Folk Rock

Band of Horses: A Seattle Sound That's Stood the Test of Time

Band of Horses, hailing from the vibrant music scene of Seattle, Washington, emerged in 2004. Spearheaded by the soulful songwriting of Ben Bridwell, the band has weathered numerous lineup changes, but Bridwell's presence remains a constant, anchoring their signature sound.

The current lineup features a solid core of veterans: Creighton Barrett on drums, a powerhouse behind the kit, and Ryan Monroe, who brings versatility to the mix with keyboards, guitar, and backing vocals. Rounding out the band are Matt Gentling on bass and backing vocals, and Brett Nash, adding another layer of guitar and harmonies.

For a decade, the band enjoyed a remarkably stable lineup with guitarist Tyler Ramsey and bassist Bill Reynolds, who left in 2017 after a long and successful period together. Their contributions are woven into the fabric of the band's early albums, including the critically acclaimed Cease to Begin (2007).

Throughout their career, Band of Horses has released six studio albums, each offering a distinct sonic tapestry: Everything All the Time (2006), Cease to Begin, Infinite Arms (2010), Mirage Rock (2012), Why Are You OK (2016), and Things Are Great (2022). Infinite Arms earned the band a Grammy nomination in 2011, further solidifying their place in the rock landscape.

The Early Days:

Band of Horses, originally known simply as "Horses," formed in 2004 after the breakup of Bridwell's previous band, Carissa's Wierd. The original lineup included Chris Early on bass, Tim Meinig on drums, and Mat Brooke, another Carissa's Wierd alum, on guitar and vocals.

Their early gigs caught the attention of Sub Pop Records after opening for Iron & Wine in Seattle. This led to the release of their Tour EP in 2005, generating buzz among fans and industry insiders alike.

Their debut album, Everything All the Time, recorded with producer Phil Ek in 2005, marked their official entry into the music scene. The album showcased the band's raw energy and distinctive blend of Americana and indie rock, and was released by Sub Pop in March 2006.

The band's journey since then has been a compelling mix of lineup changes, critical acclaim, and enduring musicality. Band of Horses remains a vital force in the world of rock, leaving an indelible mark on the Seattle sound and beyond.

Dropkick Murphys: From Boston Streets to Global Stage

Dropkick Murphys, the Boston-bred Celtic punk rock outfit, emerged from the streets of Quincy, Massachusetts in 1996. Since then, they've become synonymous with rowdy energy, Irish-infused anthems, and a dedication to their home city. Their only constant member, bassist and vocalist Ken Casey, has led the band through its evolution, encompassing a revolving door of talented musicians. The current lineup boasts drummer Matt Kelly, vocalist Al Barr, guitarist James Lynch, and multi-instrumentalists Tim Brennan and Jeff DaRosa.

The band's early days were forged in the crucible of the independent punk scene, with Hellcat Records serving as their launchpad. Through five albums and relentless touring, they built a loyal fanbase in Boston, particularly during their annual St. Patrick's Day week shows. Their 2004 single "Tessie" marked their first taste of mainstream success, becoming one of their most recognizable tracks.

Their final release on Hellcat Records, 2005's "The Warrior's Code," contained a song that would propel them to global stardom. "I'm Shipping Up to Boston," featured in the 2006 film "The Departed," achieved platinum status and remains a fan favorite. The song perfectly encapsulates the band's raw energy and emotional depth.

Their signature sound, characterized by powerful vocals, driving rhythms, and a blend of punk rock aggression and traditional Irish music, fuels their legendary live performances. Their energetic shows are known for crowd surfing, mosh pits, and a sense of camaraderie that transcends cultural boundaries.

In 2007, Dropkick Murphys established their own record label, Born & Bred, distributed by Alternative Distribution Alliance. This move solidified their independence and allowed them to control their creative direction. From their humble beginnings in Quincy, Dropkick Murphys have become a global force, inspiring a generation of fans with their infectious energy and undeniable talent. Their story is a testament to the enduring power of raw, honest music.

Flogging Molly: A Celtic Punk Powerhouse

Flogging Molly is a seven-piece Celtic punk band that emerged from the heart of Los Angeles in 1994. Led by the charismatic Irish vocalist Dave King, formerly of the hard rock band Fastway, they've carved their own path in the music world, blending traditional Irish music with a rebellious punk spirit. Their own record label, Borstal Beat Records, gives them complete creative control over their sound.

