Refused: The Swedish Hardcore Pioneers

Refused, hailing from Umeå, Sweden, emerged in the early 90s as a powerhouse of hardcore punk. Formed in 1991, the band's lineup solidified with vocalist Dennis Lyxzén, guitarist Kristofer Steen, drummer David Sandström, and bassist Magnus Flagge. Guitarist Jon Brännström joined the ranks in 1994, remaining through several reunions until his departure in late 2014.

Refused's music was fueled by a distinct non-conformist spirit and a politically charged, far-left ideology. They were also, for a time, associated with the straight edge subculture. Their debut album, This Just Might Be… the Truth (1994), established their sonic identity, followed by Songs to Fan the Flames of Discontent (1996) and a string of EPs.

Their 1998 masterpiece, The Shape of Punk to Come, pushed boundaries with its unique blend of hardcore punk, jazz, and electronic elements. However, despite its revolutionary sound, the album initially received a lukewarm reception, commercially and critically. Sadly, this led to the band's disbandment during their subsequent tour.

Despite their limited success at the time, Refused's influence on rock music has reverberated across decades. Their innovative approach and unwavering commitment to their beliefs left an indelible mark on the genre, inspiring generations of musicians to come.

X: A Punk Rock Legacy

X, an iconic American punk rock band hailing from Los Angeles, left an indelible mark on the music scene with their raw energy, poetic lyrics, and unique blend of punk, Americana, and folk rock.

The band's core lineup was a potent force: vocalist Exene Cervenka, bassist/vocalist John Doe, guitarist Billy Zoom, and drummer D.J. Bonebrake. Their seven studio albums, released between 1980 and 1993, cemented their place in punk rock history.

After a hiatus during the mid-to-late 90s, X reunited in the early 2000s, continuing to tour and enthrall audiences with their captivating live performances. In June 2024, they announced their final album and a farewell tour, marking the end of an era for the legendary band.

While achieving limited mainstream success, X exerted a profound influence on various genres of music, inspiring artists across the punk, Americana, and folk rock spectrums. In 1991, renowned music critic Robert Hilburn recognized their status as one of the most influential bands of their time.

X's impact is further solidified by the inclusion of their first two albums, Los Angeles and Wild Gift, in Rolling Stone's list of the 500 greatest albums of all time in 2003. Los Angeles also secured the 91st spot on Pitchfork's Top 100 Albums of the 1980s.

Early Days: 1977-1979

The seeds of X were sown with the meeting of bassist/singer John Doe and guitarist Billy Zoom.

Terror: A Hardcore Juggernaut

Terror, the Los Angeles-based hardcore punk band, has been a driving force in the scene since 2002. Founded by vocalist Scott Vogel and drummer Nick Jett, the band's relentless energy and powerful sound have made them a cornerstone of modern beatdown hardcore.

While their lineup has seen several changes throughout the years, the core of Terror remains intact. The current roster features the ferocious vocals of Vogel, the punishing drum work of Jett, and the razor-sharp guitar riffs of Martin Stewart and Jordan Posner. Chris Linkovich holds down the low end on bass, completing the sonic assault.

Terror has released eight studio albums, their latest being the impactful "Pain Into Power" (2022). This prolific output has solidified their position as one of the most influential bands in their genre, a fact acknowledged by Stereogum who called them "an institution within their genre."

Early Days: From Garage to Global Stage

The band's journey began in February 2002, with Vogel, guitarist Todd Jones, drummer Jett, and bassist Matt Smith forming the initial lineup. Their name, however, didn't come until April 2002, just before their first shows supporting Death Threat, American Nightmare, and Striking Distance on a West Coast tour. Those early gigs were preceded by a warm-up show with Diehard Youth in Ventura, California.

Their debut album, "One with the Underdogs," proved to be a massive success, selling over 40,000 copies. Terror's reach has extended far beyond their Los Angeles roots, with tours across Europe, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Korea, Mexico, and South America, spreading their explosive sound and captivating a global hardcore audience.

Tomahawk: A Supergroup Built on Collaboration and Sonic Prowess

Tomahawk, the American rock supergroup, emerged from the fertile musical minds of Mike Patton (Faith No More, Mr. Bungle) and Duane Denison (The Jesus Lizard) in 1999. Their shared passion for pushing sonic boundaries led them to exchange music with the aim of creating something truly unique.

Denison, known for his searing guitar work, brought in drummer John Stanier (Helmet), a powerhouse behind the kit. Patton, the enigmatic vocalist and keyboardist, rounded out the lineup with bass player Kevin Rutmanis (Melvins/ex-Cows).

