Hailing from Eksjö, Sweden, Orbit Culture emerged in 2013 as a melodic death metal force. The current lineup features Niklas Karlsson on vocals and rhythm guitar, Richard Hansson on lead guitar, Fredrik Lennartsson on bass, and Christopher Wallerstedt on drums. The band`s history also includes former members Maximilian Zinsmeister (lead guitar), Christoffer Olsson (bass), and Markus Bladh (drums). Their discography boasts a formidable four studio albums and four EPs, showcasing their evolution within the genre.

Early Days (2013):

Orbit Culture`s genesis lies in the collaboration between vocalist/rhythm guitarist Niklas Karlsson and former guitarist Maximilian Zinsmeister. Meeting through mutual friends at age 17, they forged a partnership, establishing a rehearsal space in a repurposed power plant. Zinsmeister, concurrently a member of local act Abstract Noise, brought in drummer Markus Bladh, with bassist Christoffer Olsson joining the ranks later.

The Odyssey Begins (2013):

Quickly following their formation, Karlsson began composing material for their debut EP. Throughout the summer of 2013, the band immersed themselves in the recording, mixing, and production of their first songs. By August 2013, Odyssey was unleashed, marking the beginning of Orbit Culture`s journey.

Don Broco: A Rock n Roll Story from Bedford to Number One

Don Broco, the British rock band hailing from Bedford, England, exploded onto the scene in 2008. The quartet – Rob Damiani (lead vocals), Simon Delaney (guitar), Tom Doyle (bass and programming), and Matt Donnelly (drums, lead and backing vocals) – have since carved a significant path in the UK rock landscape.

Their journey began even before university, honing their skills at Bedford Modern School. While initial gigs laid the groundwork, it was after their time at Nottingham University that they solidified their commitment to becoming a band. Early iterations saw them cycle through names like "Summer Fall" and "Club Sex" before settling on "Don Loco," a moniker swiftly transformed to Don Broco following a football-related wrist injury to guitarist Simon Delaney.

Their meteoric rise began with a UK tour in November 2008, hitting cities like Leeds, Birmingham, Manchester, and more. Early festival appearances at Camden Crawl and Download Festival (2009) and supporting slots for Enter Shikari further amplified their presence. They also graced the stage at the Underage Festival in London`s Victoria Park in both 2009 and 2010, solidifying their reputation on the burgeoning UK music scene.

The bands hard work culminated in the release of four studio albums: *Priorities* (2012), *Automatic* (2015), *Technology* (2018), and their chart-topping *Amazing Things* (2021), which achieved the coveted No. 1 spot on the UK Album Charts – a testament to their enduring appeal and undeniable talent. Don Brocos story is a vibrant example of a band`s dedication transforming into mainstream success.

Hailing from Leeds, West Yorkshire, Static Dress exploded onto the UK rock scene in 2018. This quintet, currently comprised of vocalist Olli Appleyard, drummer Sam Ogden, bassist George Holding, guitarist Vincent Weight, and the enigmatic masked guitarist known only as Contrast, has quickly built a reputation for their intense and eclectic sound. Their journey began with a different lineup, featuring Appleyard (who previously honed his skills as a photographer and videographer for other bands), bassist Connor Reilly, and guitarist Tom Black, along with original drummer Sam Ogden. These members, some hailing from a previous band called Galleries, experimented with various styles, initially dabbling in hardcore punk before solidifying their distinctive sound. Although their early hardcore explorations remained unreleased, their trajectory was set. The band first grabbed attention with the release of their debut single, "Clean," on August 14th, 2019, complete with a striking music video directed by Appleyard and Ogden. Since then, they`ve unleashed a full-length studio album, three EPs, and a collection of powerful standalone singles, solidifying their place as a force to be reckoned with in the modern rock landscape.

Hailing from Liverpool, Loathe (sometimes stylized as LOATHE) are a heavy-hitting force in the modern metal scene. Formed in 2014, the quartet—vocalist Kadeem France, guitarist/vocalist Erik Bickerstaffe, drummer Sean Radcliffe, and bassist Feisal El-Khazragi—have quickly carved a unique niche. Signed to SharpTone Records, their sonic journey began with the 2015 EP Prepare Consume Proceed, re-released by SharpTone in 2016 as the label`s inaugural release.

Their ascent continued with the 2017 debut album The Cold Sun, followed by a collaborative split EP, This Is as One, with labelmates Holding Absence in 2018. The band solidified their status with their second full-length, I Let It In and It Took Everything (2020), and further expanded their sound with the entirely ambient The Things They Believe (2021), a fascinating companion piece to its predecessor.

Loathe defy easy categorization, blending the aggression of metalcore and nu-metal with experimental flourishes of shoegaze, progressive metal, and industrial influences. This unique sonic tapestry has garnered significant critical acclaim, earning them nominations for Best UK Breakthrough Band (Heavy Music Awards) and Best New Band (Metal Hammer Golden Gods Awards) in 2018. Their potential for mainstream success was further highlighted in a 2020 Revolver magazine poll where they were voted the third most likely contemporary band to break through.

