Time for Rock...
Time for Rock...
We're still working on the best experience for bands
Current Version:
0.0.8
Founded in: 1977
Bad Brains, a sonic storm brewing out of Washington, D.C. in 1976, aren't just a band - they're a phenomenon. While often hailed as pioneers of hardcore punk, the band themselves bristle at the label, their sound defying simple categorization.
These musical alchemists blend the raw energy of punk with the hypnotic grooves of reggae, seamlessly weaving in elements of funk, heavy metal, hip-hop, and soul. Rolling Stone aptly dubbed them "the mother of all black hard-rock bands," and their influence stretches far beyond hardcore, touching upon thrash, speed metal, alternative metal, and funk metal - a testament to their revolutionary sound.
Bad Brains are more than musicians; they are deeply rooted in the Rastafari movement, their faith informing their music and their message.
Throughout their decades-long journey, Bad Brains have released nine studio albums, weathered breakups and reunions, and experimented with different vocalists and drummers. Their original lineup, however, remains legendary: the iconic singer H.R., the riff-master Dr. Know, the bassist Darryl Jenifer, and the powerhouse drummer Earl Hudson.
Bad Brains are a force of nature, refusing to be confined by genre or expectation. They continue to inspire generations of musicians, proving that true artistry knows no boundaries.
Founded in: 2000
Bayside, hailing from the gritty streets of Bayside, Queens, burst onto the scene in 2000 with a raw energy that quickly caught the attention of the punk rock world. Led by vocalist Anthony Raneri, the band's lineup solidified with Jack O'Shea on lead guitar, Nick Ghanbarian on bass, and Chris Guglielmo pounding the drums.
Their debut album, Sirens and Condolences (2004), was a powerful introduction to their emotional and introspective style. But it was their 2005 self-titled follow-up that catapulted them into the mainstream. This album cemented their place as a force to be reckoned with, showcasing their ability to weave raw emotion with catchy melodies and infectious energy.
The years that followed saw Bayside churn out a steady stream of quality albums. From the raw vulnerability of The Walking Wounded (2007) to the darker tones of Shudder (2008), Bayside continued to evolve their sound while staying true to their punk rock roots.
Their relentless touring and captivating live shows further cemented their status as a fan favorite. Albums like Killing Time (2011), Cult (2014), Vacancy (2016), Interrobang (2019), and There Are Worse Things Than Being Alive (2024) showcased their continued growth and ability to connect with listeners on a deeper level.
The Birth of a Band: From Long Island Demos to the Big Leagues
Bayside's story began in 2000, when Anthony Raneri and Mike Kozak decided to take a chance on a dream. Inspired by bands like New Found Glory, they set out to create their own brand of punk rock. Their early days were marked by a self-released demo and a five-song EP, Long Stories Short, released on Dying Wish Records in 2001.
As their reputation grew, Bayside hit the road, sharing stages with the likes of My Hotel Year, Don't Look Down, A440, Brand New, and Hot Rod Circuit. The energy of these early tours fueled their songwriting and honed their live performance, preparing them for the success that lay ahead.
In 2002, the band experienced a lineup change with JR Manning, formerly of Caroline, stepping in for Kozak. This solidified the lineup that would go on to become synonymous with the Bayside sound.
From those early Queens basement shows to packed stadiums, Bayside's journey has been one of dedication, passion, and a deep connection with their fans. Their music continues to resonate with generations of listeners, proving that sometimes the most powerful stories are the ones told with raw honesty and unbridled energy.
Founded in: 1976
Black Flag, hailing from the sun-drenched shores of Hermosa Beach, California, burst onto the punk scene in 1976. Initially known as Panic, the band was the brainchild of Greg Ginn, a guitarist with a vision. Ginn, the band's constant through numerous lineup changes, served as the primary songwriter and driving force behind Black Flag's uncompromising sound.
