Time for Rock...
Time for Rock...
Founded in: 2018
Caskets, hailing from Leeds, England, burst onto the scene in 2018, initially under the name Captives. These post-hardcore titans emerged from the ashes of the band Faultlines, fueled by the creative drive of founding members bassist Christopher McIntosh (who initially played rhythm guitar), lead guitarist Benjamin Wilson, and bassist Lee Horner. The lineup was completed by drummer James Lazenby and vocalist Matthew Flood.
The band made their explosive debut with the single "Ghost Like You" in September 2018, unleashing it upon the world via the Dreambound YouTube channel. Their self-titled EP was announced for release in April 2019, building anticipation with the singles "Signs" and "Find a Way." The EP, a testament to their raw energy and powerful sound, dropped on April 26, 2019.
Caskets wasted no time in hitting the road, embarking on a European tour with fellow post-hardcore powerhouse Hands Like Houses. They also opened for Bad Omens in Hannover, showcasing their electrifying live performance to a growing fanbase.
Summer saw them conquering the festival circuit in Germany and Sweden, spreading their music across Europe. They also supported the Japanese metalcore giants Crystal Lake on a German tour, further solidifying their status as a force to be reckoned with.
September 2019 witnessed Caskets headlining their first UK tour, sharing the stage with fellow rising stars Acres and Parting Gift. This tour was a defining moment, where they debuted the powerful new single "Falling Apart" to an enthusiastic crowd.
Unfortunately, founding member Lee Horner departed the band shortly after the tour due to personal reasons. Despite this setback, Caskets' journey has been marked by resilience and a dedication to their craft. With a passionate fanbase and a sound that's both raw and evocative, Caskets are poised to continue their ascent in the post-hardcore world.
Founded in: 1994
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.
Founded in: 1998
CKY, an acronym for "Camp Kill Yourself," is an American rock band hailing from West Chester, Pennsylvania. Formed in 1998 by vocalist and guitarist Deron Miller, guitarist Chad I Ginsburg, and drummer Jess Margera, the group currently features Margera, Ginsburg, and bassist Ronnie Elvis James.
CKY initially gained recognition through their contributions to the "CKY Video" series and the popular MTV show "Jackass," both featuring Margera's brother, Bam.
After the release of their debut album "Volume 1" in 1999, CKY signed with Island/Def Jam and released "Infiltrate Destroy Rebuild" in 2002, earning the band their first US chart success. "An Answer Can Be Found" followed in 2005, leading the group to sign with Roadrunner Records and release "Carver City" in 2009.
In 2011, Miller left the band, leaving Ginsburg, Margera, and bassist Matt Deis to release "The Phoenix" on Entertainment One Music in 2017.
CKY has been categorized across various genres, including alternative rock/metal, post-grunge, stoner rock, and hard rock. Their songwriting was typically led by Miller, while Ginsburg handled production, engineering, and mixing. Following Miller's departure, Ginsburg took over as frontman.
Miller later reformed his pre-CKY group Foreign Objects (which originally included Margera) and founded 96 Bitter Beings, a continuation of the style he previously played with CKY.
History
1998-2001: Formation and Early Releases
Deron Miller and Jess Margera met in high school in 1992 and formed the band Foreign Objects, releasing "The Undiscovered Numbers & Colors" in 1995.
The band changed their name to CKY, and their unique blend of humor, heavy riffs, and dark lyrical themes resonated with fans, particularly after their appearances in the "CKY Video" series.
Founded in: 1993
Coal Chamber, the American nu-metal titans, burst onto the scene in 1992, originally known as "She's in Pain." The band was the brainchild of Dez Fafara (vocals) and Meegs Rascón (guitar), who, along with bassist Rayna Foss and drummer Jon Tor, laid the foundation for their signature dark, aggressive sound.
After drummer Mike Cox joined in 1995, the iconic Coal Chamber lineup was complete. Their 1997 self-titled debut album, released on Roadrunner Records, propelled them into the nu-metal spotlight. Two years later, "Chamber Music" followed, featuring their only US charting single, a cover of Peter Gabriel's "Shock the Monkey," featuring the legendary Ozzy Osbourne as a guest vocalist.
The band continued their success with "Dark Days" in 2002, which saw Nadja Peulen take over bass duties after Foss' departure. However, after ten years together, Coal Chamber disbanded in 2003.
