Time for Rock...
Time for Rock...
Founded in: 1999
Breaking Benjamin, hailing from the heartland of Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, burst onto the scene in 1999 with a sonic force spearheaded by frontman and guitarist Benjamin Burnley and drummer Jeremy Hummel. Their initial lineup, rounded out by guitarist Aaron Fink and bassist Mark James Klepaski, unleashed their debut album, Saturate, in 2002, followed by We Are Not Alone in 2004. The band's raw energy and powerful sound quickly captured attention, but a shift in the rhythm section occurred in 2005 with the arrival of Chad Szeliga on drums.
This new chapter saw the release of two critically acclaimed albums, Phobia (2006) and Dear Agony (2009), solidifying Breaking Benjamin's status as a force in the rock world. However, the band went on an extended hiatus in early 2010 as Burnley battled recurring health issues.
Amidst this silence, a storm brewed within the band. The unauthorized release of a compilation album, Shallow Bay: The Best of Breaking Benjamin (2011), ignited legal turmoil, leading to the departures of Fink and Klepaski. Further upheaval followed in 2013 when Szeliga left due to creative differences. Burnley, the band's driving force, found himself as the sole remaining member.
Undeterred, Burnley rallied, assembling a new lineup in late 2014 that included bassist/backing vocalist Aaron Bruch, guitarist/backing vocalist Keith Wallen, guitarist Jasen Rauch, and drummer Shaun Foist. This fresh energy led to the release of Dark Before Dawn (2015), which stormed the Billboard 200 charts at number one, followed by Ember (2018) hitting number three. The band then surprised fans with a compilation album, Aurora (2020), showcasing acoustic interpretations of their hits alongside a brand new original track.
Through these trials and triumphs, Breaking Benjamin's musical foundation has remained steadfast, with Burnley at the helm as the primary composer and vocalist. Despite the ever-shifting lineups, the band's raw power, signature sound, and emotionally charged lyrics have continued to resonate with audiences, cementing their legacy as a rock powerhouse.
Founded in: 2017
Your Woman Sleep With Others (Traditional Chinese: 老王樂隊, Lǎowáng yuèduì), also known as "Old Wang Band," is a Taiwanese folk rock band that emerged from the vibrant Taipei music scene in 2015. The five-piece lineup features Zhang Lichang (lead vocals), Tong Weishuo (guitar), Liao Jiemin (drums), Feng Huiyuan (bass), and Shao Jiaying (cello), who together weave a tapestry of raw emotion and sharp social commentary.
The band`s name, a provocative twist on the Chinese slang "Old Wang," which refers to a husband whose wife is unfaithful, perfectly encapsulates their rebellious spirit. Lead singer Zhang Lichang explains that the name embodies their cynical yet insightful critique of the Taiwanese education system and the often-uninspiring nature of the music industry.
Their 2016 debut EP, Stolen Childhood (吾十有五而志於學), became a critical and commercial success, earning them recognition for their unflinching portrayal of the flaws in the Taiwanese educational system. The album`s standout track, "Cram Schools Killed the Children," won the coveted Best Folk Single award at the Golden Indie Awards in 2018, solidifying their position as a leading voice in Taiwanese rock.
Their journey began in late 2015 when founders Zhang Lichang, Feng Huiyuan, and Tong Weishuo united to compete in a college music competition. This sparked a whirlwind of success, with the band winning first place at Tamkang University and National Chengchi University in 2016 for their anthemic track "Stable Life, Suffer Exams." This victory, aptly christened the "Double Gold Champion" (金韶金旋雙冠), propelled them into the national limelight and cemented their status as a band to watch.
Your Woman Sleep With Others are more than just a band; they are a cultural phenomenon, challenging conventions and sparking important conversations about education, societal expectations, and the power of music to ignite change.
Founded in: 2017
Accusefive (告五人; Gàowǔrén), a Taiwanese rock band, burst onto the scene in 2017 with a sound that’s both fresh and nostalgic. The band, hailing from Yilan County, is comprised of lead vocalist and guitarist Pan Yun-an, vocalist Tsai Hsin-lun (Chuan Ching), and drummer Richard Lin.
Their story is as unique as their music. Pan and Tsai, who are also a couple, met at National Yilan Senior High School and formed the band alongside Lin. Their name, "Accusefive," is a quirky twist of fate. Each member randomly selected a character from a bulletin board, resulting in the now-iconic name that has no deeper meaning.
The band’s musical journey began with the release of their debut mini-album, Son of Mist, in October 2017, which quickly garnered attention and earned them the coveted "Best New Artist" award at the 9th Golden Indie Music Awards. Their following releases, Somewhere in Time, I Love You (2019) and Easy Come, Easy Go (2020), solidified their rising star status, earning nominations for prestigious awards like the Golden Melody Awards.
