Time for Rock...
Time for Rock...
Founded in: 1998
Atreyu, the American metalcore titans, emerged from the fertile musical landscape of Yorba Linda, California in 1998. Initially known as Retribution, the band underwent a name change and lineup shift, embracing a heavier sound. Inspired by the character from Michael Ende's iconic novel "The Neverending Story," Atreyu embarked on their journey to conquer the music world.
Their early days saw the release of two independent EPs: "Visions," a seven-track showcase of their raw talent, and "Fractures in the Facade of Your Porcelain Beauty," a five-track gem released through the underground label Tribunal Records. These early works laid the foundation for their future success and featured tracks that would be revisited and refined in subsequent releases.
A pivotal moment arrived in 2001 when Atreyu inked a deal with Victory Records, a move that would catapult them to prominence. This partnership saw them unleash a string of critically acclaimed albums that cemented their place in the metalcore scene. The original lineup comprised Alex Varkatzas on lead vocals, Dan Jacobs and Travis Miguel on guitars, and Kyle Stanley on bass.
Atreyu's unique blend of heavy riffs, melodic vocals, and aggressive screams quickly captured the attention of metalheads worldwide. Their journey, however, was just beginning. The following years saw the release of a string of acclaimed albums, including "Suicide Notes and Butterfly Kisses" (2002), "The Curse" (2004), and "A Death-Grip on Yesterday" (2006), solidifying their place as a force to be reckoned with in the metalcore genre.
The band's evolution continued with "Lead Sails Paper Anchor" (2007), "Congregation of the Damned" (2009), and "Long Live" (2015). Each album showcased their musical growth and experimentation, pushing boundaries and exploring new sonic landscapes while maintaining their signature aggression.
Their relentless pursuit of artistic expression continued with "In Our Wake" (2018), "Baptize" (2021), and their latest release "The Beautiful Dark of Life" (2023), proving that Atreyu remains a vital and relevant force in heavy music.
Today, the band boasts a powerful lineup featuring Brandon Saller on lead vocals, Dan Jacobs and Travis Miguel on guitars, Marc "Porter" McKnight on bass and unclean vocals, and Kyle Rosa on drums. Atreyu's impact on the metalcore scene is undeniable, with their music continuing to inspire and ignite passion in fans across generations. From their early independent beginnings to their current standing as metalcore icons, Atreyu's journey is a testament to their unwavering dedication to their craft and their ability to connect with a devoted legion of fans worldwide.
Founded in: 2017
Fever 333, a fierce rock band, emerged from the vibrant scene of Inglewood, California, in July 2017. This explosive trio was forged by the talents of Jason Aalon Butler, the former vocalist of the influential band Letlive, Stephen Harrison, a guitar virtuoso who previously shredded with the Chariot, and Aric Improta, a powerhouse drummer known for his work with Night Verses.
Their debut EP, "Made an America," unleashed in March 2018, was a testament to their raw energy and unapologetic approach. Fever 333 quickly gained notoriety, signing with both Roadrunner Records and 333 Wreckords, cementing their place in the rock landscape.
Their first full-length album, "Strength in Numb333rs," dropped a year later, showcasing their sonic evolution and solidifying their sound. In 2020, they further expanded their musical horizons with their second EP, "Wrong Generation."
The Genesis of a Revolution:
Before Letlive disbanded, Jason Aalon Butler had a chance encounter with Travis Barker. The meeting led to a Super Bowl Sunday jam session with John Feldmann, where they explored the intersection of hip-hop and afro-punk. This sparked the initial concept for Fever 333, a band envisioned as a "dangerous" and uncompromising force.
Once Letlive's chapter closed, Butler reached out to Stephen Harrison, whose band, The Chariot, had also disbanded a few years prior. They delved into conversations about the lack of black representation in rock music and shared their vision for a band that would break down barriers and push creative boundaries.
Fever 333's journey began with a spontaneous performance, a pop-up show held inside a U-Haul truck in the parking lot of Randy's Donuts in Inglewood on July 4th, 2017. This impromptu gig marked the beginning of a powerful musical force that continues to challenge norms and ignite stages with their electrifying performances.