Las VegasPalaye Royale: A Rockn` Roll Dynasty

Palaye Royale, the American rock band known for their theatrical style and dramatic sound, emerged from the Las Vegas scene in 2008. Initially formed as Kropp Circle by brothers Remington Leith (vocals), Sebastian Danzig (guitar/keyboards), and Emerson Barrett (drums), the trio honed their skills in their early years. Their youthful energy was evident even then, as their mother, following advice from Paul Weller of The Jam, supported their decision to leave school and pursue music full-time.

Kropp Circles early work showcased a softer, acoustic rock sound, culminating in the release of their four-track EP, *Who We Really Are*, in 2010. This release included the singles "Who We Really Are" and "Cant Stop the Rain," each accompanied by a music video. The band also gained early exposure through appearances on online platforms like Radio Disney`s N.B.T. (Next Big Thing) in 2009.

However, their sonic evolution was still underway. In 2011, a pivotal rebranding occurred with the adoption of the name Palaye Royale, a tribute to the Palais Royale dance hall in Toronto, where their grandparents met. This name change signaled a shift towards a more mature and distinct sound. Their debut single under the new moniker, "Morning Light," dropped in March 2012. Since then, signed to Sumerian Records, Palaye Royale has built an impressive discography, releasing five full-length albums and four EPs, solidifying their place as a force in modern rock.

Hailing from Bridgeport, Connecticut, Hatebreed emerged in 1994 as a powerhouse in the metalcore/hardcore scene. Their raw energy quickly gained them a dedicated following, starting with a self-released demo and a split 7" with Neglect. The critically acclaimed Under the Knife EP, initially slated for Big Wheel Recreation, saw self-release in 1996, fueling a tour across the East Coast and Midwest supporting UKHC act, Voorhees. 1997 marked a pivotal moment with the release of their debut full-length, Satisfaction Is the Death of Desire, on Victory Records. This album wasnt just a success—it became the best-selling debut in Victorys history, catapulting Hatebreed to cult status and solidifying their place within the American hardcore landscape. Their subsequent signing to Universal Records and the release of Perseverance in 2002, which cracked the Billboard 200, cemented their position as major players, blending hardcore intensity with heavy metal`s crushing power, and leaving an undeniable mark on the Connecticut hardcore scene.

Hailing from Blackpool, Lancashire, Boston Manor emerged onto the UK rock scene in March 2013. Initially self-releasing their debut EP, Here/Now, via Bandcamp`s Never Mend Records, the band quickly gained traction. Their subsequent signing with Failure By Design Records in 2014 for their Driftwood EP cemented their upward trajectory. A pivotal moment arrived in 2015 with their signing to Pure Noise Records, a partnership that yielded the Saudade EP and three critically acclaimed full-length albums: Be Nothing (2016), Welcome to the Neighbourhood (2018), and Glue (2020).

Boston Manor`s sound is a potent blend of emotive intensity and heavier, riff-driven textures, drawing comparisons to 90s grunge and early 2000s post-hardcore. This distinctive style earned them a Kerrang! Awards nomination for Best British Breakthrough in 2018, and Welcome to the Neighbourhood received a nod for Best Album Artwork at the Heavy Music Awards in 2019.

The bands Blackpool origins, as vocalist Henry Cox notes, presented unique challenges: "There isnt much of a music scene in Blackpool," he stated. "We had a little stab at reinvigorating it. When we were 16, 17, 18, we were playing shows with different bands." This early experience clearly fueled their determination and contributed to their eventual success.

SiM (Silence iz Mine), formed in Shonan, Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan in November 2004, are a genre-bending force in alternative metal. The band—MAH (vocals), SHOW-HATE (guitar), SIN (bass), and GODRi (drums)—masterfully blends heavy metal with alternative, hip-hop, ska, reggae, dub, and punk influences. Their aggressive sound is punctuated by rebellious, primarily English lyrics and a distinctly defiant attitude.

Since signing with Pony Canyon in 2022, SiM have achieved significant international recognition. Their single, "The Rumbling," the opening theme for Attack on Titan: The Final Season Part 2, topped the US Billboard Hot Hard Rock Songs chart, further solidifying their status. The track also placed impressively on other Billboard charts, including the Bubbling Under Hot 100 Singles (#5), Hard Rock Digital Song Sales (#2), and Hot Rock & Alternative Songs (#13). Their impact extends beyond just the charts; their music is a powerful statement, making SiM a major player in the global alternative metal scene.

