Black Map: A Supergroup of Post-Hardcore Powerhouse

Black Map, stylized as BL⚡️CK MAP, is a San Francisco-based post-hardcore supergroup. This trio, comprised of Ben Flanagan on bass and vocals, Chris Robyn on drums, and Mark Engles on guitar, is a force to be reckoned with, having toured with the likes of Chevelle, Bush, and Circa Survive.

The band formed after their respective members took a break from their previous bands: Dredg (Mark Engles), Far (Chris Robyn), and The Trophy Fire (Ben Flanagan). Their debut release, a four-song EP titled "Driver," hit the scene in February 2014. Black Map unleashed their full-length debut album, "...And We Explode," through Minus Head Records on October 27, 2014.

The band continued to gain momentum, releasing their second full-length album, "In Droves," on March 10, 2017, via their current label, EOne. They followed this with a four-song EP, "Trace the Path," on February 9, 2018, showcasing their signature blend of heavy riffs, driving rhythms, and soaring vocals.

Black Map is a fusion of veteran talent and raw energy, leaving an undeniable impact on the post-hardcore scene with their powerful performances and captivating sound.

A Second Strike of Lightning: Sean Van Vleet's Triumphant Return to Music

In the fickle world of music, success is rarely a guarantee, especially for those who have tasted it before. Yet, Sean Van Vleet defies the odds, proving that sometimes, lightning strikes the same place twice. After the dissolution of his former band, Empires, Van Vleet found himself writing for others, penning songs for the likes of All Time Low, Oliver Tree, and PVRIS, while also contributing to over 200 tracks for television shows, commercials, and video games.

However, a creative spark ignited within him, leading him to form Blame My Youth in 2020. The band’s debut single, "Right Where You Belong," found its way onto the GRAMMY-nominated soundtrack of "Bill & Ted Face the Music," solidifying their presence and captivating audiences. The momentum continued with their subsequent single, "Fantastic," which amassed millions of streams and climbed the Rock radio charts.

As Blame My Youth toured the US and UK, sharing stages with renowned acts like HARDY, The Offspring, 311, and AWOLNATION, their third single, "Prizefighter," made its mark on US Alternative radio. This whirlwind of success showcased the undeniable connection Van Vleet’s music has with listeners.

A pivotal moment arrived when Van Vleet began collaborating closely with Billboard Top 100 Producer of 2023, Joey Moi, the co-founder of Big Loud Rock. What began as a typical songwriter-producer dynamic evolved into something more profound. In the studio, they unexpectedly began writing together, discovering a shared passion for the creative process. This newfound synergy resulted in "The Break," a song that marks the beginning of a new chapter for both Van Vleet and Blame My Youth.

"The Break," while undeniably infectious and upbeat, delves into a deeper vulnerability and emotional rawness that sets it apart from Van Vleet's previous work. This transformative track signifies a fresh start, and as he boldly declares, "It's only going to get better and bigger from here." Van Vleet's story is a testament to the power of perseverance, artistic evolution, and the enduring magic of music that resonates across generations.

Blind Melon: A Rock Band's Rise, Fall, and Resurrection

Blind Melon, a band hailing from the vibrant rock scene of Los Angeles, burst onto the music scene in 1990. The band's unique blend of neo-psychedelic and alternative rock, coupled with their raw energy, quickly earned them a devoted following.

At the heart of Blind Melon was the dynamic duo of guitarists Rogers Stevens and Christopher Thorn, drummer Glen Graham, vocalist Travis Warren, and bassist Nathan Towne. Their iconic 1993 hit "No Rain" became an anthem of the era, propelling the band to both critical and commercial acclaim.

However, tragedy struck in 1995 when their original lead vocalist, Shannon Hoon, passed away due to a drug overdose while on tour. The loss of their frontman marked a turning point for Blind Melon. After a period of searching for a replacement, the band ultimately disbanded in 1999, leaving behind a legacy of memorable music.

But the story of Blind Melon didn't end there. In 2006, the remaining members regrouped, welcoming Travis Warren as their new vocalist. They released the album For My Friends in 2008, showcasing their enduring talent and dedication to their craft. Following the album's release, Warren departed, only to return in 2010. The band continues to perform occasional gigs, keeping the spirit of Blind Melon alive for their dedicated fans.