Founded in: 1994
Sevendust, hailing from Atlanta, Georgia, is a rock band forged in the fires of 1994. The band's origins trace back to the rhythmic partnership of bassist Vince Hornsby and drummer Morgan Rose, who were initially jamming as "Snake Nation." Guitarist John Connolly, then a drummer himself, joined the fold, solidifying the core of the band.
Their first demo showcased their raw talent, but a dissatisfaction with the lead vocals led them on a year-long quest for the perfect voice. They found their answer in Lajon Witherspoon, a powerhouse vocalist destined to become the band's frontman. Rounding out the lineup was guitarist Lee Banks, ushering in a new chapter as "Rumblefish." However, Banks' touring commitment proved unsustainable, and the band welcomed Clint Lowery as his replacement.
This lineup solidified into the iconic Sevendust, a name that resonated with the band's heavy sound. Their self-titled debut album in April 1997, although initially selling only 310 copies in its first week, ultimately achieved gold certification thanks to tireless touring and the support of their label, TVT Records.
Sevendust's success story is a testament to their unwavering commitment. They went on to achieve three consecutive RIAA gold-certified albums, a Grammy nomination, and sold millions of records worldwide. Their extensive discography boasts fourteen studio albums, including a definitive reissue of their debut album featuring five new tracks and a DVD.
Early Years: Snake Nation to Sevendust (1994-1998)
The seeds of Sevendust were planted in 1994, when Hornsby and Rose, playing as "Snake Nation," were joined by Connolly, a drummer turned guitarist. This early incarnation saw the recording of their first demo, but their search for a powerful vocalist began after dissatisfaction with the initial recording. Witherspoon's arrival marked a turning point, adding a crucial element to their sound. Banks' brief tenure with the band under the name "Rumblefish" provided a glimpse into their evolving identity. Lowery's entry, replacing Banks, completed the lineup that would define Sevendust, a band destined to leave a lasting mark on the heavy metal scene.
Founded in: 1999
Hailing from Westfield, Massachusetts, Killswitch Engage emerged in 1999 from the ashes of the influential metalcore bands Overcast and Aftershock. This powerhouse quartet, consisting of vocalist Jesse Leach, guitarists Joel Stroetzel and Adam Dutkiewicz, bassist Mike D'Antonio, and drummer Justin Foley, has carved a formidable path in the heavy music scene.
Their rise to prominence began with the release of their 2004 masterpiece, "The End of Heartache," which peaked at number 21 on the Billboard 200 chart and achieved RIAA gold certification for exceeding 500,000 units sold in the US. The album's title track was nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Metal Performance in 2005.
Since then, Killswitch Engage has released seven more studio albums, solidifying their status as metalcore pioneers. Their music is a sonic tapestry woven with intense aggression, melodic hooks, and soaring vocals, often incorporating elements of heavy metal and hardcore punk. This unique blend has garnered them a dedicated fan base worldwide, earning them a place among the leading forces of the New Wave of American Heavy Metal.
Early Years and Debut Album (1999-2001):
The band's origins can be traced back to the disbandment of Overcast in 1998. After Overcast's demise, bassist Mike D'Antonio joined forces with Adam Dutkiewicz, guitarist from Aftershock. This collaboration, coupled with the addition of guitarist Joel Stroetzel (also from Aftershock) and vocalist Jesse Leach (from Nothing Stays Gold), birthed Killswitch Engage. The band's debut album, "Killswitch Engage," was released in 2001, showcasing their early raw energy and aggressive sound.
Throughout their career, Killswitch Engage has graced stages at renowned festivals such as Soundwave, Wacken Open Air, Reading and Leeds, Ozzfest, Download, Rock on the Range, Rock am Ring, Mayhem, Monsters of Rock, Pointfest, Knotfest, and Heavy MTL, spreading their music and captivating audiences globally.