The Jam, a hugely influential English rock band, exploded onto the scene in 1972, birthed in the Surrey town of Woking. The power trio—Paul Weller, Bruce Foxton, and Rick Buckler—dominated the UK charts, achieving an unprecedented run of 18 consecutive Top 40 singles from their 1977 debut until their split in December 1982. This phenomenal streak included four number one hits. Their impact remains undeniable: as of 2007, "Thats Entertainment" and "Just Who Is the 5 OClock Hero" held the record for best-selling imported singles in UK history. Their discography boasted six studio albums (including the number one hit The Gift) and one electrifying live album. Even after their breakup, the band`s enduring popularity saw their first fifteen singles re-enter the charts, all landing within the Top 100.

The Jams sound was a potent blend of influences, seamlessly weaving together 1960s beat music, soul, R&B, and the raw energy of 70s punk and new wave. Their melodic pop sensibility, sharp social commentary uniquely filtered through a distinctly English lens, and their iconic mod image created a captivating and enduring appeal. The band became a launchpad for Paul Weller, whose songwriting and lead guitar (typically on a Rickenbacker 330) drove much of their creative force. He would later achieve further success with The Style Council and a celebrated solo career. Bruce Foxton’s powerful basslines provided the rhythmic bedrock for many of their hits, including classics like "Down in the Tube Station at Midnight," "The Eton Rifles," "Going Underground," and "Town Called Malice."

History

Formation (1972–1976)

The Jams genesis can be traced back to Sheerwater Secondary School in Woking, Surrey, where the band formed in 1972.

Agnostic Front, a seminal New York City hardcore punk band, exploded onto the scene in 1980. Their influence on the NYC hardcore scene and pioneering role in crossover thrash is undeniable.

Early Years (1980-1992): A Story of Line-Up Shifts and Hardcore Fury

The original lineup, formed in 1980, featured Vinnie Stigma (lead guitar, formerly of the Eliminators), Diego (bass), Rob Krekus (drums, aka Robby Crypt Crash), and John Watson (vocals). Initially billed as Zoo Crew at their first show, a last-minute name change, courtesy of Stigma, solidified them as Agnostic Front. Early instability saw Raybeez (Ray Barbieri) taking over on drums and Adam Mucci joining on bass. Following Watsons arrest and the departure of James Kontra (who clashed with Capuccio over sticker distribution), a pivotal moment arrived. Stigma, impressed by Roger Mirets (ex-Psychos) slam dancing style, recruited him as vocalist without prior contact.

This lineup, solidified in 1983, unleashed their debut EP, United Blood. However, even before the official release, bassist Mucci exited, replaced by Todd Youth. Crucially, this early Agnostic Front was entirely composed of skinheads, a significant aspect of their identity and the burgeoning hardcore scene.

Johnny Thunders and Jerry Nolan, fresh off their tumultuous tenure with the New York Dolls, ignited the New York City punk scene in 1975 with the formation of the Heartbreakers. Often dubbed "Johnny Thunders` Heartbreakers," this seminal band spearheaded the first wave of punk rock, leaving an indelible mark on music history.

Their story begins with the Dolls implosion amidst creative tensions and poor sales. Thunders and Nolan, departing mid-Florida tour in March 1975, found themselves unexpectedly aligned with Richard Hell, whod just bailed on Television, citing its increasing pretentiousness. Hells desire for a raw, compelling rock & roll band perfectly complemented Thunders and Nolans vision.

The trio, christened the Heartbreakers, debuted at Queens Coventry club on May 30th, 1975 (note: a different band, Tom Pettys Heartbreakers, wouldnt start gigging until the following year). Adding guitarist Walter Lure (formerly of the glam-punk Demons) in July at CBGBs completed their explosive lineup.

The Heartbreakers rapidly ascended to underground New York royalty, commanding sold-out shows at iconic venues like CBGB, Mothers (across from the Chelsea Hotel), and Maxs Kansas City. Their raw energy and uncompromising sound cemented their place as pioneers of a genre that would soon take the world by storm.

Wire, the seminal British art-punk and post-punk band, exploded onto the London scene in October 1976. The original lineup—Colin Newman (vocals, guitar), Graham Lewis (bass, vocals), Bruce Gilbert (guitar), George Gill (guitar), and Robert Grey (drums)—quickly became associated with the punk rock movement, notably appearing on the The Roxy London WC2 compilation album. Their debut, Pink Flag (1977), a landmark achievement often cited as one of the most original punk debuts, defied categorization, blending minimalist punk with unconventional song structures. Tracks like the 28-second "Field Day for the Sundays" showcased their experimental approach. Though initially heavily influenced by Gills songwriting, the bands trajectory shifted after Gills injury in February 1977, leading to a departure from much of his material (though many early Gill compositions later surfaced on demos and compilations). *Pink Flag*s influence on hardcore punk was undeniable.

Wire`s evolution continued, moving beyond their early noise-rock sound. Albums like Chairs Missing (1978) and 154 (1979) showcased a more complex and structured sound, incorporating extensive guitar effects and synthesizers. This experimentation with song arrangements and sonic textures became a hallmark of their career, solidifying their status as highly influential innovators within the art-punk and post-punk genres, known for their richly detailed, atmospheric soundscapes and enigmatic lyrical themes.