Time for Rock...
Time for Rock...
Founded in: 2016
Oxymorrons, hailing from the melting pot of Queens, New York, are a force of nature in the rap-rock scene. Brothers Kami ("K.I.") and Demi ("Deee") are the driving force behind this sonic explosion, blending their love for hip-hop and rock into a genre-bending experience.
Their journey began with a shared dream to create music that defied categorization. After years of honing their craft in other bands, they decided to unleash their unique sound on the New York music scene. The lineup expanded with the addition of powerhouse drummer Matty Mayz, whose explosive beats are a defining element of their live shows. Jafe Paulino, a multifaceted musician, contributes vocals, bass, and guitar, adding another layer of depth to their sound.
Oxymorrons are more than just a band; they are a voice for the ostracized and overlooked. Their message of embracing individuality resonates with anyone who's ever felt like an outsider. Their music is a defiant anthem for the underdog, encouraging listeners to celebrate their unique identities.
Their explosive energy has captivated audiences at major festivals like SXSW, Firefly, and AfroPunk. They've shared stages with major artists like Ludacris, Juicy J, Bruno Mars, and Rihanna, solidifying their place in the contemporary music landscape.
In 2018, Oxymorrons dropped "Brunch," the lead single from their upcoming project. VIBE Magazine christened them "The Mash Out Posse," recognizing their ability to seamlessly blend hip-hop, rock, funk, and alternative elements into a singular and unforgettable sound.
Oxymorrons are proof that musical boundaries are meant to be broken. With their high-energy performances, socially conscious lyrics, and eclectic sound, they are rewriting the rules of rock, one blistering track at a time.
Founded in: 2014
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.
Founded in: 1998
CKY, an acronym for "Camp Kill Yourself," is an American rock band hailing from West Chester, Pennsylvania. Formed in 1998 by vocalist and guitarist Deron Miller, guitarist Chad I Ginsburg, and drummer Jess Margera, the group currently features Margera, Ginsburg, and bassist Ronnie Elvis James.
CKY initially gained recognition through their contributions to the "CKY Video" series and the popular MTV show "Jackass," both featuring Margera's brother, Bam.
After the release of their debut album "Volume 1" in 1999, CKY signed with Island/Def Jam and released "Infiltrate Destroy Rebuild" in 2002, earning the band their first US chart success. "An Answer Can Be Found" followed in 2005, leading the group to sign with Roadrunner Records and release "Carver City" in 2009.
In 2011, Miller left the band, leaving Ginsburg, Margera, and bassist Matt Deis to release "The Phoenix" on Entertainment One Music in 2017.
CKY has been categorized across various genres, including alternative rock/metal, post-grunge, stoner rock, and hard rock. Their songwriting was typically led by Miller, while Ginsburg handled production, engineering, and mixing. Following Miller's departure, Ginsburg took over as frontman.
Miller later reformed his pre-CKY group Foreign Objects (which originally included Margera) and founded 96 Bitter Beings, a continuation of the style he previously played with CKY.
History
1998-2001: Formation and Early Releases
Deron Miller and Jess Margera met in high school in 1992 and formed the band Foreign Objects, releasing "The Undiscovered Numbers & Colors" in 1995.
The band changed their name to CKY, and their unique blend of humor, heavy riffs, and dark lyrical themes resonated with fans, particularly after their appearances in the "CKY Video" series.
Founded in: 2003
Moonshine Bandits, the dynamic American duo comprised of Dusty "Tex" Dahlgren and Brett "Bird" Brooks, burst onto the scene in 2003, carving a unique path through the world of country rap. Hailing from California, they've built a solid discography, with their latest album, "The Whiskey Never Dries," released in August 2019, showcasing their signature blend of gritty lyrics and hard-hitting beats.
Their musical journey began with the release of their debut album, "Soggy Crackerz," in 2003. The duo's collaboration with Ty Weathers, founder of Burn County Music, proved to be a pivotal moment, shaping their signature "Blue Core/Dirt Rock" sound.
Following the success of "Soggy Crackerz," they dropped "Prohibition" in 2006 and "Divebars and Truckstops" in 2010, solidifying their position as a force to be reckoned with in the country rap genre.
In 2011, Moonshine Bandits signed with Suburban Noize Records, releasing their fourth album, "Whiskey and Women." The music video for their hit single, "My Kind of Country," premiered on CMT Pure Country in February 2012, featuring a special appearance by Mike Allsup (The Bearded Guy) from Modesto, California, adding a touch of authentic Americana to their sound.
