Touché Amoré: A Post-Hardcore Powerhouse From LA

Touché Amoré, hailing from the heart of Los Angeles, emerged onto the scene in 2007, quickly establishing themselves as a leading force in the post-hardcore genre. The band, fronted by vocalist Jeremy Bolm, features Clayton Stevens and Nick Steinhardt on guitars, Tyler Kirby on bass, and Elliot Babin on drums. They've carved a distinct path with their raw and emotionally charged music, releasing a string of impactful albums that have captivated fans worldwide.

Early Days and Debut Album: (2007 - 2009)

Touché Amoré made their first impression with a 7-inch demo, released through No Sleep Records in September 2008. Following a series of west coast tours, the band returned to the studio to record their full-length debut, ...To the Beat of a Dead Horse. Recorded at Earth Capital Studios in January 2009, this album solidified their sound and showcased their raw energy.

The album was released in June 2009, a joint effort between 6131 and Collect Records, owned by Thursday's frontman Geoff Rickly. Released only on vinyl and digitally, ...To the Beat of a Dead Horse received widespread critical acclaim. Outlets like Sputnikmusic, Punknews.org, and Alternative Press praised the album's raw intensity and emotional depth. It also garnered spots on numerous "Best Albums of 2009" lists, cementing Touché Amoré's place as a rising force in the post-hardcore scene.

Holding Absence: A Welsh Rock Band Carving Their Own Path

Hailing from the vibrant music scene of Cardiff, Wales, Holding Absence emerged in 2015, ready to inject a potent dose of post-hardcore into the world. The band consists of the powerful vocal presence of Lucas Woodland, the sonic architect Scott Carey on guitar, the rhythmic backbone of Benjamin Elliott on bass, and the driving force of Ashley Green behind the drums.

Their initial foray into the music world came with a series of singles in 2017, establishing their raw energy and undeniable talent. This momentum carried them into 2018, where they collaborated with fellow heavyweights Loathe on a split EP, further solidifying their place within the UK's burgeoning underground scene.

Finally, in 2019, Holding Absence unleashed their debut record, bearing the same name as the band itself. This self-titled album marked a significant milestone, showcasing their matured sound and lyrical depth. The band's commitment to their craft caught the eye of SharpTone Records, a leading force in the US heavy music scene, and soon they were signed, ready to take their music to a global audience.

A Story of Evolution and New Beginnings

Holding Absence's journey is not without its twists and turns. The band's initial lineup featured vocalist Zac Vernon, who contributed to their early recordings like "Immerse" and "Luna." However, Vernon eventually parted ways to form Parting Gift, leaving the door open for Lucas Woodland to join the fold.

Woodland, previously known for his work in the band Falling With Style, brought a fresh perspective to the group. His arrival marked a turning point for Holding Absence, with their debut single "Permanent" showcasing a new era for the band. This was quickly followed by the contrasting "Dream of Me," a track that caught the attention of SharpTone Records and set the stage for their future successes.

The Legacy of Hammock and a Name That Resonates

The name Holding Absence is a direct nod to the Hammock song "Holding Your Absence," a testament to the band's admiration for the atmospheric soundscapes created by the American duo. The name itself evokes a sense of longing, a yearning for something lost, a feeling that resonates deeply with the emotional core of their music.

Holding Absence is not just a rock band; it's a story of resilience, evolution, and artistic ambition. From their formative years in Cardiff to their international rise, they've proven their commitment to pushing boundaries and forging their own path within the world of heavy music. With SharpTone Records behind them, the future is bright for this Welsh band, ready to take their music to new heights.

Gel: A Hardcore Punk Force From New Jersey

Gel, hailing from the hardcore heartland of New Jersey, are a band that's been shaking up the scene with their ferocious blend of traditional punk and brutal energy. Born in 2018 as a side project of the powerviolence outfit Sick Shit, Gel's members already had a reputation for sonic intensity.

Their sound is rooted in the raw power of Sick Shit, but they inject a distinct hardcore punk flavor, drawing inspiration from the legends of the genre. The band's impressive output includes a full-length album, two EPs, a demo, and a split mini-album, showcasing their prolific creativity. Their music is raw, fast, and relentless, a sonic assault that leaves you breathless and wanting more.