A History of Blind Melon

Early Days: Formation and Rise to Fame (1990-1993)

Blind Melon's roots can be traced back to a meeting of minds in Los Angeles in March 1990. Rogers Stevens and Brad Smith, musicians from Mississippi, crossed paths with Shannon Hoon, a captivating vocalist from Indiana. This chance encounter sparked the formation of a band destined for greatness.

The band's early years were marked by relentless touring and a growing fan base. Their blend of bluesy rock, psychedelic influences, and Hoon's distinctive vocal style resonated with audiences, setting the stage for their breakthrough hit "No Rain."

This song, released in 1993, became a chart-topping sensation, cementing Blind Melon's place in the annals of 90s rock history.

Tragedy and Disbandment (1995-1999)

The tragic loss of Shannon Hoon in 1995 cast a long shadow over the band. Hoon's death, a devastating blow to their fans and fellow musicians, left a void that proved impossible to fill. The remaining members bravely attempted to continue, even embarking on a search for a replacement vocalist.

Despite their efforts, the band ultimately disbanded in 1999, unable to move forward without their iconic frontman.

Reunion and Legacy (2006-Present)

In a surprise move, Blind Melon reunited in 2006, marking a new chapter in their history. Travis Warren, who had previously joined the band in 1998, took on the role of lead vocalist, bringing his own unique style to the band's sound.

The reunion resulted in the release of For My Friends in 2008, a testament to the band's enduring musical talent. Though Warren later departed, he returned to the band in 2010, leading to occasional live performances and keeping the spirit of Blind Melon alive.

Blind Melon's legacy extends beyond their music. The band's impact on the 90s alternative rock scene and their ability to connect with audiences through their unique blend of blues, psychedelia, and rock n' roll is undeniable.

While the band's journey has been marked by both triumphs and tragedies, their music continues to resonate with fans, cementing their place as one of the most important and influential rock bands of their generation.

Blink-182: From Skate Punk to Pop-Punk Kings

Blink-182, born in the sun-drenched suburbs of Poway, California, in 1992, have become one of the most iconic rock bands of the 21st century. Their current lineup, featuring the dynamic trio of Mark Hoppus (bass/vocals), Tom DeLonge (guitar/vocals), and Travis Barker (drums), is the one that etched their name in pop-punk history.

While their sound has evolved over the years, Blink-182's core remains that infectious blend of catchy pop melodies and frenetic punk energy. Their lyrics, often laced with humor and a touch of cynicism, explore the universal themes of relationships, teenage angst, and the bittersweet journey of growing up (or not).

Emerging from the vibrant skate punk scene of Southern California, Blink-182 quickly made a name for themselves with their high-octane live shows and irreverent stage antics. Their debut album, Cheshire Cat (1995), established their unique brand of pop-punk, but it was their sophomore effort, Dude Ranch (1997), that solidified their growing fanbase.

After years of relentless touring and independent releases, including appearances at the legendary Warped Tour, Blink-182 signed with MCA Records. The result, Two albums that cemented their place in pop culture: Enema of the State (1999) and Take Off Your Pants and Jacket (2001). These albums spawned massive hits like "All the Small Things," "Dammit," and "What's My Age Again" - anthems that became staples on MTV and radio waves worldwide.

Throughout their career, Blink-182 has continued to push boundaries, experimenting with different sounds and styles, as evident in albums like Untitled (2003), Neighborhoods (2011), and the Dogs Eating Dogs EP (2012). But one thing remains constant: their ability to connect with listeners through catchy riffs, relatable lyrics, and a sense of playful rebellion that continues to resonate with generations of fans.

Hailing from Houston, Texas, Blue October emerged in 1995, solidifying their place as a cornerstone of the city's legendary rock scene. The band – currently featuring Justin Furstenfeld (vocals/guitar), Jeremy Furstenfeld (drums), Ryan Delahoussaye (multi-instrumentalist), Matt Noveskey (bass), and Steve Schiltz (lead guitar) – boasts a formidable catalog. Across twelve studio albums, they've amassed twenty Top 40 singles on the alternative rock charts, achieving platinum status with hits like "Hate Me" and "Into the Ocean" from their acclaimed 2006 album, Foiled. Their latest project, the ambitious triple album Spinning the Truth Around, is being released in three installments, with the first dropping October 14, 2022, and the second on October 13, 2023.

