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.

Beartooth: A Rock Band's Rise From Solo Project to Stadium-Sized Success

Beartooth, the American rock band known for their raw energy and heavy sound, burst onto the scene in 2012, the brainchild of vocalist and multi-instrumentalist Caleb Shomo. Originally hailing from Columbus, Ohio, Shomo initially crafted the music solo, laying down every instrument track himself in the studio. This raw, self-produced sound caught attention, and soon Shomo assembled a full band, solidifying Beartooth as a powerhouse live act.

Signed to Red Bull Records in 2013, the band released their debut EP, "Sick," that same year. Following up with their first full-length album, "Disgusting," in 2014, Beartooth quickly established themselves as a force in the rock scene. Since then, Shomo has led the band through the release of three more studio albums: "Aggressive" (2016), "Disease" (2018), and "Below" (2021), each pushing the band's sound and expanding their fanbase. Their latest release, "The Surface," arrived in October 2023, solidifying Beartooth's position as a mainstay in the modern rock landscape.

From Solo Project to Full-Blown Band

Shomo's passion for Beartooth emerged while he was a member of the metalcore band Attack Attack!. Even amidst his commitments to that group, he began crafting the distinct sound that would become Beartooth's signature. The project initially went by the name "Noise," but Shomo changed it to Beartooth after discovering another band had already claimed the moniker. He drew inspiration for the name from Bear Tooth Court, the childhood home of original touring bassist Nick Reed.

Initially, Shomo had no intention of recording or performing live with Beartooth. It was meant to be a side project, a creative outlet. However, after leaving Attack Attack!, Shomo fully embraced Beartooth, making it his primary musical focus. The decision proved to be a game-changer, propelling Beartooth beyond Shomo's wildest expectations.

With the decision to perform live, Shomo recruited Reed, guitarist Taylor Lumley, and drummer Brandon Mullins. This lineup cemented Beartooth as a formidable live act, known for their intense performances and powerful stage presence.

Beartooth's journey, from a solo project birthed in a side room to a band commanding massive stages, is a testament to the power of passion, talent, and hard work. Shomo's vision and the band's unwavering commitment to their music have catapulted Beartooth to the forefront of the rock scene, leaving an undeniable mark on the genre.

Chevelle: A Rock Band Legacy Forged in Illinois

Hailing from the suburbs of Chicago, Chevelle emerged in 1995. The band's core was built upon the brotherhood of Pete Loeffler (lead vocals, guitar) and Sam Loeffler (drums, percussion). They were joined by Matt Scott on bass and backing vocals, solidifying the initial lineup.

In 1996, the band solidified their familial bond when Joe Loeffler, the brothers' younger sibling, replaced Scott on bass. This line-up remained steadfast for nearly a decade, until Joe's departure in 2005. Geno Lenardo stepped in as the touring bassist, bridging the gap until Dean Bernardini, Pete and Sam's brother-in-law, joined the fold. Bernardini's tenure ended in 2019, paving the way for Kemble Walters to take on the touring bass duties in 2021.

Chevelle's musical journey began with their debut album, "Point #1," released on the independent label Squint Entertainment. It was their sophomore album, "Wonder What's Next" (2002), that propelled them to mainstream recognition. It debuted at number 14 on the Billboard 200 chart and achieved double platinum status by the RIAA. Their third album, "This Type of Thinking (Could Do Us In)" (2004), further cemented their success with a number 8 debut and a platinum certification.

Chevelle's story is one of familial bonds, musical evolution, and enduring success in the rock genre. Their music, marked by Pete Loeffler's distinctive vocals and the band's powerful instrumental interplay, has resonated with audiences for over two decades.

311: A Rock Band Story

Hailing from Omaha, Nebraska, 311 (pronounced "three eleven") has been a cornerstone of the American rock scene since their formation in 1988. The band's core lineup, vocalist and guitarist Nick Hexum, lead guitarist Jim Watson, bassist Aaron "P-Nut" Wills, and drummer Chad Sexton, quickly established themselves as a dynamic force. While Watson departed in 1990, he was replaced by Tim Mahoney, adding another layer of talent to their sound.

The band's journey took a pivotal turn in 1992 with the arrival of Doug "SA" Martinez, who joined as a second vocalist and turntablist. This addition brought a unique blend of hip-hop and reggae influences into their already diverse sonic palette.

Over the years, 311 has built an impressive discography, boasting 13 studio albums, 2 live albums, 4 compilation albums, 4 EPs, and 4 DVDs. After a period of independent releases, they signed with Capricorn Records in 1992, releasing their albums "Music" (1993) and "Grassroots" (1994) to moderate success.

Their self-titled album in 1995, however, propelled them to new heights. Achieving triple-platinum status, it reached number 12 on the Billboard 200 charts, fueled by the iconic singles "Down" and "All Mixed Up." The latter, particularly, climbed to the top of the Billboard Hot Modern Rock Tracks in 1996.