From Sick Shit to Gel: A Change in Direction

Gel's story begins with Sick Shit, a powerviolence band founded by guitarist Bobko and drummer Zach Miller. Sami Kaiser soon joined the ranks, solidifying their lineup. When Sick Shit's bassist departed, Anthony Webster stepped in, eventually transitioning to guitar. It was this lineup that birthed Gel, a space to explore a more traditional hardcore punk sound.

A Legacy of Releases:

Gel's rise to prominence was marked by a steady stream of releases. Their self-titled debut EP in 2019 introduced the world to their potent sound, followed by the "HC For The Freaks" tape later that year. 2021 saw the release of their second EP, "Violent Closure," solidifying their position as a force to be reckoned with.

Critical Acclaim and Impact:

Gel's impact on the hardcore scene is undeniable. Huw Baines, writing for NME, declared them a significant force in shaping the sound of hardcore in 2023. Their raw energy and unique blend of influences have inspired a new generation of hardcore punks, solidifying their place in the underground.

Gel is more than just another hardcore band. They are a vital force, pushing the boundaries of the genre and redefining the sound of punk rock. Their music is a call to action, a sonic rebellion against the norm, and a testament to the enduring power of hardcore punk.

Narrow Head: A Texas Rock Band Forged in Grit and Garage

Narrow Head, hailing from the heart of Texas rock, is a band that embodies the raw energy and unfiltered passion of the Lone Star state. Founded in Dallas by vocalist Jacob Duarte, they've carved their own path in the rock landscape, now based in the vibrant city of Houston.

From Humble Beginnings to a Dynamic Trio:

Narrow Head emerged in 2013, fueled by the creative energy of guitarists and vocalists Ryan Hughes and Jacob Duarte, bassist Jay Chary, and drummer Keaton Khonsari. Carson Wilcox took over drumming duties in 2014, shaping the band's sound. Their debut album, "Satisfaction," dropped in 2016, by which time the band had solidified into a trio of Duarte on vocals, William Menjivar on guitar, and Wilcox on drums. Though guitarist and bassist Ryan Seelig briefly joined them during the album's recording, the core trio remained the driving force.

Building Momentum and Expanding Horizons:

In 2018, Narrow Head released the single "Bulma" and embarked on a tour across the Western United States, further solidifying their presence on the rock scene. Ryan Chavez joined the band as their bassist, adding a new dimension to their sound.

By 2020, Narrow Head had signed with Run For Cover Records, a testament to their growing influence. They unleashed a trio of singles, "Night Tryst," "Stuttering Stanley," and "Hard to Swallow," setting the stage for their sophomore album, "12th House Rock."

Expanding the Family and Embracing the Future:

Following the completion of their second album, long-time touring member Kora Puckett officially joined the band as guitarist, adding another layer of talent and experience. Narrow Head is a band that embraces the spirit of collaboration and growth, constantly evolving and refining their craft. With their roots firmly planted in the Texas rock scene, they continue to break new ground and captivate audiences with their raw energy and infectious melodies.

High Vis: A Blast of Working-Class Punk Rock

High Vis, a London-based rock band formed in 2016, is a potent mix of hardcore punk, post-punk, indie rock, and a dash of baggy influence. This four-piece, born out of the UK's vibrant hardcore scene, has already built a reputation for their high-energy live shows and distinct sonic identity.

From Hardcore Roots to High-Vis Rebellion

Vocalist Graham Sayle, hailing from New Brighton, Merseyside, found his musical footing in London's hardcore punk scene. He cut his teeth in bands like Dirty Money and Tremors, alongside fellow musicians Rob Moss and Edward "Ski" Harper. After Tremors disbanded in 2012, Harper started experimenting with post-punk sounds, eventually laying the foundation for High Vis.

The band's name, a playful take on high-visibility clothing, speaks volumes about their working-class origins and the alienation that comes with it. As Sayle explained in an interview with NME, "It's the unifying clothing item of the working class. It also completely alienates you; nobody wants to see you or speak to you unless they want something."

