Time for Rock...
Time for Rock...
Founded in: 1982
X Japan, the legendary Japanese rock band from Chiba, burst onto the scene in 1982, the brainchild of drummer/pianist Yoshiki and vocalist Toshi. Initially known as X, they started with a potent blend of power/speed metal, infused with symphonic grandeur. But their sonic journey didn't stop there. They evolved, embracing progressive rock and crafting heart-wrenching ballads, creating a unique sound that set them apart.
X Japan was a pioneer in more ways than one. They were one of the first Japanese bands to reach mainstream success without the backing of a major label. They also spearheaded the visual kei movement, a Japanese subculture that embraced flamboyant and theatrical aesthetics, comparable to Western glam rock.
Their 1988 debut album, "Vanishing Vision," released on Yoshiki's own Extasy Records, solidified their lineup – bassist Taiji, lead guitarist Hide, and rhythm guitarist Pata joined the founding duo. 1989 saw them achieve major breakthrough with their second album, "Blue Blood." The following year, "Jealousy" further cemented their dominance, but in 1992, Taiji left the band. He was replaced by Heath, and the band officially changed their name to X Japan, embarking on a new chapter.
They released the groundbreaking "Art of Life" in 1993 – a single, 29-minute masterpiece that showcased their artistic evolution. In 1995, X Japan shed their signature visual kei look for a more casual approach, releasing "Dahlia" in 1996, a powerful album that, like its two predecessors, topped the charts. Their last concert, held on December 31, 1997, at the Tokyo Dome, was a grand finale to five consecutive sold-out New Year's Eve concerts at the iconic stadium.
After a decade-long hiatus, X Japan returned in 2007, reigniting their passion with the new song "I.V." Their impact on Japanese rock music, and global music in general, is undeniable. X Japan remains a force to be reckoned with, a band that continues to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide.
Founded in: 2003
Hailing from Towson, Maryland, All Time Low burst onto the scene in 2003, bringing a fresh dose of pop-punk energy to the music world. The band, comprised of Alex Gaskarth (vocals/rhythm guitar), Jack Barakat (lead guitar), Zack Merrick (bass/backing vocals), and Rian Dawson (drums), took their name from a lyric in the iconic New Found Glory song "Head on Collision."
From their high school days, All Time Low has become a touring machine, headlining countless shows and captivating audiences at major festivals like Warped Tour, Reading and Leeds, and Soundwave. Their relentless touring schedule has solidified their status as a live act, known for high-energy performances and infectious stage presence.
Their musical journey has yielded nine studio albums:
Beyond studio albums, All Time Low has also released two live albums:
Early Days:
The band's journey started in high school, covering their pop-punk heroes like Blink-182. Their original lineup included Alex Gaskarth, Jack Barakat, TJ Ihle, Chris Cortilello, and Rian Dawson. After Cortilello and Ihle left the band, All Time Low entered a brief period of dormancy until Zack Merrick joined on bass and Gaskarth took up guitar. This marked the formation of the lineup that would define their sound and success. They released a four-song EP in 2004 before signing with Emerald Moon Records, a significant step toward their future triumphs.
Founded in: 1997
Mayday, also known as 五月天 (Wǔ Yuè Tiān) in Mandarin, is a Taiwanese rock band that has stormed the music scene since their formation in 1997. The quintet, comprised of Monster (lead guitar and leader), Ashin (vocals), Stone (rhythm guitar), Masa (bass) and Ming (drums), ignited their musical journey with their debut album in 1999.
Initially known as So Band, their name evolved in 1997, stemming from Masa's online alias. Their impact has been so profound that they've earned the moniker "the Beatles of the Chinese-speaking world." Their accomplishments are a testament to their immense talent and influence, with a multitude of awards including the prestigious Golden Melody Award for Best Band, bestowed by the Taiwanese Ministry of Culture, an impressive four times - in 2001, 2004, 2009, and 2012.
The Birth of Mayday: A Rock & Roll Journey
Mayday's roots lie in So Band, a band formed by Ashin, Monster, and their first drummer, Chien You-ta, in 1995 while attending The Affiliated Senior High School of National Taiwan Normal University. Their ranks expanded with the arrival of Masa and Stone, fellow students at the same school. Even after graduation and venturing into separate universities, their passion for music remained undiminished, leading them to perform in pubs and eateries, actively contributing to the burgeoning rock music scene in Taiwan. In 1997, they registered for the Formoz Festival under the name Mayday, marking a significant turning point in their journey.
Inspired by The Beatles, Mayday embraced the transformative power of rock music, weaving into their songs messages of love and peace, aiming to inspire change and uplift hearts across the world.
