Time for Rock...
Time for Rock...
Founded in: 1991
AFI (an acronym for A Fire Inside), hailing from Ukiah, California, emerged onto the music scene in 1991. Since 1998, the band's core has remained a constant, featuring Davey Havok (vocals), Adam Carson (drums, backing vocals), Hunter Burgan (bass, backing vocals, keyboards), and Jade Puget (guitar, backing vocals, keyboards). Havok and Carson, the original members, have steered the band's evolution through diverse sonic territories.
Starting their journey in the raw energy of hardcore punk, AFI embraced the darkness of horror punk. They ventured further, exploring the complexities of post-hardcore and emo, eventually establishing themselves as a force within alternative rock and gothic rock.
Over their illustrious career, AFI has cultivated a discography that includes eleven studio albums, ten EPs, a live album, and a DVD. Their breakthrough came with their fifth album, The Art of Drowning, released in 2000. This album, while reaching a respectable position at number 174 on the Billboard 200, set the stage for their mainstream success.
Their sixth album, Sing the Sorrow (2003), catapulted them to new heights, peaking at number five on the Billboard 200 and holding a remarkable chart presence for 51 weeks. This album was fueled by popular singles like "Girl's Not Grey" and "Silver and Cold," both reaching number seven on the Hot Modern Rock Tracks chart in 2003. "The Leaving Song Pt. II" also saw success as a single, reaching number 16 on the chart.
Sing the Sorrow achieved Platinum certification from the RIAA in 2006 and remains their best-selling album, exceeding 1.26 million copies sold as of September 2009.
AFI, a band that constantly pushes musical boundaries, has cemented their legacy through their relentless pursuit of artistic expression and enduring connection with fans across multiple generations.
Founded in: 1996
Queens of the Stone Age, often shortened to QOTSA, is a rock band born from the ashes of the legendary Kyuss. This American hard rock outfit emerged in Seattle, Washington in 1996, spearheaded by the visionary guitarist and vocalist Josh Homme. Homme, the band's constant through multiple line-up changes, has crafted a unique sound that blends influences from blues, Krautrock, and even electronica.
Their signature sound, however, is a heavy, riff-driven style that emphasizes powerful rhythms and Homme's distinctive falsetto vocals. Throw in some unorthodox guitar scales and you have a recipe for rock n' roll magic.
QOTSA's roots run deep in the Palm Desert music scene. Their self-titled debut album, recorded with former Kyuss member Alfredo Hernández on drums, saw Homme handle all other instruments. The subsequent tour brought in bassist Nick Oliveri, who became a co-lead vocalist alongside Homme, adding another layer to their already potent sound.
The band's second album, "Rated R," marked a turning point. With guest vocals from the legendary Mark Lanegan, it was their major label debut, released on Interscope Records. The album's critical and commercial success solidified their status as a force to be reckoned with. Their breakout single, "The Lost Art of Keeping a Secret," cemented their position as a household name in the rock world.
While the band's line-up has shifted over the years, their core sound remains, driven by Homme's creative genius. Today, the band features a tight-knit group: Troy Van Leeuwen (guitar, lap steel, keyboards), Michael Shuman (bass, keyboards), Dean Fertita (keyboards, guitar), and Jon Theodore (drums). Their sound, however, is more than just the sum of its parts. It's a testament to the relentless pursuit of sonic perfection that has kept Queens of the Stone Age at the forefront of rock music for over two decades.
Founded in: 2018
The Linda Lindas, hailing from the vibrant music scene of Los Angeles, are an all-female punk rock band making waves with their energetic performances and sharp lyrics. The quartet is comprised of Bela Salazar (guitar), Eloise Wong (bass), and sisters Lucia and Mila de la Garza (drums and vocals, respectively).
Their story began in 2018, inspired by the Japanese film "Linda Linda Linda," a fitting name for a group known for their playful spirit and unapologetic energy. After a chance encounter with director Amy Poehler, they were tapped to record the soundtrack for her film "Moxie," catapulting them into the spotlight.
The year 2021 saw the release of their viral single "Racist, Sexist Boy," a powerful anthem that garnered widespread attention and critical acclaim. This success led to a signing with Epitaph Records, one of the most respected independent labels in the world.
In 2022, the band released their debut album, "Growing Up," to rave reviews. The album showcases their raw talent and maturity, blending elements of punk, pop, and alternative rock. The Linda Lindas are not just a band – they're a movement, proving that punk rock is alive and thriving, with a fresh, feminist perspective at its core.
