Seizure, Precious Seizure

Seizure, Precious Seizure is the best experimental/indie/Christian band I know. Unfortunately, there is only one very talented band member, which will be resolved soon. Also, they haven't published any music quite yet. But I have a feeling they will soon. Enjoy.

The Used

The Used are a punk-emo band much like MCR. In fact, people think they are like twin bands. Which means more fun for me!!! They sing mostly of tortured teenage souls locked inside the confines of their own mind. Whatever, fav songs: "Take it Away," "Listening," and "Sound Effects and Overdramatics." Enjoy.

Foo Fighters

Foo Fighters are one of the coolest punk rock bands in mainstream rock. I love their hits like "Best of You," and "DOA," and also their big hit album "In Your Honor." Those are my fav songs, so I don't need to repeat them. But one of the things I love the most of these guys, is actually their name(very original, and funny). But whatever. Sorry, but the only Foo Fighters songs on Purevolume are acoustic. Enjoy.

Bear Vs Shark

Marc, Derek, Ashley, John, and Mike = Bear Vs Shark, a post-hardcore indie rock band from the upper confines of Michigan. Having only put out two albums that didn't quite recieve the honest attention they really deserved, these guys decided to call it quits late last year. But that isn't gonna stop me from liking em. For fans of melodic slowcore, experimental punk, and some indie rock like Fugazi.

(Hey, you wanted shorter posts...you got shorter posts. Happy, Ricky?)

Recommended listens: "5, 6 Kids" and "Buses/No Buses"

Anberlin

Hailing from sunny Orlando and playing emotional (dare I say emo) pop-rock, Anberlin are considered veterans in the scene even though they've only released two albums, both of which were extremely well-selling. At first, Stephen Christian's voice doesn't seem fitting for a rock band, but a few listens (especially on tracks "Glass to the Arson" and "Paperthin Hymn") and you should be convinced that it does indeed work, and to amazing proportions. While drawing comparisons to other secular acts like Fall Out Boy, these guys know how to keep their faith in a good perspective, even through their catchy hooks and sometimes dark-sounding lyrics.

Recommended listens: "Glass to the Arson" and "Never Take Friendship Personal"

Amanda might be snoozing, but they're one of my favorite Christian bands ever, so what the heck?

Black Sabbath

Black Sabbath is, in my opinion, the best heavy metal band of all time. Their songs such as "Paranoid," "Heaven and Hell," and of course, my all time fav, "Iron Man," are still very popular today. But those three are just MY favorite songs. These guys have numerous hits that I can't even count. You people might like 'em.

Breaking Benjamin

Breaking Benjamin is an alternative-hard rock band, though they try to be metal. Either way, I like the results. They have the potential to be huge, now they just need a big record company to sign them. Thankfully, for me and them, they just did do that. They got signed to Hollywood Records. But anyway, my favorite songs are "Forget it," "Breakdown," and "Blow Me Away." Enjoy yourself.

Weezer

Weezer is my favorite indie band of all time. With huge hits like "Beverly Hills," and "Perfect Situation," it's hard not to love 'em. When I first heard "Beverly Hills" I just kept listening to it over, and over, and over again. In fact, I'm listening to it right now! Haha. Anyway, my fav songs are "Beverly Hills," "Perfect Situation," and "We are All On Drugs." "Beverly Hills, that's where I want to be!"

Starflyer 59

"For Starflyer 59, longevity and quality go hand-in-hand. Since 1993, Californias finest shoegazers have been churning out lush masterpieces that seem to only improve with time. From albums like Gold (1995) to I Am The Portuguese Blues (2004), the group has remained not only captivating but increasingly innovative as well. Jason Martin's haunting vocal display perfectly accompanies the atmospheric mood set by the dreamy guitar lines, creating a sort of glimmering magic that could only come from one of Tooth & Nail's most gifted."
>From their purevolume

By far one of my absolute fave indie/soft rock bands ever. I love em so much I've been creating avatars, signature banners, and various animations in tribute. I want this band to last FOREVER.

Recommended listens: "A Lists Go On" and "Good Sons"

Lights for Nero

As a jazz-violence (think ska, with random bursts of screaming, flailing guitar, and adrenaline-pumping horn sections) band, not much is known about Lights for Nero. The members, the website, the lyrics - all unknown. But what I can say is this: THEIR MUSIC DESTROYS, TOTALLY. Oh, and by the way, they're Christian.

However, it is known that are in fact broken up as of February 2005, with the members splitting up to pursue their dreams, which include to starting new bands to being a truck driver.

Plus I can't find a photo of them anywhere. But please give them a listen, especially if you like random bursts of screaming, flailing guitar, and adrenaline-pumping horn sections.

