Los Angeles-based rock band Point North has released their sophomore album, "Prepare For Despair," to critical acclaim. Following their debut LP in August 2020, amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, the band has only headlined a single tour, a sold-out North American run in April 2022. They've gained valuable experience supporting major acts like ADTR, Sleeping With Sirens/Don Broco, Atreyu, and Escape The Fate. Building on this momentum, Point North will embark on their own headlining tour for the new album in spring 2024.

The band has already made a strong impression on the music scene with collaborations alongside artists like Fever 333/Garzi, Kayzo/BTSM, Two Friends, Jeris Johnson, and The Ghost Inside. In a significant step, they took their first single to Active Rock radio in spring 2023, achieving a peak position of #20 on the Mediabase/Billboard chart and topping the secondary market chart. Their second radio single, "Below The Belt ft Set It Off," impacted rock radio on October 17th, 2023, receiving the most adds across the country.

Puddle of Mudd: A Grunge Legacy Built on Muddy Boots

Formed in the heartland of Kansas City in 1991, Puddle of Mudd emerged from the post-grunge scene with a sound that resonated with millions. The band, fronted by the ever-present Wes Scantlin (vocals, rhythm guitar), has become synonymous with the raw, emotive energy that defined the era.

Their name, inspired by the Missouri River levee that often flooded their practice space, reflects the band's gritty, unpolished beginnings. Scantlin himself has described their early days as a struggle, "walking through a pile of shit" just to get to practice.

Despite the challenges, Puddle of Mudd persevered, releasing their debut EP, "Stuck," in 1994. The seven-song collection, produced by the band and E.J. Rose, showcased their signature sound, a blend of raw power and emotional vulnerability.

Their hard work paid off, and their major-label debut, "Come Clean," catapulted them to mainstream success, selling over five million copies and solidifying their position in the post-grunge landscape. Since then, Puddle of Mudd has released an impressive six studio albums, with their latest, "Ubiquitous," dropping in September 2023, proving their enduring appeal.

Over the years, the band has faced lineup changes, but Scantlin has remained the constant, his distinctive vocals and songwriting driving their sound and forging a connection with their devoted fanbase. With over seven million albums sold, Puddle of Mudd has carved a distinct path in the music world, forever marked by their gritty roots and the enduring power of their music.

Queens of the Stone Age: A Rock N' Roll Juggernaut

Queens of the Stone Age, often shortened to QOTSA, is a rock band born from the ashes of the legendary Kyuss. This American hard rock outfit emerged in Seattle, Washington in 1996, spearheaded by the visionary guitarist and vocalist Josh Homme. Homme, the band's constant through multiple line-up changes, has crafted a unique sound that blends influences from blues, Krautrock, and even electronica.

Their signature sound, however, is a heavy, riff-driven style that emphasizes powerful rhythms and Homme's distinctive falsetto vocals. Throw in some unorthodox guitar scales and you have a recipe for rock n' roll magic.

QOTSA's roots run deep in the Palm Desert music scene. Their self-titled debut album, recorded with former Kyuss member Alfredo Hernández on drums, saw Homme handle all other instruments. The subsequent tour brought in bassist Nick Oliveri, who became a co-lead vocalist alongside Homme, adding another layer to their already potent sound.

The band's second album, "Rated R," marked a turning point. With guest vocals from the legendary Mark Lanegan, it was their major label debut, released on Interscope Records. The album's critical and commercial success solidified their status as a force to be reckoned with. Their breakout single, "The Lost Art of Keeping a Secret," cemented their position as a household name in the rock world.

While the band's line-up has shifted over the years, their core sound remains, driven by Homme's creative genius. Today, the band features a tight-knit group: Troy Van Leeuwen (guitar, lap steel, keyboards), Michael Shuman (bass, keyboards), Dean Fertita (keyboards, guitar), and Jon Theodore (drums). Their sound, however, is more than just the sum of its parts. It's a testament to the relentless pursuit of sonic perfection that has kept Queens of the Stone Age at the forefront of rock music for over two decades.