Considered one of the original hardcore punk bands, Black Flag paved the way for a new wave of aggressive music. They weren't just hardcore, though, they were also pioneers of post-hardcore, bridging the gap between the raw energy of punk and the experimental edge of post-punk. After a fiery run that ended in 1986, Black Flag returned to the stage in 2003 and again in 2013, proving their enduring legacy. The second reunion yielded their first studio album in nearly thirty years, "What The...", released in 2013, before the band announced their third reunion in 2019, cementing their place in music history.
Black Flag's sound was a sonic collision of the Ramones' raw simplicity and Ginn's atonal guitar solos, expertly weaving in unpredictable tempo changes that kept listeners on the edge of their seats. Ginn's lyrics, often echoing themes of social isolation, neurosis, poverty, and paranoia, resonated with a generation disillusioned with authority. The band's message of anti-authoritarianism and nonconformity reached a new level of intensity when Henry Rollins joined as lead singer in 1981, bringing his own unique brand of lyrical intensity to the table.
Black Flag, more than just a band, was a movement. They challenged the status quo with their ferocious sound, anti-establishment message, and relentless energy, inspiring a generation of musicians and leaving an indelible mark on the world of punk rock.
Founded in: 1992
Blink-182, born in the sun-drenched suburbs of Poway, California, in 1992, have become one of the most iconic rock bands of the 21st century. Their current lineup, featuring the dynamic trio of Mark Hoppus (bass/vocals), Tom DeLonge (guitar/vocals), and Travis Barker (drums), is the one that etched their name in pop-punk history.
While their sound has evolved over the years, Blink-182's core remains that infectious blend of catchy pop melodies and frenetic punk energy. Their lyrics, often laced with humor and a touch of cynicism, explore the universal themes of relationships, teenage angst, and the bittersweet journey of growing up (or not).
Emerging from the vibrant skate punk scene of Southern California, Blink-182 quickly made a name for themselves with their high-octane live shows and irreverent stage antics. Their debut album, Cheshire Cat (1995), established their unique brand of pop-punk, but it was their sophomore effort, Dude Ranch (1997), that solidified their growing fanbase.
After years of relentless touring and independent releases, including appearances at the legendary Warped Tour, Blink-182 signed with MCA Records. The result, Two albums that cemented their place in pop culture: Enema of the State (1999) and Take Off Your Pants and Jacket (2001). These albums spawned massive hits like "All the Small Things," "Dammit," and "What's My Age Again" - anthems that became staples on MTV and radio waves worldwide.
Throughout their career, Blink-182 has continued to push boundaries, experimenting with different sounds and styles, as evident in albums like Untitled (2003), Neighborhoods (2011), and the Dogs Eating Dogs EP (2012). But one thing remains constant: their ability to connect with listeners through catchy riffs, relatable lyrics, and a sense of playful rebellion that continues to resonate with generations of fans.
Founded in: 1974
Blondie, the iconic American rock band, burst onto the scene in New York City in 1974, spearheaded by the charismatic singer Debbie Harry and the masterful guitarist Chris Stein. They were early adopters of the nascent New Wave sound, carving their own path within the burgeoning American punk scene.
Their debut albums showcased a raw energy, blending punk and new wave influences, and while they quickly gained a passionate fanbase in the UK and Australia, Blondie remained somewhat under the radar in their home country. This changed with their 1978 release, Parallel Lines. This critically acclaimed masterpiece catapulted them to international fame, establishing them as a force to be reckoned with.
The next two years saw Blondie unleashing a string of chart-topping hits. "Heart of Glass" (US No. 1), "One Way or Another," "Dreaming," "Call Me" (US No. 1), "Atomic," "The Tide Is High" (US No. 1), and "Rapture" (US No. 1) dominated airwaves and solidified their status as musical titans. Blondie's eclectic sound, seamlessly blending disco, pop, reggae, funk, and early hip-hop influences, set them apart and captivated audiences worldwide.
