Time for Rock...
Time for Rock...
Founded in: 1994
Garbage, a formidable force in the alternative rock scene, emerged in 1993 from the unlikely pairing of Scottish singer Shirley Manson and American musicians Duke Erikson, Steve Marker, and Butch Vig. This dynamic quartet, each contributing to songwriting and production, has remained intact since their inception, solidifying their unique blend of dark, angular pop and electronic influences.
Their self-titled debut album, released in 1995, was a critical and commercial smash, selling over four million copies worldwide. This success was fueled by a string of chart-topping singles, including the iconic "Stupid Girl" and the haunting "Only Happy When It Rains". The album achieved double platinum status in the UK, US, and Australia, firmly establishing Garbage as a force to be reckoned with.
Following the success of their debut, Garbage continued to push boundaries with their sophomore effort, "Version 2.0", released in 1998. This album, a testament to their commitment to sonic experimentation, topped the UK Albums Chart and garnered two Grammy Award nominations. The band further cemented their status by contributing the theme song to the 1999 James Bond film "The World Is Not Enough".
While their third album, "Beautiful Garbage", received critical acclaim, it didn't quite reach the commercial heights of its predecessors, despite selling over a million copies in its first three months. The band faced internal struggles during the production of their fourth album, "Bleed Like Me", leading to a brief disbandment. However, they ultimately reunited and released the album in 2005, achieving their highest US chart position with a number four debut.
Despite the success of "Bleed Like Me," Garbage abruptly cut short their tour and announced an indefinite hiatus. They emphasized that they weren't disbanding but rather seeking individual creative pursuits. Despite their hiatus, Garbage has continued to leave an enduring legacy on the rock music landscape, inspiring generations of artists with their innovative sound and undeniable talent. Their impact on the music industry is undeniable, and their devoted fanbase eagerly awaits their return.
Founded in: 800
Get ready to crank up the volume, folks, because Giovannie and the Hired Guns are here to shake things up! This Texas-bred country rock band, hailing from the heart of Stephenville, burst onto the scene in 2017, spearheaded by the charismatic Giovannie Yanez.
Yanez, the band's lead vocalist and songwriter, fronts a powerhouse lineup that includes Carlos Villa on lead guitar, Jerrod Flusche on rhythm guitar, Alex Trejo holding down the bass, and Milton Toles laying down the thunder on drums.
Their sound is a vibrant fusion of classic country twang and gritty rock 'n' roll, creating a modern twist on a timeless genre. Tracks like "Rooster Tattoo" and "Ramon Ayala" have become fan favorites, showcasing their ability to blend raw energy with heartfelt storytelling.
With three studio albums under their belts, Giovannie and the Hired Guns have been steadily building a devoted following. Their talent hasn't gone unnoticed – they were crowned "Best New Rock & Alternative Artist of the Year" at the 2023 iHeartRadio Awards, solidifying their position as one of the hottest acts in the genre.
So, crank up the volume, grab your boots, and get ready to ride with Giovannie and the Hired Guns. They're here to deliver a high-octane musical experience that'll leave you wanting more.
Founded in: 1987
Green Day, the undisputed kings of pop-punk, emerged from the vibrant Bay Area punk scene of the late 80s. Founded in 1987 by the dynamic duo of Billie Joe Armstrong (vocals, guitar) and Mike Dirnt (bass, backing vocals), the band initially went by the names Blood Rage and Sweet Children before settling on Green Day in 1989. They quickly became fixtures at the legendary 924 Gilman Street club in Berkeley, a hotbed for the burgeoning punk movement.
Their early recordings, released through Lookout! Records, showcased their raw energy and catchy melodies. Their debut album, 39/Smooth (1990), established their raw talent and laid the groundwork for their future success. The arrival of drummer Tré Cool in 1990, replacing John Kiffmeyer, solidified their classic power trio lineup.
The game-changer arrived in 1994 with Dookie, their major label debut on Reprise Records. The album exploded, selling over 10 million copies in the U.S. alone, and propelled Green Day into the mainstream. They became synonymous with the punk revival alongside fellow California bands like Bad Religion, the Offspring, Rancid, NOFX, Pennywise, and Social Distortion.
