Time for Rock...
Time for Rock...
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.
Founded in: 1982
Napalm Death, hailing from Meriden, England, are widely considered the godfathers of grindcore. Formed in 1981, the band has undergone numerous lineup changes, though the core of bassist Shane Embury, guitarist Mitch Harris, drummer Danny Herrera, and vocalist Mark "Barney" Greenway has remained remarkably consistent since 1992's Utopia Banished.
Napalm Death's relentless sonic assault is a furious blend of crust punk, death metal, and sheer noise. Their signature sound is defined by distorted, down-tuned guitars, a grinding overdrive bass, blistering blast beats, and vocals that range from incomprehensible growls to piercing shrieks. They're renowned for their incredibly short songs, often clocking in under a minute, and their politically charged lyrics.
Their 1987 debut album, Scum, released on Earache Records, became a landmark release in the global metal scene, solidifying their influence and legacy. In fact, their song "You Suffer," according to Guinness World Records, is the shortest song ever recorded, clocking in at a mere 1.316 seconds.
By their third album, Harmony Corruption (1990), Napalm Death leaned further into death metal, exploring longer song structures and more complex arrangements. Despite the shift in style, the band's core sonic assault remained undiluted.
As of 2003, Nielsen SoundScan recognized Napalm Death as the seventh best-selling death metal band in the United States. Their early albums, Scum and From Enslavement to Obliteration (1988), have collectively sold over 400,000 copies worldwide, according to former vocalist Lee Dorrian.
Napalm Death's influence is undeniable. Their relentless energy and uncompromising sound have inspired countless bands across the metal spectrum. Their legacy continues to grow with each new release, cementing their place as a cornerstone of extreme music.
Founded in: 2024
Seven Hours After Violet, the brainchild of System of a Down bassist Shavo Odadjian, stormed onto the metalcore scene in 2024. The band, known for their intense, aggressive sound, made their debut with the single "Paradise" in June 2024. This explosive first offering set the stage for their self-titled debut album, released in October of the same year.
The band's lineup features:
Seven Hours After Violet's self-titled debut album is a testament to their raw energy and musical prowess. It showcases their ability to blend heavy riffs, intricate rhythms, and haunting melodies, creating a unique and captivating experience for metalcore fans.
Founded in: 1983
Testament, hailing from Berkeley, California, is a legendary thrash metal band that has carved its name into the history of heavy music. Formed in 1983 as Legacy, they've endured countless lineup changes over the decades, but the core fire of their sound remains strong. The current lineup features founding rhythm guitarist Eric Peterson, powerful vocalist Chuck Billy, lead guitarist Alex Skolnick, bassist Steve Di Giorgio, and drummer Chris Dovas.
While Peterson is the sole original member still standing, Testament has been fortunate enough to reunite with Skolnick, who left the band between 1992 and 2005. Billy, who joined in 1986 after replacing original singer Steve "Zetro" Souza, is the other constant in the band's story. Together, Peterson and Billy are the only members to appear on all of Testament's studio albums, a testament to their unwavering commitment to the band.
Their legacy is solidified in 13 studio albums (including a re-recorded collection), 4 live albums, 5 compilation albums, 13 singles, and 3 DVDs. With an estimated 1.4 million albums sold in the US alone since the beginning of SoundScan era, and over 14 million sold worldwide as of 2016, Testament's influence is undeniable.
Often lauded as one of the most popular and influential thrash bands, Testament is a key player in the "Big Six of Bay Area Thrash" alongside Exodus, Death Angel, Lȧȧz Rockit, Forbidden, and Vio-lence. Their impact on the second wave of thrash in the late 1980s is undeniable. Their classic lineup, solidified in 1986, featured Billy, Peterson, Skolnick, bassist Greg Christian, and drummer Louie Clemente, a team that helped define Testament's signature sound.
Testament was among the early thrash bands to secure a deal with a major label, Atlantic Records, a partnership that yielded their first six studio albums. As the band continues to evolve, one thing remains constant: Testament's unwavering commitment to powerful, aggressive, and technically brilliant thrash metal, a testament to their staying power and impact on the genre.
Founded in: 1997
The Dillinger Escape Plan, the groundbreaking American metalcore band, exploded onto the scene in 1997 from Morris Plains, New Jersey. Founded by guitarist Ben Weinman, bassist Adam Doll, vocalist Dimitri Minakakis, and drummer Chris Pennie, their sound was immediately recognizable: a chaotic maelstrom of dissonance, odd time signatures, polyrhythms, and utterly unconventional drumming. While later albums incorporated more melody and diverse genre influences, this signature sonic assault remained a core element.
The band’s lineup underwent significant shifts throughout their career; by their dissolution, only Weinman remained from the original quartet. Their final configuration featured longtime members Liam Wilson (bass), Greg Puciato (vocals), and Billy Rymer (drums), alongside the addition of rhythm guitarist Kevin Antreassian.
Their impact was undeniable. Six studio albums cemented their legacy, beginning with the landmark 1999 release Calculating Infinity. This critically acclaimed masterpiece achieved cult status, selling over 100,000 copies—making them Relapse Records’ best-selling artist at the time. The Dillinger Escape Plan garnered numerous accolades and nominations from publications like Kerrang!, Revolver, Metal Hammer, and the PLUG Independent Music Awards, culminating in a 2017 AIM Award for "Outstanding Contribution to Music."
After the release of their final album, Dissociation (2016), The Dillinger Escape Plan announced their disbandment, concluding their career with a final tour. Their influence on extreme metal remains profound and enduring.