The group's debut album, recorded in Nashville during the spring of 2001, marked the beginning of their journey. The following years saw extensive touring and the release of two more critically acclaimed albums.

While the band went on an extended hiatus in 2007, their sonic legacy continued to resonate. In 2013, Tomahawk returned, with Trevor Dunn replacing Rutmanis on bass, ready to unleash their intense and experimental rock upon the world once more.

Early Days (1999-2000):

Patton, fresh off the breakup of Faith No More in 1998, had already established the Ipecac Recordings label and returned to the fold with Mr. Bungle. He also formed the experimental metal supergroup Fantômas with Buzz Osborne of the Melvins and Dave Lombardo of Slayer.

It was during a Mr. Bungle concert in Nashville that Patton met Denison. This meeting sparked a creative fire, resulting in a musical exchange and jamming sessions that would ultimately shape the sound of Tomahawk.

Testament: A Bay Area Thrash Titan

Testament, hailing from Berkeley, California, is a legendary thrash metal band that has carved its name into the history of heavy music. Formed in 1983 as Legacy, they've endured countless lineup changes over the decades, but the core fire of their sound remains strong. The current lineup features founding rhythm guitarist Eric Peterson, powerful vocalist Chuck Billy, lead guitarist Alex Skolnick, bassist Steve Di Giorgio, and drummer Chris Dovas.

While Peterson is the sole original member still standing, Testament has been fortunate enough to reunite with Skolnick, who left the band between 1992 and 2005. Billy, who joined in 1986 after replacing original singer Steve "Zetro" Souza, is the other constant in the band's story. Together, Peterson and Billy are the only members to appear on all of Testament's studio albums, a testament to their unwavering commitment to the band.

Their legacy is solidified in 13 studio albums (including a re-recorded collection), 4 live albums, 5 compilation albums, 13 singles, and 3 DVDs. With an estimated 1.4 million albums sold in the US alone since the beginning of SoundScan era, and over 14 million sold worldwide as of 2016, Testament's influence is undeniable.

Often lauded as one of the most popular and influential thrash bands, Testament is a key player in the "Big Six of Bay Area Thrash" alongside Exodus, Death Angel, Lȧȧz Rockit, Forbidden, and Vio-lence. Their impact on the second wave of thrash in the late 1980s is undeniable. Their classic lineup, solidified in 1986, featured Billy, Peterson, Skolnick, bassist Greg Christian, and drummer Louie Clemente, a team that helped define Testament's signature sound.

Testament was among the early thrash bands to secure a deal with a major label, Atlantic Records, a partnership that yielded their first six studio albums. As the band continues to evolve, one thing remains constant: Testament's unwavering commitment to powerful, aggressive, and technically brilliant thrash metal, a testament to their staying power and impact on the genre.

Vision Video: A Modern Gothic Dirge for the Disillusioned

Hailing from Athens, Georgia, Vision Video is a post-punk goth rock band that breathes fresh life into the classic sounds of the late 70s and 80s. Drawing inspiration from legendary acts like The Chameleons and The Cure, they blend the familiar with a distinctly contemporary edge.

At the heart of their music lies a profound exploration of the human psyche, grappling with the lasting effects of trauma and the quest for stability in a world teetering on the brink of chaos. Lead singer and guitarist Dusty Gannon, a veteran of both the Afghan war and the fire service, brings a raw and visceral understanding of life’s darker corners. “I wanted to create music that acknowledged the validity of feeling lost and broken,” Gannon explains, “but also confronts the darker truths of our flawed humanity.”

Vision Video's first two records, "Inked in Red" and "Haunted Hours," garnered critical acclaim. Pitchfork praised their ability to craft "dreamy tunes tailored for the wallflowers who explode onto the dance floor when the DJ drops 'Age of Consent' or 'Primary' at Goth Night." Both albums were recorded and mixed by Tom Ashton of The March Violets at his renowned Sub Von Studios in Athens, Georgia.

The band is currently preparing to record their third LP, "Modern Horror," at Maze Studios in Atlanta under the guidance of Grammy-winning producer Ben Allen. This next chapter promises to further solidify their position as a leading voice in the modern gothic revival, offering a soundtrack for the disillusioned and the restless.

Poison the Well: A Hardcore History

Poison the Well, hailing from Miami, Florida, burst onto the metalcore scene with a raw energy that captured the attention of hardcore fans worldwide. Signed to Ferret Music, they carved out a unique niche with their blend of aggression and melody, quickly becoming a force to be reckoned with.