The band's formation is a testament to the power of shared passion and community. It all started with Eloise Wong, whose father, Martin Wong, was approached to have her perform with a group of aspiring young musicians. Martin suggested his nieces, Lucia and Mila de la Garza, who had been singing and dancing together since childhood.
The group, spearheaded by Kristin Kontrol, started practicing, but it was clear they needed someone who could play an instrument. Eloise's parents reached out to their family friend Bela Salazar, who was learning guitar, and the rest, as they say, is history. The Linda Lindas, a group of friends bonded by music, were officially formed.
The band's journey is a testament to the power of community, shared passion, and a whole lot of talent. With their infectious energy and powerful message, The Linda Lindas are a force to be reckoned with, inspiring a new generation of musicians and listeners alike.
Founded in: 2004
Band of Horses, hailing from the vibrant music scene of Seattle, Washington, emerged in 2004. Spearheaded by the soulful songwriting of Ben Bridwell, the band has weathered numerous lineup changes, but Bridwell's presence remains a constant, anchoring their signature sound.
The current lineup features a solid core of veterans: Creighton Barrett on drums, a powerhouse behind the kit, and Ryan Monroe, who brings versatility to the mix with keyboards, guitar, and backing vocals. Rounding out the band are Matt Gentling on bass and backing vocals, and Brett Nash, adding another layer of guitar and harmonies.
For a decade, the band enjoyed a remarkably stable lineup with guitarist Tyler Ramsey and bassist Bill Reynolds, who left in 2017 after a long and successful period together. Their contributions are woven into the fabric of the band's early albums, including the critically acclaimed Cease to Begin (2007).
Throughout their career, Band of Horses has released six studio albums, each offering a distinct sonic tapestry: Everything All the Time (2006), Cease to Begin, Infinite Arms (2010), Mirage Rock (2012), Why Are You OK (2016), and Things Are Great (2022). Infinite Arms earned the band a Grammy nomination in 2011, further solidifying their place in the rock landscape.
The Early Days:
Band of Horses, originally known simply as "Horses," formed in 2004 after the breakup of Bridwell's previous band, Carissa's Wierd. The original lineup included Chris Early on bass, Tim Meinig on drums, and Mat Brooke, another Carissa's Wierd alum, on guitar and vocals.
Their early gigs caught the attention of Sub Pop Records after opening for Iron & Wine in Seattle. This led to the release of their Tour EP in 2005, generating buzz among fans and industry insiders alike.
Their debut album, Everything All the Time, recorded with producer Phil Ek in 2005, marked their official entry into the music scene. The album showcased the band's raw energy and distinctive blend of Americana and indie rock, and was released by Sub Pop in March 2006.
The band's journey since then has been a compelling mix of lineup changes, critical acclaim, and enduring musicality. Band of Horses remains a vital force in the world of rock, leaving an indelible mark on the Seattle sound and beyond.
Founded in: 2001
Arcade Fire, hailing from Montreal, Quebec, is a Canadian indie rock band that's become synonymous with anthemic, emotionally charged music. Led by the dynamic duo of husband and wife Win Butler and Régine Chassagne, they've assembled a formidable lineup, including Richard Reed Parry, Tim Kingsbury, and Jeremy Gara, who form the band's core. Their live shows are legendary, often featuring the talents of former member Sarah Neufeld and multi-instrumentalists Paul Beaubrun and Dan Boeckner, adding layers of sonic depth and dynamic energy.
The band's musical journey is characterized by collaboration and a shared passion for pushing boundaries. They've consistently worked with acclaimed composer and violinist Owen Pallett, whose string arrangements add a touch of classical grandeur to their sound.
Arcade Fire emerged onto the scene in 2004 with their debut album, "Funeral," a critically acclaimed masterpiece that propelled them to international fame. It established their signature sound - a rich tapestry of soaring melodies, driving rhythms, and introspective lyrics that explore themes of love, loss, and the search for meaning in a complex world.
Their subsequent albums, "Neon Bible" (2007), "The Suburbs" (2010), "Reflektor" (2013), "Everything Now" (2017), and "WE" (2022) have further solidified their status as one of the most important and influential bands of the 21st century. They've consistently garnered critical acclaim, winning numerous awards, including a Grammy for Album of the Year for "The Suburbs," and have become a global phenomenon, captivating audiences with their energetic live performances and profound musical explorations.
Arcade Fire's music is a powerful testament to the power of music to connect us and inspire us. They offer a sonic tapestry of emotions, creating a soundtrack that reflects the joys, anxieties, and complexities of the human experience.
