Post Hardcore

Brutus: A Belgian Rock Trio That Punches Above Its Weight

Hailing from Leuven, Belgium, Brutus is a force to be reckoned with in the rock scene. Formed in 2013, the trio is comprised of vocalist and drummer Stefanie Mannaerts, guitarist Stijn Vanhoegaerden, and bassist Peter Mulders. Each member brings a wealth of experience from previous local bands, giving Brutus a solid foundation for their unique sound.

The band first made waves in Belgium, regularly playing gigs before gaining international recognition with their debut album "Burst" in 2017. This release, which caught the attention of the renowned record label Sargent House, solidified Brutus's position as a force to be reckoned with. They followed "Burst" with two more critically acclaimed albums, "Nest" in 2019 and "Unison Life" in 2022, further solidifying their place in the international rock world.

From Local Bands to International Success

The seeds of Brutus were sown in the vibrant music scene of Leuven. Mannaerts and Mulders had previously played together in Refused Party Program, a tribute band dedicated to the Swedish hardcore punk pioneers Refused. Meanwhile, Mannaerts and Vanhoegaerden were bandmates in Starfucker, showcasing their musical chemistry long before Brutus's formation.

Their rise to prominence was fueled by their energetic live performances. In 2014 and 2015, they graced the stages of prestigious Belgian festivals like Pukkelpop, Rock Herk, and Dour Festival. In the same year, they released a trilogy of two-song EPs, further building anticipation for their full-length debut.

Vancouver, Sargent House, and a Sound Defined by Intensity

In 2016, the band embarked on a journey to Vancouver, Canada, to record "Burst." They collaborated with renowned producer Jesse Gander (known for his work with Japandroids and White Lung), resulting in a raw, energetic album that solidified their sound. This collaboration also marked their signing with Sargent House, a label known for its commitment to artists pushing boundaries.

Brutus's music is characterized by its raw intensity, blending elements of post-hardcore, grunge, and noise rock. Stefanie Mannaerts' powerful vocals and pummeling drumming, combined with Stijn Vanhoegaerden's heavy riffs and Peter Mulders' solid basslines, create a captivating sonic experience that leaves audiences breathless.

With their relentless touring, critically acclaimed albums, and a dedicated fanbase, Brutus continues to be a vital force in the rock scene, defying expectations and proving that Belgium is a fertile ground for incredible music.

Caskets: A Leeds Post-Hardcore Powerhouse

Caskets, hailing from Leeds, England, burst onto the scene in 2018, initially under the name Captives. These post-hardcore titans emerged from the ashes of the band Faultlines, fueled by the creative drive of founding members bassist Christopher McIntosh (who initially played rhythm guitar), lead guitarist Benjamin Wilson, and bassist Lee Horner. The lineup was completed by drummer James Lazenby and vocalist Matthew Flood.

The band made their explosive debut with the single "Ghost Like You" in September 2018, unleashing it upon the world via the Dreambound YouTube channel. Their self-titled EP was announced for release in April 2019, building anticipation with the singles "Signs" and "Find a Way." The EP, a testament to their raw energy and powerful sound, dropped on April 26, 2019.

Caskets wasted no time in hitting the road, embarking on a European tour with fellow post-hardcore powerhouse Hands Like Houses. They also opened for Bad Omens in Hannover, showcasing their electrifying live performance to a growing fanbase.

Summer saw them conquering the festival circuit in Germany and Sweden, spreading their music across Europe. They also supported the Japanese metalcore giants Crystal Lake on a German tour, further solidifying their status as a force to be reckoned with.

September 2019 witnessed Caskets headlining their first UK tour, sharing the stage with fellow rising stars Acres and Parting Gift. This tour was a defining moment, where they debuted the powerful new single "Falling Apart" to an enthusiastic crowd.

Unfortunately, founding member Lee Horner departed the band shortly after the tour due to personal reasons. Despite this setback, Caskets' journey has been marked by resilience and a dedication to their craft. With a passionate fanbase and a sound that's both raw and evocative, Caskets are poised to continue their ascent in the post-hardcore world.

Chiodos (pronounced /ˈkjɔːdos/), the Davison, Michigan post-hardcore powerhouse, exploded onto the scene in 2001. Initially known as "The Chiodos Bros," the band's name—a tribute to the Chiodo brothers, creators of the cult classic Killer Klowns from Outer Space— foreshadowed their own brand of darkly comedic, intensely theatrical music.