Founded in: 1996
New Pants, also known as Xinkuzi Yuedui (新裤子乐队), is a Chinese rock band that has been a cornerstone of the country's new wave scene since its inception. The band's story began in 1995, when high school classmates Peng Lei (lead singer), Liu Baobao (bass), and Shang Laugh (drums) joined forces as "Metal Workshop Physical Master."
Their first single, "I'm OK," was recorded in 1996, marking the official start of New Pants. The band quickly established themselves as a leading force in China's burgeoning new wave movement, earning recognition as pioneers of the genre.
The band's original lineup saw Peng Lei also take on guitar duties, while Liu Baobao became the bassist and Shang Xiao the drummer. Over the years, the band has undergone some lineup changes, with their current members including Peng Lei (vocals), Pang Kuan (keyboards), Zhao Meng (bass), and Hayato Kitō (drums).
Their musical journey saw them release their debut album, "New Pants" in 1998, followed by "Disco Girl" in 2000 and "We Are Automatic" in 2002.
New Pants has continued to evolve and push boundaries, even achieving mainstream success in recent years. In 2019, the band participated in the iQiyi variety show "The Big Band", where they won the championship. Their song "Do You Want To Dance? 你要跳舞吗" was featured in the music program "We Are Blazing 炙热的我们 2020," performed by SNH48 Group, further highlighting their influence.
New Pants has become a symbol of Chinese rock and new wave, inspiring a new generation of musicians while maintaining a vibrant and innovative approach to their music. They have carved out a unique space in the Chinese music scene, proving their enduring power and influence as a pioneering force.
Founded in: 1999
Miserable Faith (Chinese: 痛仰乐队), originally named Painful Faith band, was established in Beijing in 1999. Their style is rock and independent music. The strong critical awareness expressed in their first album "This Is a Question," released in 2001, gained them attention from fans. The band was once hailed as one of China's "Four Hardcore" rock bands along with Yaksa, Twisted Machine, and Tongue. Their representative works include: "The Need of the Nation," "Highway Song," "Give Way," "Anger," "Sing a Song for You," "Where There Is Oppression, There Is Resistance," and others.
Founded in: 2012
No Party For Cao Dong (草東沒有派對), a Taiwanese indie rock band known for their raw energy and emotional depth, has emerged as a formidable force in the Asian music scene.
From Schoolyard Jams to Underground Icons:
The band's roots lie in the familiar story of friendship and shared passion. Guitarists and vocalists Wood Lin and Judy Chan, who met in high school and remained close throughout their time at Taipei National University of the Arts, were driven by a shared love for music. Their journey began in 2012 as "Party at Cao Dong Street," a name inspired by the bustling street in Taipei's Shilin District, a place where they often found themselves, whether it was Lin skateboarding or Chan running alongside him.
Their early sound, infused with the electronic rock influences of Two Door Cinema Club, resonated on campus and beyond. However, a series of lineup changes, including the departures of their original bassist and drummer, led them to rebrand as "No Party For Cao Dong" in 2014. The band found new collaborators in FUBAR frontman Sam Cheng on bass and Leo Liu on drums, injecting fresh energy into their sound.
A Year of Silence, a New Beginning:
The band’s trajectory took an unexpected turn when Cheng was called up for military service, forcing them into a year-long hiatus. This period of reflection proved crucial for No Party For Cao Dong, as they began to approach their music with a newfound seriousness. They sought to craft something more meaningful, a sound that truly reflected their evolving selves.
Upon Cheng's return, the band decided to embrace a different direction, choosing to re-establish a solid foundation. They welcomed Sam Yang, another graduate of Taipei National University of the Arts, to fill the bass position. This lineup change, combined with their renewed focus, marked a significant turning point for No Party For Cao Dong.
The Beginning of a Legacy:
Their early tracks, "Old Zhang," "Grisly Me," and "Fifty," uploaded online, showcased their raw talent and their ability to translate personal experiences into powerful musical expressions. These tracks, imbued with a gritty, emotional intensity, became a harbinger of the band's future success, solidifying their place as a vital force in the world of Taiwanese indie rock.
Founded in: 1996
Born in the sunny suburbs of Agoura Hills, California, Linkin Park exploded onto the scene in 1996, forever changing the landscape of rock music. The band, comprised of vocalist/rhythm guitarist/keyboardist Mike Shinoda, lead guitarist Brad Delson, bassist Dave Farrell, DJ/turntablist Joe Hahn, drummer Rob Bourdon, and the unforgettable vocalist Chester Bennington, defied easy categorization. Their sound was a thrilling fusion of heavy metal's raw energy, hip hop's rhythmic punch, and electronic textures that pulsed with a distinctly modern heartbeat.