Founded in: 1983
Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds, one of the most influential and acclaimed acts to emerge from the post-punk and alternative rock scenes of the 80s, are a testament to the power of musical collaboration and artistic evolution. Born from the ashes of the legendary Birthday Party, the band's journey has seen them embrace a diverse array of influences, pushing boundaries and captivating audiences with their raw and often haunting soundscapes.
A Legacy of Change and Collaboration:
The story of Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds begins in 1983, when the band's core members, Nick Cave (vocals) and Mick Harvey (multi-instrumentalist), decided to forge a new path following the breakup of their previous group, the Birthday Party. This new venture brought together a constellation of musicians from around the world, including guitarist-vocalist Blixa Bargeld. Over the decades, the band's lineup has remained fluid, reflecting Cave's constant desire to explore and collaborate with new artists. Today, the band boasts a dynamic lineup featuring Warren Ellis (violin, multi-instrumentalist), Martyn P. Casey (bass), George Vjestica (guitar), Larry Mullins (keyboards, percussion), Thomas Wydler (drums) and Jim Sclavunos (drums).
From Post-Punk to Global Sounds:
The band's early work, heavily influenced by post-punk, blues, and gothic rock, is evident in their debut album, "From Her to Eternity" (1984). This early period saw the band experiment with a range of sounds, drawing inspiration from diverse sources and incorporating artists like Blixa Bargeld, Barry Adamson, and Kid Congo Powers. As the band matured, they gradually softened their sound, incorporating elements of rock, folk, and even electronica. Albums like "The Good Son" (1990) and "The Boatman's Call" (1997) marked this shift, showcasing a more nuanced and introspective side to the band's musical palette.
The Departure of Harvey and a New Chapter:
Harvey's departure in 2009 marked a turning point for the band, prompting a further exploration of electronic and ambient styles. This exploration culminated in the "Push the Sky Away" (2013), "Skeleton Tree" (2016), and "Ghosteen" (2019) trilogy, which showcased a more experimental and expansive sonic landscape.
A Legacy of Darkness and Passion:
Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds have, over their remarkable career, released eighteen studio albums and toured extensively, captivating audiences worldwide with their unique blend of darkness, passion, and musical virtuosity. Their music has become a soundtrack for many, exploring themes of love, loss, faith, and the human condition. The band's enduring legacy lies in their ability to continuously reinvent themselves while retaining a core sense of authenticity and artistic integrity.
Beyond the Band:
Beyond their musical accomplishments, the band's individual members have also embarked on successful solo careers, further solidifying their place as influential figures in the contemporary music scene.
The story of Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds is far from over. As they continue to push the boundaries of their artistry, their music continues to resonate with listeners, reminding us of the power of music to transcend time, space, and even death itself.
Founded in: 2008
The Lumineers are a Colorado-bred band that exploded onto the folk-rock scene in the 2010s. This Americana outfit, formed by the dynamic duo of Wesley Schultz (lead vocals, guitar) and Jeremiah Fraites (drums, percussion, piano), started their journey in Ramsey, New Jersey, back in 2005. Their unique blend of folk and rock quickly captured the hearts of fans worldwide.
The core of The Lumineers' sound, however, was solidified with the addition of cellist and vocalist Neyla Pekarek in 2010. The band's dynamic trio helped them create a sound that was both raw and heartfelt, paving the way for their breakthrough success. While Pekarek left the band in 2018, her impact on their music remains undeniable.
The Lumineers are known for their energetic live shows, drawing massive crowds with their infectious music and heartfelt performances. Their anthemic hits like "Ho Hey," "Stubborn Love," "Ophelia," "Angela," and "Cleopatra" have become staples on radio stations and playlists across the globe, cementing their status as one of the most popular folk-rock bands in the world.
The band has released four albums, all under the banner of the American independent label Dualtone Records. Their self-titled debut album, released in 2012, topped the charts, reaching number two on the Billboard 200.
The Lumineers are more than just a band - they're a musical phenomenon. Their unique blend of folk and rock, coupled with their captivating live performances, has made them one of the most successful touring bands in the United States and beyond, leaving a lasting impact on the music scene.
Founded in: 2016
Måneskin, hailing from the vibrant streets of Rome, burst onto the music scene in 2016. This dynamic quartet, comprised of lead vocalist Damiano David, bassist Victoria De Angelis, guitarist Thomas Raggi, and drummer Ethan Torchio, quickly made a name for themselves.
Their early days saw them honing their craft through energetic busking performances, a testament to their raw talent and passion. A pivotal moment arrived in 2017 when they finished as runners-up on the eleventh season of the Italian "X Factor," catapulting them into the national spotlight.