Their debut full-length, All's Well That Ends Well, dropped on July 26, 2005, laying the groundwork for their explosive rise. The follow-up, Bone Palace Ballet (September 4, 2007), was a major success, charting at #5 on the Billboard 200 and #1 on the Independent Albums chart. Warner Bros. Records picked up the album for UK distribution in January 2009, solidifying their international presence.

2010 saw the release of Illuminaudio, their only studio album featuring Brandon Bolmer on vocals and Tanner Wayne on drums. However, the band's story concluded with the return of original vocalist Craig Owens and drummer Derrick Frost for their final album, Devil, released April 1, 2014.

History:

Inception and All's Well That Ends Well (2001-2005):

Hailing from Davison, Michigan, the original Chiodos lineup formed in high school during 2001. Their early gigs were honed at the Flint Local 432, an all-ages, substance-free venue that also nurtured other notable alternative acts like The Swellers and Empty Orchestra. This Flint scene provided the fertile ground for Chiodos' distinctive sound to develop before they unleashed it on a larger audience.

Drug Church: A Post-Hardcore Band with a Grunge Twist

Drug Church, hailing from Albany, New York, are a force in the post-hardcore scene. Known for their dynamic sound and thought-provoking lyrics, the band has carved out a unique niche with their four albums and numerous EPs.

A History of Experimentation:

Drug Church's journey into the world of music is marked by their willingness to push boundaries. Their 2018 album, "Cheer," served as a testament to their experimentation, incorporating grunge influences while retaining their punk roots. This innovative approach garnered widespread praise, as the album's introspective and honest lyrics tackled complex themes with raw emotion.

Their fourth album, "Hygiene," dropped in 2022, further cementing their reputation for musical evolution. The singles "Miles of Fun" and "Detective Lieutenant" hinted at the album's direction, showcasing the band's ability to seamlessly blend aggression and melody.

A Sound Built on Contrasts:

Drug Church's music is a captivating fusion of hardcore punk, alternative rock, and grunge. Their sound echoes the intensity of bands like Black Flag, infused with the melodic sensibilities of alternative rock. This unique blend creates a distinctly post-punk/post-hardcore sound that is both powerful and unpredictable.

Lyrics that Reflect the World Around Us:

The band's lyrical focus lies in social commentary, delving into the darkness and absurdity of modern life. Their lyrics are often sharp and satirical, offering a critical lens on the world around them.

Interestingly, vocalist Patrick Kindlon, also known for his work in Self Defense Family, writes his lyrics in the studio. This spontaneous approach ensures a raw authenticity, mirroring the band's live energy. The combination of a collaborative instrumental approach and Kindlon's on-the-fly lyrics creates a truly unique and dynamic listening experience.

Drug Church continues to evolve, pushing the boundaries of post-hardcore with their innovative sound and unflinchingly honest lyrics. Their music is a testament to their commitment to crafting music that is both thought-provoking and musically exciting.

Hailing from Las Vegas, Nevada, Escape the Fate emerged onto the scene in 2004, originally from the nearby town of Pahrump. The band's current lineup features vocalist Craig Mabbitt, guitarists Matti Hoffman and TJ Bell, bassist Erik Jensen, and drummer Robert Ortiz – the sole remaining founding member.

Their journey began with the 2006 debut album, Dying Is Your Latest Fashion, fronted by original vocalist Ronnie Radke. However, Radke's 2006 legal troubles led to his dismissal and replacement by Mabbitt (formerly of Blessthefall). This shift marked a turning point, resulting in This War Is Ours (2008), their first album with Mabbitt. The album debuted strongly at #35 on the Billboard 200, selling 13,000 copies in its first week.

Escape the Fate's self-titled third album (2010) reached a career high of #25 on the Billboard 200. Ungrateful (2013), their fourth studio album, further solidified their position, boasting "One for the Money," their highest-charting single on the US Mainstream Rock charts. The band's history is marked by both musical evolution and significant lineup changes, with Ortiz as the steadfast anchor through it all.

