Quicksand: A Post-Hardcore Powerhouse

Hailing from the vibrant New York City music scene, Quicksand emerged in 1990 as a leading force in post-hardcore. Their raw energy and distinct sound, drawing influences from bands like Fugazi, Helmet, and Jane's Addiction, set them apart.

Early Days and Major Label Success

Quicksand burst onto the scene with their self-titled debut EP, quickly followed by two critically acclaimed major label albums: "Slip" (1993) and "Manic Compression" (1995). These records showcased their signature blend of angular riffs, driving rhythms, and introspective lyrics, captivating audiences worldwide.

Extensive Touring and Internal Struggles

The band tirelessly toured in support of their releases, spreading their music far and wide. However, despite their growing fanbase, they faced challenges with achieving mainstream success, a disappointment for their label. Coupled with internal pressures, these factors ultimately led to the band's initial disbandment in 1995. A brief reunion in 1999 ended in a failed attempt to reignite the flame.

Reunion and Continued Success

In 2012, Quicksand unexpectedly reunited for a one-off show, igniting a resurgence of interest in their music. Since then, they have performed numerous live shows, delighting longtime fans and introducing their sound to a new generation. This renewed momentum culminated in the release of their third studio album, "Interiors" (2017), their first full-length in 22 years, and their latest, "Distant Populations" (2021).

Influence and Legacy

Quicksand's impact extends beyond their own music. Their unique blend of post-hardcore, alternative rock, and experimental sounds continues to inspire contemporary bands. Their legacy rests on their fierce dedication to their craft, their undeniable musical talent, and their lasting influence on the alternative music landscape.

Restorations: A Philadelphia Rock Band With Deep Roots

Restorations, hailing from the vibrant music scene of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is a rock band that emerged from the ashes of the post-hardcore group Jena Berlin. The band's core members – vocalist and guitarist Jon Loudon, guitarist Dave Klyman, and original drummer Jeff Meyers (who later joined Belgrade and Ma Jolie) – have been making music together for over a decade.

Initially conceived as a "once-a-month/easy-band," Restorations has blossomed into a touring powerhouse, consistently hitting the road to share their music with dedicated fans. The band's musical journey began with a 7" release on Evil Weevil records, featuring the tracks "Frankford" and "Of Trees," which showcased their raw energy and musical prowess.

Their next step was a partnership with Paper + Plastick for their "Strange Behavior" EP, released digitally and on 10" vinyl. While this arrangement didn't last, it paved the way for Restorations' first full-length album, released on Tiny Engines. They subsequently partnered with SideOneDummy for their second and third albums, both recorded by Jon Low, a respected engineer who has worked with acclaimed acts like The National and Twin Sister at Miner Street Studio.

The band's fourth album, "LP5000," dropped in September 2018 on Tiny Engines, solidifying their status as a formidable force in the independent music scene. Their latest release, their self-titled fifth album, arrived in 2024.

A Look at Their Discography

Studio Albums

• LP1 (2011)
• LP2 (2013)
• LP3 (2014)
• LP5000 (2018)
• Restorations (2024)

EPs

• Strange Behavior (2010)

Singles & 7" Releases

• "See/Sea"
• "Call and Response IV"
• "New/Old"
• "A/B"
• Split with Rosetta
• "Frankford/Of Trees"

A Legacy of Passion and Dedication

Restorations stands as a testament to the power of friendship and shared musical vision. Their journey, from a casual side project to a formidable touring band, is a testament to their dedication to their craft. With a catalogue of critically acclaimed albums, they have solidified their place in the world of rock music, leaving their mark on the scene with their unique blend of energy and emotion.

Saosin: A Story of Emo-Fueled Rock

Saosin, hailing from the heart of Orange County's vibrant rock scene, emerged in 2003 with a raw, emotionally charged sound that quickly cemented their place in the post-hardcore landscape. The original lineup, featuring the dynamic vocals of Anthony Green, Beau Burchell's masterful bass lines, Zach Kennedy's pummeling drums, and Justin Shekoski's shredding guitar, burst onto the scene with their debut EP, "Translating the Name."