Blue October's impact extends beyond their chart success. Their accolades include numerous Houston Press Music Awards, recognizing them as Best New Act (1998) and repeatedly as Best Pop/Rock Artist (1999, 2000, 2002, 2003), culminating in the Album of the Year award for History for Sale in 2003.

Early Years and The Answers (1995-1998):

Formed by Justin Furstenfeld, his brother Jeremy, and Ryan Delahoussaye, Blue October's breakthrough came in 1998. A chance performance at Houston's Pappadeaux Cafe caught the attention of former Kid Rock manager Michael Rand. Recognizing their potential, Rand's agency orchestrated an aggressive marketing campaign, booking over 350 dates for the then-unsigned band, providing crucial publicity and artist development. This strategic push laid the groundwork for their future success.

Blur: From Britpop Pioneers to Genre-Bending Innovators

Blur, the legendary English rock band, emerged from the vibrant London music scene in 1988. Their core lineup, featuring Damon Albarn (vocals), Graham Coxon (guitar), Alex James (bass), and Dave Rowntree (drums), have become synonymous with musical evolution and cultural impact.

Their debut album, Leisure (1991), showcased the band's early influences, incorporating elements of Madchester and shoegaze. However, Blur's true breakthrough came with a sonic shift, drawing inspiration from classic English guitar pop acts like the Kinks, the Beatles, and XTC. Modern Life Is Rubbish (1993), Parklife (1994), and The Great Escape (1995) cemented Blur's position as Britpop leaders, achieving immense popularity in the UK, fueled by their highly publicized chart rivalry with Oasis, dubbed "The Battle of Britpop."

Blur's self-titled fifth album (1997) marked another stylistic turn, embracing the lo-fi aesthetic of American indie rock. This move propelled them to mainstream success in the US with the hit single "Song 2." Their subsequent album, 13 (1999), delved deeper into electronic and art rock territories, showcasing Albarn and Coxon's growing personal and musical maturity.

Think Tank (2003), Blur's seventh album, continued their experimentation with electronic sounds, reflecting Albarn's burgeoning interest in hip hop and world music. Coxon's departure early in the recording sessions and subsequent hiatus after the album's tour signaled a temporary end for the band.

Blur's journey through various musical phases, from Britpop pioneers to genre-bending innovators, has left an undeniable mark on the world of rock music. Their ability to constantly evolve and challenge expectations has solidified their position as one of the most influential and enduring bands of their generation.

Hailing from Blackpool, Lancashire, Boston Manor emerged onto the UK rock scene in March 2013. Initially self-releasing their debut EP, Here/Now, via Bandcamp`s Never Mend Records, the band quickly gained traction. Their subsequent signing with Failure By Design Records in 2014 for their Driftwood EP cemented their upward trajectory. A pivotal moment arrived in 2015 with their signing to Pure Noise Records, a partnership that yielded the Saudade EP and three critically acclaimed full-length albums: Be Nothing (2016), Welcome to the Neighbourhood (2018), and Glue (2020).

Boston Manor`s sound is a potent blend of emotive intensity and heavier, riff-driven textures, drawing comparisons to 90s grunge and early 2000s post-hardcore. This distinctive style earned them a Kerrang! Awards nomination for Best British Breakthrough in 2018, and Welcome to the Neighbourhood received a nod for Best Album Artwork at the Heavy Music Awards in 2019.

The bands Blackpool origins, as vocalist Henry Cox notes, presented unique challenges: "There isnt much of a music scene in Blackpool," he stated. "We had a little stab at reinvigorating it. When we were 16, 17, 18, we were playing shows with different bands." This early experience clearly fueled their determination and contributed to their eventual success.

BOYS LIKE GIRLS (all caps since 2023), the Andover, Massachusetts-bred rock band, burst onto the scene in 2005. Their self-titled debut album (2006) propelled them to mainstream success, selling over 700,000 copies in the US and achieving RIAA gold certification. Subsequent studio albums followed: Love Drunk (2009) and Crazy World (2012), solidifying their place in the rock landscape.