After a remarkable run, Blondie disbanded in 1982 following the release of their sixth studio album, The Hunter. Their legacy as musical innovators and chart-topping superstars endures, cementing their place as one of the most influential and beloved bands of all time.
Founded in: 1978
Emerging from the San Francisco punk scene in 1978, the Dead Kennedys became a force to be reckoned with, carving their name in the annals of punk rock history. Their eight-year reign saw them evolve into one of the genre's most influential and defining acts.
The original lineup, featuring East Bay Ray (lead guitar), Klaus Flouride (bass), Jello Biafra (vocals), Ted (drums), and 6025 (rhythm guitar), quickly saw the latter two members depart. Ted exited in 1980 following the release of their groundbreaking debut album, "Fresh Fruit for Rotting Vegetables." The band found their longest-lasting drummer in D.H. Peligro, who joined in 1981 and anchored the rhythm section until his untimely death in 2022.
The Dead Kennedys continued to unleash their sonic fury, churning out the "In God We Trust Inc." EP, and three more studio albums: "Plastic Surgery Disasters", "Frankenchrist", and "Bedtime for Democracy." The latter album, released shortly after the band's breakup in 1986, became a poignant swansong.
Their music was mainly released through Alternative Tentacles, an independent record label established by Biafra and East Bay Ray, showcasing their commitment to DIY punk ethos.
After the band's dissolution, Biafra continued his involvement with Alternative Tentacles, forging collaborations with artists like D.O.A., NoMeansNo, and his own bands Lard and the Guantanamo School of Medicine. He also released numerous spoken word recordings, showcasing his sharp political wit and biting commentary.
A bitter legal battle over songwriting credits and royalties erupted in 2000, with Biafra ultimately losing the case. The band subsequently reformed in 2001 without Biafra, continuing their legacy with a revolving door of vocalists.
The Dead Kennedys remain a potent symbol of punk's rebellious spirit, their music and message continuing to resonate with generations of fans. They stand as a testament to the power of music to challenge societal norms and ignite a fire for change.
Founded in: 1996
Hailing from the suburbs of Waldorf, Maryland, Good Charlotte burst onto the scene in 1995 with a raw energy that quickly resonated with a generation. The band, featuring twin brothers Joel and Benji Madden (vocals and guitar, respectively), cemented their lineup in 2005 with the addition of Paul Thomas (bass), Billy Martin (guitar and keyboards), and Dean Butterworth (drums).
Their self-titled debut album, released in 2000, garnered critical acclaim and set the stage for their breakout success with 2002's The Young and the Hopeless. This sophomore effort, fueled by infectious anthems like "Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous", "The Anthem", and "Girls & Boys", propelled Good Charlotte into the mainstream. The album achieved triple-platinum status in the U.S., selling over 3.5 million copies domestically and achieving global success with nearly 5 million copies sold worldwide.
The band continued to experiment with their sound, venturing into darker territory with The Chronicles of Life and Death in 2004. Tracks like "Predictable" and "I Just Wanna Live" showcased a more mature, introspective side to the band, and the album achieved platinum status, selling over a million copies in the U.S.
Good Charlotte further explored musical boundaries with Good Morning Revival in 2007, embracing a dance-punk sound before returning to their pop-punk roots with Cardiology in 2010. After a four-year hiatus, they reemerged in 2015 with renewed energy and released Youth Authority, which was met with positive reception. Their latest album, Generation Rx, released in 2018, solidified their place as veterans in the rock scene, proving their enduring appeal and commitment to evolving their sound.
Good Charlotte's journey is a testament to their talent and adaptability. From their early punk anthems to their more introspective later works, they have consistently captured the pulse of their generation and remain a powerful force in the rock music landscape.