Founded in: 2012
Beartooth, the American rock band known for their raw energy and heavy sound, burst onto the scene in 2012, the brainchild of vocalist and multi-instrumentalist Caleb Shomo. Originally hailing from Columbus, Ohio, Shomo initially crafted the music solo, laying down every instrument track himself in the studio. This raw, self-produced sound caught attention, and soon Shomo assembled a full band, solidifying Beartooth as a powerhouse live act.
Signed to Red Bull Records in 2013, the band released their debut EP, "Sick," that same year. Following up with their first full-length album, "Disgusting," in 2014, Beartooth quickly established themselves as a force in the rock scene. Since then, Shomo has led the band through the release of three more studio albums: "Aggressive" (2016), "Disease" (2018), and "Below" (2021), each pushing the band's sound and expanding their fanbase. Their latest release, "The Surface," arrived in October 2023, solidifying Beartooth's position as a mainstay in the modern rock landscape.
From Solo Project to Full-Blown Band
Shomo's passion for Beartooth emerged while he was a member of the metalcore band Attack Attack!. Even amidst his commitments to that group, he began crafting the distinct sound that would become Beartooth's signature. The project initially went by the name "Noise," but Shomo changed it to Beartooth after discovering another band had already claimed the moniker. He drew inspiration for the name from Bear Tooth Court, the childhood home of original touring bassist Nick Reed.
Initially, Shomo had no intention of recording or performing live with Beartooth. It was meant to be a side project, a creative outlet. However, after leaving Attack Attack!, Shomo fully embraced Beartooth, making it his primary musical focus. The decision proved to be a game-changer, propelling Beartooth beyond Shomo's wildest expectations.
With the decision to perform live, Shomo recruited Reed, guitarist Taylor Lumley, and drummer Brandon Mullins. This lineup cemented Beartooth as a formidable live act, known for their intense performances and powerful stage presence.
Beartooth's journey, from a solo project birthed in a side room to a band commanding massive stages, is a testament to the power of passion, talent, and hard work. Shomo's vision and the band's unwavering commitment to their music have catapulted Beartooth to the forefront of the rock scene, leaving an undeniable mark on the genre.
Founded in: 1994
Hailing from the suburbs of Chicago, Chevelle emerged in 1995. The band's core was built upon the brotherhood of Pete Loeffler (lead vocals, guitar) and Sam Loeffler (drums, percussion). They were joined by Matt Scott on bass and backing vocals, solidifying the initial lineup.
In 1996, the band solidified their familial bond when Joe Loeffler, the brothers' younger sibling, replaced Scott on bass. This line-up remained steadfast for nearly a decade, until Joe's departure in 2005. Geno Lenardo stepped in as the touring bassist, bridging the gap until Dean Bernardini, Pete and Sam's brother-in-law, joined the fold. Bernardini's tenure ended in 2019, paving the way for Kemble Walters to take on the touring bass duties in 2021.
Chevelle's musical journey began with their debut album, "Point #1," released on the independent label Squint Entertainment. It was their sophomore album, "Wonder What's Next" (2002), that propelled them to mainstream recognition. It debuted at number 14 on the Billboard 200 chart and achieved double platinum status by the RIAA. Their third album, "This Type of Thinking (Could Do Us In)" (2004), further cemented their success with a number 8 debut and a platinum certification.
Chevelle's story is one of familial bonds, musical evolution, and enduring success in the rock genre. Their music, marked by Pete Loeffler's distinctive vocals and the band's powerful instrumental interplay, has resonated with audiences for over two decades.
Founded in: 1988
Hailing from Omaha, Nebraska, 311 (pronounced "three eleven") has been a cornerstone of the American rock scene since their formation in 1988. The band's core lineup, vocalist and guitarist Nick Hexum, lead guitarist Jim Watson, bassist Aaron "P-Nut" Wills, and drummer Chad Sexton, quickly established themselves as a dynamic force. While Watson departed in 1990, he was replaced by Tim Mahoney, adding another layer of talent to their sound.
The band's journey took a pivotal turn in 1992 with the arrival of Doug "SA" Martinez, who joined as a second vocalist and turntablist. This addition brought a unique blend of hip-hop and reggae influences into their already diverse sonic palette.