Fleshwater: A Rock Band Born from the Depths

Fleshwater, an American rock band formed in 2017, emerged from the depths of the underground scene, quickly gaining traction with their raw, emotional sound. The band's origins can be traced back to Anthony DiDio (vocals, guitar) and Matt Wood (drums), both veterans of the renowned post-hardcore band Vein.fm. The duo, fueled by a shared creative vision, initially laid the foundation for Fleshwater by penning three powerful songs in 2017.

The band's lineup solidified with the addition of Jeremy Martin (bass), also a member of Vein.fm, and Marisa Shirar, who brought her captivating vocals to the forefront. Their debut track, "Linda Claire," released in 2019, marked the first public glimpse of Fleshwater's unique blend of melodic aggression and raw emotion. Shirar's powerful vocals delivered a haunting narrative that resonated deeply with listeners.

"Linda Claire" served as the cornerstone for their debut EP, "demo2020," released in February 2020. This release ignited a fervent following, pushing the band into the spotlight and propelling "Linda Claire" to over a million Spotify streams.

Building upon this momentum, Fleshwater unveiled "Kiss the Ladder" in October 2022, a single that served as the first taste of their highly anticipated debut album, "We're Not Here to Be Loved." The album's second single, "The Razor's Apple," arrived in October 2021, further cementing their place as a force to be reckoned with in the rock scene.

"We're Not Here to Be Loved," released on November 4th, 2021, was met with widespread acclaim for its unflinching honesty, raw emotion, and infectious energy. The album solidified Fleshwater's position as a rising star, poised to carve their own path in the rock music landscape.

Hawthorne Heights: A Post-Hardcore Powerhouse

Hailing from Dayton, Ohio, Hawthorne Heights burst onto the scene in 2001, originally known as "A Day in the Life." The band's current lineup features the powerhouse vocals and rhythm guitar of JT Woodruff, the steady bass and backing vocals of Matt Ridenour, the searing lead guitar and gruff vocals of Mark McMillon, and the driving force of drummer Chris Popadak.

Hawthorne Heights gained widespread recognition with their first two albums, "The Silence in Black and White" (2004) and "If Only You Were Lonely" (2006), both achieving RIAA Gold certification. The latter album, in particular, reached the pinnacle of the Billboard's Independent Albums chart and claimed the #3 spot on the Billboard 200 chart, cementing their position as a force in the post-hardcore scene.

Their 2006 single, "Saying Sorry," became an anthem, achieving gold status and reaching #7 on the Billboard Hot Modern Rock Tracks chart. Tragically, the band lost guitarist Casey Calvert in 2007, leaving them as a four-piece. Despite the loss, Hawthorne Heights released their third album, "Fragile Future," in 2008, through Victory Records after a protracted legal battle. This album marked their first without Calvert and demonstrated their resilience and determination.

Hawthorne Heights carved a unique path in the post-hardcore landscape, blending melodic vocals with raw energy and emotional depth. They continue to resonate with fans through their impactful music and enduring legacy.

Holding Absence: A Welsh Rock Band Carving Their Own Path

Hailing from the vibrant music scene of Cardiff, Wales, Holding Absence emerged in 2015, ready to inject a potent dose of post-hardcore into the world. The band consists of the powerful vocal presence of Lucas Woodland, the sonic architect Scott Carey on guitar, the rhythmic backbone of Benjamin Elliott on bass, and the driving force of Ashley Green behind the drums.

Their initial foray into the music world came with a series of singles in 2017, establishing their raw energy and undeniable talent. This momentum carried them into 2018, where they collaborated with fellow heavyweights Loathe on a split EP, further solidifying their place within the UK's burgeoning underground scene.

Finally, in 2019, Holding Absence unleashed their debut record, bearing the same name as the band itself. This self-titled album marked a significant milestone, showcasing their matured sound and lyrical depth. The band's commitment to their craft caught the eye of SharpTone Records, a leading force in the US heavy music scene, and soon they were signed, ready to take their music to a global audience.

A Story of Evolution and New Beginnings

Holding Absence's journey is not without its twists and turns. The band's initial lineup featured vocalist Zac Vernon, who contributed to their early recordings like "Immerse" and "Luna." However, Vernon eventually parted ways to form Parting Gift, leaving the door open for Lucas Woodland to join the fold.

Woodland, previously known for his work in the band Falling With Style, brought a fresh perspective to the group. His arrival marked a turning point for Holding Absence, with their debut single "Permanent" showcasing a new era for the band. This was quickly followed by the contrasting "Dream of Me," a track that caught the attention of SharpTone Records and set the stage for their future successes.

