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Founded in: 2001
Joyside, a Chinese rock band forged in the underground scene of Beijing, burst onto the scene in 2001 under the leadership of frontman Bian Yuan. For three years, they honed their sound in the intimate spaces of small clubs, building a dedicated following. This dedication translated into recording albums and conquering larger stages, becoming a force to be reckoned with in the Chinese music landscape.
The band's lineup is a testament to their dynamic sound: Bian Yuan on vocals, Liu Hao on bass, Liu Hongwei and Yang Yang sharing guitar duties, and Guan Zheng pounding the drums. While united as Joyside, each member also explores their individual musical passions, contributing to a rich and multifaceted creative force.
Their journey was documented in Kevin Fritz's "Wasted Orient," a film that showcased a side of China often unseen by the West - a vibrant and independent underground music scene.
Joyside's global impact became evident in 2007:
Joyside's story embodies the spirit of rock and roll – an unwavering passion for music, a dedication to pushing boundaries, and a commitment to sharing their artistry with the world. They have etched their name in the history of Chinese music, becoming ambassadors of their country's vibrant underground scene and captivating audiences on a global scale.
Founded in: 2012
KALEO, the Icelandic blues rock band, emerged from the small town of Mosfellsbær in 2012, quickly captivating audiences with their raw energy and soulful sound. Led by vocalist and guitarist Jökull Júlíusson, the band features drummer Davíð Antonsson, bassist Daniel Kristjánsson, lead guitarist Rubin Pollock, and harmonica player Þorleifur Gaukur Davíðsson.
Since their inception, KALEO has released three studio albums: "Kaleo" (2013), "A/B" (2016), and "Surface Sounds" (2021), along with the EP "Glasshouse" (2013). Their second album, "A/B", achieved remarkable success, selling over a million copies worldwide.
One of their standout tracks, "Way Down We Go", became a global hit, achieving double platinum status in the US and topping the Billboard Alternative Songs chart in August 2016. The band's powerful performance of "No Good" earned them a Grammy Award nomination for Best Rock Performance in 2017.
From Local Heroes to International Stars:
The band's journey began with a strong foundation in their home country. Jökull, Davíð, and Daniel, close friends since elementary school, started playing together at the age of 17. They later welcomed guitarist Rubin Pollock in 2012 and solidified their name as KALEO, meaning "the voice" in Hawaiian.
Their early success came from a series of energetic performances at the 2012 Iceland Airwaves music festival, marking their first major public appearance. Their cover of "Vor í Vaglaskógi" quickly gained popularity, becoming a radio staple in Iceland and featuring on the popular TV series "Trapped".
KALEO's distinctive blues-rock sound, infused with elements of folk and Americana, has earned them global recognition and a dedicated fan base. They've toured extensively, performing on major stages around the world, solidifying their position as one of the most exciting and authentic rock bands of their generation.
Founded in: 1999
Hailing from the heart of Tennessee, Kings of Leon emerged in 1999, a family affair featuring brothers Caleb, Nathan, and Jared Followill alongside their cousin Matthew. Their early sound was a potent cocktail of Southern rock grit, garage rock energy, and bluesy swagger. But Kings of Leon weren't content to stay in one lane. As their career progressed, they embraced a more diverse musical palette, venturing into alternative rock territory while still retaining their signature raw energy.
The band's initial breakout came in the UK, where they racked up nine top 40 singles and two BRIT Awards in 2008, solidifying their status as international rock royalty. Their first three albums stormed the UK charts, with Because of the Times claiming the coveted No. 1 spot.
Then came the monumental Only by the Night in 2008, catapulting Kings of Leon into the stratosphere of American music. The album's anthemic singles, "Sex on Fire," "Use Somebody," and "Notion," dominated the Hot Modern Rock Tracks chart, reaching the pinnacle of rock radio airplay. Only by the Night achieved platinum status in the US, cementing their position as a global force and becoming the best-selling album of 2008 in Australia, achieving a staggering nine-times platinum certification.
Kings of Leon continued their winning streak with their fifth album, Come Around Sundown, released in October 2010, proving their staying power and solidifying their legacy as one of the most important and enduring rock bands of the 21st century.
Founded in: 1983
My Bloody Valentine, often stylized in all lowercase or abbreviated as MBV, are a legendary alternative rock band hailing from Dublin, Ireland. Formed in 1983, the band has remained a core unit since 1987, consisting of founding members Kevin Shields (vocals, guitar, sampler) and Colm Ó Cíosóig (drums, sampler), joined by Bilinda Butcher (vocals, guitar) and Debbie Googe (bass).