A String of Releases and a Pandemic-Stalled Momentum

High Vis hit the ground running with their debut EPs, I and II, released in early 2017. They followed up with a third EP, III, later that year. Their full-length debut album, No Sense No Feeling, dropped in December 2019, just before the world was plunged into COVID-19 lockdowns. The pandemic, unfortunately, hampered their momentum, forcing them to put touring on hold. This period also marked the departure of guitarist Romain Bruneau, who returned to Paris, leading to the recruitment of Martin MacNamara.

A Band with a Future

Despite the pandemic's impact, High Vis continues to build their fanbase, known for their captivating live shows and raw, uncompromising music. Their unique blend of genres and working-class grit sets them apart, making them a force to be reckoned with in the UK rock scene. With their sights set on the future, High Vis is ready to make a statement in the world of punk rock.

Soul Glo: A Philly Hardcore Punk Band Forged in the Fire

Soul Glo, hailing from the vibrant underground scene of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is a hardcore punk band that explodes onto the scene with a raw, unfiltered energy. Formed in 2014, the band consists of the dynamic trio of Pierce Jordan (vocals), GG Guerra (guitar, programming) and TJ Stevenson (drums).

From Quartet to Triumvirate: Soul Glo started as a quartet, featuring Jordan, Jamie Sokol, Ethan Brennan, and Ruben Polo. Their early days saw them supporting bands like Old Gray on a Northeast US tour, sharing stages with Nine of Swords in Brooklyn and Really From in Boston.

A Rocky Road: The band's journey has been punctuated by some major hurdles. In 2018, while on tour, GG Guerra was arrested by the Missouri State Highway Patrol, forcing the band to raise $15,000 to bail him out. This incident, though difficult, only solidified their dedication to their craft.

Epitaph and the DisNigga EPs: In 2021, Soul Glo signed with the iconic Epitaph Records, a testament to their growing influence. The signing coincided with the release of "DisNigga," a two-volume EP series that further established their sonic identity. The band further cemented their position in the scene by supporting Sheer Mag on their East Coast tour, culminating in an appearance on Coheed and Cambria's S.S. Neverender cruise.

Moving Forward, Together: In 2022, the band faced a significant challenge when Polo was accused of sexual assault by deception. He subsequently stepped down from the band. This was a difficult time, forcing Soul Glo to confront difficult questions and make tough decisions. However, they persevered, releasing their powerful album, "Diaspora Problems," on March 25th, 2022, via Epitaph.

Soul Glo continues to push boundaries, their music resonating with a growing fanbase. They're not just a band; they're a voice for the voiceless, a force for change, and a testament to the enduring power of hardcore punk.

The Armed: A Force of Unpredictable Noise in the Hardcore Scene

The Armed, often represented by the symbol 🔪, are a shrouded American hardcore punk collective hailing from Detroit, Michigan. Their identity is as elusive as their music, with no official members publicly revealed. However, the enigmatic project is often associated with creative director and advertising guru Tony Wolski, formerly known as Adam Vallely.

Their sound is a chaotic blend of hardcore punk, metalcore, post-hardcore, and experimental hardcore, infused with a potent dose of self-deprecating humor. The Armed have embraced a cult-like presentation, often referring to themselves as "the world's greatest band" and employing the mantra "refract" as a recurring motif.

Their music thrives on collaboration, featuring guest appearances from a rotating roster of musicians, including Chris Pennie, Nick Yacyshyn, Ben Koller, Troy Van Leeuwen, and Urian Hackney. Converge guitarist Kurt Ballou has also been a consistent presence, lending his expertise to the recording and production of most of their releases.

From Slicer Dicer to "These Are Lights"

Wolski claims The Armed emerged from the ashes of a Detroit band called Slicer Dicer. Their debut album, "These Are Lights", mixed by Kurt Ballou, was released for free in 2009. Wolski explained this unconventional release strategy to Thrash Hits: "Wanting people to actually hear the music made us give it away for free. We've all played in other bands for a while now, and whether it is good or not, it's undeniable that for the most part young people do not place the same sense of monetary value on recordings as they once did."

This move epitomized The Armed's approach: unconventional, unpredictable, and unafraid to challenge the norms of the music industry. Their music, like their identity, is a mystery waiting to be unraveled, leaving audiences both intrigued and bewildered.

