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.

Kublai Khan: A Texas Metalcore Force

Hailing from Sherman, Texas, Kublai Khan emerged onto the metalcore scene in the summer of 2009. Since then, this dynamic quartet has established themselves as a force to be reckoned with, amassing a loyal following with their raw energy and signature sound.

A Journey of Growth and Success:

Kublai Khan made their mark with the self-released EP "Youth War" in 2010, showcasing their early talent. Their breakout moment came in 2014 when they signed with Artery Recordings, releasing their debut full-length album "Balancing Survival and Happiness." This record garnered critical acclaim, landing on Alternative Press's "The Best Albums of 2014 so far" list.

The band continued their ascent with the release of "New Strength" in 2015. Their third album, "Nomad," arrived in 2017 under their new home at Rise Records. This period saw Kublai Khan solidify their position as a dominant force in the metalcore scene.

Their 2019 release, "Absolute," marked a pivotal point. The album received widespread critical acclaim for the band's crushing vocals, led by the powerful voice of Matthew Honeycutt, as well as their winning combination of heavy riffs and impactful lyrical themes.

Continuing the Momentum:

In 2022, Kublai Khan released their latest EP "Lowest Form of Animal," further showcasing their evolution and continued dedication to their craft.

Kublai Khan's journey is a testament to their raw talent, relentless dedication, and ability to connect with fans through their ferociously passionate music. With their electrifying performances and powerful sound, this Texas band is poised to leave a lasting impact on the metalcore landscape.

Get ready to crank up the volume, folks, because Giovannie and the Hired Guns are here to shake things up! This Texas-bred country rock band, hailing from the heart of Stephenville, burst onto the scene in 2017, spearheaded by the charismatic Giovannie Yanez.

Yanez, the band's lead vocalist and songwriter, fronts a powerhouse lineup that includes Carlos Villa on lead guitar, Jerrod Flusche on rhythm guitar, Alex Trejo holding down the bass, and Milton Toles laying down the thunder on drums.

Their sound is a vibrant fusion of classic country twang and gritty rock 'n' roll, creating a modern twist on a timeless genre. Tracks like "Rooster Tattoo" and "Ramon Ayala" have become fan favorites, showcasing their ability to blend raw energy with heartfelt storytelling.

With three studio albums under their belts, Giovannie and the Hired Guns have been steadily building a devoted following. Their talent hasn't gone unnoticed – they were crowned "Best New Rock & Alternative Artist of the Year" at the 2023 iHeartRadio Awards, solidifying their position as one of the hottest acts in the genre.

So, crank up the volume, grab your boots, and get ready to ride with Giovannie and the Hired Guns. They're here to deliver a high-octane musical experience that'll leave you wanting more.

Bayside: A Punk Rock Anthem From the Streets of Queens

Bayside, hailing from the gritty streets of Bayside, Queens, burst onto the scene in 2000 with a raw energy that quickly caught the attention of the punk rock world. Led by vocalist Anthony Raneri, the band's lineup solidified with Jack O'Shea on lead guitar, Nick Ghanbarian on bass, and Chris Guglielmo pounding the drums.

Their debut album, Sirens and Condolences (2004), was a powerful introduction to their emotional and introspective style. But it was their 2005 self-titled follow-up that catapulted them into the mainstream. This album cemented their place as a force to be reckoned with, showcasing their ability to weave raw emotion with catchy melodies and infectious energy.

The years that followed saw Bayside churn out a steady stream of quality albums. From the raw vulnerability of The Walking Wounded (2007) to the darker tones of Shudder (2008), Bayside continued to evolve their sound while staying true to their punk rock roots.

Their relentless touring and captivating live shows further cemented their status as a fan favorite. Albums like Killing Time (2011), Cult (2014), Vacancy (2016), Interrobang (2019), and There Are Worse Things Than Being Alive (2024) showcased their continued growth and ability to connect with listeners on a deeper level.

The Birth of a Band: From Long Island Demos to the Big Leagues

Bayside's story began in 2000, when Anthony Raneri and Mike Kozak decided to take a chance on a dream. Inspired by bands like New Found Glory, they set out to create their own brand of punk rock. Their early days were marked by a self-released demo and a five-song EP, Long Stories Short, released on Dying Wish Records in 2001.

As their reputation grew, Bayside hit the road, sharing stages with the likes of My Hotel Year, Don't Look Down, A440, Brand New, and Hot Rod Circuit. The energy of these early tours fueled their songwriting and honed their live performance, preparing them for the success that lay ahead.

In 2002, the band experienced a lineup change with JR Manning, formerly of Caroline, stepping in for Kozak. This solidified the lineup that would go on to become synonymous with the Bayside sound.

From those early Queens basement shows to packed stadiums, Bayside's journey has been one of dedication, passion, and a deep connection with their fans. Their music continues to resonate with generations of listeners, proving that sometimes the most powerful stories are the ones told with raw honesty and unbridled energy.

Hawthorne Heights: A Post-Hardcore Powerhouse

Hailing from Dayton, Ohio, Hawthorne Heights burst onto the scene in 2001, originally known as "A Day in the Life." The band's current lineup features the powerhouse vocals and rhythm guitar of JT Woodruff, the steady bass and backing vocals of Matt Ridenour, the searing lead guitar and gruff vocals of Mark McMillon, and the driving force of drummer Chris Popadak.

Hawthorne Heights gained widespread recognition with their first two albums, "The Silence in Black and White" (2004) and "If Only You Were Lonely" (2006), both achieving RIAA Gold certification. The latter album, in particular, reached the pinnacle of the Billboard's Independent Albums chart and claimed the #3 spot on the Billboard 200 chart, cementing their position as a force in the post-hardcore scene.