Radiohead: A Sonic Revolution

Hailing from the quaint English town of Abingdon, Oxfordshire, Radiohead emerged in 1985, forever altering the landscape of alternative rock. This sonic force is comprised of the enigmatic Thom Yorke (vocals, guitars, keyboards), the multi-talented Greenwood brothers, Jonny (guitars, keyboards, and a myriad of instruments) and Colin (bass), the melodic Ed O’Brien (guitars, backing vocals), and the steady rhythm section of Philip Selway (drums, percussion).

Since 1994, they’ve collaborated with the visionary producer Nigel Godrich and the enigmatic cover artist Stanley Donwood, creating a signature sound that pushes boundaries and inspires awe. Their relentless experimentation has propelled alternative rock into uncharted territory, challenging conventions and captivating audiences worldwide.

Signed to EMI in 1991, Radiohead unleashed their debut album, Pablo Honey, in 1993. The album’s breakout single, “Creep,” became a global anthem, propelling them into the spotlight. Their critical acclaim grew further with The Bends in 1995, solidifying their position as a force to be reckoned with.

Then came OK Computer (1997), a landmark album that remains a titan of modern music. This masterpiece, with its complex production and themes of alienation in the digital age, is widely regarded as one of the greatest albums of all time.

Radiohead continued to defy expectations with Kid A (2000), a radical departure that blended electronic music, jazz, classical, and krautrock influences. While polarizing listeners upon release, it was later hailed as the best album of the decade by numerous publications. The follow-up, Amnesiac (2001), was recorded during the same sessions, showcasing their unwavering creative spirit.

Radiohead’s legacy extends far beyond individual albums. They are a band that has constantly evolved, challenged, and inspired generations of artists and listeners. They are a sonic revolution, a testament to the power of artistic vision and the enduring influence of music that resonates on a deeper level.

Real Friends: A Pop Punk Powerhouse From The Midwest

Real Friends, hailing from the suburban sprawl of Tinley Park, Illinois, have carved a solid place in the pop punk scene. Since their formation in 2010, they've unleashed a torrent of music, including seven EPs and three full-length albums. Initially signed to the powerhouse label Fearless Records, they currently rock with Pure Noise Records.

The Early Days: From Garage Jams to Midwest Dominance

In the fall of 2010, bassist Kyle Fasel wasn't feeling the music he was making and yearned for a fresh start. He reached out to lead guitarist Dave Knox, and their shared ambition sparked the birth of Real Friends. Fasel's friend, vocalist Dan Lambton, was quickly brought on board, and the band completed their lineup with the addition of drummer Aaron Schuck.

Their debut EP, "This Is Honesty," dropped in the spring of 2011, igniting a firestorm of energy. Real Friends hit the road, conquering stages across the Midwest and building a passionate fanbase hungry for their energetic blend of pop punk anthems.

Red Hot Chili Peppers: A Legacy of Funk-Fueled Rock

The Red Hot Chili Peppers, a force of nature in the world of rock, burst onto the scene in Los Angeles in 1982. This iconic quartet, comprised of vocalist Anthony Kiedis, bassist Flea, drummer Chad Smith, and guitarist John Frusciante, has become a musical powerhouse, defying categorization with their genre-bending sound.

Their music is a potent cocktail of alternative rock, funk, punk rock, hard rock, hip hop, and psychedelic rock, creating a unique blend that has influenced generations of musicians. From the fiery funk metal of "Give It Away" to the grunge-infused angst of "Under the Bridge," the Chili Peppers have consistently pushed boundaries and redefined what rock music can be.

Their influence extends far beyond their own music. The band's eclectic sound has left its mark on genres like rap metal, rap rock, and nu metal, inspiring countless artists to embrace the fusion of styles.

With a staggering 120 million records sold worldwide, the Red Hot Chili Peppers are one of the most successful bands of all time. They dominate the Billboard Alternative Songs chart, holding the records for most number-one singles (15), most cumulative weeks at number one (91), and most top-ten songs (28). Their accolades include three Grammy Awards, induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2012, and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2022.