Dookie cemented their status as rock stars, but Green Day continued to push boundaries. Insomniac (1995), Nimrod (1997), and Warning (2000) all achieved significant success, though they didn't quite match the phenomenal heights of Dookie.
Their seventh album, American Idiot (2004), marked a new chapter. This ambitious rock opera resonated deeply with a younger generation, selling six million copies in the U.S. and solidifying their status as a true rock force.
Green Day's momentum continued with 21st Century Breakdown (2009), their most commercially successful album to date, boasting their best chart performance ever. The band then embarked on a bold experiment with the ¡Uno!, ¡Dos!, ¡Tré! trilogy (2012), a three-part album release. While the trilogy didn't quite reach the commercial heights of their previous efforts, it solidified their enduring creative spirit.
Green Day's journey has been one of constant evolution. From their humble beginnings in the Bay Area punk scene to their global domination as rock icons, they have consistently delivered catchy tunes, powerful lyrics, and unforgettable live shows. They remain a force to be reckoned with, continuously inspiring new generations of musicians and fans alike.
Founded in: 1983
Guided by Voices, hailing from the unassuming city of Dayton, Ohio, has been a force in indie rock since their formation in 1983. The band's history is one of constant reinvention, driven by the creative spirit of their visionary leader, Robert Pollard. While the lineup has seen a revolving door of musicians over the years, Pollard's songwriting has remained the core, acting as the beating heart of GBV's unique sound.
The band's most iconic iteration featured Pollard on vocals, his brother Jim on guitar and bass, the guitar wizardry of Mitch Mitchell, Tobin Sprout's distinct vocals and rhythm guitar, Kevin Fennell's powerhouse drumming, and bassist Greg Demos. This lineup cemented their reputation for raw, unpolished energy, characterized by their lo-fi aesthetic and DIY approach. Using four-track cassette recorders, they crafted a signature sound heavily influenced by early post-British Invasion garage rock, psychedelic rock, progressive rock, punk, and post-punk.
Guided by Voices is known for their prolific output, having released over 40 full-length albums alongside a plethora of EPs, singles, and other releases. Their music is a whirlwind of sonic experimentation, marked by short, often abruptly-ending songs. They sprinkle their tracks with homemade sound effects, adding a layer of surrealism to their already unconventional approach.
The band initially disbanded in 2004, only to be revived in 2010 with the reunion of their classic lineup. They celebrated Matador Records' 21st anniversary with a performance, followed by a tour and the release of six new albums. Despite another break-up in 2014, Pollard's passion for music reignited, bringing the band back with a new lineup and a fresh album in 2016.
Guided by Voices has cultivated a dedicated fanbase who appreciate their unbridled creativity and willingness to break the mold. They are a testament to the power of independent music, proving that sometimes the most compelling stories are born from the most unexpected places.
Their journey from Dayton's bars to becoming indie rock legends is a testament to their unwavering dedication to their craft. Guided by Voices' legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire generations of musicians and listeners, reminding them that the spirit of rock and roll thrives on innovation and a DIY attitude.
Guided by Voices is more than just a band; they are a musical phenomenon, a testament to the raw power of creative expression. They continue to push boundaries, defy expectations, and leave a lasting impact on the world of music, one off-kilter song at a time.
Founded in: 1998
Hailing from the small town of Red Lion, Pennsylvania, Halestorm burst onto the scene with a raw energy that captivated the rock world. Led by the powerhouse vocalist and guitarist Lzzy Hale, alongside her drummer brother Arejay Hale, the band's sound is a potent mix of hard-hitting rock, heavy metal, and a touch of bluesy swagger.
Their self-titled debut album in 2009, unleashed through Atlantic Records, introduced the world to their fiery brand of music. But it was their sophomore release, "The Strange Case Of...", that truly catapulted them to stardom. The album's lead single, "Love Bites (So Do I)", became a rock anthem, earning the band a Grammy Award for Best Hard Rock/Metal Performance.
The band's meteoric rise continued with their third album, "Into the Wild Life", reaching a peak of number five on the Billboard 200 chart. They continued their winning streak with "Vicious", their fourth album, which debuted at number eight, marking their second top ten record. In 2022, they released their fifth album, "Back From The Dead", solidifying their place as a major force in modern rock.