However, Green's departure for personal reasons in 2004 left the band at a crossroads. Cove Reber stepped in as vocalist, injecting a new flavor into Saosin's sound, and in 2006, they released their self-titled debut album on Capitol Records, solidifying their position as a force to be reckoned with.

The band's second album, "In Search of Solid Ground," dropped in 2009 on Virgin Records, featuring re-recorded tracks from their previous EP, "The Grey EP." Unfortunately, Reber's exit in 2010 sent Saosin into a hiatus.

The band's passionate fanbase eagerly awaited their return, and in 2013, Saosin reunited, featuring all original members except Kennedy. Their reunion tour reignited the fire, paving the way for their triumphant comeback. In 2016, the long-awaited reunion album, "Along the Shadow," marked the triumphant return of Anthony Green to the fold, released through Epitaph Records.

Saosin's music is a captivating blend of emo and post-hardcore, characterized by soaring vocal harmonies and Shekoski's distinctive lead guitar techniques, which utilize intricate delays and natural harmonics. Their music resonates with a raw, emotional intensity, captivating listeners and leaving a lasting mark on the world of rock.

Hailing from Gilbert, Arizona, Scary Kids Scaring Kids (SKSK) emerged in 2002, their name a nod to the Cap'n Jazz track of the same name. This post-hardcore quintet, originally featuring Tyson Stevens (vocals/bass), Chad Crawford (guitar), DJ Wilson (guitar), Steve Kirby (guitar), Pouyan Afkary (keyboards), and Peter Costa (drums), initially self-released their After Dark EP while still in high school. After a near-disbandment, they committed to music full-time, securing a deal with Immortal Records. This led to their breakthrough debut album, The City Sleeps in Flames (2005), establishing them as a force in the post-hardcore scene. With Stevens as the driving creative force, the band went on to release their self-titled second album in 2007 before disbanding in 2010 following a farewell tour. A highly anticipated reunion in 2019 culminated in the release of their third studio album, Out of Light, in 2022.

Show Me the Body: A New York Hardcore Powerhouse

Show Me the Body (SMTB), hailing from the concrete jungle of New York City, burst onto the post-hardcore scene in 2009. This trio isn't afraid to get their hands dirty, blending elements of hip-hop, noise music, and sludge metal into a ferocious sound that's earned them a devoted following.

From Under the Bridge to the Big Leagues

The band's story begins with Julian Cashwan Pratt, lead vocalist and banjoist, and Harlan Steed, bassist, meeting in the hallowed halls of Elisabeth Irwin High School. Fueled by their shared passion for New York's hardcore scene, they cut their teeth performing in unconventional venues – think underpasses, alleys, and basements – giving them a raw and intimate connection with their audience. Their DIY ethic quickly earned them a reputation for their relentless energy and intense live shows.

Early Days: Yellow Kidney and a Sound That Shouts

In 2014, SMTB released their debut EP, "Yellow Kidney," a raw and unfiltered blast of sonic fury that introduced the world to their signature sound. The EP, self-released on SoundCloud, garnered critical acclaim and established them as a force to be reckoned with.

More to Come: A Band on the Rise

SMTB's journey is far from over. With a devoted fanbase, a sound that pushes boundaries, and a commitment to relentless innovation, they continue to carve their own path in the world of hardcore. Keep your eyes peeled for their next move – it's sure to be explosive.

Silverstein, the Burlington, Ontario-based post-hardcore band formed in 2000, takes its name from children's author Shel Silverstein, a source of childhood inspiration for the members. Since their inception, they've built a prolific discography encompassing eleven studio albums, seven EPs, a compilation album, and a live DVD/CD, selling over one million albums worldwide.

Their breakthrough came with Discovering the Waterfront (their second studio album), which earned a Juno Award nomination and peaked at #34 on the Billboard 200. Subsequent releases achieved similar chart success.

The band's lineup remained stable from May 2001 to July 2012, featuring Shane Told (lead vocals), Neil Boshart (lead guitar), Josh Bradford (rhythm guitar), Billy Hamilton (bass), and Paul Koehler (drums). However, in September 2012, Boshart was replaced by Paul Marc Rousseau, who also contributed backing vocals alongside Hamilton.