Over the years, 311 has built an impressive discography, boasting 13 studio albums, 2 live albums, 4 compilation albums, 4 EPs, and 4 DVDs. After a period of independent releases, they signed with Capricorn Records in 1992, releasing their albums "Music" (1993) and "Grassroots" (1994) to moderate success.
Their self-titled album in 1995, however, propelled them to new heights. Achieving triple-platinum status, it reached number 12 on the Billboard 200 charts, fueled by the iconic singles "Down" and "All Mixed Up." The latter, particularly, climbed to the top of the Billboard Hot Modern Rock Tracks in 1996.
311 continued their streak of success with their next three albums – "Transistor" (1997), "Soundsystem" (1999), and "From Chaos" (2001) – achieving platinum and gold certifications respectively. Their 2004 compilation album, "Greatest Hits '93-'03," also secured platinum status, showcasing the enduring power of their music.
The band's most recent studio album, "Voyager," was released in 2019, solidifying their legacy as a vibrant and innovative force in the rock world. 311's ability to blend rock, reggae, funk, and hip-hop elements has captivated audiences for over three decades, making them one of the most influential and enduring bands of their generation.
Founded in: 2003
Parkway Drive, hailing from the vibrant coastal town of Byron Bay, New South Wales, Australia, are a force to be reckoned with in the metalcore scene. Formed in 2003, the band has carved a path through the music world with their signature blend of ferocious energy, heavy riffs, and powerful vocals.
Their prolific output boasts seven studio albums, an EP, two DVDs, a split album, and a book titled "Ten Years of Parkway Drive," showcasing their dedication to their craft. Their last three albums, "Ire" (2015), "Reverence" (2018), and "Darker Still" (2022), have all conquered the Australian ARIA Charts, reaching the coveted number one spot.
The band's lineup has remained remarkably consistent since 2006, with the addition of bassist Jia O'Connor. Brett Versteeg (2004) and Shaun Cash (2006) were the only members to depart, leaving a solid foundation for the band's continued success.
Early Years and Killing with a Smile (2003-2006)
Parkway Drive's origins lie in the shared passion of a group of friends for punk rock and hardcore punk. Their rehearsal space, "The Parkway House," not only provided a place to hone their craft but also served as a hub for the local scene, which was lacking in venues at the time. Their name is a direct nod to this pivotal location.
Their debut gig at the Byron Bay Youth Centre was a defining moment, catching the eye of Michael Crafter, vocalist of Adelaide's I Killed the Prom Queen, who was in town. This meeting led to a collaboration, resulting in a split CD release in June 2003, which ignited their rise. The following year, the band signed with Resist Records and released their "Don't Close Your Eyes" EP, further solidifying their presence. Touring alongside heavyweights like Shadows Fall, Chimaira, Hatebreed, and Alexisonfire, they gained valuable experience and expanded their fan base across Australia.
Parkway Drive's story is one of relentless dedication, musical innovation, and a deep connection to their roots. Their rise from a local band to a globally recognized force in metalcore is a testament to their passion, skill, and unwavering commitment to pushing boundaries.
Founded in: 2001
Shinedown, the American rock powerhouse hailing from Jacksonville, Florida, burst onto the scene in 2001, the brainchild of charismatic vocalist Brent Smith. After his previous band, Dreve, was dropped by Atlantic Records, Smith, under contract with the label, knew he had to forge a new path. He assembled a core lineup – Jasin Todd on guitar, Brad Stewart on bass, and Barry Kerch on drums – and began crafting their signature sound.
The band's early days saw a consistent lineup for their first two albums, but like many bands navigating the industry, lineup changes became a fact of life. The late 2000s saw a series of shifts, ultimately solidifying a new lineup featuring Smith, Kerch, Zach Myers on guitar, and Eric Bass on bass. This powerhouse quartet has become a mainstay in the rock world.
Since their debut, Shinedown has released seven studio albums: "Leave a Whisper" (2003), "Us and Them" (2005), "The Sound of Madness" (2008), "Amaryllis" (2012), "Threat to Survival" (2015), "Attention Attention" (2018), and "Planet Zero" (2022). These albums have consistently delivered hard-hitting anthems, showcasing their signature blend of raw emotion and powerful rock.