The band's origins trace back to 1997 when vocalist Aryeh Lehrer and lead guitarist Ryan Primack formed Doubting Thomas, a name Lehrer himself coined. The band's initial home was in Coral Springs, Florida, where they honed their sound at J.P. Taravella High School before relocating their rehearsals to Miami.

Lehrer, a veteran of the band Reaching Out, brought in rhythm guitarist Russel Saunders, formerly of Side Order, and bassist Shane Halpern, who had just moved to Florida from North Carolina. This lineup solidified the band's sound, leading to a name change in December 1997 to An Acre Lost, a name suggested by Saunders' girlfriend.

This early period, characterized by their raw, chaotic energy, set the stage for the band's eventual ascent to metalcore prominence.

(Continue with the next chapter of their history, following the band's evolution through name changes, lineup shifts, and musical development.)

Dope: A Heavy Metal Juggernaut From the Streets of NYC

Dope, the American industrial metal band hailing from New York City, exploded onto the scene in 1997. Their sound, a potent cocktail of heavy metal grit and the raw aggression of industrial rock pioneers like Ministry and Skinny Puppy, set them apart from the typical 90s rock bands.

Frontman Edsel Dope, a true auteur, forged the band's identity. His songwriting and powerful vocals, combined with the rhythmic fury of drummer Chris Warner, guitarist Acey Slade, bassist Daniel Fox, and the hypnotic guitar riffs of Virus, have created a sonic experience that's both brutal and captivating.

Dope's journey is as gritty as their music. The band's early days were a struggle for survival, fueled by hustle and raw ambition. Edsel, a survivor of a broken home, reunited with his brother Simon, who joined the band as keyboardist, sampler, and percussionist. They grinded, pushing their way through the underground music scene, even resorting to dealing drugs to finance their music.

This resilience paid off. Dope went on to release seven full-length albums, their latest being the hard-hitting "Blood Money Part Zer0" in February 2023. Their music has resonated with millions, selling over one million albums worldwide, solidifying their place as a force in the heavy metal landscape. Dope's story, one of raw talent, perseverance, and an unwavering dedication to their art, continues to inspire a new generation of metalheads.

The Birthday Massacre: A Tale of Darkness and Light

Hailing from the heart of Canada, The Birthday Massacre (TBM) are a rock band that have carved a unique space for themselves in the world of music. Formed in 1999 in London, Ontario, they have since relocated to Toronto, their sonic vision evolving alongside their journey.

Originally known as "Imagica," a nod to Clive Barker's 1991 fantasy novel, the band's name was inspired by their own music. In 2002, they opted for "The Birthday Massacre," after one of their early songs, to avoid confusion with another band. The song itself was then renamed "Happy Birthday," reflecting the duality of their sound.

The band's music is a potent mix of darkness and light, with vocalist Sara "Chibi" Taylor's powerful vocals bringing life to their intricate compositions. Their current lineup features a tight-knit team: Michael Rainbow (rhythm guitar), Michael Falcore (lead guitar), Owen Mackinder (keyboards), Philip Elliott (drums), and Brett Carruthers (bass).

TBM's music is often characterized as a blend of gothic, synth-pop, and alternative rock, creating a distinct sound that has earned them a loyal following. Their journey from "Imagica" to "The Birthday Massacre" is a testament to their artistic evolution, and their continued commitment to crafting music that is both captivating and challenging.

Scars on Broadway: Daron Malakian's Rock Odyssey

Scars on Broadway, initially known simply as Scars on Broadway, is the brainchild of Daron Malakian, the renowned guitarist and songwriter of System of a Down. Originally conceived as a solo project, it eventually evolved into a full-fledged rock band with Malakian as its sole constant member.

The band's self-titled debut album arrived in July 2008, showcasing Malakian's signature blend of heavy riffs, driving rhythms, and soaring vocals. However, despite the album's success, Scars on Broadway went on hiatus in late 2008. Malakian attributed this decision to a lack of passion for touring and a desire to pursue other creative endeavors.

Despite the hiatus, Scars on Broadway saw various lineup changes and a brief resurgence in 2010 and 2012, with the promise of a second album. But ultimately, the band fell silent again by 2013.

Then, in a surprise announcement in April 2018, Malakian resurrected Scars on Broadway and revealed the release of their sophomore album, "Dictator," which dropped in July 2018.