Widely recognized as pioneers of the shoegaze genre, My Bloody Valentine's signature sound is characterized by ethereal and hypnotic textures, achieved through dissonant guitar layers, subdued and androgynous vocals, and innovative production techniques that blurred the lines between instrument and effect.
Their journey to sonic prominence began with a series of early releases and lineup changes. After signing with Creation Records in 1988, they released a string of successful EPs and two landmark albums, Isn't Anything (1988) and Loveless (1991). The latter, considered their magnum opus and a cornerstone of alternative rock history, achieved critical acclaim but also marked a turning point for the band.
The album's extensive production costs, pushing the boundaries of sonic experimentation, led to their parting with Creation Records. In 1992, they signed with Island Records, accumulating a wealth of unreleased material, but largely retreated from the public eye.
By 1995, Googe and Ó Cíosóig left the band, followed by Butcher in 1997. The weight of following up Loveless proved too much for Shields, who, in his own words, "went crazy" in the years after.
A long-awaited reunion in 2007 saw them embark on a global tour, reintroducing their music to a new generation of fans. In 2012, they released the compilation EP 1988-1991, showcasing the evolution of their sound through their early years.
My Bloody Valentine's impact on alternative music is undeniable. Their sonic explorations, particularly on Loveless, continue to inspire and influence musicians across genres. They stand as a testament to the power of experimentation and the enduring impact of a sound that redefined the boundaries of rock music.
Founded in: 2017
We are Nerv, a 4-piece genre-bending rock band residing in California. The band's members are originally from all over the US with vocalist Dillon Jones (Sacramento, CA), guitarists Jordan Grokett and Scott Buchanan (Dallas, TX) and drummer Tyler Clark (Atlanta, GA). Nerv burst onto the scene in November 2017 with their heavy hitting debut single ‘Enough’. Then in Spring 2018 the band released their highly successful debut EP 'Bad Habits’, working with producer Erik Ron (I Prevail, Godsmack, Hollywood Undead). In October of 2022, Nerv released their long-awaited debut full length album, 'We're All Patients Here'.
Founded in: 2012
No Party For Cao Dong (草東沒有派對), a Taiwanese indie rock band known for their raw energy and emotional depth, has emerged as a formidable force in the Asian music scene.
From Schoolyard Jams to Underground Icons:
The band's roots lie in the familiar story of friendship and shared passion. Guitarists and vocalists Wood Lin and Judy Chan, who met in high school and remained close throughout their time at Taipei National University of the Arts, were driven by a shared love for music. Their journey began in 2012 as "Party at Cao Dong Street," a name inspired by the bustling street in Taipei's Shilin District, a place where they often found themselves, whether it was Lin skateboarding or Chan running alongside him.
Their early sound, infused with the electronic rock influences of Two Door Cinema Club, resonated on campus and beyond. However, a series of lineup changes, including the departures of their original bassist and drummer, led them to rebrand as "No Party For Cao Dong" in 2014. The band found new collaborators in FUBAR frontman Sam Cheng on bass and Leo Liu on drums, injecting fresh energy into their sound.
A Year of Silence, a New Beginning:
The band’s trajectory took an unexpected turn when Cheng was called up for military service, forcing them into a year-long hiatus. This period of reflection proved crucial for No Party For Cao Dong, as they began to approach their music with a newfound seriousness. They sought to craft something more meaningful, a sound that truly reflected their evolving selves.
Upon Cheng's return, the band decided to embrace a different direction, choosing to re-establish a solid foundation. They welcomed Sam Yang, another graduate of Taipei National University of the Arts, to fill the bass position. This lineup change, combined with their renewed focus, marked a significant turning point for No Party For Cao Dong.
The Beginning of a Legacy:
Their early tracks, "Old Zhang," "Grisly Me," and "Fifty," uploaded online, showcased their raw talent and their ability to translate personal experiences into powerful musical expressions. These tracks, imbued with a gritty, emotional intensity, became a harbinger of the band's future success, solidifying their place as a vital force in the world of Taiwanese indie rock.
Founded in: 1989
Pavement, the legendary indie rock band, emerged from the fertile underground scene of Stockton, California in 1989. Formed by the enigmatic Stephen Malkmus (vocals, guitar) and the equally brilliant Scott Kannberg (guitar, vocals), the group quickly established itself as a force to be reckoned with, their sound a unique blend of slacker apathy, melodic hooks, and a distinctly "lo-fi" aesthetic.
Initially conceived as a recording project, Pavement eschewed mainstream media and live performances, opting to build a loyal following through their raw, independent releases. Their early work captured the zeitgeist of the era, resonating with a generation disillusioned with the polished gloss of mainstream rock.
