Time for Rock...
Time for Rock...
Founded in: 1991
Down, a legendary American heavy metal supergroup, emerged from the swamps of New Orleans in 1991. This powerhouse lineup features vocal titan Phil Anselmo (Pantera, Superjoint Ritual), powerhouse drummer Jimmy Bower (Crowbar, Eyehategod, Superjoint Ritual), guitarists Pepper Keenan (Corrosion of Conformity) and Kirk Windstein (Crowbar), and bassist Pat Bruders (Goatwhore).
These musical titans, all friends with shared roots in classic heavy metal bands like Black Sabbath, Trouble, and Saint Vitus, crafted a sound that resonated with a raw, blues-infused heaviness. Their early days saw them circulating a three-track demo, anonymously distributing it amongst metal fans. This tactic, a guerilla marketing campaign spearheaded by Anselmo and Keenan, helped build anticipation for their debut.
From Swamp Roots to Global Recognition
Their self-titled debut, NOLA (1995), became a landmark album in the heavy metal scene, showcasing Down's signature blend of doom, sludge, and southern rock. The band went on to release three more full-length albums, Down II: A Bustle in Your Hedgerow (2002) and Down III: Over the Under (2007), further solidifying their legacy.
A Legacy of Heaving Riffs and Intricate Rhythms
In 2008, Down delved into new material, culminating in two EPs, Down IV - Part I (2012) and Down IV - Part II (2014). These releases served as a testament to their unwavering dedication to crafting heavy, atmospheric music that continues to resonate with fans worldwide.
Down's influence on the heavy metal landscape is undeniable. Their unique blend of genres, coupled with their ferocious live performances and the undeniable charisma of its members, has cemented their place as one of the most influential and respected heavy metal bands of all time.
Founded in: 1979
Hailing from Richmond, California, Exodus is a pioneering force in the American thrash metal scene, formed in 1979. Though the lineup has shifted over the years, they've remained a powerful entity, currently featuring guitarists Gary Holt and Lee Altus, bassist Jack Gibson, drummer Tom Hunting, and vocalist Steve "Zetro" Souza.
Exodus boasts a unique history, with Tom Hunting being the only original member remaining. Hunting has weathered two departures from the band, first in 1989, then again in 2004, ultimately rejoining in 2007. The band also served as a launchpad for the legendary Kirk Hammett, who held the lead guitarist position from Exodus' inception until 1983, when he joined Metallica as Dave Mustaine's replacement.
Gary Holt, who replaced original guitarist Tim Agnello in 1981, has been a stalwart through various lineup changes and breakups, becoming the most consistent member and the only one to appear on every Exodus recording. Despite facing a turbulent history marked by band member feuds, record label conflicts, extended hiatuses, the loss of former members, and struggles with drug addiction, Exodus has persevered.
Their legacy speaks volumes. With eleven studio albums, three live albums, a compilation album, and a re-recording of their debut album, they've solidified their place as a cornerstone of the Bay Area thrash metal scene. Alongside Metallica, they're often recognized as pioneers of the genre, earning a place among the region's "Big Six" alongside Testament, Death Angel, Lȧȧz Rockit, Forbidden, and Vio-lence.
Exodus' influence extends beyond their regional scene. They're considered one of thrash metal's "Big Eight" alongside Metallica, Megadeth, Slayer, Anthrax, Testament, Overkill, and Death Angel. Their first three studio albums, Bonded by Blood (1985), Pleasures of the Flesh (1987), and Fabulous Disaster (1989), propelled them to success during the mid-to-late 1980s, solidifying their place in metal history. With over five million albums sold worldwide, Exodus continues to inspire and influence generations of metal fans.
Founded in: 2009
Full of Hell, the grindcore titans hailing from Ocean City, Maryland, and Central Pennsylvania, exploded onto the scene in 2009. Initially releasing music through A389 Recordings and Profound Lore Records, they've since ascended to become a Relapse Records powerhouse. Their ferocious discography boasts six full-length albums: Roots of Earth Are Consuming My Home (2011), Rudiments of Mutilation (2013), Trumpeting Ecstasy (2017), Weeping Choir (2019), Garden of Burning Apparitions (2021), and Coagulated Bliss (2024). This impressive output is further augmented by a slew of EPs and split releases.