However, their international breakthrough came in 2021 when they triumphed at the Eurovision Song Contest with their electrifying performance of "Zitti e buoni," a song that resonated across Europe and beyond.
Since then, Måneskin has dominated the music world, releasing three studio albums: the fiery "Il ballo della vita" (2018), the powerful "Teatro d'ira: Vol. I" (2021), and the dynamic "Rush!" (2023). Their captivating music, coupled with their compelling stage presence, has resulted in 34 platinum and seven gold certifications from FIMI, signifying their immense popularity in Italy. Before their Eurovision win, they had already sold over a million records in their home country, with their biggest hit being "Torna a casa."
Måneskin's global success continued, shattering barriers as they became the first Italian rock band to enter the UK Singles Chart Top 10 with "Zitti e buoni," "I Wanna Be Your Slave," and a captivating rendition of "Beggin'," originally by The Four Seasons. They also climbed the Billboard Global Excl. US chart, cementing their status as a force to be reckoned with in the international music landscape.
Måneskin's story is a compelling one, proving that raw talent, relentless passion, and a touch of rock 'n' roll magic can truly propel a band to the top of the world.
Founded in: 2013
Hello Nico is a Taiwanese indie rock band formed in 2013. The members are Zhan Yuting, Li Yong'en, Chen Xinbo, and Guan Huizhong. They were nominated for Best New Artist at the 27th Golden Melody Awards in 2016.
== Introduction == Lead vocalist Zhan Yuting was born on September 11, 1989. In 2009, he won first place in the 21st Golden Melody Awards' Duet category, second place in the Composition category, and first place in the Duet category. In 2010, he won first place in the Composition category and Best Composer Award at the National Chengchi University Golden Melody Awards. His song "Left-Handed" was selected for the StreetVoice Winter Selection in 2011.
Hello Nico made their debut at the Gongliao International Ocean Music Festival in 2013 and began performing at various live houses. They continued to accumulate works and performance experience. In the same year, they were selected for "2013 The Next Big Thing," a domestic landmark event for emerging bands. At the end of the year, they were selected as one of the "Top 10 New Bands" in Taiwan and were widely praised as one of the most promising new bands in the country. At the end of 2013, they signed with the independent music label "Black Market Music." In August 2014, they released their first five-song EP "Floating City." The EP's focus track, "Flower," became the number one song of the year on the StreetVoice chart with over 120,000 plays. The single "Our Misery Circus," a collaboration with renowned poet Xia Yu, was selected as one of the top ten best-selling singles of the year on the Taiwanese digital music sales platform "iNDIEVOX." With "Floating City," Hello Nico won two awards at the eighth Freshmusic Awards in Singapore: "Best EP of the Year" and "Top Ten Singles of the Year" ("Our Misery Circus").
In January 2015, Hello Nico released songs from their debut album "Familiar Desolation" on online platforms. Many singles topped the StreetVoice charts for multiple weeks. On February 16, they released the album exclusively on the digital sales platform iNDIEVOX and made all 11 songs available for early listening on StreetVoice.
The album "Familiar Desolation" became the top seller on iNDIEVOX for several weeks. Many of the album's songs topped the various radio charts, and the album's total plays on StreetVoice exceeded 900,000. In the StreetVoice annual song play chart statistics for 2015, Hello Nico occupied four of the top ten spots for the most played songs.
Founded in: 2012
MIXER (English: Mixer) is a Taiwanese band consisting of five members: vocalist Wu Shenghao, acoustic guitarist Lin Zhean (formerly known as Lin Zian), electric guitarist Xiao B Yu Boxi, bassist Zhang Yinuo, and drummer Lu Yifan. MIXER's exhilarating music style, paired with poetic and psychedelic lyrics, combined with the vocalist's unique voice and powerful stage presence, has quickly gained attention. The band first received a nomination for Best Band at the 25th Golden Melody Awards for their album "Circus Movement," and ultimately won the award.
Several members of MIXER started playing music together in school. They formed different bands and participated in school music competitions across Taiwan, winning numerous awards. Zhean and Shenghao were then scouted by a record company and released their first EP as a duo, "Zian Shenghao" in 2011. To enrich their performance styles, they later recruited Yinuo and Xiao B to join their live performances. Finally, they added drummer Yifan in October 2012 and officially formed the band, adopting the name "MIXER." In June 2013, they released their debut album "Circus Movement." In 2016, their album "Nameless Humans" was nominated for Best Band at the 27th Golden Melody Awards. In October of the same year, they released their third album "Wild." In 2016, they were named the fourth-best independent band in Taiwan by the website "Network Thermometer." On December 29, 2018, they held their first large-scale ticketed concert at the National Taiwan University Gymnasium. On October 8, 2020, they released their fourth album "Animal of Love," and held a nationwide tour at the end of the year.