311 continued their streak of success with their next three albums – "Transistor" (1997), "Soundsystem" (1999), and "From Chaos" (2001) – achieving platinum and gold certifications respectively. Their 2004 compilation album, "Greatest Hits '93-'03," also secured platinum status, showcasing the enduring power of their music.

The band's most recent studio album, "Voyager," was released in 2019, solidifying their legacy as a vibrant and innovative force in the rock world. 311's ability to blend rock, reggae, funk, and hip-hop elements has captivated audiences for over three decades, making them one of the most influential and enduring bands of their generation.

Shinedown: A Rock Band Built on Grit and Hard-Hitting Anthems

Shinedown, the American rock powerhouse hailing from Jacksonville, Florida, burst onto the scene in 2001, the brainchild of charismatic vocalist Brent Smith. After his previous band, Dreve, was dropped by Atlantic Records, Smith, under contract with the label, knew he had to forge a new path. He assembled a core lineup – Jasin Todd on guitar, Brad Stewart on bass, and Barry Kerch on drums – and began crafting their signature sound.

The band's early days saw a consistent lineup for their first two albums, but like many bands navigating the industry, lineup changes became a fact of life. The late 2000s saw a series of shifts, ultimately solidifying a new lineup featuring Smith, Kerch, Zach Myers on guitar, and Eric Bass on bass. This powerhouse quartet has become a mainstay in the rock world.

Since their debut, Shinedown has released seven studio albums: "Leave a Whisper" (2003), "Us and Them" (2005), "The Sound of Madness" (2008), "Amaryllis" (2012), "Threat to Survival" (2015), "Attention Attention" (2018), and "Planet Zero" (2022). These albums have consistently delivered hard-hitting anthems, showcasing their signature blend of raw emotion and powerful rock.

Shinedown’s impact extends beyond critical acclaim. The band holds the record for the most number-one singles on the Billboard Mainstream Rock charts, boasting a staggering 19 chart-toppers. All of their released singles have cracked the top five, cementing their place as a force to be reckoned with. On June 3, 2021, Billboard recognized their undeniable influence by ranking them #1 on the Greatest of All Time Mainstream Rock Artists chart, a testament to their enduring legacy.

With over 10 million records sold worldwide, Shinedown has undeniably carved a lasting impression on the rock scene. Their raw energy, emotional depth, and electrifying live performances have earned them legions of loyal fans who continue to rock out to their anthems.

Early Days: From Dreve to Shinedown

Smith's journey with Shinedown began with the dissolution of his previous band, Dreve. While they had signed with Atlantic Records, the label ultimately decided to part ways with the band before releasing an album, believing Smith had the potential to succeed as a solo artist. Recognizing his talent, Atlantic Records signed Smith to a development deal, providing him with support to hone his songwriting abilities and assemble a new band. This marked the genesis of Shinedown, a band poised to make its own mark on the world.

The Lemonheads: From Boston Basements to Chart-Topping Hits

The Lemonheads, a quintessential American alternative rock band, emerged from the vibrant Boston music scene in 1986. Founded by Evan Dando, Ben Deily, and Jesse Peretz, the band has undergone numerous line-up changes throughout its history, with Dando remaining the only constant member.

The band's early days were marked by a raw, punk-influenced sound, building a following in the independent and college rock circuits of the late 1980s. Their breakthrough came in 1992 with the release of "It's a Shame About Ray," a major label album produced by the Robb Brothers (Bruce, Dee, and Joe). This record, with its infectious melodies and Dando's introspective lyrics, propelled the Lemonheads into the mainstream.

The band's popularity soared even further with their iconic cover of Simon & Garfunkel's "Mrs. Robinson," which became one of their biggest hits.

After a successful run, the Lemonheads went on hiatus in 1997. However, they returned in 2005 with a new lineup, releasing the self-titled album "The Lemonheads" the following year. The band's latest album, "Varshons 2," dropped in February 2019.

Over the years, the Lemonheads have collaborated with a diverse roster of musicians, including John Strohm (Blake Babies), Doug Trachten, Corey Loog Brennan, Byron Hoagland (Folks on Fire), Ben Daughtrey (Squirrel Bait), Juliana Hatfield (Blake Babies), Nic Dalton (Godstar, Sneeze, the Plunderers), David Ryan (Fuzzy), Patrick "Murph" Murphy (Dinosaur Jr.), George Berz (Dinosaur Jr., Gobblehoof), Josh Lattanzi, Bill Gibson (The Eastern Dark), Mark 'Budola' Newman, Kenny Lyon, Vess Ruhtenberg, Devon Ashley, Karl Alvarez, Bill Stevenson (Descendents), P. David Hazel, Farley Glavin, and many more.

Early Years (1986-1991)

The Lemonheads' story began in the hallways of the Commonwealth School in Boston, where Evan Dando, Ben Deily, and Jesse Peretz formed the band as teenagers. Initially called "The Whelps," the name was inspired by a brand of candy that Dando described as "sweet on the inside and sour on the outside," a fitting metaphor for their music. The band's early output included the self-released 7-inch EP "Laughing All the Way to the Cleaners."