Shinedown’s impact extends beyond critical acclaim. The band holds the record for the most number-one singles on the Billboard Mainstream Rock charts, boasting a staggering 19 chart-toppers. All of their released singles have cracked the top five, cementing their place as a force to be reckoned with. On June 3, 2021, Billboard recognized their undeniable influence by ranking them #1 on the Greatest of All Time Mainstream Rock Artists chart, a testament to their enduring legacy.
With over 10 million records sold worldwide, Shinedown has undeniably carved a lasting impression on the rock scene. Their raw energy, emotional depth, and electrifying live performances have earned them legions of loyal fans who continue to rock out to their anthems.
Early Days: From Dreve to Shinedown
Smith's journey with Shinedown began with the dissolution of his previous band, Dreve. While they had signed with Atlantic Records, the label ultimately decided to part ways with the band before releasing an album, believing Smith had the potential to succeed as a solo artist. Recognizing his talent, Atlantic Records signed Smith to a development deal, providing him with support to hone his songwriting abilities and assemble a new band. This marked the genesis of Shinedown, a band poised to make its own mark on the world.
Founded in: 1984
The Lemonheads, a quintessential American alternative rock band, emerged from the vibrant Boston music scene in 1986. Founded by Evan Dando, Ben Deily, and Jesse Peretz, the band has undergone numerous line-up changes throughout its history, with Dando remaining the only constant member.
The band's early days were marked by a raw, punk-influenced sound, building a following in the independent and college rock circuits of the late 1980s. Their breakthrough came in 1992 with the release of "It's a Shame About Ray," a major label album produced by the Robb Brothers (Bruce, Dee, and Joe). This record, with its infectious melodies and Dando's introspective lyrics, propelled the Lemonheads into the mainstream.
The band's popularity soared even further with their iconic cover of Simon & Garfunkel's "Mrs. Robinson," which became one of their biggest hits.
After a successful run, the Lemonheads went on hiatus in 1997. However, they returned in 2005 with a new lineup, releasing the self-titled album "The Lemonheads" the following year. The band's latest album, "Varshons 2," dropped in February 2019.
Over the years, the Lemonheads have collaborated with a diverse roster of musicians, including John Strohm (Blake Babies), Doug Trachten, Corey Loog Brennan, Byron Hoagland (Folks on Fire), Ben Daughtrey (Squirrel Bait), Juliana Hatfield (Blake Babies), Nic Dalton (Godstar, Sneeze, the Plunderers), David Ryan (Fuzzy), Patrick "Murph" Murphy (Dinosaur Jr.), George Berz (Dinosaur Jr., Gobblehoof), Josh Lattanzi, Bill Gibson (The Eastern Dark), Mark 'Budola' Newman, Kenny Lyon, Vess Ruhtenberg, Devon Ashley, Karl Alvarez, Bill Stevenson (Descendents), P. David Hazel, Farley Glavin, and many more.
The Lemonheads' story began in the hallways of the Commonwealth School in Boston, where Evan Dando, Ben Deily, and Jesse Peretz formed the band as teenagers. Initially called "The Whelps," the name was inspired by a brand of candy that Dando described as "sweet on the inside and sour on the outside," a fitting metaphor for their music. The band's early output included the self-released 7-inch EP "Laughing All the Way to the Cleaners."
Founded in: 1989
Blind Melon, a band hailing from the vibrant rock scene of Los Angeles, burst onto the music scene in 1990. The band's unique blend of neo-psychedelic and alternative rock, coupled with their raw energy, quickly earned them a devoted following.
At the heart of Blind Melon was the dynamic duo of guitarists Rogers Stevens and Christopher Thorn, drummer Glen Graham, vocalist Travis Warren, and bassist Nathan Towne. Their iconic 1993 hit "No Rain" became an anthem of the era, propelling the band to both critical and commercial acclaim.