The hiatus proved temporary, as Coal Chamber returned in 2011 with Fafara, Cox, Rascón, and Chela Rhea Harper on bass. Peulen rejoined in 2013, cementing the lineup for their 2015 fourth album "Rivals." Despite this reunion, the band parted ways once more in 2016.
The cycle of dissolution and revival continued as Coal Chamber announced a second reunion in 2022, signaling their enduring presence in the nu-metal landscape. Their story is a testament to the power of their music and the enduring passion of their fans, who have witnessed their rise, fall, and triumphant return.
Founded in: 1997
Dir En Grey, often stylized as DIR EN GREY, is a Japanese metal band formed in February 1997. They've built a reputation for their unique and ever-evolving sound, defying easy categorization within the metal genre. Currently signed to Firewall Div., a sub-division of Free-Will, the band has released eleven studio albums and garnered a loyal following worldwide.
The band's core lineup consists of Kyo on vocals, Die and Kaoru on guitars, Toshiya on bass, and Shinya on drums. They've maintained this stable lineup throughout their career, which has been marked by a consistent exploration of new sonic territories.
Initially embracing the visual kei aesthetic, Dir En Grey gradually moved away from exaggerated fashion, preferring a more subtle yet dramatic stage presence. Their music, however, has always retained a distinct darkness, delving into themes of pain, despair, and the human condition.
From La:Sadie's to Dir En Grey: A Story of Reinvention
Dir En Grey's origins can be traced back to the independent rock band La:Sadie's, formed in November 1995 by Kyo and bassist Kisaki. The band, which also included Die and Shio on guitars, as well as Shinya on drums, made their live debut in January 1996. Shio's departure after only three shows paved the way for Kaoru to join in April 1996.
La:Sadie's enjoyed a whirlwind of success during their independent years, performing over 800 shows in just one year. However, the band unexpectedly disbanded in January 1997, leaving behind a trail of unanswered questions. While the official reason for the split remains shrouded in mystery, rumors of internal conflicts, particularly between Kisaki and the other members, linger. Kisaki later stated that he was asked to leave the band, attributing his failure to care for his bandmates to his focus on performing.
Out of the ashes of La:Sadie's rose Dir En Grey, carrying forward the band's core members and embarking on a new chapter in their musical journey.
This rewrite emphasizes the band's evolution, focusing on their musical style and the dramatic events that shaped their history. It also includes a concise, engaging introduction and a more descriptive account of La:Sadie's, providing a better understanding of the band's origins.
Founded in: 1996
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.
Founded in: 1997
Dope, the American industrial metal band hailing from New York City, exploded onto the scene in 1997. Their sound, a potent cocktail of heavy metal grit and the raw aggression of industrial rock pioneers like Ministry and Skinny Puppy, set them apart from the typical 90s rock bands.
Frontman Edsel Dope, a true auteur, forged the band's identity. His songwriting and powerful vocals, combined with the rhythmic fury of drummer Chris Warner, guitarist Acey Slade, bassist Daniel Fox, and the hypnotic guitar riffs of Virus, have created a sonic experience that's both brutal and captivating.
Dope's journey is as gritty as their music. The band's early days were a struggle for survival, fueled by hustle and raw ambition. Edsel, a survivor of a broken home, reunited with his brother Simon, who joined the band as keyboardist, sampler, and percussionist. They grinded, pushing their way through the underground music scene, even resorting to dealing drugs to finance their music.
This resilience paid off. Dope went on to release seven full-length albums, their latest being the hard-hitting "Blood Money Part Zer0" in February 2023. Their music has resonated with millions, selling over one million albums worldwide, solidifying their place as a force in the heavy metal landscape. Dope's story, one of raw talent, perseverance, and an unwavering dedication to their art, continues to inspire a new generation of metalheads.
Founded in: 1996
Drowning Pool, the Dallas-born rock band, burst onto the scene in 1996, their name a nod to the 1975 film "The Drowning Pool." The band's core lineup, a dynamic trio featuring guitarist C.J. Pierce, drummer Mike Luce, and bassist Stevie Benton, has remained constant, while the vocalist position has seen a revolving door of talented musicians.
Their debut album, "Sinner" (2001), catapulted them to fame, but tragedy struck when original vocalist Dave Williams was found dead in 2002. Jason Jones took the reins in 2003, delivering "Desensitized" (2004), but departed in 2005 due to creative differences. The band then recruited Ryan McCombs from SOiL, a Chicago-based band, marking a turning point. McCombs' tenure saw two albums, "Full Circle" (2007) and "Drowning Pool" (2010), breaking the band's pattern of switching vocalists after each album. However, McCombs' departure in 2011 to rejoin SOiL left Drowning Pool seeking a new frontman once again.