The Chili Peppers' journey began with a core group of LA musicians: Kiedis, Flea, guitarist Hillel Slovak, and drummer Jack Irons. Early commitments to other projects led to a lineup change for their self-titled debut album in 1984, featuring guitarist Jack Sherman and drummer Cliff Martinez. However, the original core reunited for their second album, "Freaky Styley" (1985), and "The Uplift Mofo Party Plan" (1987). Tragedy struck in June 1988, when Slovak passed away due to a drug overdose, leading to Irons' departure from the band.

Despite the challenges they have faced, the Red Hot Chili Peppers have persevered, evolving and reinventing themselves throughout their career. Their music continues to resonate with fans worldwide, and their legacy as a pioneering force in rock is undeniable.

R.E.M.: The Athens Sound that Rocked the World

Born from the fertile ground of the University of Georgia in 1980, R.E.M. – featuring drummer Bill Berry, guitarist Peter Buck, bassist Mike Mills, and enigmatic frontman Michael Stipe – became a cornerstone of the alternative rock movement. Their sound was instantly recognizable: Buck's shimmering, arpeggiated guitar, Stipe's otherworldly vocals, Mills's melodic bass lines, and Berry's precise, economical drumming coalesced into a singular sonic force.

Emerging from the underground, they became the pioneers of a genre, influencing later acts like Nirvana, Pixies, and Pavement. Their early albums, including the iconic Murmur, Reckoning, Fables of the Reconstruction, Lifes Rich Pageant, Document, and Green, cemented their status as a critically acclaimed powerhouse. Their collaboration with producer Scott Litt during their peak years helped refine their sound and propel them further into the spotlight.

Their 1987 single, "The One I Love", became a mainstream breakthrough, fueled by relentless touring and the unwavering support of college radio. Despite the departure of Berry in 1997, the band continued to produce music, albeit with varying critical and commercial reception.

R.E.M. called it a day in 2011, leaving behind a legacy as one of the world's best-selling music acts, with over 90 million albums sold. Their impact on the musical landscape remains undeniable, their Athens sound forever etched in the annals of rock history.

Saosin: A Story of Emo-Fueled Rock

Saosin, hailing from the heart of Orange County's vibrant rock scene, emerged in 2003 with a raw, emotionally charged sound that quickly cemented their place in the post-hardcore landscape. The original lineup, featuring the dynamic vocals of Anthony Green, Beau Burchell's masterful bass lines, Zach Kennedy's pummeling drums, and Justin Shekoski's shredding guitar, burst onto the scene with their debut EP, "Translating the Name."

However, Green's departure for personal reasons in 2004 left the band at a crossroads. Cove Reber stepped in as vocalist, injecting a new flavor into Saosin's sound, and in 2006, they released their self-titled debut album on Capitol Records, solidifying their position as a force to be reckoned with.

The band's second album, "In Search of Solid Ground," dropped in 2009 on Virgin Records, featuring re-recorded tracks from their previous EP, "The Grey EP." Unfortunately, Reber's exit in 2010 sent Saosin into a hiatus.

The band's passionate fanbase eagerly awaited their return, and in 2013, Saosin reunited, featuring all original members except Kennedy. Their reunion tour reignited the fire, paving the way for their triumphant comeback. In 2016, the long-awaited reunion album, "Along the Shadow," marked the triumphant return of Anthony Green to the fold, released through Epitaph Records.

Saosin's music is a captivating blend of emo and post-hardcore, characterized by soaring vocal harmonies and Shekoski's distinctive lead guitar techniques, which utilize intricate delays and natural harmonics. Their music resonates with a raw, emotional intensity, captivating listeners and leaving a lasting mark on the world of rock.

Scars on Broadway: Daron Malakian's Rock Odyssey

Scars on Broadway, initially known simply as Scars on Broadway, is the brainchild of Daron Malakian, the renowned guitarist and songwriter of System of a Down. Originally conceived as a solo project, it eventually evolved into a full-fledged rock band with Malakian as its sole constant member.

The band's self-titled debut album arrived in July 2008, showcasing Malakian's signature blend of heavy riffs, driving rhythms, and soaring vocals. However, despite the album's success, Scars on Broadway went on hiatus in late 2008. Malakian attributed this decision to a lack of passion for touring and a desire to pursue other creative endeavors.

