto, impressed by LaBelle's talents, joined the band, adding his own distinct guitar flair to their repertoire.

LaBelle and Notto's shared vision soon led them to form their own band. They brought in Justin Smolian, who had joined Ground Zero as bassist. The trio's quest for a drummer proved challenging, but Smolian introduced Corey Coverstone, who eagerly joined their ranks. With Coverstone's addition, the band solidified their name as "Dirty Honey," leaving behind their former moniker, "The Shags."

Dirty Honey's story is one of passion, perseverance, and undeniable talent. Their self-made success and signature hard-hitting sound have catapulted them into the spotlight, solidifying their place as a major contender in the modern rock scene.

Of Mice & Men: A Rock Band's Journey from Metalcore to Mainstream

Of Mice & Men (OM&M for short) is an American rock band that burst onto the scene in 2009, hailing from Costa Mesa, California. The current lineup features drummer Valentino Arteaga, guitarists Phil Manansala and Alan Ashby, and bassist/lead vocalist Aaron Pauley.

The band's origins trace back to the departure of vocalist Austin Carlile from Attack Attack! in mid-2009. Carlile, alongside bassist Jaxin Hall (originally from Auckland, New Zealand), formed OM&M in Columbus, Ohio, marking the start of their rock journey.

OM&M's early sound was firmly rooted in the intense world of metalcore and post-hardcore. Their self-titled debut album, released in 2010, showcased their raw energy and aggressive style. Over time, the band's sound evolved, incorporating more melodic elements and exploring genres like nu metal, alternative metal, and hard rock, while retaining their core musical identity.

This evolution is evident in their discography, which spans eight studio albums:

• Of Mice & Men (2010) - Their explosive debut, firmly in the metalcore realm.
• The Flood (2011) - A continuation of their metalcore sound, further solidifying their place in the scene.
• Restoring Force (2014) - Marking a shift towards a more melodic direction.
• Cold World (2016) - A further exploration of their evolving sound, blending metalcore with alternative rock influences.
• Defy (2018) - A more experimental album, showcasing their continued growth and pushing the boundaries of their sound.
• Earthandsky (2019) - A deeply personal album, reflecting on the band's experiences and internal struggles.
• Echo (2021) - A powerful album exploring themes of introspection and resilience.
• Tether (2023) - Their latest offering, showcasing their ability to continue pushing boundaries while staying true to their core sound.

OM&M's journey has taken them beyond the studio, onto the international stage, performing at major festivals like the Vans Warped Tour (2010, 2011, 2012, 2014) and Soundwave Music Festival (2013, 2015).

Through it all, Of Mice & Men has cemented their place as a powerhouse in the rock scene, constantly evolving and pushing the boundaries of their music while staying true to their core identity. Their journey from metalcore newcomers to genre-bending rock stars is a testament to their talent, hard work, and unwavering passion for music.

Atreyu: A Heavy Metal Journey From California's Underground

Atreyu, the American metalcore titans, emerged from the fertile musical landscape of Yorba Linda, California in 1998. Initially known as Retribution, the band underwent a name change and lineup shift, embracing a heavier sound. Inspired by the character from Michael Ende's iconic novel "The Neverending Story," Atreyu embarked on their journey to conquer the music world.

Their early days saw the release of two independent EPs: "Visions," a seven-track showcase of their raw talent, and "Fractures in the Facade of Your Porcelain Beauty," a five-track gem released through the underground label Tribunal Records. These early works laid the foundation for their future success and featured tracks that would be revisited and refined in subsequent releases.

A pivotal moment arrived in 2001 when Atreyu inked a deal with Victory Records, a move that would catapult them to prominence. This partnership saw them unleash a string of critically acclaimed albums that cemented their place in the metalcore scene. The original lineup comprised Alex Varkatzas on lead vocals, Dan Jacobs and Travis Miguel on guitars, and Kyle Stanley on bass.

Atreyu's unique blend of heavy riffs, melodic vocals, and aggressive screams quickly captured the attention of metalheads worldwide. Their journey, however, was just beginning. The following years saw the release of a string of acclaimed albums, including "Suicide Notes and Butterfly Kisses" (2002), "The Curse" (2004), and "A Death-Grip on Yesterday" (2006), solidifying their place as a force to be reckoned with in the metalcore genre.

The band's evolution continued with "Lead Sails Paper Anchor" (2007), "Congregation of the Damned" (2009), and "Long Live" (2015). Each album showcased their musical growth and experimentation, pushing boundaries and exploring new sonic landscapes while maintaining their signature aggression.

Their relentless pursuit of artistic expression continued with "In Our Wake" (2018), "Baptize" (2021), and their latest release "The Beautiful Dark of Life" (2023), proving that Atreyu remains a vital and relevant force in heavy music.

Today, the band boasts a powerful lineup featuring Brandon Saller on lead vocals, Dan Jacobs and Travis Miguel on guitars, Marc "Porter" McKnight on bass and unclean vocals, and Kyle Rosa on drums. Atreyu's impact on the metalcore scene is undeniable, with their music continuing to inspire and ignite passion in fans across generations. From their early independent beginnings to their current standing as metalcore icons, Atreyu's journey is a testament to their unwavering dedication to their craft and their ability to connect with a devoted legion of fans worldwide.