After a long tenure with Victory Records (ending in 2010), Silverstein transitioned through Hopeless Records and Rise Records, ultimately landing on their current label, UNFD. Their tenth studio album, A Beautiful Place to Drown (released March 2020), garnered a 2021 Juno Award nomination for Best Rock Album, solidifying their status as a significant force in the Canadian and international rock scenes.

Hailing from Dayton, Ohio, The Devil Wears Prada exploded onto the metalcore scene in 2005. Initially known for their Christian-themed lyrics, the band—originally featuring Mike Hranica (vocals, guitar), Jeremy DePoyster (rhythm guitar, vocals), Kyle Sipress (lead guitar, backing vocals), Mason Nagy (bass), Jonathan Gering (keyboards, backing vocals), and Giuseppe Capolupo (drums)—quickly gained traction. While they maintained their original lineup for a significant period, the departure of keyboardist James Baney marked a shift.

Their potent blend of aggressive metalcore and intricate musicianship has fueled eight studio albums: Dear Love: A Beautiful Discord (2006), Plagues (2007), With Roots Above and Branches Below (2009), Dead Throne (2011), 8:18 (2013), Transit Blues (2016), The Act (2019), and Color Decay (2022).

Early Days and Dear Love: A Beautiful Discord

Formed in 2005, the band—named after the novel— initially performed with a fill-in bassist and only one guitarist. Jeremy DePoyster (rhythm guitar) and bassist Andy Trick soon joined the ranks. After cutting their teeth playing local Dayton gigs, they released their Patterns of a Horizon demo. This demo, however, didn't meet their standards. Following a successful trial with Rise Records, they secured a contract and re-recorded the entire demo for their debut full-length, Dear Love: A Beautiful Discord. This marked the official launch of a band destined for major success within the metalcore genre.

Hailing from Atlanta, Georgia, The Funeral Portrait emerged onto the American rock scene in 2015. Their music, a captivating fusion of alternative metalcore, post-hardcore, and pop punk, sets them apart. Critics have lauded their sound, often comparing it to a potent blend of My Chemical Romance and A Day to Remember, highlighting the band's ability to seamlessly weave these diverse influences into a distinctive and engaging musical tapestry.

The Plot in You, a post-hardcore powerhouse hailing from Hancock County, Ohio, exploded onto the scene in 2010. Initially a side project for Landon Tewers, formerly of Before Their Eyes, the band solidified its lineup with guitarist Josh Childress, bassist Ethan Yoder, and drummer Michael Cooper.

Their explosive journey began with the raw and controversial 2010 EP, Wife Beater, released under InVogue Records – the same label as Tewers' previous band. This release proved pivotal, prompting Tewers to leave Before Their Eyes and fully commit to The Plot in You. The band quickly followed up with their debut full-length, First Born (2011), solidifying their intense, emotional sound. Could You Watch Your Children Burn (2013) further cemented their position in the post-hardcore landscape.

The band's trajectory shifted with their signing to StaySick Recordings in 2015, resulting in the release of Happiness in Self Destruction. However, after a successful run, they parted ways with StaySick in 2017, quickly signing with Fearless Records and unleashing Dispose in February 2018. Their fifth studio album, Swan Song, arrived in September 2021, marking another significant chapter in their impactful career. The Plot in You's discography also includes three EPs, showcasing their consistent evolution and unwavering dedication to their emotionally charged, heavy sound. The band's original name, "Vessels," reflects their early evolution into the force they are today.

Buffalo, New York's post-hardcore/metalcore band, Until I Wake, unleashed their highly anticipated debut album, Inside My Head, on September 9th via Fearless Records. Discovered in early 2022, their early releases piqued my interest. The album, produced by Nick Matzkows and Jon Eberhard (known for their work with I Prevail, Conquer Divide, and The True Blue), draws influence from artists like Pierce The Veil, Linkin Park, Underoath, blessthefall, and Bring Me The Horizon. While the band cites multiple influences, Linkin Park's impact is particularly evident in Until I Wake's incorporation of rap vocals. Inside My Head is a solid debut, though future projects would benefit from enhanced mixing and mastering.