Their collaborative spirit is equally legendary. Full of Hell have unleashed five critically acclaimed collaborative albums, including the landmark 2014 pairing with Japanese noise artist Merzbow, Full of Hell & Merzbow. They've also teamed up with sludge metal behemoths the Body (One Day You Will Ache Like I Ache (2016) and Ascending a Mountain of Heavy Light (2017)), doom metal titans Primitive Man (Suffocating Hallucination, March 2023), and shoegaze innovators Nothing (When No Birds Sang, December 2023), showcasing their versatility and influence across multiple subgenres.
The band's history also includes a lineup change in 2015, with original bassist Brandon Brown departing and being replaced by Sam DiGristine of Jarhead Fertilizer (another project featuring Brown and drummer Dave Bland). Spencer Hazard maintains a straight edge lifestyle, while Bland is the band's only vegan member, reflecting the diverse personalities within this intensely focused collective. A notable release was the Amber Mote in the Black Vault EP (2016) via Bad Teeth Recordings, featuring a compelling cover of Melvins' "Oven," a testament to their eclectic influences and long-standing admiration for the grunge pioneers.
Founded in: 1985
GWAR (stylized as GWAR) is a Richmond, Virginia-bred heavy metal band forged in 1984. Known for its ever-evolving roster of musicians, artists, and filmmakers—collectively known as Slave Pit Inc.—the band has continued to create and perform even after the 2014 death of frontman Dave Brockie, with none of its original members remaining.
Their signature grotesque costumes are integral to GWAR's elaborate science fiction mythology. Band members portray barbaric warriors—a mix of medieval Nordic, mythological, biblical, and interplanetary figures—a narrative driving their albums, live shows, and media presence. Their over-the-top violent, sexual, and scatological humor, often laced with sharp social and political satire, has garnered both praise and controversy. Infamous for their live shows, which feature graphic violence and drench the audience in copious amounts of fake blood, urine, and semen, GWAR is often categorized as "shock rock."
Since their inception, GWAR has unleashed 15 studio albums, two live albums, numerous singles, and other recordings, selling over 820,000 records in the US alone. The controversies surrounding their concerts fueled a brief period of mainstream notoriety in the early 1990s, earning them MTV airplay and in-character appearances on daytime talk shows, where they satirized censorship and media violence. While their mainstream popularity waned by the late 1990s, GWAR maintains a fiercely dedicated cult following.
Their extensive videography includes live recordings and feature films, most notably 1992's Phallus in Wonderland, which earned a Grammy nomination for Best Long Form Music Video. Beyond music, the GWAR brand has expanded into books, comic books, board games, beer, whiskey, barbecue sauce, CBD products, e-liquids, collectible toys, and even sex toys—a testament to their enduring, if unconventional, influence.
Founded in: 2013
Hailing from Southfield, Michigan, I Prevail emerged onto the scene in 2013. Their initial breakthrough wasn't from their own compositions, but rather a surprisingly successful metal reimagining of Taylor Swift's "Blank Space." Released in December 2014, this audacious cover climbed to #90 on the Billboard Hot 100 and #23 on the Mainstream Rock Songs chart, eventually achieving platinum certification. This viral hit propelled the band's 2014 debut EP, Heart vs. Mind, into the spotlight, showcasing their raw energy and distinct metalcore sound. Building on this unexpected success, I Prevail solidified their position with the release of three full-length studio albums: Lifelines (2016), Trauma (2019), and True Power (2022). Their original material proved equally potent, with tracks like "Breaking Down" and "Hurricane" dominating rock radio. The band's critical acclaim culminated in Grammy Award nominations for "Bow Down" (Best Metal Performance, 2019) and Trauma (Best Rock Album, 2019), cementing their status as a major force in the modern metal scene.
Founded in: 1996
Hailing from London, Ontario, Kittie emerged in 1996 as a potent force in the heavy metal scene. Founded by the Lander sisters – drummer Mercedes and vocalist/rhythm guitarist Morgan – alongside lead guitarist Fallon Bowman and bassist Tanya Candler, Kittie quickly made a name for themselves with their aggressive, no-holds-barred sound.
The sisters, Morgan and Mercedes, have remained the band's core, driving Kittie's evolution through various lineup changes and stylistic shifts. Their music, released independently, has sold over two million copies worldwide, establishing them as a formidable force in the metal world.
The band's name, "Kittie," was chosen for its "contradictory" nature, reflecting the stark contrast between their cute, all-female image and the raw power of their music. Their 1999 debut album, "Spit," initially released through Ng Records and later through Artemis Records, cemented their place in the nu metal movement. The album sold over 600,000 copies in the US and was certified gold by the RIAA.