Known for their relentless touring schedule, Halestorm often perform over 250 shows a year, captivating audiences with their energetic stage presence and infectious music. After years of supporting other heavy metal acts, they achieved a monumental milestone in 2016, selling out their first headlining arena show, a testament to their growing fanbase and their undeniable talent.
Halestorm is more than just a rock band; they are a powerful force, pushing boundaries, breaking barriers, and inspiring a generation of rock fans. Their music is a potent blend of raw power and soulful emotion, ensuring that Halestorm will continue to be a dominant force in the rock scene for years to come.
Founded in: 2005
Hedgehog, the Beijing-based trio formed in 2005 by ZO (Zhao Zijian) and Atom (Shi Lu), has become a cornerstone of China's indie rock scene. Known for their infectious songwriting and electrifying live performances, they've earned a reputation as a must-see act across the country.
Their sound is a potent blend of influences, drawing from the raw energy of The Ramones, the melodic hooks of The Jesus and Mary Chain, and the grunge grit of Nirvana. This potent cocktail has landed them features in City Weekend's "The Beijing Bands You Should Already Know About" and "The Hottest Bands of 2011", solidifying their status as a major player in the Chinese music landscape.
A key element of Hedgehog's energy is Atom, whose small stature belies a ferocious drumming style. Her moniker, a nod to Astroboy, embodies her surprising power and energy. While ZO primarily handles lead vocals in both Mandarin Chinese and English, Atom also occasionally takes the mic, adding another layer of dynamism to the band's sound.
In 2011, Hedgehog took their sound stateside, embarking on a US tour alongside Xiu Xiu. This tour culminated in the recording of "[Sun Fun Gun]" in New York City, produced by Jon Spencer Blues Explosion's John Grew and Russell Simins.
Beyond their main act, ZO and Atom also have a side project, B-Side Lovers, which they formed in 2009. This two-piece venture allows them to explore a more experimental edge, focusing on raw songwriting and instrumental innovation.
Hedgehog, with its unique sound and explosive live shows, continues to push boundaries and pave the way for a vibrant indie rock movement in China. Their music, a sonic blend of influences and infectious energy, is a powerful force that transcends language barriers and captures the hearts of audiences both in China and beyond.
Founded in: 2009
Highly Suspect, hailing from Cape Cod, Massachusetts, is a force to be reckoned with in the modern rock scene. This quartet, comprised of twin brothers Rich (bass, backing vocals) and Ryan Meyer (drums, backing vocals), alongside Johnny Stevens (guitar, lead vocals) and Matt Kofos (guitar, synthesizer, backing vocals), has climbed the ranks from humble bar cover band beginnings to international acclaim.
Their journey began in the early 2000s, honing their skills by performing covers of rock legends like Sublime, Jimi Hendrix, and Pink Floyd. They captivated audiences at various Cape Cod hotspots, including the British Beer Company, J.R. Brody's Roadside Tavern, and Sundancers. Early tours with bands like 10 Years, Monster Truck, and Sevendust further honed their live performance skills.
A pivotal moment arrived when they relocated to Brooklyn, New York. There, they crossed paths with producer Joel Hamilton, who helped them craft their debut EP, "The Worst Humans." This release was a taste of things to come, showcasing their raw energy and distinctive sound.
In 2015, Highly Suspect unleashed their full-length debut, "Mister Asylum." This album garnered critical acclaim and a Grammy nomination for Best Rock Album at the 58th Annual Grammy Awards. Their song "Lydia" also received a nod for Best Rock Song, solidifying their place as a leading force in contemporary rock.
They continued their ascent with "The Boy Who Died Wolf" in 2016, which spawned the hit singles "My Name Is Human" (topping the Billboard US Mainstream Rock Songs chart) and "Little One" (peaking at number 2 on the same chart).
2019 saw the release of their third studio album, "MCID," further solidifying their signature sound and expanding their fan base. The band continued to evolve, delivering their fourth studio album, "The Midnight Demon Club," in 2022.