However, tragedy struck in 1995 when their original lead vocalist, Shannon Hoon, passed away due to a drug overdose while on tour. The loss of their frontman marked a turning point for Blind Melon. After a period of searching for a replacement, the band ultimately disbanded in 1999, leaving behind a legacy of memorable music.
But the story of Blind Melon didn't end there. In 2006, the remaining members regrouped, welcoming Travis Warren as their new vocalist. They released the album For My Friends in 2008, showcasing their enduring talent and dedication to their craft. Following the album's release, Warren departed, only to return in 2010. The band continues to perform occasional gigs, keeping the spirit of Blind Melon alive for their dedicated fans.
A History of Blind Melon
Early Days: Formation and Rise to Fame (1990-1993)
Blind Melon's roots can be traced back to a meeting of minds in Los Angeles in March 1990. Rogers Stevens and Brad Smith, musicians from Mississippi, crossed paths with Shannon Hoon, a captivating vocalist from Indiana. This chance encounter sparked the formation of a band destined for greatness.
The band's early years were marked by relentless touring and a growing fan base. Their blend of bluesy rock, psychedelic influences, and Hoon's distinctive vocal style resonated with audiences, setting the stage for their breakthrough hit "No Rain."
This song, released in 1993, became a chart-topping sensation, cementing Blind Melon's place in the annals of 90s rock history.
Tragedy and Disbandment (1995-1999)
The tragic loss of Shannon Hoon in 1995 cast a long shadow over the band. Hoon's death, a devastating blow to their fans and fellow musicians, left a void that proved impossible to fill. The remaining members bravely attempted to continue, even embarking on a search for a replacement vocalist.
Despite their efforts, the band ultimately disbanded in 1999, unable to move forward without their iconic frontman.
Reunion and Legacy (2006-Present)
In a surprise move, Blind Melon reunited in 2006, marking a new chapter in their history. Travis Warren, who had previously joined the band in 1998, took on the role of lead vocalist, bringing his own unique style to the band's sound.
The reunion resulted in the release of For My Friends in 2008, a testament to the band's enduring musical talent. Though Warren later departed, he returned to the band in 2010, leading to occasional live performances and keeping the spirit of Blind Melon alive.
Blind Melon's legacy extends beyond their music. The band's impact on the 90s alternative rock scene and their ability to connect with audiences through their unique blend of blues, psychedelia, and rock n' roll is undeniable.
While the band's journey has been marked by both triumphs and tragedies, their music continues to resonate with fans, cementing their place as one of the most important and influential rock bands of their generation.
Founded in: 1992
Everclear, a rock band hailing from Portland, Oregon, burst onto the scene in 1991. Fueled by the songwriting, vocals, and guitar prowess of Art Alexakis, they quickly established themselves as a force to be reckoned with. The core lineup, solidified by bassist Craig Montoya and drummer Greg Eklund, defined the band's most popular era.
Their debut album, "World of Noise," was a promising start, but it was their first three releases on Capitol Records that truly catapulted them to stardom: "Sparkle and Fade," "So Much for the Afterglow," and "Songs from an American Movie Vol. One: Learning How to Smile." These albums achieved platinum status, cementing their place in the 90s alt-rock landscape.
However, the following two albums, "Songs from an American Movie Vol. Two: Good Time for a Bad Attitude" and "Slow Motion Daydream," failed to capture the same critical and commercial success. This shift in momentum led to Montoya and Eklund departing the band in 2003.
Undeterred, Alexakis continued to champion the Everclear name, recruiting new musicians and releasing two more albums: "Welcome to the Drama Club" and "Invisible Stars." He also took the 90s nostalgia wave by storm, launching the Summerland Tour in 2012, which features Everclear alongside other iconic bands from that era.
In 2015, Everclear released their ninth studio album, "Black is the New Black," proving their enduring appeal. And in September 2023, they added another chapter to their story with the release of their live album, "Live At The Whisky A Go Go," a testament to their enduring energy and fan-favorite performances.
Everclear's journey has spanned over three decades, a testament to their resilience and the enduring power of their music. From their 90s heyday to their ongoing presence in the world of rock, Everclear continues to resonate with audiences, proving that their sound remains as relevant as ever.