Over time, Kittie moved away from the nu metal sound, embracing a heavier, more aggressive style that incorporated elements of alternative metal, groove metal, and death metal. Their subsequent releases, "Oracle" (2001) and "Until the End" (2004), showcased this evolution, though they didn't achieve the same commercial success as "Spit."
After parting ways with Artemis in 2005, Kittie took control of their own destiny, forming their own label, X of Infamy. They released "Funeral for Yesterday" in 2007, further solidifying their distinctive sound.
In 2009, Kittie signed with eOne Music, releasing "In the Black" and "I've Failed You" in 2009 and 2011 respectively. These albums, featuring bassist Ivana "Ivy" Jenkins, showcased Kittie's continued dedication to pushing the boundaries of heavy music, demonstrating their enduring power and influence.
Kittie's journey has been marked by a relentless pursuit of musical evolution, their sound evolving from nu metal pioneers to a heavier, more intricate band that continues to enthrall metal fans worldwide.
Founded in: 1991
Hailing from the gritty streets of Oakland, California, Machine Head emerged in 1991 as a force of raw, aggressive heavy metal. The brainchild of vocalist/rhythm guitarist Robb Flynn, the band has remained a cornerstone of the genre, pioneering the new wave of American heavy metal with their ferocious musicianship.
Their early albums, steeped in groove and nu metal influences, garnered a passionate fan base in Europe, laying the foundation for their future success. While their initial US breakthrough was yet to come, their fourth record, "Supercharger" (2001), sparked controversy. Released amidst the fallout of the September 11 attacks, the album's lead single "Crashing Around You" and its music video featuring burning buildings were pulled from media outlets, throwing the band into a whirlwind of negativity. This unfortunate turn of events nearly led to Machine Head's demise as they faced pressure from their label, Roadrunner Records.
However, the band persevered, re-signing with Roadrunner and taking a significant artistic turn. "The Blackening" (2007), their sixth album, showcased a return to their thrash metal roots, featuring longer, more complex songs and an undeniable heaviness. Critical acclaim followed, with the album earning the prestigious "Album of the Decade" award from Metal Hammer in 2010. Its first single, "Aesthetics of Hate", even earned a Grammy nomination.
This triumphant return to form carried through their subsequent albums, "Unto the Locust" (2011) and "Bloodstone & Diamonds" (2014), solidifying their position as a leading force in modern heavy metal. The band continued to explore musical boundaries with their ninth album, "Catharsis" (2018), embracing nu metal elements once again.
Throughout their career, Machine Head has undergone various line-up changes, with Robb Flynn as the sole original member. Notably, past members such as Adam Duce (bass), Logan Mader, Ahrue Luster and Phil Demmel (guitars), and Tony Costanza, Chris Kontos and Dave McClain (drums) have all played significant roles in shaping the band's sound. Mader and Kontos even reunited with the band for their 25th anniversary tour in 2019 and 2020, celebrating their landmark album "Burn My Eyes" (1994).
Machine Head's journey has been a testament to resilience and musical evolution. From the underground to the mainstream, their unrelenting energy and masterful songwriting have left an indelible mark on the heavy metal landscape. As they continue to push boundaries and inspire generations of fans, Machine Head remains a powerful force in the world of music.
Founded in: 1984
Mayhem, a Norwegian black metal band formed in Langhus in 1984, stands as a towering figure in the genre's history. They were among the first to champion the raw, aggressive sound that would define Norwegian black metal, leaving an indelible mark on the scene. Their story, however, is interwoven with tragedy and controversy.
Mayhem's early years were marked by a relentless pursuit of sonic extremity, culminating in infamous live performances that pushed the boundaries of shock value. The band's notoriety grew even darker with the 1991 suicide of vocalist Per Yngve Ohlin ("Dead"), a tragic event that deeply impacted the band's trajectory. Tragedy struck again in 1993 when guitarist Øystein Aarseth ("Euronymous") was murdered by former member Varg Vikernes ("Count Grishnackh") of Burzum, further solidifying Mayhem's place in black metal lore.
Despite the turmoil, Mayhem left behind a lasting legacy. Their demo and EP, released during this chaotic period, became highly influential within the black metal scene. They gained a devoted following through their infrequent but explosive live performances, fueled by their controversial association with the Norwegian church burnings and the violence surrounding the band.