Their 2006 single, "Saying Sorry," became an anthem, achieving gold status and reaching #7 on the Billboard Hot Modern Rock Tracks chart. Tragically, the band lost guitarist Casey Calvert in 2007, leaving them as a four-piece. Despite the loss, Hawthorne Heights released their third album, "Fragile Future," in 2008, through Victory Records after a protracted legal battle. This album marked their first without Calvert and demonstrated their resilience and determination.

Hawthorne Heights carved a unique path in the post-hardcore landscape, blending melodic vocals with raw energy and emotional depth. They continue to resonate with fans through their impactful music and enduring legacy.

Rival Sons: A Rock 'n' Roll Story

Rival Sons, the Californian quartet with a Nashville heart, burst onto the scene in 2009, bringing a raw and powerful brand of rock 'n' roll to the world. Their sound, a potent blend of blues-infused grit and hard-hitting energy, has garnered them a devoted following and critical acclaim.

The band's core lineup is a powerhouse of talent:

• Jay Buchanan (lead vocals) – a charismatic frontman with a voice that can both soothe and roar.
• Scott Holiday (guitar) – a master of the six-string, unleashing riffs that are both catchy and ferocious.
• Dave Beste (bass guitar) – the rhythmic backbone, providing a solid foundation for the band's sonic assault.
• Michael Miley (drums) – a dynamic drummer who drives the band's energy and propels their sound forward.

Their live performances are legendary, fueled by the raw passion of their music and the undeniable chemistry between the band members. Often joined by keyboard player Jesse Nason, and previously by Todd Ögren, Rival Sons deliver an electrifying experience that leaves audiences captivated.

Signed to Atlantic Records through Dave Cobb's imprint Low Country Sound, Rival Sons have released eight albums and an EP, cementing their place as one of the most exciting rock bands of their generation. Twice nominated for Grammy Awards, they continue to push the boundaries of rock music, captivating audiences with their soulful grit and undeniable talent.

Origins of a Rock 'n' Roll Force

Rival Sons' story begins in Long Beach, California, where Jay Buchanan and Michael Miley first crossed paths. Buchanan, already a seasoned musician with solo recordings under his belt, including the albums "All Understood" (2004) and "True Love EP" (2006), joined forces with Scott Holiday, a seasoned guitar virtuoso who had previously fronted bands like humanLab (signed to Atlantic Records) and Black Summer Crush (with Miley, Robin Everhart, Thomas Flowers and original drummer J. Harley Gilmore).

From these musical roots, Rival Sons emerged, poised to take the world by storm.

PUP: A Canadian Punk Rock Powerhouse

PUP, a name that stands for "Pathetic Use of Potential," is a Canadian punk rock band hailing from Toronto, Ontario. Formed in 2010 under the name Topanga, PUP has become a force to be reckoned with in the punk scene.

Their debut album, simply titled "PUP," dropped on October 8, 2013, under the banner of Royal Mountain Records. The band's raw energy and infectious hooks caught the attention of SideOneDummy Records, who signed them in December 2013 and re-released the album in the US on April 8, 2014.

PUP's relentless work ethic saw them back in the studio in late 2015, recording their sophomore album, "The Dream Is Over." Released on May 27, 2016, via SideOneDummy, the album solidified their status as a major player in the punk world.

The band's third album, "Morbid Stuff," arrived on April 5, 2019, showcasing their continued evolution and maturity. They followed this with a six-track EP titled "This Place Sucks Ass" on October 27, 2020, further demonstrating their versatility.

PUP's fourth album, "The Unraveling of PUPTheBand," dropped on April 1, 2022, cementing their place as one of the most exciting and dynamic punk bands of their generation.

Origins and Formation (2010)

The band's foundation is built on a strong friendship. Guitarist Steve Sladkowski, bassist Nestor Chumak, and drummer Zack Mykula share a history as childhood friends who attended school together in Toronto. Their bond grew over the years, leading them to collaborate on numerous bands throughout their youth. This shared passion for music would ultimately lead to the formation of PUP, setting the stage for a career filled with powerful music and unwavering camaraderie.

Badflower: From Hollywood Apartments to Stadiums

Badflower, the LA-bred rock outfit, has stormed onto the music scene with a raw, unapologetic sound. The band, formed from the ashes of a previous project called Cartunes, is a tight-knit crew led by the fiery Josh Katz on vocals and guitar, joined by the blistering Joey Morrow on lead guitar, the groove-driven Alex Espiritu on bass, and the thunderous Anthony Sonetti on drums.

Their story began in 2008, when Katz and Morrow, both music school grads, crossed paths in their Hollywood apartment building. The duo clicked instantly, sharing a passion for creating music that pushed boundaries. Their first band, Cartunes, released an EP in 2011, but after a lineup change, they decided to forge a new path under the name Badflower.

Badflower's early gigs in Los Angeles, including a residency at The Key Club, helped them gain recognition. A standout performance opening for Kongos at The Troubadour caught the attention of industry veterans, leading to a deal with Hundred Handed Records. This partnership marked the beginning of their rise to prominence.

The band's raw energy, coupled with Katz's emotionally charged lyrics, resonated with audiences. Their self-produced debut EP "Temper" in 2016 even earned them the coveted "Artist of the Week" title from Apple Music, showcasing their undeniable talent.

In 2019, Badflower unleashed their debut studio album, "OK, I'm Sick", a sonic explosion of angst and vulnerability that cemented their place as a force to be reckoned with. Their second album, "This Is How The World Ends," dropped in 2021, further solidifying their status as a modern rock powerhouse.

Badflower’s journey from Hollywood apartments to stadium stages is a testament to their unwavering passion, talent, and connection with their fans. They are a band unafraid to challenge norms, exploring the darker corners of human emotion through their music. With each release, they continue to push the boundaries of rock, ensuring their name will be etched in the history books for years to come.