In 2023, Accusefive took their talents to the national stage, joining the cast of Dragon TV’s popular singing variety show, Singing with Legends (第五季), further solidifying their position as one of Taiwan’s most exciting and promising rock bands. With their blend of captivating melodies, heartfelt lyrics, and raw talent, Accusefive is a force to be reckoned with in the world of contemporary music.
Founded in: 1967
Born in the psychedelic haze of 1967 Ann Arbor, Michigan, The Stooges (originally known as the Psychedelic Stooges) were a raw force of nature. Led by the charismatic and volatile Iggy Pop, alongside the stoic guitar riffs of Ron Asheton, the thunderous drumming of Scott Asheton, and the steady bass lines of Dave Alexander, they carved their own path in the rock landscape.
Their music was a raw, primal cocktail of rock and roll, devoid of the polish and pretention of their contemporaries. Their live performances were legendary, often fueled by Iggy's self-destructive stage antics, which included self-mutilation and wild abandon, pushing the boundaries of what a rock show could be.
After two critically acclaimed albums, "The Stooges" (1969) and "Fun House" (1970), the band fractured. They regrouped with a revamped lineup, featuring Ron Asheton on bass, James Williamson on guitar, and released their third masterpiece, "Raw Power" (1973). This powerful album cemented their status as pioneers of punk rock, influencing countless artists who followed.
After a final break-up in 1974, The Stooges rose again in 2003. With Ron Asheton returning to guitar, Mike Watt on bass, and the addition of saxophonist Steve Mackay, they once again stormed the stage, proving that their raw energy hadn't diminished with time.
Sadly, the loss of Ron Asheton (2009) and later Scott Asheton and Steve Mackay led to their final farewell in 2016. Despite their brief hiatus, The Stooges left an indelible mark on rock history. Their influence on generations of punk and alternative artists is undeniable, and their legacy continues to inspire musicians worldwide.
They are rightfully considered one of the most influential and important proto-punk bands of all time. Their induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2010 and recognition by Rolling Stone as one of the 100 greatest artists of all time are testaments to their enduring impact on music history.
Founded in: 2010
Real Friends, hailing from the suburban sprawl of Tinley Park, Illinois, have carved a solid place in the pop punk scene. Since their formation in 2010, they've unleashed a torrent of music, including seven EPs and three full-length albums. Initially signed to the powerhouse label Fearless Records, they currently rock with Pure Noise Records.
The Early Days: From Garage Jams to Midwest Dominance
In the fall of 2010, bassist Kyle Fasel wasn't feeling the music he was making and yearned for a fresh start. He reached out to lead guitarist Dave Knox, and their shared ambition sparked the birth of Real Friends. Fasel's friend, vocalist Dan Lambton, was quickly brought on board, and the band completed their lineup with the addition of drummer Aaron Schuck.
Their debut EP, "This Is Honesty," dropped in the spring of 2011, igniting a firestorm of energy. Real Friends hit the road, conquering stages across the Midwest and building a passionate fanbase hungry for their energetic blend of pop punk anthems.
Founded in: 1977
The Misfits, hailing from the swampy New Jersey backwaters of Lodi, are more than just a punk band. They're the undisputed godfathers of horror punk, a genre they birthed by fusing raw punk energy with the macabre imagery and atmosphere of classic horror flicks.
It all started in 1977, with the vision of Glenn Danzig, a man whose songwriting and onstage presence oozed gothic darkness. He, alongside the bassist Jerry Only, formed the core of the band, weathering countless lineup changes over the next six years.
Their early years were a whirlwind of blistering EPs and singles, laying the groundwork for their landmark albums. With Doyle, Jerry Only's brother, joining on guitar, the Misfits released Walk Among Us (1982) and Earth A.D./Wolfs Blood (1983). These albums, with their raw, chaotic energy and spooky lyrics, became instant classics, cementing the Misfits' place as pioneers of early-80s hardcore punk.
Despite their meteoric rise, the Misfits dissolved in 1983. Glenn Danzig went on to create his own brand of gothic rock with Samhain and Danzig, leaving a legacy that continues to influence generations of musicians.
But the Misfits weren't finished. Their music transcended their initial hardcore punk audience, finding new life in the hands of bands like Metallica, Guns N' Roses, Marilyn Manson, and Green Day, proving their influence across multiple genres.
After a legal battle with Danzig, Jerry Only and Doyle reclaimed the rights to the Misfits name. In 1995, they resurrected the band with new vocalist Michale Graves, and the Misfits once again took to the stage, their undead legacy alive and kicking.
The Misfits are more than a band. They're a cultural force, a genre-defining entity, and a testament to the enduring power of music to terrify, inspire, and unite.
Founded in: 1978
Emerging from the San Francisco punk scene in 1978, the Dead Kennedys became a force to be reckoned with, carving their name in the annals of punk rock history. Their eight-year reign saw them evolve into one of the genre's most influential and defining acts.