The death of Aarseth marked a temporary end to Mayhem's existence. The band disbanded shortly before the release of their groundbreaking debut album, De Mysteriis Dom Sathanas, widely regarded as a black metal classic.
In 1995, surviving members Jan Axel Blomberg ("Hellhammer"), Jørn Stubberud ("Necrobutcher"), and Sven Erik Kristiansen ("Maniac") revived Mayhem, with Rune Eriksen ("Blasphemer") replacing Aarseth on guitar. The lineup has shifted further since, with Attila Csihar and Morten Iversen ("Teloch") taking over vocal and guitar duties respectively.
Mayhem's post-Aarseth era has witnessed a shift towards experimentation, blending their signature dark and chaotic sound with a wider range of influences. Their 2007 album Ordo Ad Chao was a testament to this evolution, earning them the prestigious Spellemann Award for Best Heavy Metal Album.
Early Years (1984-1988)
Mayhem was born in 1984 from the collective vision of guitarist Øystein Aarseth ("Euronymous"), bassist/vocalist Jørn Stubberud ("Necrobutcher"), and drummer Kjetil Manheim. This early lineup laid the groundwork for the band's infamous legacy.
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Founded in: 1987
Hailing from the frigid north of Umeå, Sweden, Meshuggah emerged in 1987 as a force to be reckoned with in the extreme metal scene. Since 2004, the band's core has remained steadfast, with founding members Jens Kidman (vocals, a growling beast) and Fredrik Thordendal (lead guitar, a shredding master) joined by rhythm guitarist Mårten Hagström, drummer Tomas Haake (a polyrhythmic powerhouse), and bassist Dick Lövgren.
Their sonic legacy is one of sheer innovation. Meshuggah's nine studio albums, six EPs, and eight music videos stand as testament to their relentless pursuit of pushing boundaries. Their latest offering, "Immutable" (released in April 2022 via Atomic Fire Records), cements their status as pioneers.
Their signature sound, characterized by complex polyrhythms, intricate polymeters, and crushing heaviness, has earned them a loyal following and influenced a generation of musicians. They've risen from the underground to become a force to be reckoned with, earning accolades from giants like Rolling Stone (listing them among the ten most important hard rock/heavy metal bands) and Alternative Press (dubbing them the most influential metal band). In the late 2000s, their influence helped birth the djent subgenre, a testament to their enduring impact.
Meshuggah's musical prowess has also garnered recognition from the industry. They were nominated for two Swedish Grammis Awards (in 2006 for "Catch Thirtythree" and 2009 for "obZen") and, in 2018, achieved the ultimate accolade – a Grammy nomination for their song "Clockworks" in the "Best Metal Performance" category.
Meshuggah's story is a testament to the power of innovation, pushing the boundaries of music and leaving an undeniable mark on the world of metal. They are more than just a band; they are a sonic force that continues to inspire and challenge.
Founded in: 2005
Motionless in White, the Scranton, Pennsylvania-bred metalcore titans, emerged from the ashes of the local scene in 2004. Initially featuring Chris "Motionless" Cerulli (vocals/guitar), the band underwent several lineup changes before solidifying their current roster: Cerulli, guitarists Ryan Sitkowski and Ricky "Horror" Olson, drummer Vinny Mauro, and bassist Justin Morrow. Cerulli remains the sole original member, a testament to his unwavering vision. The band's name, inspired by the Eighteen Visions track "Motionless and White," perfectly encapsulates their dramatic, theatrical aesthetic.
Their early years saw them signed to Fearless Records, releasing their first three studio albums under the label. A shift to Roadrunner Records marked the release of their fourth album, Graveyard Shift, in May 2017. Subsequent releases, Disguise (June 2019) and Scoring the End of the World (June 2022), cemented their status as a major force in the metalcore genre.
The band's initial incarnation, playing under the names "One Way Ticket" and "When Breathing Stops," saw Cerulli alongside Angelo Parente (drums), Frank Polumbo (guitar), and Kyle White (bass). Their diverse influences, ranging from the theatrical flair of Marilyn Manson and the raw energy of Slipknot to the classic rock grit of Poison the Well and the iconic sounds of Johnny Cash and Depeche Mode, coalesced to create their unique and instantly recognizable sound. Their journey from high school gigs to headlining major festivals is a testament to their enduring creativity and fiercely loyal fanbase.