Partnering with Average Joes Entertainment in 2014, they released their fifth album, "Calicountry." The album's success was undeniable, selling 3,000 copies in its first week of release, debuting at number 22 on the Billboard Top Country Albums chart and number 126 on the Billboard 200 chart.
Their sixth album, "Blacked Out," hit the shelves in July 2015, debuting at number 158 on the Billboard 200 chart and number... [The rest of your text is missing information.]
Moonshine Bandits are a testament to the power of blending genres, creating a raw and energetic sound that resonates with fans seeking a unique fusion of country and hip-hop. With their dedicated fanbase and consistent string of successful albums, they continue to push the boundaries of country rap, solidifying their place as pioneers in this exciting genre.
Founded in: 1994
Hed PE, a name synonymous with raw energy and a genre-bending sound, emerged from the vibrant Huntington Beach, California, punk scene in 1994. The band, known for their unique blend of gangsta rap and punk rock, which they coined "G-punk", has also incorporated elements of reggae into their music, creating a truly eclectic soundscape.
Their iconic name, often stylized as (hëd)p.e., (hed) Planet Earth, or (Hed)PE, stands for Higher Education Planet Earth/Planetary Evolution.
Early Days and Major Label Success:
Vocalist Jared Gomes, better known as "M.C.U.D." (MC Underdog), and guitarist Wes Geer were the founding fathers of Hed PE. They joined forces with guitarist Chizad, bassist Mawk, drummer B.C. Vaught, and DJ Product © 1969 to create a potent sonic force.
The band's first three albums, released on Jive Records, solidified their position as a major force in the nu-metal scene. They would later chart their own course, leaving the major label to pursue independent ventures.
Independent Spirit and The "9/11 Truth" Movement:
After parting ways with Jive Records, Hed PE signed with Suburban Noize Records from 2006 to 2010. During this period, the band became increasingly vocal about their involvement in the 9/11 Truth movement, incorporating themes of government conspiracy and the questioning of official narratives into their music and live shows. This particularly resonated in their album "New World Orphans."
Since 2014, Hed PE has been signed with Pavement Music. Their discography is expansive, boasting fourteen studio albums, a live album, and three compilation albums. Their music has reached over 700,000 fans worldwide, cementing their legacy as a band that broke boundaries and challenged the status quo.
Hed PE's Lasting Impact:
The band's impact on the music scene is undeniable. They fused heavy metal, rap, and punk rock in a unique and impactful way. Their rebellious spirit, strong messages, and captivating live performances have created a loyal and passionate fanbase that continues to grow. Hed PE remains a vital force in the nu-metal scene, a band that never shies away from pushing creative boundaries and delivering their music with raw passion and unwavering conviction.
Founded in: 1987
Local H, the iconic American rock duo, was born in the small town of Zion, Illinois in 1990. Guitarist/vocalist Scott Lucas and bassist Matt Garcia, friends since high school in 1987, were joined by drummer Joe Daniels and lead guitarist John Sparkman to form the band's initial lineup. Sparkman departed in 1991, followed by Garcia in 1993, leaving Local H as a dynamic, unorthodox two-piece.
Despite the lineup changes, the band persevered, signing with Island Records in 1994. Their debut album, "Ham Fisted" (1995), failed to achieve commercial success, putting the band on the brink of being dropped. However, Local H's determination paid off. Their sophomore effort, "As Good as Dead" (1996), became a breakthrough, selling over 320,000 copies and launching their iconic single "Bound for the Floor." This anthemic track stormed the US Alternative Billboard Chart, peaking at number 5 and cementing its place as Local H's signature song.
Their third album, "Pack Up the Cats" (1998), received critical acclaim, gracing several "Best of the Year" lists. However, the album's commercial success was hindered by a corporate merger involving Island's parent company, PolyGram, which negatively impacted promotional efforts.
Despite this setback, Local H continued to tour relentlessly, solidifying their reputation as a powerful live act. In 1999, they parted ways with Island and welcomed Brian St. Clair to the fold as their new drummer. This marked the beginning of a new chapter for the band, who continued to tour and release music independently, demonstrating a resilience that has become synonymous with Local H's legacy.
Founded in: 1997
Hailing from the vibrant music scene of Ann Arbor, Michigan, Taproot emerged in 1997 as a driving force in the alternative metal scene. This quartet, featuring vocalist/guitarist Stephen Richards, bassist Phil Lipscomb, drummer Jarrod Montague, and guitarist Taylor Roberts, quickly garnered attention for their powerful sound and unforgettable riffs.