Despite the hiatus, Scars on Broadway saw various lineup changes and a brief resurgence in 2010 and 2012, with the promise of a second album. But ultimately, the band fell silent again by 2013.

Then, in a surprise announcement in April 2018, Malakian resurrected Scars on Broadway and revealed the release of their sophomore album, "Dictator," which dropped in July 2018.

A History of Scars on Broadway:

The Self-Titled Debut (2005-2008):

In 2005, Malakian hinted at solo projects, expressing a desire to explore his own musical vision outside of System of a Down. This foreshadowed the birth of Scars on Broadway. Following System of a Down's hiatus in 2006, Malakian formally unveiled his new venture, initially featuring System of a Down drummer John Dolmayan alongside himself.

After a period of experimentation with different musicians, Scars on Broadway solidified its core lineup in 2007. This included Danny Shamoun (keyboards), Dominic Cifarelli (bass), and Franky Perez (guitar and backing vocals). The band spent the latter half of 2007 honing their sound and recording their debut album, which was released in 2008.

The self-titled debut album was met with positive reception from both fans and critics, solidifying Malakian's prowess as a songwriter and musician. However, the band's initial momentum was short-lived as Malakian's desire to explore other creative paths led to the hiatus.

Second Hand Rose: A Chinese Rock Band Breaking Boundaries

Second Hand Rose (Chinese: 二手玫瑰; pinyin: èrshǒu méiguī), hailing from Beijing, China, is a rock band that burst onto the scene in 1999, founded by the charismatic musician Liang Long. They've carved a unique niche in the Chinese rock industry by blending traditional Chinese instruments with Western rock and roll, creating a vibrant, theatrical experience. Their shows are known for their exaggerated stage design, dazzling visual effects, and humorous lyrics, adding a touch of magic and whimsy to their performances.

A Fusion of East and West:

Second Hand Rose's music is a captivating blend of traditional Chinese instruments like the erhu (a two-stringed fiddle) and the pipa (a four-stringed lute) with the energy and power of Western rock. This unique fusion allows them to explore a broad range of musical styles, from traditional Chinese folk melodies to hard-hitting rock anthems. Their debut album, released in 2004, garnered widespread acclaim in China and positive reviews from music critics in the United States, establishing them as a force to be reckoned with in the Chinese rock scene.

Liang Long's Journey: A Passion for Rock:

Liang Long, the band's lead vocalist, has a captivating story of unwavering dedication to his musical passion. Growing up in a family connected to a Chinese state-owned enterprise, he encountered resistance to his love for rock and roll, which was seen as unconventional and "backward." Despite these challenges, Liang Long's desire to create music was unyielding. He left his hometown to pursue his dreams in the vibrant city of Beijing, facing hardships and financial struggles along the way. He worked as a security guard in Harbin to save money for music lessons and eventually formed a band called "Black Lens" with fellow musicians.

From Black Lens to Second Hand Rose:

Although "Black Lens" disbanded due to financial difficulties, Liang Long's passion never wavered. He relocated to Beijing, determined to succeed in the music industry. After enduring numerous setbacks and financial difficulties, he persevered, constantly striving to showcase his musical talent. In 2000, the seeds of Second Hand Rose were sown, and the band evolved into a formidable force in the Chinese rock scene.

Breaking the Mold:

Second Hand Rose stands out for its unique approach to rock music, refusing to conform to conventional styles. The band is known for its sharp social commentary, addressing topics like modern psychological disorders and Taoist philosophy within their music. Their bold and unapologetic approach has made them a symbol of defiance and individuality within the Chinese music industry.

A Legacy of Innovation:

Second Hand Rose's impact goes beyond their musical talent. Their theatrical performances, blending vibrant costumes with traditional Chinese instruments, have redefined the concept of a rock show in China. They have become a cultural phenomenon, inspiring a new generation of Chinese musicians to embrace their unique voices and push boundaries.

Second Hand Rose's story is a testament to the power of passion, resilience, and the courage to break free from conventional expectations. Their music continues to captivate audiences worldwide, showcasing the vibrant diversity of Chinese rock and proving that innovation and creativity can thrive even amidst challenges.