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.

Blake Ibanez returns with a new band, Fugitive, and the aggressive pit detonation Thrash he’s known for in Power Trip, now with an even rawer and looser ferocity. Joined by Seth Gilmore (Skourge), Lincoln Mullins (Creeping Death), Victor Gutierrez and Andy Messer, Ibanez and co. cohere in intensely violent crossover fashion with Fugitive; a product of long earned experience in the studio and on the stage.

After the ripping introduction of the ‘Maniac’ EP in 2022, Fugitive’s follow-up 7” is their best two tracks to date. The A-side features ‘Blast Furnace’, a mid-paced onslaught of anthemic Crossover aggression and throat-shredding Thrash. On the B-side the motor-charged ‘Standoff’ displays the hunger and frantic energy of a new band full of forceful vigor, with the writing, production and arrangement chops of seasoned live vets. With this EP and the debut 12”, the stage is now set for a Fugitive takeover.

Resorte: Mexico's Nu-Metal Pioneers

Resorte, the name meaning "spring device" in Spanish, is a Mexican nu-metal band that burst onto the scene in 1995. Emerging alongside the burgeoning nu-metal genre, they were inspired by the likes of Rage Against the Machine and KoRn, bringing a distinctly Mexican flavor to the heavy sound.

Their debut, the independent music video for "America," showcased Resorte's raw energy and quickly caught the attention of MTV. This early success propelled them into the spotlight, leading to a string of live performances and building a loyal fan base.

The band's debut album, "República de Ciegos," was released in June 1997 via Discos Manicomio. This marked a pivotal moment in Mexican music, coinciding with the rise of other iconic nu-metal acts like Molotov. Resorte was at the forefront of this explosion, captivating audiences with their energetic performances and catchy tunes.

Their second album, "XL," dropped in September 1999, ushering in a new era for the band. "XL" propelled them to mainstream success, gaining significant radio and television airplay, and even cracking the MTV Top 10. This period saw Resorte sharing stages with international heavyweights like Limp Bizkit and Papa Roach, further solidifying their status as a force to be reckoned with.

After a brief hiatus in 2001, Resorte returned with a renewed focus, crafting their third album, "Versión 3.0." This record showcased their continued evolution and solidified their position as a pioneering band in the Mexican rock scene.

Resorte's impact extends beyond their music. They embody the spirit of rebellion and defiance that defines nu-metal, resonating with a generation seeking an outlet for their frustrations and anxieties. They have left an undeniable mark on Mexican music, inspiring countless bands and contributing to the growth and international recognition of the Mexican rock scene.

Set It Off: A Rock Band Built on Passion and YouTube

Set It Off, hailing from Tampa, Florida, is a rock band that emerged onto the scene in 2008. Their explosive sound is a blend of pop-punk, post-hardcore, and emo influences, creating a signature energy that's captured the hearts of fans worldwide. The band consists of frontman Cody Carson, whose powerhouse vocals and charismatic stage presence are legendary, guitarist/bassist Zach DeWall, and drummer Maxx Danziger, who provide the relentless rhythmic backbone.

From humble beginnings, the band's journey is an inspiring testament to dedication and the power of social media. Cody's YouTube channel played a vital role in building a loyal fanbase before they even signed a record deal. Their catchy tunes and infectious energy resonated online, propelling them to the forefront of the next generation of rock bands.

After releasing a string of successful EPs, they caught the attention of Equal Vision Records, their first label home. Their talent and undeniable energy led them to Fearless Records in 2018, where they unleashed their fourth studio album, "Midnight," in 2019. This was followed by "Elsewhere," their fifth studio album, in 2022, showcasing their continued growth and evolution.

In 2023, Set It Off took a bold step, venturing out on their own as an independent band, a decision fueled by their desire for creative freedom and a direct connection with their passionate fanbase. This new chapter promises exciting things for the band, as they forge their own path, free from the constraints of the traditional music industry.

From their early days in Tampa to their burgeoning success, Set It Off's story is a testament to hard work, raw talent, and the unwavering support of their devoted fan base. They've become synonymous with an energetic, captivating sound, making them one of the most exciting rock bands of the new generation.

Here's a glimpse into their early days:

Formation (2008)

Cody Carson and Dan Clermont, bandmates from their high school marching band, found themselves crossing paths with Austin M. Kerr and Zach DeWall, who were also making music together. After high school, Cody moved to Ohio to pursue a degree in classical clarinet at the Oberlin Conservatory of Music. However, his musical journey took an unexpected turn.

Cody's YouTube videos caught the eye of Alex Gaskarth, the frontman of All Time Low, who invited him to sing "Coffee Shop Soundtrack" at their Cleveland concert. The experience solidified Cody's passion for rock and his desire to be in a band. He left college, using his school funds to kickstart his musical dreams with Set It Off. The band's journey was set in motion, fueled by passion, a shared vision, and a little bit of internet magic.

The Warning: A Mexican Rock Trio That's Warning the World

The Warning, a rock band hailing from Monterrey, Mexico, is fronted by the Villarreal Vélez sisters: Daniela (guitar, vocals, piano), Paulina (drums, vocals, piano), and Alejandra (bass guitar, backing vocals, piano). This power trio burst onto the scene in 2013, bringing their unique blend of heavy riffs and melodic hooks to the world.