Recommended listen: "The Hag vs. the Night of a Thousand Heists"

Story of the Year

Story of the Year is the very very first band I ever got in to. I mean it('cause I started to like music very late!). But then I got into a bunch of other bands. This St. Louis band is a mix of punk, emo, screamo, and metal. I like 'em. I'm gonna keep the message short and to the point. My favorite songs: "And the Hero Will Drown," "Anthem of Our Dying Day," and "Falling Down." Have fun.

xDeath Starx

I think it's about time I post something since Ricky and Matt are taking over my blog. So now I bring you xDeath Starx. This is a straight edge (if you couldn't tell by the x's) hardcore band from our very own Redlands, CA. This eight-piece knows how to make 4 singers work. This band does not at all sound messy, or dis-orienting, but well-put-together. So, if you would please, have a listen by clicking on the title.



*Sorry Shannon, they're not tattoo-free, but they are Christian!

The Chemical Brothers

Ok i no nothing bout these guys sept theyre one of my brothers favorite group thingys. Brothers get it, ya they have some songs like: Come wiht us, It began with Afrika, Believe, the test, Shake break Bounce, and Hey boy hey girl. I actually no that one 2!
Ya if you want you can check em out but i have no idea where.
This is like my favorite color.

The Black Eyed Peas

The Black Eyed Peas are my favorite rap group, and almost favorite rappers. What sucks is that they broke up! Oh well. What they do well is mix hip-hop/rap with funk, making an awesome combination. With catchy songs like "Don't Phunk with My Heart," "Don't Lie," "Pump It," and of course my favorite, "They Don't Want Music," I really wish they weren't breaking up!! But I'll get over it. Get back together!!

mewithoutYou

mewithoutYou: A band that to this very moment when mentioned melts my heart with ever-burning passion and admiration. The Christian indie scene, though very small and lesser-known, as well as the secular experimental scene, shall never be the same when this five-man art-rock ensemble hailing from the rundown streets of Philadelphia released some of the boldest, most adrenaline-pumping music to grace the human ear. Not only will you immediately begin jamming when you first hear frontman Aaron Weiss's voice, but you will also feel the passion that so deeply runs in his lyrics, which are fresh, poetic, and honest at the same time. Add to that the amazingly-produced sound and the extraordinary guitar and bass work, and you're listening to the most dynamic and innovately artistic band around.

Recommended listens: "January 1979" and "Bullet to Binary"

Gorillaz

Meet the Gorillaz, the world's 1st animated band. These guys are funny to listen to and watch, and I can't believe they have the ability to go on tour! The cool thing about them is how Blur frontman David Albarn, artist Jamie Hewlitt, and their pals link hip-hop and arty pop for a crossover success that handily ignores genre lines while winning over millions of fans. This is without doubt, one of the coolest and most original bands ever. Favorite songs: "Feel Good Inc.," "Dare," and "Clint Eastwood." Enjoy.

Youth Group

"Youth Group are at the forefront of an exciting new era in Australian alternative/indie music. They have the pop of The Posies, the articulate desire of Death Cab for Cutie, the rock of The Pixies, and the angst of Bright Eyes. Singer/guitarist/songwriter Toby Martin formed the group with drummer Danny Allen in Sydney, Australia and despite several line-up changes since, these two remain at the band's core. After quickly gaining a strong live following the band signed to local independent label Ivy League Records (the same people who manage The Vines and Jet) and released their debut album in May 2001."
>From Ivy League Records

"Dark and melancholic, singer/guitarist Toby Martin has a voice that is undeniably pure and potent. With each song he guides us across varied landscapes of pop, folk and indie rock terrain. From the haunting single "Shadowland" to live favorites "See-Saw" and "Piece of Wood," Skeleton Jar is truly an eclectic feast."
>From the band's purevolume

Beautiful, melodious, enchanting, absorbing, soothing, astounding - I could think of many other words to describe this band, but instead I will sum them up in just one word: YES. "Shadowland" is sure to pull you in and carry you through some of the most honest musicianship since the Beatles.

Recommended listens: "Shadowland" and "Skeleton Jar"

U2

U2 is one of the best, most award winning band of all time. This is read from the iTunes review for How to Dismantle an Atomic Bomb:

"How to Dismantle an Atomic Bomb, much like the previous All that You Left Behind, features trademark U2 moves delivered with their sonically commanding depth and unashamed emotional rage. "Vertigo" opens the album with a stark, yet full bodied blast. "Sometimes You Can't Make It on Your Own," "Crumbs from Your Table," and "Yahweh" yearn with spiritual concerns that no amount of material success seems to satisfy."

Exactly. Favorite songs: "Vertigo," "Sometimes You Can't Make it On Your Own," "Love and Peace or Else," and "All Because of You." Enjoy.