From Heavy Metal to Celtic Punk:

Dave King's musical journey is a testament to his versatility. He cut his teeth in the heavy metal scene, fronting the band Fastway alongside "Fast" Eddie Clarke of Motörhead fame. He then led the hard rock band Katmandu, featuring the legendary Mandy Meyer of Krokus on guitar. However, King's heart always pulled towards his Irish roots.

After a brief foray into solo work, King decided to embrace his passion for traditional Irish music. When his record label, Epic Records, resisted his desire to incorporate these elements, he walked away to forge his own destiny.

The Birth of Flogging Molly:

In 1993, King met the talented musicians who would become the core of Flogging Molly: violinist Bridget Regan, guitarist Ted Hutt, bassist Jeff Peters, and drummer Paul Crowder. Together, they started jamming a blend of Irish traditional music and rock 'n' roll, creating a unique sound that quickly gained a following.

Their weekly gigs at the Los Angeles pub Molly Malone's became legendary, building a loyal fanbase. During these early years, they crafted anthems like "Black Friday Rule" and "Selfish Man," laying the foundation for their signature sound.

A Legacy of Celtic Punk Anthems:

Flogging Molly's music is a potent mix of raw energy, infectious melodies, and a deep connection to their Irish heritage. Their live performances are renowned for their high-octane energy, captivating audiences with their spirited anthems and powerful stage presence.

From their early days in Los Angeles to their global success, Flogging Molly has established itself as a force to be reckoned with in the world of Celtic punk. Their music continues to resonate with fans worldwide, celebrating their unique blend of Irish tradition and rock 'n' roll spirit.

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.

The Lumineers: A Folk-Rock Force to Be Reckoned With

The Lumineers are a Colorado-bred band that exploded onto the folk-rock scene in the 2010s. This Americana outfit, formed by the dynamic duo of Wesley Schultz (lead vocals, guitar) and Jeremiah Fraites (drums, percussion, piano), started their journey in Ramsey, New Jersey, back in 2005. Their unique blend of folk and rock quickly captured the hearts of fans worldwide.

The core of The Lumineers' sound, however, was solidified with the addition of cellist and vocalist Neyla Pekarek in 2010. The band's dynamic trio helped them create a sound that was both raw and heartfelt, paving the way for their breakthrough success. While Pekarek left the band in 2018, her impact on their music remains undeniable.

The Lumineers are known for their energetic live shows, drawing massive crowds with their infectious music and heartfelt performances. Their anthemic hits like "Ho Hey," "Stubborn Love," "Ophelia," "Angela," and "Cleopatra" have become staples on radio stations and playlists across the globe, cementing their status as one of the most popular folk-rock bands in the world.

The band has released four albums, all under the banner of the American independent label Dualtone Records. Their self-titled debut album, released in 2012, topped the charts, reaching number two on the Billboard 200.

The Lumineers are more than just a band - they're a musical phenomenon. Their unique blend of folk and rock, coupled with their captivating live performances, has made them one of the most successful touring bands in the United States and beyond, leaving a lasting impact on the music scene.

Wu Tiao Ren is a folk-rock band from Haifeng County, Guangdong Province, China, known for its use of Haifeng dialect, its rough-and-tumble style, and its focus on rural issues.

== Introduction == Wu Tiao Ren was formed in March 2009 by two Haifeng natives, "Amao" and "Renke." In 2001, after failing the college entrance exam, Amao moved to Guangzhou from Haifeng and made a living by selling bootleg CDs, where he was exposed to music from both China and abroad. Renke studied painting at an art school in Haifeng. During the Spring Festival in 2003, a "Haifeng Original Music Festival" was organized by the local community. Amao and Renke both participated in the event and met each other. This led Renke to move to Shipai Village in Guangzhou to join Amao and work by selling pirated books. The two struggled to make ends meet. In 2007, the Guangzhou government cracked down on street vendors in preparation for the 2010 Asian Games, so the two rented a place to open a record store and began writing songs. In 2009, with the help of several friends, they officially formed Wu Tiao Ren and recorded their first album, "County Town Chronicle." In 2020, they participated in the second season of the iQiyi variety show "Summer of the Band." They were eliminated twice but were revived twice later, eventually finishing second in the finals (Hot 2).

== Band Name == The origin of the name "Wu Tiao Ren" is disputed among its members. The most common explanation is that it comes from the film "Three People" directed by Christopher Doyle. In Cantonese, "tiao" is a measure word for people, so "Wu Tiao Ren" means "five people," signifying the band's hope for success and prosperity.