From Rock Band to Rock Stars:

The sisters, all classically trained musicians, found their shared love of rock through video games like Rock Band. Their early YouTube performances, showcasing their impressive skills, caught the attention of fans worldwide, especially their viral cover of Metallica's "Enter Sandman". The video garnered over 25 million views and praise from Metallica guitarist Kirk Hammett himself, who specifically commended Paulina's "maximum ass-kicking" drumming.

A Warning to the Music Industry:

Fueled by the recognition from their "Enter Sandman" cover and encouragement from Alejandra's bass teacher (Pablo González Sarre, bassist for Los Claxons), The Warning set their sights on creating original music. Their dedication and talent have yielded four studio albums, two EPs, and fifteen music videos, solidifying their position as a force in the rock scene. Their latest release, "Keep Me Fed," arrived on June 28, 2024, proving they're not just a flash in the pan.

A Family Affair:

The sisters' musical bond is evident in their performances. Each member brings their own flair and expertise to the band, creating a cohesive and dynamic sound that has earned them a loyal fanbase. Their journey from YouTube sensation to international rock act is a testament to their talent, dedication, and family support. With "Keep Me Fed" hitting the scene, The Warning is showing the world that they're here to stay, and they're ready to rock.

British Lion: A Hard Rock Side Project with a Heavyweight Legacy

British Lion, a fiery hard rock band, emerged from the creative mind of Steve Harris, the legendary bassist of Iron Maiden. Driven by a desire to explore a different musical landscape, Harris formed the band as a platform for concise, hard-hitting songs and a chance to experiment with diverse bass styles.

This wasn't your typical stadium rock experience. British Lion thrived in smaller venues, harkening back to Iron Maiden's early days, where the energy was raw and the connection with the audience intense.

The band's lineup boasts an impressive roster: vocalist Richard Taylor, guitarists David Hawkins and Grahame Leslie, and drummer Simon Dawson. Harris's long-standing relationship with Leslie, dating back to the early 90s, solidified their musical bond. After years of mentoring Leslie and Taylor, Harris saw the potential for a collaborative project, ultimately leading to the formation of British Lion.

While Iron Maiden conquered arenas, British Lion carved their own path in clubs and theaters, embracing the intimacy of smaller spaces. Their debut album, simply titled "British Lion," was initially presented as a Steve Harris solo project. However, the project evolved into a fully-fledged band, with Harris, Taylor, and Hawkins taking the reins as songwriters.

Their second album, "The Burning," unleashed in January 2020, garnered significant acclaim, with esteemed music critic Paul Stenning of BraveWords declaring it "Album of the Year."

British Lion, a testament to Steve Harris's unwavering passion for music, continues to electrify audiences with their infectious energy and hard-hitting rock. This side project, born from a desire for musical exploration, has become a force to be reckoned with in the hard rock scene.

Whitechapel: A Knoxville Deathcore Juggernaut

Hailing from the heart of Tennessee, Whitechapel is a force to be reckoned with in the deathcore scene. Their name, inspired by the infamous London district where Jack the Ripper stalked his victims, sets the stage for their dark and brutal sound. This six-piece powerhouse features Phil Bozeman's ferocious vocals, the shredding guitars of Ben Savage, Alex Wade, and Zach Householder, Gabe Crisp's thunderous bass, and the driving rhythm section led by drummer Brandon Zackey.

Formed in 2006, Whitechapel has solidified their place in the metal world with eight studio albums and a legion of dedicated fans. Their music, a raw and visceral blend of deathcore and brutal death metal, has resonated with audiences worldwide.

The band's 2010 album "A New Era of Corruption" broke through, selling over 10,600 copies in its first week and landing at No. 43 on the Billboard 200 chart. Their self-titled fourth album, released in 2012, followed suit, reaching No. 47 and selling roughly 9,200 copies in its debut week.

2014 saw the release of their fifth album, "Our Endless War," which garnered positive reviews and sold approximately 16,000 copies in its first week. This Knoxville-born band continues to dominate the metal scene, with a sound that is both terrifying and captivating, leaving audiences breathless with every performance.

Show Me the Body: A New York Hardcore Powerhouse

Show Me the Body (SMTB), hailing from the concrete jungle of New York City, burst onto the post-hardcore scene in 2009. This trio isn't afraid to get their hands dirty, blending elements of hip-hop, noise music, and sludge metal into a ferocious sound that's earned them a devoted following.

From Under the Bridge to the Big Leagues

The band's story begins with Julian Cashwan Pratt, lead vocalist and banjoist, and Harlan Steed, bassist, meeting in the hallowed halls of Elisabeth Irwin High School. Fueled by their shared passion for New York's hardcore scene, they cut their teeth performing in unconventional venues – think underpasses, alleys, and basements – giving them a raw and intimate connection with their audience. Their DIY ethic quickly earned them a reputation for their relentless energy and intense live shows.

Early Days: Yellow Kidney and a Sound That Shouts

In 2014, SMTB released their debut EP, "Yellow Kidney," a raw and unfiltered blast of sonic fury that introduced the world to their signature sound. The EP, self-released on SoundCloud, garnered critical acclaim and established them as a force to be reckoned with.

More to Come: A Band on the Rise

SMTB's journey is far from over. With a devoted fanbase, a sound that pushes boundaries, and a commitment to relentless innovation, they continue to carve their own path in the world of hardcore. Keep your eyes peeled for their next move – it's sure to be explosive.