The Legacy of Hammock and a Name That Resonates

The name Holding Absence is a direct nod to the Hammock song "Holding Your Absence," a testament to the band's admiration for the atmospheric soundscapes created by the American duo. The name itself evokes a sense of longing, a yearning for something lost, a feeling that resonates deeply with the emotional core of their music.

Holding Absence is not just a rock band; it's a story of resilience, evolution, and artistic ambition. From their formative years in Cardiff to their international rise, they've proven their commitment to pushing boundaries and forging their own path within the world of heavy music. With SharpTone Records behind them, the future is bright for this Welsh band, ready to take their music to new heights.

Hot Water Music: A Punk Rock Powerhouse From Gainesville

Hot Water Music, a legendary American punk rock band, emerged from the vibrant music scene of Gainesville, Florida, in October 1994. The band's core lineup has remained remarkably consistent, featuring Chuck Ragan and Chris Wollard sharing vocal and guitar duties, bassist Jason Black, and drummer George Rebelo. Since 2017, guitarist-vocalist Chris Cresswell joined the ranks, adding another layer of musical depth.

Hot Water Music's journey has been marked by both intense passion and a healthy dose of punk rock chaos. While the band initially called it quits in August 1998, they reunited just two months later, demonstrating their enduring commitment to their music. Despite a second split in 2006, they remained active, re-emerging in 2008 with a renewed fire.

The Genesis of a Punk Rock Legacy:

The band's origins can be traced back to the sunny shores of Sarasota, where Ragan, Black, and Rebelo crossed paths. Black and Rebelo had already forged a musical bond, performing together in local jazz ensembles. Ragan and Rebelo met while working at eateries on the same street, a spot that quickly became a hub for Sarasota's burgeoning music scene. Meanwhile, Wollard, based in nearby Bradenton, connected with the trio at a frequently used storage facility that served as a rehearsal space for both Sarasota and Bradenton bands.

United by a common frustration with the lack of musical opportunities in their hometowns, Black, who was already studying at the University of Florida, proposed a move to Gainesville. The city, renowned for its rich musical heritage, offered a fertile ground for the band's explosive punk rock sound to blossom.

This relocation, fueled by their shared passion and ambitions, marked the beginning of an enduring musical legacy for Hot Water Music. They would go on to become one of the most influential punk bands of their generation, earning critical acclaim and a fiercely loyal fanbase who embraced their raw energy and poignant lyrics.

L.S. Dunes: A Supergroup of Post-Hardcore Legends

L.S. Dunes, a supergroup formed in the throes of the COVID-19 pandemic, is a musical force to be reckoned with. Headed by the iconic Anthony Green (known for his work with Circa Survive, Saosin, and The Sound of Animals Fighting), the band boasts a lineup that reads like a who's who of post-hardcore and emo giants.

The project came to life during rehearsals for Thursday's 2020 holiday livestream, initially going by the playful name "Dad Bods." The band's debut album, Past Lives, was meticulously crafted with individual members recording their parts remotely before Green joined the fold. The album's instrumental tracks were sent to Green by Thursday drummer Tucker Rule, who masterminded the project's genesis.

Rumors of this dream team first surfaced in May 2022 when the band appeared on the poster for Riot Fest. Soon after, the lineup was unveiled, revealing My Chemical Romance guitarist Frank Iero, Coheed and Cambria's Travis Stever, and Thursday's Tim Payne on bass. Their debut single, "Permanent Rebellion," dropped in August 2022, a powerful anthem that set the stage for the release of Past Lives in November of that year. The album was met with critical acclaim, showcasing the band's raw energy and nostalgic yet forward-thinking sound.

L.S. Dunes quickly made their mark on the live circuit, performing their first show at Riot Fest 2022. They followed this up with their inaugural UK tour in January 2023 and their first US tour in July 2023, solidifying their position as a force to be reckoned with in the modern music scene.

This unique blend of seasoned musicians has breathed new life into the post-hardcore scene, delivering a powerful blend of melodic sensibilities and hard-hitting riffs. With L.S. Dunes, these iconic figures have come together to create something truly special, a sonic testament to their enduring passion for music and their undeniable talent.