The band's early days were marked by independent releases, showcasing their raw energy and developing musical identity. Their breakthrough arrived in 1999 when they signed with Atlantic Records, a major label known for its support of groundbreaking artists. Their debut album, Gift, released in 2000, marked a significant step forward, propelled by the singles "Again & Again" and "I," which garnered moderate success.
But it was their 2002 album Welcome that truly cemented Taproot's place in the rock world. Led by the explosive single "Poem," the album dominated the Mainstream Rock chart, reaching the coveted No. 5 position. "Poem" became a staple on rock radio and a defining track for the band, showcasing their ability to craft catchy hooks and powerful lyrics.
Taproot's journey is a testament to their talent, resilience, and unwavering passion for creating dynamic, engaging music. They continue to tour and release music, leaving an indelible mark on the alternative metal scene with their signature blend of heaviness and melodic sensibility.
Founded in: 1991
Powerman 5000, also known as PM5K, is an American rock band that emerged from the underground scene in 1991. Led by the charismatic frontman Spider One, younger brother of metal legend Rob Zombie, PM5K has carved out a unique space in the rock landscape with their intense energy, industrial-infused sound, and a constant evolution of their musical identity.
From Boston's Underground to the Billboard Charts
Spider One's early career was marked by a raw talent for music, landing him the "Best Rap Act" title in the Boston Phoenix/WFNX 1990 Readers' Poll. His burgeoning musical vision soon led to the formation of Powerman 5000, where he was joined by a crew of dedicated musicians including drummer Al Pahanish Jr., bassist Dorian Heartsong, guitarist Adam 12, and percussionist Jordan Cohen. The band initially released a limited-edition EP "A Private Little War" in 1993, followed by the "True Force" EP and their debut album, "The Blood-Splat Rating System," in 1994 and 1995 respectively. These releases generated buzz on the local scene, paving the way for their first major breakthrough: a performance on the second stage of Ozzfest in 1996, which catapulted them into the mainstream consciousness. Later that year, they even made a cameo appearance in the popular TV show "Beverly Hills, 90210," filming a music video for their single "Strike the Match".
Tonight the Stars Revolt!
Their 1999 album, "Tonight the Stars Revolt!," became their most commercially successful release. Reaching number 29 on the Billboard 200, the album spawned hit singles "When Worlds Collide" and "Nobody's Real" and firmly cemented their place in the rock world. Despite several lineup changes over the years, Spider One has remained the band's core, guiding their sound through ten albums and countless live performances.
Powerman 5000 has never been content with resting on their laurels. Their career has been marked by experimentation and evolution, constantly pushing their sonic boundaries while keeping their roots firmly planted in the raw energy of rock. They remain a force to be reckoned with, continuing to inspire and entertain generations of fans with their relentless drive and captivating performances.
Founded in: 1998
Hailing from Bakersfield, California, Adema burst onto the scene in 2000 with a sound that blended heavy riffs with melodic vocals. The original lineup, featuring vocalist Mark Chavez, guitarists Tim Fluckey and Mike Ransom, bassist Dave DeRoo, and drummer Kris Kohls, quickly gained attention with their debut album, "Adema." However, the band's path to success was far from smooth.
Internal conflicts and lineup changes plagued Adema after their second album, "Unstable," was released. Ransom exited in 2003, followed by Chavez in 2004, both due to creative clashes. The band soldiered on with new vocalist Luke Caraccioli, who fronted the band for one album, "Planets," before departing in 2005.
In 2007, Adema recruited vocalist Bobby Reeves and guitarist Ed Faris from the band Level. While this lineup released "Kill the Headlights," it was ultimately short-lived, and the band entered a hiatus.
A brief reunion of the original lineup occurred in 2009, but the unstable dynamics resurfaced, leading to Ransom and Chavez's second departures. Fluckey stepped up to the mic from 2011 to 2017, during which time the band released the "Topple the Giants" EP.
Throughout the 2010s, Adema continued its carousel of personnel changes. Ransom briefly returned in 2013, and Chavez rejoined once again in 2017, only to leave again in 2019.
Despite the tumultuous journey, Adema has endured. Their music, a blend of aggression and melody, continues to resonate with fans who appreciate the raw energy and emotional depth of their sound. Although the future of the band remains uncertain, it's clear that Adema's story is one of resilience, passion, and the undeniable power of rock music.
Founded in: 2005
Five Finger Death Punch, often shortened to 5FDP or FFDP, is a heavy metal force hailing from Las Vegas, Nevada. They stormed onto the scene in 2005 with a lineup featuring vocalist Ivan Moody, rhythm guitarist Zoltan Bathory, lead guitarist Caleb Andrew Bingham, bassist Matt Snell, and drummer Jeremy Spencer.