The Chisel: Carving a Path Through Modern Punk

The Chisel, a London-based punk rock band forged in 2020, is breathing new life into the Oi! scene. With roots firmly planted in the legendary Arms Race, the band's core members – Nicholas Sarnella, Charlie "Chubby Charles" Manning-Walker, and Cal Graham – have already made a significant impact.

Their story began with Sarnella and Graham, former Arms Race members, envisioning a new project together. The pair eventually recruited Manning-Walker, bringing his guitar skills to the mix. This trio, fueled by their punk passion, released their debut EP, "Deconstructive Surgery," showcasing Sarnella on drums, Graham on vocals, and Manning-Walker on guitar. The band then welcomed bassist Tom Ellis and second guitarist Luke Younger, solidifying their lineup.

The Chisel quickly built momentum, dropping their second and third EPs, "Come See Me/Not the Only One" and "Enough Said," in early 2021. Their undeniable energy caught the attention of Maximum Rocknroll writer Eric Anderson, who crowned them one of the leaders of the "new wave of Oi!" – a testament to their raw, unapologetic sound.

The band's dedication to their craft culminated in the release of their debut album, "Retaliation," in November 2021. The album’s title track, released as a single, hinted at the raw, defiant spirit that permeates their music.

The Chisel's trajectory continued on an upward trajectory, taking them on a European tour in 2022 as support for the legendary Circle Jerks. Their commitment to collaboration is evident in their November 2022 release of a split EP with Mexican street punk band Mess, showcasing their ability to connect with other vibrant punk communities across the globe.

The Chisel isn't just riding a wave; they're actively shaping the future of punk rock. Their music is a call to action, a defiant statement against the status quo, delivered with raw energy and unwavering conviction. With each release, they solidify their position as a force to be reckoned with in the ever-evolving landscape of punk.

Vended: The Next Generation of Nu-Metal

Vended, the Des Moines-based nu-metal outfit, burst onto the scene in 2018, bringing a fresh, youthful energy to the genre. The band is comprised of two sons of Slipknot members: vocalist Griffin Taylor, son of Corey Taylor, and drummer Simon Crahan, son of Shawn "Clown" Crahan. Joining them are bassist Jeremiah Pugh, and guitarists Cole Epseland and Connor Grodzicki.

The band's name, pronounced "ven-DEAD," is a nod to the word vendetta, reflecting their powerful, uncompromising sound. While their lineage undeniably adds intrigue, Vended are adamant about forging their own path, emphasizing that they are largely self-taught musicians who learned their craft independently of their fathers. Both Corey and Clown have publicly supported this sentiment, highlighting their sons' dedication and talent.

The band's early years were marked by a focus on honing their skills and crafting their own unique sound. They made their live debut in March 2020 in Des Moines, only to be halted by the COVID-19 pandemic. However, they didn't let the setback hold them back. They released their debut EP, What Is It/Kill It, in 2021, along with several standalone singles, steadily building a buzz in the underground music scene.

While Vended might share DNA with their fathers' iconic band, they have proven themselves to be a force of their own. With a sound that draws inspiration from nu-metal's heavy roots, they bring their own energy and perspective to the genre, making them a band to watch for years to come.

Biohazard: From Brooklyn Streets to Global Metal Mayhem

Biohazard, hailing from the gritty streets of Brooklyn, New York City, burst onto the scene in 1987. They weren't your typical hardcore band. They were a sonic storm, merging hardcore punk's raw energy with heavy metal's crushing riffs and adding a dash of hip hop flavor for good measure. This unique blend solidified their place as one of the pioneers of this new, heavy sound.

The band's founding lineup was a powerhouse: bassist/vocalist Evan Seinfeld, guitarist Bobby Hambel, and drummer Anthony Meo. Soon after, guitarist/vocalist Billy Graziadei joined the ranks, adding another layer of aggression to their sound. Meo was replaced by drummer Danny Schuler before their debut album, solidifying the core lineup that dominated the hardcore scene from 1988 to 1995.