The original lineup, featuring East Bay Ray (lead guitar), Klaus Flouride (bass), Jello Biafra (vocals), Ted (drums), and 6025 (rhythm guitar), quickly saw the latter two members depart. Ted exited in 1980 following the release of their groundbreaking debut album, "Fresh Fruit for Rotting Vegetables." The band found their longest-lasting drummer in D.H. Peligro, who joined in 1981 and anchored the rhythm section until his untimely death in 2022.
The Dead Kennedys continued to unleash their sonic fury, churning out the "In God We Trust Inc." EP, and three more studio albums: "Plastic Surgery Disasters", "Frankenchrist", and "Bedtime for Democracy." The latter album, released shortly after the band's breakup in 1986, became a poignant swansong.
Their music was mainly released through Alternative Tentacles, an independent record label established by Biafra and East Bay Ray, showcasing their commitment to DIY punk ethos.
After the band's dissolution, Biafra continued his involvement with Alternative Tentacles, forging collaborations with artists like D.O.A., NoMeansNo, and his own bands Lard and the Guantanamo School of Medicine. He also released numerous spoken word recordings, showcasing his sharp political wit and biting commentary.
A bitter legal battle over songwriting credits and royalties erupted in 2000, with Biafra ultimately losing the case. The band subsequently reformed in 2001 without Biafra, continuing their legacy with a revolving door of vocalists.
The Dead Kennedys remain a potent symbol of punk's rebellious spirit, their music and message continuing to resonate with generations of fans. They stand as a testament to the power of music to challenge societal norms and ignite a fire for change.
Founded in: 1977
Bad Brains, a sonic storm brewing out of Washington, D.C. in 1976, aren't just a band - they're a phenomenon. While often hailed as pioneers of hardcore punk, the band themselves bristle at the label, their sound defying simple categorization.
These musical alchemists blend the raw energy of punk with the hypnotic grooves of reggae, seamlessly weaving in elements of funk, heavy metal, hip-hop, and soul. Rolling Stone aptly dubbed them "the mother of all black hard-rock bands," and their influence stretches far beyond hardcore, touching upon thrash, speed metal, alternative metal, and funk metal - a testament to their revolutionary sound.
Bad Brains are more than musicians; they are deeply rooted in the Rastafari movement, their faith informing their music and their message.
Throughout their decades-long journey, Bad Brains have released nine studio albums, weathered breakups and reunions, and experimented with different vocalists and drummers. Their original lineup, however, remains legendary: the iconic singer H.R., the riff-master Dr. Know, the bassist Darryl Jenifer, and the powerhouse drummer Earl Hudson.
Bad Brains are a force of nature, refusing to be confined by genre or expectation. They continue to inspire generations of musicians, proving that true artistry knows no boundaries.
Founded in: 1974
Born in the heart of New York's gritty Forest Hills, Queens, in 1974, the Ramones weren't just a band, they were a force. Their raw, stripped-down sound and rebellious spirit ignited a punk rock revolution that shook the world.
Forget about fancy harmonies and complex arrangements. The Ramones were all about simple, catchy riffs, relentless energy, and a defiant attitude that screamed, "This is our music, take it or leave it!" They are widely considered the first true punk band, blazing a trail for countless others who followed.
While their commercial success might have been modest, their influence is undeniable. They inspired countless artists and continue to be celebrated as a cornerstone of punk culture.
The Ramones' legacy is built on their unique identity, even down to their names. Each member adopted the surname "Ramone", a nod to the legendary Paul McCartney, who often used the alias "Paul Ramon". This quirky detail reflected the band's rebellious spirit and commitment to their own unique sound.
For 22 years, the Ramones lived and breathed music. They relentlessly toured, performing over 2,200 concerts, bringing their frenetic energy to audiences worldwide. In 1996, after a final tour with the Lollapalooza festival, they said goodbye in a farewell concert in Los Angeles, leaving behind a legacy that would live on.
Sadly, time took its toll, and all four founding members – Joey, Dee Dee, Johnny, and Tommy – left the stage forever, their music forever echoing in the hearts of their fans. The surviving members, including C.J., Marky, Richie, and Elvis Ramone, continue to make music, carrying the torch of the Ramones' legacy.
The Ramones' influence continues to resonate today. Rolling Stone Magazine recognized their impact, ranking them number 26 on their list of the "100 Greatest Artists of All Time" in 2004, while VH1 placed them at number 17 on their "100 Greatest Artists of Hard Rock" in 2012. Their legacy continues to inspire generations of musicians, cementing their place as true pioneers of punk rock.