On October 17, 2023 (their debut anniversary), MIXER released their fifth digital album "It's All Romance's Fault" and followed with a physical release in November. They also embarked on a multi-city tour. The album was nominated for Best Band at the 35th Golden Melody Awards.
Founded in: 1998
Won Fu (English band name: Won Fu) is a Taiwanese band with four members. Officially formed in October 1998, the band's name came from member Twiggy and his friend's name for a dog at school. They have participated in many large-scale music events such as Spring Scream, Wild Stage, Gongliao Ocean Music Festival, and performed at live houses such as Taipei Vibe, Underground Society, Riverside Message, and Saint Realm. They are unique for their childish innocence, simple humor and unique creativity. They gradually gained recognition after participating in Rolling Stone's "Half-Adult Collection". They currently belong to Won Fu Love You Co., Ltd. Won Fu won the Jury Award at the 2002 Ocean Music Festival and was nominated for Best Band at the 16th, 17th, 19th, 27th and 30th Golden Melody Awards. They were nominated for Best Band at the 13th Golden Melody Awards and won.
== Members ==
=== Current Members ===
=== Former Members ===
== Music Works ==
=== Albums === 2003: Same Name, Same Surname Album 2004: Won Fu 2005: Won Fu Chronicle 2007: Youth Dance Music (Chinese Version / Japanese Version) 2008: The Wonderful World of Wonfu (Japanese Version Compilation) 2009: Won Fu Love You (Chinese Version / Japanese Version) 2010: Flying Towards You, Flying Towards Me 2013: Won De Fu (Chinese Version / Japanese Version) 2015: Dad, I Want to Be a Singer (Chinese Version / Japanese Version) 2018: Won Love Song (Chinese Version) 2021: Hello Me, Hello You, Hello Everyone (Chinese Version)
=== Singles === 2001: Little Sheep Going to Market included in Young Patriot (Angle Head Records) 2002: Shinkansen included in Red Voice Rock Vol. 5 (Sony Music) / Half-Adult Statement (Rolling Stone Records) 2003: When I Was Little, I Went to Spin included in Ocean Award Band Compilation (Angle Head Records) 2003: Rudolph's Revenge 2004: ByeBye X'mas 2007: Kiss, Clear Heart, Have a Good Year (Council for Cultural Affairs '2007 Clear Heart Have a Good Year') 2008: Love ING 2008 (7-11 OPEN Little General Compilation) 2011: Gentle Little Certainty (Kao Depend Gentle Declaration Commercial Song) 2011: Little Bit of Gentleness (Kao Depend Gentle Declaration Commercial Song) 2012: Backpacker 2014: Wang Wang Call 2014: Have some Fun 2016: Let's Party (LihPao Land 2016 Annual Spokesperson Theme Song Commercial Song) 2017: Ah Niang Ha Xi Yao 2018: Rough Level Give Power (Uni-President Sunshine Brown Rice Milk Spokesperson Theme Song) 2019: Half Each (The Making of a Normal Woman Theme Song) 2021: This World Record - Brave Version 2021: Pearl Taro Balls 2021: Sayonara Sayonara (The Making of a Normal Woman 2 Theme Song)
== Film Works ==
=== Films ===
== Award Records ==
== Publications == Won Fu (Softcover Publishing Co., Ltd., 2003) ISBN: 9789578034365 Letter to My Daughter: Rock Dad Loves You One Trillion Years (City State Culture Publishing: Family Media City State Branch Publishing, 2015 City State Culture Publishing: 2015) ISBN: 9789863061946
== Personal Life == On July 16, 2013, after the filming of the Love You One Trillion Years MV was completed, lead singer Xiao Min proposed to bassist Tui Ji, who is also in the band. They registered their marriage on December 25, 2013, and held a wedding ceremony and reception on June 11, 2014. Bandmates Du Pi and MAMI served as best man and maid of honor. On July 12, 2014, Won Fu announced a "six-month graduation" to allow Xiao Min and Tui Ji to prepare for parenthood, while MAMI studied abroad in France. On January 16, 2015, Xiao Min and Tui Ji welcomed their daughter, Duo An. MAMI returned to Taiwan.
Founded in: 2004
Queen Sea Big Shark (English: Queen Sea Big Shark, abbreviated as Hou Sha) is a rock band from Beijing, formed in late 2004 and debuted in 2005.