Jasen Moreno stepped in as vocalist in 2012, leading the band through three albums: "Resilience" (2013), "Hellelujah" (2016), and "Strike a Nerve" (2022). The band's chemistry with Moreno proved solid, but the tides turned in 2023 when McCombs rejoined the band, bringing a full circle to the band's musical journey.
The Early Years (1996-2000):
Before their rise to prominence, Drowning Pool's roots were planted in New Orleans. Pierce and Luce, the driving force behind the band's signature sound, relocated to Dallas, where Drowning Pool took shape. They quickly began honing their raw, powerful sound, laying the foundation for the band's future success.
Founded in: 1990
Fear Factory, the American industrial metal pioneers, emerged from the Los Angeles underground scene in 1989. Over the years, they've forged a distinct sound that's pushed the boundaries of their genre, churning out ten full-length albums and leaving an indelible mark on heavy music.
The band's journey has been one of constant evolution, with a revolving door of members, save for the iconic Burton C. Bell (vocals), who held the fort for 31 years before his departure in 2020. The sole remaining original member, guitarist Dino Cazares, has remained a constant force, driving the band's signature sonic assault.
Fear Factory's history is marked by internal turmoil, leading to several hiatuses. The first came in 2002, when disagreements caused a split, resulting in the departure of Cazares. Former bassist Christian Olde Wolbers stepped in on guitar, while Byron Stroud took over bass duties.
Following a second hiatus in 2006, the band reformed in 2009 with a new lineup that saw the return of Cazares, the addition of Gene Hoglan (drums) to replace original drummer Raymond Herrera, and Bell and Stroud reprising their roles. This lineup birthed the band's seventh album, the critically acclaimed Mechanize (2010).
However, the reunion was short-lived. Wolbers and Herrera, who owned 50% of the band's legal ownership, challenged the legitimacy of the reunion, sparking a legal battle. Despite the ongoing dispute, Fear Factory soldiered on, releasing three more albums: The Industrialist (2012), Genexus (2015), and Aggression Continuum (2021).
Throughout their career, Fear Factory has been a force to be reckoned with, conquering stages at Ozzfest (four times) and the inaugural Gigantour. Their influence on the industrial metal scene is undeniable, and their story continues to unfold with each new chapter.
Founded in: 2005
Five Finger Death Punch, often shortened to 5FDP or FFDP, is a heavy metal force hailing from Las Vegas, Nevada. They stormed onto the scene in 2005 with a lineup featuring vocalist Ivan Moody, rhythm guitarist Zoltan Bathory, lead guitarist Caleb Andrew Bingham, bassist Matt Snell, and drummer Jeremy Spencer.
The band's lineup has undergone several changes over the years. Bingham was replaced by Darrell Roberts in 2006, who in turn was replaced by Jason Hook in 2009. Bassist Matt Snell departed in 2010, paving the way for Chris Kael in 2011. Then, in 2018, drummer Jeremy Spencer stepped down due to persistent back issues, leaving the throne to Charlie Engen. These shifts left Zoltan Bathory as the sole remaining founding member. In 2020, a further shake-up occurred as British guitarist Andy James took over the lead guitar position, replacing Jason Hook.
Despite the lineup changes, Five Finger Death Punch has remained a relentless force. Their debut album, "The Way of the Fist" (2007), rocketed to success, selling over 500,000 copies in the US. Their 2009 follow-up, "War Is the Answer," further cemented their popularity, exceeding 1,000,000 sales and earning Platinum certification from the RIAA.
Their third album, "American Capitalist" (2011), also achieved Platinum status, demonstrating their continued growth. Subsequent albums like "The Wrong Side of Heaven and the Righteous Side of Hell, Volume 1" and "Volume 2" (2013), "Got Your Six" (2015), and "And Justice for None" (2018) have all achieved Platinum or Gold certifications, solidifying Five Finger Death Punch as one of the most successful heavy metal bands of the decade.
The band has become a global phenomenon, dominating music festivals like Mayhem (2008, 2010, 2013) and Download (2009, 2010, 2013, 2015, 2017). Five Finger Death Punch's raw energy, hard-hitting sound, and unwavering dedication have catapulted them to the forefront of the heavy metal world, leaving an undeniable mark on the music landscape.