The band's lineup has undergone several changes over the years. Bingham was replaced by Darrell Roberts in 2006, who in turn was replaced by Jason Hook in 2009. Bassist Matt Snell departed in 2010, paving the way for Chris Kael in 2011. Then, in 2018, drummer Jeremy Spencer stepped down due to persistent back issues, leaving the throne to Charlie Engen. These shifts left Zoltan Bathory as the sole remaining founding member. In 2020, a further shake-up occurred as British guitarist Andy James took over the lead guitar position, replacing Jason Hook.
Despite the lineup changes, Five Finger Death Punch has remained a relentless force. Their debut album, "The Way of the Fist" (2007), rocketed to success, selling over 500,000 copies in the US. Their 2009 follow-up, "War Is the Answer," further cemented their popularity, exceeding 1,000,000 sales and earning Platinum certification from the RIAA.
Their third album, "American Capitalist" (2011), also achieved Platinum status, demonstrating their continued growth. Subsequent albums like "The Wrong Side of Heaven and the Righteous Side of Hell, Volume 1" and "Volume 2" (2013), "Got Your Six" (2015), and "And Justice for None" (2018) have all achieved Platinum or Gold certifications, solidifying Five Finger Death Punch as one of the most successful heavy metal bands of the decade.
The band has become a global phenomenon, dominating music festivals like Mayhem (2008, 2010, 2013) and Download (2009, 2010, 2013, 2015, 2017). Five Finger Death Punch's raw energy, hard-hitting sound, and unwavering dedication have catapulted them to the forefront of the heavy metal world, leaving an undeniable mark on the music landscape.
Founded in: 1994
Orgy, a Los Angeles-based band, emerged from the underground scene in 1997, carving their own path through the industrial rock landscape. They've coined their sound as "death pop," a darkly captivating blend of industrial aggression and pop sensibility.
Their most recognized hits are a cover of New Order's iconic "Blue Monday" and their own pulsating anthem "Stitches," both from their 1998 album "Candyass." This album propelled them to notoriety, showcasing their ability to inject a sinister edge into commercially accessible tunes.
Following the success of "Candyass," Orgy released their second album, "Vapor Transmission," in 2000. This record featured singles like "Fiction (Dreams in Digital)" and "Opticon," further solidifying their place in the industrial rock scene.
Early Days: A Fusion of Talent and Experience
Orgy's formation in 1997 brought together a formidable lineup: vocalist Jay Gordon, guitarists Amir Derakh and Ryan Shuck, bassist Paige Haley, and drummer Bobby Hewitt. This group boasted a wealth of musical experience, with Derakh previously finding fame with the '80s metal band Rough Cutt, and Hewitt having been a member of Electric Love Hogs.
Gordon, before forming Orgy, had played bass for Deadsy, even appearing on their self-titled unreleased album. He also shared production duties with Derakh on Coal Chamber's self-titled debut, showcasing their prowess in the studio.
This blend of diverse musical backgrounds and production experience formed the bedrock for Orgy's unique sound. Their music was a fusion of driving rhythms, heavy industrial textures, and haunting melodies, which resonated with a generation yearning for something darker and more intense.
Founded in: 1995
Alien Ant Farm, hailing from Riverside, California, burst onto the music scene in 1996. They've carved a niche for themselves in the rock world, amassing over 5 million sales worldwide with their six studio albums.
Their breakout moment came in 2001 with their infectious cover of Michael Jackson's "Smooth Criminal." The track dominated the Billboard Alternative Songs chart and even made its way into the soundtrack for the film "American Pie 2."
Prior to their mainstream success, Alien Ant Farm self-released their debut album, "Greatest Hits," in 1999. This caught the eye of DreamWorks Records who signed the band in 2000. Their sophomore effort, "ANThology," followed in 2001, going platinum and reaching a respectable number 11 on the Billboard 200.
The band continued their momentum with "TruANT" in 2003. This album, produced by the DeLeo brothers of Stone Temple Pilots, peaked at number 42 on the Billboard 200.
Despite recording their fourth album, "3rd Draft," in 2005, the release was shelved by Geffen Records after they acquired DreamWorks. This setback was eventually overcome, as the album was re-released in 2006 as "Up in the Attic," landing at number 114 on the Billboard 200.
After a period of sporadic touring, Alien Ant Farm returned with their fifth studio album, "Always and Forever," in February 2015. This release marked another chapter in their enduring career.
Alien Ant Farm's journey is a testament to their hard work and dedication. Their blend of rock anthems and innovative covers has cemented their place in the music landscape, proving that the band's influence continues to buzz.