Their debut album, Hybrid Theory (2000), became a cultural phenomenon. Certified Diamond by the RIAA, it cemented their place as a force to be reckoned with. Released amidst the nu metal boom, Hybrid Theory dominated MTV and radio airwaves, catapulting anthems like "One Step Closer," "Crawling," and "In the End" to the top of the charts. "In the End" became a global smash, reaching the #2 spot on the Billboard Hot 100, a testament to the band's ability to connect with audiences on a profound level.
Their success only intensified with Meteora (2003), solidifying their status as a true rock powerhouse. But Linkin Park weren't content with resting on their laurels. Minutes to Midnight (2007) saw them pushing boundaries, exploring new sonic territories and embracing more experimental sounds. By the end of the decade, Linkin Park were undoubtedly one of the biggest and most influential rock acts in the world.
Continuing their sonic evolution, A Thousand Suns (2010) layered their music with rich electronic textures, demonstrating their unwavering commitment to creative innovation. Linkin Park's legacy is one of fearless experimentation, relentless drive, and a deep connection with fans who found solace and power in their music. Their impact on the music world is undeniable, forever etched in the hearts of millions.
Founded in: 1997
Yellowcard, the Jacksonville, Florida-born rock band, burst onto the scene in 1997, carving a unique path within the pop-punk landscape. Their sound, defined by the soaring violin melodies of Sean Mackin, set them apart from their contemporaries. Led by the powerhouse vocals of Ryan Key, the band's lineup has been a constant force, also featuring the guitar prowess of Ryan Mendez and the rhythmic foundation of bassist Josh Portman.
The band's breakout moment arrived in 2003 with the release of "Ocean Avenue," a song and album that quickly catapulted them to mainstream success. This double-platinum certified album cemented their legacy, solidifying their position as pop-punk royalty. The infectious energy of "Only One" and the anthemic "Lights and Sounds" further cemented their place in the hearts of music fans.
Yellowcard's musical journey has spanned ten studio albums, culminating in their self-titled release in 2016. Following a final tour in support of the album, the band announced a hiatus, leaving a void in the pop-punk scene.
But the fire of Yellowcard's music remained strong, reigniting in 2022 when the band reunited for a performance at Riot Fest. The following year saw the launch of a highly anticipated 20th-anniversary tour celebrating the iconic "Ocean Avenue." The reunion was further underscored by the release of a new EP, "Childhood Eyes," in July 2023, reminding fans of the band's enduring power and the enduring magic of their music.
From the halls of Douglas Anderson School of the Arts, where the members first crossed paths, Yellowcard's story began. Their name, a playful nod to high school antics, reflected the band's youthful energy and the camaraderie that fueled their music. Their early days were marked by a raw passion for creating music, a passion that would soon blossom into a worldwide phenomenon.
Founded in: 1987
Green Day, the undisputed kings of pop-punk, emerged from the vibrant Bay Area punk scene of the late 80s. Founded in 1987 by the dynamic duo of Billie Joe Armstrong (vocals, guitar) and Mike Dirnt (bass, backing vocals), the band initially went by the names Blood Rage and Sweet Children before settling on Green Day in 1989. They quickly became fixtures at the legendary 924 Gilman Street club in Berkeley, a hotbed for the burgeoning punk movement.
Their early recordings, released through Lookout! Records, showcased their raw energy and catchy melodies. Their debut album, 39/Smooth (1990), established their raw talent and laid the groundwork for their future success. The arrival of drummer Tré Cool in 1990, replacing John Kiffmeyer, solidified their classic power trio lineup.
The game-changer arrived in 1994 with Dookie, their major label debut on Reprise Records. The album exploded, selling over 10 million copies in the U.S. alone, and propelled Green Day into the mainstream. They became synonymous with the punk revival alongside fellow California bands like Bad Religion, the Offspring, Rancid, NOFX, Pennywise, and Social Distortion.
Dookie cemented their status as rock stars, but Green Day continued to push boundaries. Insomniac (1995), Nimrod (1997), and Warning (2000) all achieved significant success, though they didn't quite match the phenomenal heights of Dookie.
Their seventh album, American Idiot (2004), marked a new chapter. This ambitious rock opera resonated deeply with a younger generation, selling six million copies in the U.S. and solidifying their status as a true rock force.
Green Day's momentum continued with 21st Century Breakdown (2009), their most commercially successful album to date, boasting their best chart performance ever. The band then embarked on a bold experiment with the ¡Uno!, ¡Dos!, ¡Tré! trilogy (2012), a three-part album release. While the trilogy didn't quite reach the commercial heights of their previous efforts, it solidified their enduring creative spirit.