From 2006 to 2013, BOYS LIKE GIRLS toured relentlessly, hitting major milestones like a main stage appearance at the 2007 Vans Warped Tour, their inaugural headlining "Tourzilla" (2007), and a co-headline slot with Good Charlotte on the 2008 "Soundtrack of Your Summer" Tour. Their music video for "The Great Escape," directed by Alan Ferguson, reigned supreme as MTV's TRL #1 video on August 6, 2007, leading to a performance at the iconic Times Square studio.

The band's resurgence in 2023 saw the release of "Blood and Sugar," the lead single from their fourth studio album, Sunday at Foxwoods.

History:

Formation and Early Years (2005-2006): The band formed in Andover, MA, in late 2005, spearheaded by vocalist Martin Johnson (formerly of Fake ID/The Drive). Johnson, armed with a batch of new songs, recruited bassist Bryan Donahue and drummer John Keefe. Keefe then added lead guitarist Paul DiGiovanni, completing the lineup.

Breaking Benjamin: A Story of Resilience and Enduring Sound

Breaking Benjamin, hailing from the heartland of Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, burst onto the scene in 1999 with a sonic force spearheaded by frontman and guitarist Benjamin Burnley and drummer Jeremy Hummel. Their initial lineup, rounded out by guitarist Aaron Fink and bassist Mark James Klepaski, unleashed their debut album, Saturate, in 2002, followed by We Are Not Alone in 2004. The band's raw energy and powerful sound quickly captured attention, but a shift in the rhythm section occurred in 2005 with the arrival of Chad Szeliga on drums.

This new chapter saw the release of two critically acclaimed albums, Phobia (2006) and Dear Agony (2009), solidifying Breaking Benjamin's status as a force in the rock world. However, the band went on an extended hiatus in early 2010 as Burnley battled recurring health issues.

Amidst this silence, a storm brewed within the band. The unauthorized release of a compilation album, Shallow Bay: The Best of Breaking Benjamin (2011), ignited legal turmoil, leading to the departures of Fink and Klepaski. Further upheaval followed in 2013 when Szeliga left due to creative differences. Burnley, the band's driving force, found himself as the sole remaining member.

Undeterred, Burnley rallied, assembling a new lineup in late 2014 that included bassist/backing vocalist Aaron Bruch, guitarist/backing vocalist Keith Wallen, guitarist Jasen Rauch, and drummer Shaun Foist. This fresh energy led to the release of Dark Before Dawn (2015), which stormed the Billboard 200 charts at number one, followed by Ember (2018) hitting number three. The band then surprised fans with a compilation album, Aurora (2020), showcasing acoustic interpretations of their hits alongside a brand new original track.

Through these trials and triumphs, Breaking Benjamin's musical foundation has remained steadfast, with Burnley at the helm as the primary composer and vocalist. Despite the ever-shifting lineups, the band's raw power, signature sound, and emotionally charged lyrics have continued to resonate with audiences, cementing their legacy as a rock powerhouse.

Bring Me The Horizon: A Journey From Deathcore to Global Stardom

Bring Me The Horizon, a British rock band hailing from Sheffield, burst onto the scene in 2004. Led by vocalist Oli Sykes, with Matt Nicholls on drums, Lee Malia on guitar, and Matt Kean on bass, the band have become global icons, evolving their sound throughout their career.

Their debut album, "Count Your Blessings" (2006), was a pure deathcore assault, dividing listeners and attracting largely negative reviews. However, they soon began to explore new sonic territories, shifting away from their initial sound with "Suicide Season" (2008), which marked a turning point in their career, receiving critical acclaim and a boost in commercial success.

"There Is a Hell, Believe Me I've Seen It. There Is a Heaven, Let's Keep It a Secret." (2010), their third album, showcased an even wider range of influences, incorporating elements of classical music, electronica, and pop, propelling them to international fame.

"Sempiternal" (2013), their major label debut, reached Gold certification in Australia and Silver in the UK, cementing their status as a force in the rock scene. They reached even greater heights with "That's The Spirit" (2015), debuting at number two in the UK Albums Chart and the US Billboard 200.

Bring Me The Horizon's journey has been one of consistent innovation and artistic growth, transforming them from a deathcore band to a global phenomenon known for their diverse and captivating sound. Their music continues to push boundaries and captivate audiences worldwide, solidifying their place as one of the most exciting and influential rock bands of their generation.