Founded in: 1976
Black Flag, hailing from the sun-drenched shores of Hermosa Beach, California, burst onto the punk scene in 1976. Initially known as Panic, the band was the brainchild of Greg Ginn, a guitarist with a vision. Ginn, the band's constant through numerous lineup changes, served as the primary songwriter and driving force behind Black Flag's uncompromising sound.
Considered one of the original hardcore punk bands, Black Flag paved the way for a new wave of aggressive music. They weren't just hardcore, though, they were also pioneers of post-hardcore, bridging the gap between the raw energy of punk and the experimental edge of post-punk. After a fiery run that ended in 1986, Black Flag returned to the stage in 2003 and again in 2013, proving their enduring legacy. The second reunion yielded their first studio album in nearly thirty years, "What The...", released in 2013, before the band announced their third reunion in 2019, cementing their place in music history.
Black Flag's sound was a sonic collision of the Ramones' raw simplicity and Ginn's atonal guitar solos, expertly weaving in unpredictable tempo changes that kept listeners on the edge of their seats. Ginn's lyrics, often echoing themes of social isolation, neurosis, poverty, and paranoia, resonated with a generation disillusioned with authority. The band's message of anti-authoritarianism and nonconformity reached a new level of intensity when Henry Rollins joined as lead singer in 1981, bringing his own unique brand of lyrical intensity to the table.
Black Flag, more than just a band, was a movement. They challenged the status quo with their ferocious sound, anti-establishment message, and relentless energy, inspiring a generation of musicians and leaving an indelible mark on the world of punk rock.
Founded in: 1983
The Red Hot Chili Peppers, a force of nature in the world of rock, burst onto the scene in Los Angeles in 1982. This iconic quartet, comprised of vocalist Anthony Kiedis, bassist Flea, drummer Chad Smith, and guitarist John Frusciante, has become a musical powerhouse, defying categorization with their genre-bending sound.
Their music is a potent cocktail of alternative rock, funk, punk rock, hard rock, hip hop, and psychedelic rock, creating a unique blend that has influenced generations of musicians. From the fiery funk metal of "Give It Away" to the grunge-infused angst of "Under the Bridge," the Chili Peppers have consistently pushed boundaries and redefined what rock music can be.
Their influence extends far beyond their own music. The band's eclectic sound has left its mark on genres like rap metal, rap rock, and nu metal, inspiring countless artists to embrace the fusion of styles.
With a staggering 120 million records sold worldwide, the Red Hot Chili Peppers are one of the most successful bands of all time. They dominate the Billboard Alternative Songs chart, holding the records for most number-one singles (15), most cumulative weeks at number one (91), and most top-ten songs (28). Their accolades include three Grammy Awards, induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2012, and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2022.
The Chili Peppers' journey began with a core group of LA musicians: Kiedis, Flea, guitarist Hillel Slovak, and drummer Jack Irons. Early commitments to other projects led to a lineup change for their self-titled debut album in 1984, featuring guitarist Jack Sherman and drummer Cliff Martinez. However, the original core reunited for their second album, "Freaky Styley" (1985), and "The Uplift Mofo Party Plan" (1987). Tragedy struck in June 1988, when Slovak passed away due to a drug overdose, leading to Irons' departure from the band.
Despite the challenges they have faced, the Red Hot Chili Peppers have persevered, evolving and reinventing themselves throughout their career. Their music continues to resonate with fans worldwide, and their legacy as a pioneering force in rock is undeniable.
Founded in: 2002
Born in the heart of Sheffield, England, in 2002, Arctic Monkeys stormed onto the music scene with a raw energy that resonated with a generation. Led by the charismatic Alex Turner (vocals), the band, completed by drummer Matt Helders, guitarist Jamie Cook, and bassist Nick O'Malley (who replaced founding member Andy Nicholson), became a poster child for the digital age. Their music, fueled by witty lyrics and a distinct Sheffield swagger, spread like wildfire through the internet, showcasing a new way for bands to gain attention.
Their debut album, "Whatever People Say I Am, That's What I'm Not," in 2006, wasn't just an instant success; it shattered records, becoming the fastest-selling debut album in British history. This critical darling, which topped the UK charts, cemented their status as a force to be reckoned with. The accolades kept coming, with the album winning "Best British Album" at the 2007 Brit Awards and achieving iconic status as one of the greatest debut albums of all time.
Their momentum didn't slow down with "Favourite Worst Nightmare" in 2007, another critically acclaimed album that replicated the success of their debut by winning "Best British Album" at the 2008 Brit Awards. While "Humbug" (2009) and "Suck It and See" (2011) further solidified their place in the rock world, it was their fifth album, "AM" (2013), that propelled them onto the global stage.
The album's undeniable energy and hit single "Do I Wanna Know?" dominated charts worldwide, achieving platinum status in the US and solidifying their international appeal. From their humble Sheffield beginnings, Arctic Monkeys have become a global phenomenon, leaving an undeniable mark on contemporary rock music.