As their career progressed, Pavement gradually evolved into a more polished, yet still undeniably unique band. Over a decade, they released five studio albums and ten EPs, solidifying their place as a cornerstone of the indie rock movement. Their influence extended far beyond the underground, reaching a wide range of musicians and spawning a legion of imitators.
While they never quite achieved mainstream superstardom, Pavement's impact on the music scene was undeniable. Their refusal to compromise their artistic vision and their commitment to independent music made them icons for a generation. They were also praised by influential critics like Robert Christgau and Stephen Thomas Erlewine, who hailed them as the best band of the '90s.
After a somewhat acrimonious split in 1999, Pavement reunited in 2010 for a highly successful tour, further solidifying their legacy and demonstrating their enduring influence. They returned to the stage in 2022-24 for another international tour, proving that even after all these years, their music still resonated with fans across the globe.
Pavement's music continues to be celebrated for its originality, its undeniable hooks, and its lasting impact on the world of indie rock. They remain one of the most influential and enduring bands to emerge from the American underground, forever leaving their mark on the '90s and beyond.
Founded in: 1986
The Pixies, hailing from Boston, Massachusetts, are a band that needs no introduction to anyone who considers themselves a true rock aficionado. They formed in 1986, birthed from the raw energy of Black Francis (vocals, rhythm guitar, songwriting), Joey Santiago's blistering lead guitar, Kim Deal's bass prowess and vocal harmonies, and the rhythmic backbone provided by David Lovering on drums.
They're more than just a band; they're a sonic force that left an indelible mark on the landscape of alternative rock. The Pixies are credited with influencing countless artists including Nirvana, Radiohead, Smashing Pumpkins, and Weezer, just to name a few. Their unique blend of punk rock aggression, surf rock melodies, and a penchant for pushing musical boundaries propelled them to the forefront of the 90s alternative rock boom.
What makes their music so captivating, It's the dynamic shifts, the explosive "loud-quiet-loud" interplay, the intricate song structures that keep you on the edge of your seat. Francis, the mastermind behind their music, weaves surreal and often dark lyrics that touch on themes of extraterrestrials, forbidden love, and biblical violence.
While they enjoyed moderate success in the US, the Pixies found a dedicated following in Europe, cementing their status as international cult heroes. Even after their break-up, their influence grew, leading to a highly anticipated reunion in 2004 that saw sold-out tours across the globe.
The band continued to evolve, with Kim Deal's departure in 2013 and the subsequent additions of Kim Shattuck and Paz Lenchantin, who officially joined the fold in 2016. With Lenchantin, the Pixies have released a string of critically acclaimed albums, including "Indie Cindy" (2014), "Head Carrier" (2016), "Beneath the Eyrie" (2019), and "Doggerel" (2022), demonstrating their enduring power and artistic evolution.
The Pixies are more than just a band; they're a sonic force that continues to inspire and influence musicians and fans alike. They are a testament to the power of raw creativity, pushing boundaries, and delivering unforgettable music that transcends generations.
Founded in: 2010
PUP, a name that stands for "Pathetic Use of Potential," is a Canadian punk rock band hailing from Toronto, Ontario. Formed in 2010 under the name Topanga, PUP has become a force to be reckoned with in the punk scene.
Their debut album, simply titled "PUP," dropped on October 8, 2013, under the banner of Royal Mountain Records. The band's raw energy and infectious hooks caught the attention of SideOneDummy Records, who signed them in December 2013 and re-released the album in the US on April 8, 2014.
PUP's relentless work ethic saw them back in the studio in late 2015, recording their sophomore album, "The Dream Is Over." Released on May 27, 2016, via SideOneDummy, the album solidified their status as a major player in the punk world.
The band's third album, "Morbid Stuff," arrived on April 5, 2019, showcasing their continued evolution and maturity. They followed this with a six-track EP titled "This Place Sucks Ass" on October 27, 2020, further demonstrating their versatility.
PUP's fourth album, "The Unraveling of PUPTheBand," dropped on April 1, 2022, cementing their place as one of the most exciting and dynamic punk bands of their generation.
Origins and Formation (2010)
The band's foundation is built on a strong friendship. Guitarist Steve Sladkowski, bassist Nestor Chumak, and drummer Zack Mykula share a history as childhood friends who attended school together in Toronto. Their bond grew over the years, leading them to collaborate on numerous bands throughout their youth. This shared passion for music would ultimately lead to the formation of PUP, setting the stage for a career filled with powerful music and unwavering camaraderie.
Founded in: 1991
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.