Most recently, Highly Suspect has released their fifth album, "As Above, So Below" in July 2024. This record promises to be a defining moment for the band, pushing the boundaries of their sound and establishing them as a cornerstone of the contemporary rock landscape.
From humble beginnings in Cape Cod to a global audience, Highly Suspect's story is a testament to talent, perseverance, and a refusal to compromise their artistic vision. They've proven their ability to captivate audiences with their intense live shows and infectious music, solidifying their status as one of the most exciting rock bands today.
Founded in: 2001
Hinder, hailing from Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, emerged onto the rock scene in 2001. The band's core was forged by lead singer Austin John Winkler, guitarist Joe "Blower" Garvey, and drummer Cody Hanson. This potent trio solidified their lineup in 2003 with the addition of bassist Mike Rodden and guitarist Mark King.
Their sound, a potent blend of hard rock and melodic hooks, resonated with fans, culminating in a string of four studio albums featuring Winkler's dynamic vocals:
The songwriting magic primarily belonged to Hanson and Winkler, crafting the anthems that defined Hinder's early career.
Winkler's departure in 2013 marked a turning point. The band sought a new frontman, finding their voice in Marshal Dutton. This new chapter saw the release of:
Hinder's seventh studio album is currently in the works, promising more hard-hitting rock for their dedicated fanbase.
Their impact on the Oklahoma music scene was recognized in 2007 when they were inducted into the Oklahoma Music Hall of Fame.
Early Days: A Meeting of Rock Minds
Hinder's story begins with a chance encounter. Winkler, who had cut his teeth in an Oklahoma City cover band, crossed paths with Hanson and Garvey at a college party in July 2001. The spark was immediate, and Hinder was born.
Hanson, describing Winkler's impact on the band, said, "He blew me away. He has that charisma you rarely see, and his voice is truly unique."
Founded in: 1989
Hole, the iconic American alternative rock band, burst onto the scene in Los Angeles in 1989, a product of the city's vibrant punk rock scene. Founded by the legendary Courtney Love (vocals, guitar) and Eric Erlandson (guitar), the band's lineup was constantly evolving, with a revolving door of bassists and drummers. However, Patty Schemel, Kristen Pfaff (who tragically passed away in 1994), and Melissa Auf der Maur became some of the most prominent figures behind the band's sound.
Over two distinct eras spanning the 90s and early 2010s, Hole released four groundbreaking studio albums, solidifying their place as one of the most successful rock bands fronted by a woman.
Their debut, "Pretty on the Inside" (1991), produced by the iconic Kim Gordon of Sonic Youth, caught the attention of both British and American alternative music critics. It set the stage for their breakthrough album, "Live Through This" (1994), a potent blend of punk, grunge, and pop rock. Released through DGC Records, "Live Through This" achieved platinum status within a year, solidifying Hole's place as a force to be reckoned with.
The band's third album, "Celebrity Skin" (1998), marked a deliberate shift away from their punk roots, showcasing a more commercially appealing sound. Despite this stylistic evolution, the album still earned critical acclaim and sold over 2 million copies worldwide, cementing Hole's global popularity.
The band disbanded in 2002, with members pursuing individual projects. However, in 2010, Love resurrected Hole with a new lineup, despite claims from Erlandson that the reformation violated a pre-existing contract.
Hole's legacy remains strong. They are remembered as a groundbreaking band that redefined the landscape of alternative rock music, inspiring countless artists and leaving an indelible mark on the music world.
Founded in: 2005
Hollywood Undead, the Los Angeles-based rap-rock quintet, burst onto the scene in 2005. Known for their enigmatic stage personas – all members use pseudonyms and formerly sported distinctive goalie-mask-inspired headgear – the band solidified their place in the genre with a string of successful albums. Their debut, Swan Songs, dropped in September 2008, followed by the live CD/DVD Desperate Measures in November 2009. Subsequent studio albums include American Tragedy (April 2011), Notes from the Underground (January 2013), Day of the Dead (March 2015), Five (October 2017), and New Empire, Vol. 1 (the release date for which is missing from the original text). The band's current lineup features J-Dog, Funny Man, Johnny 3 Tears, Charlie Scene, and Danny. Their 2017 album Five saw the release of the lead single "California Dreaming" in July of that year.