Their first demo in 1988 caused a stir, with some media outlets labeling them as fascists and white supremacists, overlooking the Jewish heritage of both Seinfeld and Schuler. The band vehemently denied these accusations, later explaining it was a publicity stunt to gain the attention of Carnivore and their fans. Seinfeld and Graziadei have since clarified that provocative lyrics like "Master Race" and "America" were meant to be metaphorical and shock value, and the band has always maintained that their music was never racially motivated.

Biohazard's journey wasn't without its twists and turns. After several lineup changes, a period of inactivity, and a reunion in 2008, the classic lineup of Seinfeld, Graziadei, Hambel, and Schuler reunited once again in 2022, proving that the fire of their music burns as brightly as ever. Get ready for a sonic assault as Biohazard, the pioneers of heavy hardcore, return to the stage in 2023, bringing their signature blend of aggression and melody to a new generation of fans.

Drug Church: A Post-Hardcore Band with a Grunge Twist

Drug Church, hailing from Albany, New York, are a force in the post-hardcore scene. Known for their dynamic sound and thought-provoking lyrics, the band has carved out a unique niche with their four albums and numerous EPs.

A History of Experimentation:

Drug Church's journey into the world of music is marked by their willingness to push boundaries. Their 2018 album, "Cheer," served as a testament to their experimentation, incorporating grunge influences while retaining their punk roots. This innovative approach garnered widespread praise, as the album's introspective and honest lyrics tackled complex themes with raw emotion.

Their fourth album, "Hygiene," dropped in 2022, further cementing their reputation for musical evolution. The singles "Miles of Fun" and "Detective Lieutenant" hinted at the album's direction, showcasing the band's ability to seamlessly blend aggression and melody.

A Sound Built on Contrasts:

Drug Church's music is a captivating fusion of hardcore punk, alternative rock, and grunge. Their sound echoes the intensity of bands like Black Flag, infused with the melodic sensibilities of alternative rock. This unique blend creates a distinctly post-punk/post-hardcore sound that is both powerful and unpredictable.

Lyrics that Reflect the World Around Us:

The band's lyrical focus lies in social commentary, delving into the darkness and absurdity of modern life. Their lyrics are often sharp and satirical, offering a critical lens on the world around them.

Interestingly, vocalist Patrick Kindlon, also known for his work in Self Defense Family, writes his lyrics in the studio. This spontaneous approach ensures a raw authenticity, mirroring the band's live energy. The combination of a collaborative instrumental approach and Kindlon's on-the-fly lyrics creates a truly unique and dynamic listening experience.

Drug Church continues to evolve, pushing the boundaries of post-hardcore with their innovative sound and unflinchingly honest lyrics. Their music is a testament to their commitment to crafting music that is both thought-provoking and musically exciting.

Better Lovers: A Supergroup Forged in the Fires of Metalcore Drama

Better Lovers, a new hardcore punk band hailing from Buffalo, NY, burst onto the scene in 2023, carrying a hefty dose of metalcore history in their wake. This isn't just any band; they're a bona fide supergroup, comprised of members from two of the most influential and respected acts in the scene: Every Time I Die and The Dillinger Escape Plan.

The core of the band comes from the turbulent breakup of Every Time I Die. Guitarist Jordan Buckley, bassist Stephen Micciche, and drummer Clayton "Goose" Holyoak were key players in the band's 24-year run. After a highly publicized internal conflict that saw the band's original vocalist, Keith Buckley (Jordan's brother), alleging mistreatment and ultimately being sidelined, the remaining members decided to call it quits.

However, the musical chemistry between these three was too potent to ignore. They continued to jam together, eventually recruiting Greg Puciato (formerly of The Dillinger Escape Plan) on vocals and Will Putney (currently with Fit For An Autopsy) on guitar. This unexpected union resulted in Better Lovers, a band that's as much about the dramatic backstory as it is the raw, uncompromising sound.

The band signed with SharpTone Records and quickly unleashed their debut EP, "God Made Me An Animal" in 2023. The EP showcased a ferocious blend of hardcore punk aggression and metalcore's signature heaviness, leaving no doubt that Better Lovers are here to make a statement.

Their story is one of both personal struggles and the enduring power of music. From the ashes of conflict, a new entity has emerged, ready to take on the scene with a mix of raw talent and a history that's sure to fuel the fire of their future.