A History of Scars on Broadway:

The Self-Titled Debut (2005-2008):

In 2005, Malakian hinted at solo projects, expressing a desire to explore his own musical vision outside of System of a Down. This foreshadowed the birth of Scars on Broadway. Following System of a Down's hiatus in 2006, Malakian formally unveiled his new venture, initially featuring System of a Down drummer John Dolmayan alongside himself.

After a period of experimentation with different musicians, Scars on Broadway solidified its core lineup in 2007. This included Danny Shamoun (keyboards), Dominic Cifarelli (bass), and Franky Perez (guitar and backing vocals). The band spent the latter half of 2007 honing their sound and recording their debut album, which was released in 2008.

The self-titled debut album was met with positive reception from both fans and critics, solidifying Malakian's prowess as a songwriter and musician. However, the band's initial momentum was short-lived as Malakian's desire to explore other creative paths led to the hiatus.

Twin Tribes: A Darkwave Dynamo From the Texas Border

Hailing from the vibrant, border town of Brownsville, Texas, Twin Tribes emerged in 2017 as a force to be reckoned with in the darkwave scene. Their sound, a potent blend of gothic rock, post-punk, synth-pop, and new wave, has propelled them to the forefront of the contemporary dark music landscape.

The duo, comprised of Luis Navarro (vocals, guitar, synths, drum machines) and Joel Niño, Jr. (bass, synths, vocals), bring their unique backgrounds to their music. Navarro, born in Matamoros, Mexico, and Niño from Los Fresnos, Texas, met in Brownsville, where their shared passion for music ignited.

Drawing inspiration from the iconic sounds of the 80s, Twin Tribes seamlessly weave together the moody textures of gothic rock and post-punk with the electronic flourishes of synth-pop and new wave. Echoes of The Cure and Depeche Mode are evident in their music, but they also embrace influences from the vibrant Rock en Español scene, particularly Latin American bands like Caifanes, Soda Stereo, and Size, adding a distinct, culturally rich element to their sound.

With years of touring under their belts and three albums to their name, Twin Tribes have cemented their status as a defining act in the resurgence of darkwave, captivating audiences with their powerful performances and haunting melodies.

ERRA: A Heavy Hitter in the Progressive Metalcore Scene

ERRA, the American progressive metalcore band hailing from Birmingham, Alabama, burst onto the scene in 2009. Named after the Akkadian god of war and plague, ERRA's music reflects this fierce, untamed spirit. Since their inception, they've dropped six studio albums and three EPs, amassing a loyal following with their intricate song structures, soaring vocals, and explosive energy. Their latest release, "Cure", dropped on April 5th, 2024, and has already made waves within the metal community.

ERRA's journey has seen them share the stage with some of the biggest names in the genre, including As I Lay Dying, August Burns Red, TesseracT, Born of Osiris, Ice Nine Kills, Glass Cloud, Within the Ruins, Bad Omens, I See Stars, and Texas in July. This extensive touring has cemented their place as a force to be reckoned with in the live music scene.

Early Days and "Impulse" (2009-2011)

The band's origins can be traced back to a group of high school friends – Alex Ballew, Jesse Cash, Adam Hicks, Garrison Lee, and Alan Rigdon. Their self-titled debut EP in 2009 and subsequent release, "Andromeda" in 2010, caught the attention of Tragic Hero Records, who signed them in 2011. Later that year, ERRA unleashed their debut studio album, "Impulse", followed by tours with titans of the scene like Born of Osiris and Upon a Burning Body.

"Augment" and Line-Up Changes (2012-2014)

A turning point in ERRA's history came in 2012 when Adam Hicks left the band to pursue other career endeavors. This spurred a period of creative evolution, with Jesse Cash taking on the double duty of guitar and bass for their second album, "Augment." The release of "Augment" in 2013 saw the band solidify their unique sound and showcase their growing songwriting prowess.

From "Augment" to "Cure": A Story of Growth and Evolution

This shift in lineup marked the beginning of a new chapter for ERRA. Their subsequent releases, "Augment," "Drift," "Neon," and "The Score," demonstrate their continuous evolution and refinement of their musical style. Their latest album, "Cure," represents the pinnacle of their artistic journey, showcasing a band that has not only grown musically but also matured as storytellers.

ERRA's story is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and the shared vision of talented musicians. They have established themselves as a cornerstone in the progressive metalcore scene, and with each release, they continue to push boundaries and redefine the genre. Their journey, marked by line-up changes, creative breakthroughs, and unwavering dedication, is one that will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations of metalheads.