Fever 333: A Rock Band Born from the Ashes

Fever 333, a fierce rock band, emerged from the vibrant scene of Inglewood, California, in July 2017. This explosive trio was forged by the talents of Jason Aalon Butler, the former vocalist of the influential band Letlive, Stephen Harrison, a guitar virtuoso who previously shredded with the Chariot, and Aric Improta, a powerhouse drummer known for his work with Night Verses.

Their debut EP, "Made an America," unleashed in March 2018, was a testament to their raw energy and unapologetic approach. Fever 333 quickly gained notoriety, signing with both Roadrunner Records and 333 Wreckords, cementing their place in the rock landscape.

Their first full-length album, "Strength in Numb333rs," dropped a year later, showcasing their sonic evolution and solidifying their sound. In 2020, they further expanded their musical horizons with their second EP, "Wrong Generation."

The Genesis of a Revolution:

Before Letlive disbanded, Jason Aalon Butler had a chance encounter with Travis Barker. The meeting led to a Super Bowl Sunday jam session with John Feldmann, where they explored the intersection of hip-hop and afro-punk. This sparked the initial concept for Fever 333, a band envisioned as a "dangerous" and uncompromising force.

Once Letlive's chapter closed, Butler reached out to Stephen Harrison, whose band, The Chariot, had also disbanded a few years prior. They delved into conversations about the lack of black representation in rock music and shared their vision for a band that would break down barriers and push creative boundaries.

Fever 333's journey began with a spontaneous performance, a pop-up show held inside a U-Haul truck in the parking lot of Randy's Donuts in Inglewood on July 4th, 2017. This impromptu gig marked the beginning of a powerful musical force that continues to challenge norms and ignite stages with their electrifying performances.

Sevendust: A Heavy Metal Journey From Atlanta

Sevendust, hailing from Atlanta, Georgia, is a rock band forged in the fires of 1994. The band's origins trace back to the rhythmic partnership of bassist Vince Hornsby and drummer Morgan Rose, who were initially jamming as "Snake Nation." Guitarist John Connolly, then a drummer himself, joined the fold, solidifying the core of the band.

Their first demo showcased their raw talent, but a dissatisfaction with the lead vocals led them on a year-long quest for the perfect voice. They found their answer in Lajon Witherspoon, a powerhouse vocalist destined to become the band's frontman. Rounding out the lineup was guitarist Lee Banks, ushering in a new chapter as "Rumblefish." However, Banks' touring commitment proved unsustainable, and the band welcomed Clint Lowery as his replacement.

This lineup solidified into the iconic Sevendust, a name that resonated with the band's heavy sound. Their self-titled debut album in April 1997, although initially selling only 310 copies in its first week, ultimately achieved gold certification thanks to tireless touring and the support of their label, TVT Records.

Sevendust's success story is a testament to their unwavering commitment. They went on to achieve three consecutive RIAA gold-certified albums, a Grammy nomination, and sold millions of records worldwide. Their extensive discography boasts fourteen studio albums, including a definitive reissue of their debut album featuring five new tracks and a DVD.

Early Years: Snake Nation to Sevendust (1994-1998)

The seeds of Sevendust were planted in 1994, when Hornsby and Rose, playing as "Snake Nation," were joined by Connolly, a drummer turned guitarist. This early incarnation saw the recording of their first demo, but their search for a powerful vocalist began after dissatisfaction with the initial recording. Witherspoon's arrival marked a turning point, adding a crucial element to their sound. Banks' brief tenure with the band under the name "Rumblefish" provided a glimpse into their evolving identity. Lowery's entry, replacing Banks, completed the lineup that would define Sevendust, a band destined to leave a lasting mark on the heavy metal scene.

Killswitch Engage: A Metalcore Giant

Hailing from Westfield, Massachusetts, Killswitch Engage emerged in 1999 from the ashes of the influential metalcore bands Overcast and Aftershock. This powerhouse quartet, consisting of vocalist Jesse Leach, guitarists Joel Stroetzel and Adam Dutkiewicz, bassist Mike D'Antonio, and drummer Justin Foley, has carved a formidable path in the heavy music scene.

Their rise to prominence began with the release of their 2004 masterpiece, "The End of Heartache," which peaked at number 21 on the Billboard 200 chart and achieved RIAA gold certification for exceeding 500,000 units sold in the US. The album's title track was nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Metal Performance in 2005.

Since then, Killswitch Engage has released seven more studio albums, solidifying their status as metalcore pioneers. Their music is a sonic tapestry woven with intense aggression, melodic hooks, and soaring vocals, often incorporating elements of heavy metal and hardcore punk. This unique blend has garnered them a dedicated fan base worldwide, earning them a place among the leading forces of the New Wave of American Heavy Metal.

Early Years and Debut Album (1999-2001):

The band's origins can be traced back to the disbandment of Overcast in 1998. After Overcast's demise, bassist Mike D'Antonio joined forces with Adam Dutkiewicz, guitarist from Aftershock. This collaboration, coupled with the addition of guitarist Joel Stroetzel (also from Aftershock) and vocalist Jesse Leach (from Nothing Stays Gold), birthed Killswitch Engage. The band's debut album, "Killswitch Engage," was released in 2001, showcasing their early raw energy and aggressive sound.

Throughout their career, Killswitch Engage has graced stages at renowned festivals such as Soundwave, Wacken Open Air, Reading and Leeds, Ozzfest, Download, Rock on the Range, Rock am Ring, Mayhem, Monsters of Rock, Pointfest, Knotfest, and Heavy MTL, spreading their music and captivating audiences globally.