Green Day's journey has been one of constant evolution. From their humble beginnings in the Bay Area punk scene to their global domination as rock icons, they have consistently delivered catchy tunes, powerful lyrics, and unforgettable live shows. They remain a force to be reckoned with, continuously inspiring new generations of musicians and fans alike.
Founded in: 2002
Anberlin, the American alternative rock band hailing from Winter Haven, Florida, emerged from the ashes of SaGoh 24/7, their earlier musical venture. Formed in 2002 with a fresh sound and a new name, they quickly captured the attention of Tooth & Nail Records, a leading independent label, and released their debut album, Blueprints for the Black Market, in 2003.
Their second album, Never Take Friendship Personal (2005), solidified their growing fanbase, but it was their 2007 release, Cities, that truly propelled them into the mainstream. Reaching the top 20 on the Billboard 200 with a first-week sales of 34,000 copies, Anberlin proved they were a force to be reckoned with.
This success led to a major label deal with Universal Republic in 2007, and their subsequent album, New Surrender (2008), debuted at No. 13 on the Billboard 200. The single "Feel Good Drag" dominated the Alternative Songs chart for an impressive 29 weeks, claiming the coveted No. 1 spot.
By the time their fifth studio album, Dark Is the Way, Light Is a Place, hit shelves in 2010, Anberlin had already sold over 1 million albums, solidifying their position as one of the most successful and influential alternative rock bands of the 2000s.
With their signature blend of emotive lyrics, soaring melodies, and powerful instrumentation, Anberlin carved their own path in the rock scene, captivating fans worldwide and leaving an enduring legacy in the world of alternative music.
Founded in: 1987
Born out of the gritty underbelly of Aberdeen, Washington in 1987, Nirvana rose from the ashes of underground rock to become the voice of a generation. Fueled by the raw energy of Kurt Cobain's songwriting and the thunderous rhythm section of Krist Novoselic and Dave Grohl, they birthed a sound that would forever change the landscape of rock music.
Their early days were forged in the fiery crucible of the Seattle grunge scene. Their debut album, Bleach, released on Sub Pop in 1989, showcased their raw talent and distinct blend of quiet-loud dynamics, a trademark that would define their sound.
But it was the arrival of "Smells Like Teen Spirit" in 1991 that ignited a cultural wildfire. This anthem from their groundbreaking album Nevermind became a generational rallying cry, exploding onto the mainstream and ushering in the era of alternative rock. Nevermind became a diamond-certified phenomenon, dethroning the reigning hair metal scene and cementing Nirvana's legacy as the figureheads of Generation X.
Nirvana's music wasn't just catchy hooks and powerful riffs; it was a sonic manifestation of alienation, angst, and social commentary. Their raw, punk-infused aesthetic, combined with the emotional depth of Cobain's lyrics, resonated with a generation grappling with disillusionment and societal unrest.
Following the whirlwind success of Nevermind, Nirvana continued to push boundaries with their 1993 release, In Utero. This uncompromising album, lauded by critics, further solidified their artistic prowess and cemented their place as one of the most influential bands of all time.
Despite their tragically short lifespan, Nirvana's impact on music and culture remains undeniable. Their music continues to inspire and resonate with generations, proving that their grunge revolution wasn't just a moment, but a lasting force in the evolution of rock music.
Founded in: 2014
Paramore, the American rock band hailing from Franklin, Tennessee, burst onto the scene in 2004 with a raw energy that resonated with fans worldwide. Since 2017, the core of the band has been fronted by the powerhouse vocalist Hayley Williams, joined by lead guitarist Taylor York and drummer Zac Farro. While Williams and Farro are the original founders, York, a high school friend of the band, joined the fold in 2007. Williams stands as the only constant member across all six of Paramore's studio albums, cementing her role as the band's anchor.
Their journey began under the wing of Fueled by Ramen, a subsidiary of Atlantic Records (both owned by Warner Music Group). Interestingly, Williams' solo talent had caught the eye of Atlantic when she was a teenager, leading to a separate signing. However, she refused to leave her band, and Atlantic, in a rare move, allowed her to stay with Paramore, on the condition that the rest of the band signed to Fueled by Ramen.
Their debut album, All We Know Is Falling (2005), was a promising start, peaking at number 30 on Billboard's Heatseekers Chart in 2006 and reaching number four on the UK Rock Chart in 2009. But it was their second album, Riot! (2007), that catapulted Paramore into mainstream success. With hits like "Misery Business," "Crushcrushcrush," and "That's What You Get," the album solidified their status as a force to be reckoned with in the rock world.
Paramore's story is one of unwavering passion, raw talent, and a relentless drive to create music that connects with their fans on a deep emotional level. Their journey continues to inspire, proving that with perseverance and a shared vision, even a band facing challenges can achieve incredible heights.