Founded in: 1987
Green Day, the undisputed kings of pop-punk, emerged from the vibrant Bay Area punk scene of the late 80s. Founded in 1987 by the dynamic duo of Billie Joe Armstrong (vocals, guitar) and Mike Dirnt (bass, backing vocals), the band initially went by the names Blood Rage and Sweet Children before settling on Green Day in 1989. They quickly became fixtures at the legendary 924 Gilman Street club in Berkeley, a hotbed for the burgeoning punk movement.
Their early recordings, released through Lookout! Records, showcased their raw energy and catchy melodies. Their debut album, 39/Smooth (1990), established their raw talent and laid the groundwork for their future success. The arrival of drummer Tré Cool in 1990, replacing John Kiffmeyer, solidified their classic power trio lineup.
The game-changer arrived in 1994 with Dookie, their major label debut on Reprise Records. The album exploded, selling over 10 million copies in the U.S. alone, and propelled Green Day into the mainstream. They became synonymous with the punk revival alongside fellow California bands like Bad Religion, the Offspring, Rancid, NOFX, Pennywise, and Social Distortion.
Dookie cemented their status as rock stars, but Green Day continued to push boundaries. Insomniac (1995), Nimrod (1997), and Warning (2000) all achieved significant success, though they didn't quite match the phenomenal heights of Dookie.
Their seventh album, American Idiot (2004), marked a new chapter. This ambitious rock opera resonated deeply with a younger generation, selling six million copies in the U.S. and solidifying their status as a true rock force.
Green Day's momentum continued with 21st Century Breakdown (2009), their most commercially successful album to date, boasting their best chart performance ever. The band then embarked on a bold experiment with the ¡Uno!, ¡Dos!, ¡Tré! trilogy (2012), a three-part album release. While the trilogy didn't quite reach the commercial heights of their previous efforts, it solidified their enduring creative spirit.
Green Day's journey has been one of constant evolution. From their humble beginnings in the Bay Area punk scene to their global domination as rock icons, they have consistently delivered catchy tunes, powerful lyrics, and unforgettable live shows. They remain a force to be reckoned with, continuously inspiring new generations of musicians and fans alike.
Founded in: 1985
Born from the fiery fusion of Hollywood Rose and L.A. Guns in 1985, Guns N' Roses emerged as a force of nature from the heart of Los Angeles. Their "classic lineup," featuring the incendiary vocals of Axl Rose, the blistering guitar of Slash, the gritty rhythm of Izzy Stradlin, the thunderous bass of Duff McKagan, and the relentless drumming of Steven Adler, ignited a firestorm that shook the rock world.
After signing with Geffen Records, the band's debut album, "Appetite for Destruction" (1987), initially met with lukewarm reception. But a grassroots movement fueled by the infectious "Welcome to the Jungle" video catapulted the album into the stratosphere. The world was introduced to the band's signature blend of punk, blues, and heavy metal, a potent cocktail that redefined mainstream rock, pushing it away from the glam metal excesses of the era. "Welcome to the Jungle" and "Paradise City" became anthems, while "Sweet Child o' Mine" soared to the top of the Billboard Hot 100, cementing the band's iconic status. With over 30 million copies sold worldwide, "Appetite for Destruction" became the best-selling debut album in the US and a defining record of the 80s.
Guns N' Roses weren't content to rest on their laurels. "G N' R Lies" (1988) followed, a powerful blend of raw live energy and introspective acoustic tracks. The album's hit, "Patience," showcased the band's versatility, while the controversial "One in a Million" reflected their raw honesty and willingness to push boundaries. "G N' R Lies" solidified their position as a force to be reckoned with, achieving commercial success and critical acclaim.
Guns N' Roses weren't just about scorching riffs and rebellious anthems; they revitalized the power ballad, proving their ability to craft deeply emotional and melodic music. Their music became the soundtrack of a generation, reflecting the raw energy, rebellion, and complexities of a world on the cusp of change. Through it all, Guns N' Roses remained a constant, a testament to the power of raw talent, relentless passion, and a refusal to be confined by genre or expectation.
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.