Sufjan Stevens

You may have heard of him, but it's more likely that isn't true. Well, allow me to introduce my fave singer-songwriters of the past decade - Sufjan Stevens. Alternative/indie acoustic folk-pop is this guy's forte, and trust me: it is absolutely breathtaking. Multiple instruments are used, from a kazoo to an oboe to even a vibraphone, crafting what critics are calling the best album of 2005 (Illinois). Stevens writes passionate, heartfelt songs with personal - and even some spiritual - meaning. Not everyone can get into him, but you cannot diss this man's extraordinary talent.

I apologize if offend anyone with my unusual taste in music. Oops, wait...I already have. *rolls eyes*

Recommended listens: "The Fifty States Song" and "The Lord God Bird"

Blink-182

Blink-182 is one of my favorite bands, just cause their music bears close resemblence to Green Day. The Southern California trio has virtually perfected a sub-genre of music that supports goofy songs, teenage angst, and loud catchy guitar riffs. They may not have the legendary aura of The Ramones, but they're arguably just as entertaining. Favorite Songs:"I Miss You," "All the Small Things," and "Dammit." Enjoy.

Fall Out Boy

Fall Out Boy is like the 2nd most popular band right now(behind Coldplay). Their really popular album, "From Under the Cork Tree," is up there really high on the charts. Fall Out Boy were fast favorites on the online social network(MySpace, PureVolume etc.), and their almost endless tour solidified their rep. I don't have much to say, and I know you guys don't like reading long messages, so I'll just give you my fav songs and the link you need and then I'll be done. Favorite songs:"Dance, Dance," and "Sugar, We're Goin' Down." There you go.

System of a Down

Adjectives such as "ambitious," "jagged," and "startling," have always defined System of a Down. There isn't all that much to say about these guys. Besides the fact that their music and lyrics scare the crap out of me whenever I hear it. These guys just released two albums that are all one story. They're called Mezmerize/Hypnotize. They're both really good. My favorite songs by them are "B.Y.O.B," "Shimmy," "Hypnotize," and "Chop Suey!" They're creepy, but talented.

Minus the Bear

From their record label's site:

"When asked, the boys of Minus the Bear reflect on their name as an inside joke. Famous for their unusual way with words — the band boasts song titles like "Lemurs, Man, Lemurs" and "Thanks for the Killer Game of Crisco Twister" — Minus the Bear is a more than appropriate moniker for a group that intertwines plunky bass and metal guitar licks over a backdrop of arithmetic beats and keyboards.

The band's newest release, the appropriately titled Menos el Oso (Minus the Bear, in Spainish), offers a slew of interesting tunes. The offspring of several successful Northwest acts (Kill Sadie, Botch and Sharks Keep Moving), Minus the Bear marks the return of the Seattle super-group. With Jake Snider spouting vocals, David Knudson on guitar, Erin Tate keeping beat, Corey Murchy on bass, and Matt Bayles mastering electronics, Minus the Bear's Menos el Oso is a fast-paced riot of an album that spans eleven energetic tracks with material that will satisfy new and old fans alike."

Minus the Bear basically play indie party-rock and infuse electronic beats, soft ambience, minor key tonality, and melodic songwriting. In short, they are simply not to be missed.

The Killers

The Killers are one of the coolest Alternative Pop-Rock bands currently in mainstream rock. Ditched by his synth-pop group "Blush Response," singer/keyboardist Brandon Flowers teamed up with guitarist David Keuning in the Las Vegas sun and within a week had penned "Mr. Brightside," the band's first single and musical blueprint for their debut album "Hot Fuss."



They're really talented, and very entertaining.

Hawthorne Heights

Hawthorne Heights. Easily one of the most popular hardcore bands around. I don't know why, but they kinda remind me of Story of the Year. My favorite songs: "This is Who We Are," "Saying Sorry," Niki FM," "Ohio is for Lovers," and "Silver Bullet." They have a new album that just came out, titled "If Only You Were Lonely." I don't know if alot of you guys would like 'em, but I do.

Relient K!

Now here's a band everyone enjoys! Now people can quit picking on me for my different tastes in music! Now I can shut up and tell you more about Relient K!

Without one doubt in my mind that I say these Canton dudes are easily the most recognized and respected musicians in the alternative Christian music world. Their songs are catchy, their words touching (not to mention an easy-seller to parents), and their attitude admirable. Plus they've got the cutest frontman ever - Matty Thiessen. What's not to adore?

xLooking Forwardx

Tada! xLooking Forwardx is a straight-edge, fun-loving hardcore/punk band staright outta Bel Air, MD. Again, an AWESOME band live. With sweet breakdowns and powerful lyrics, this is definitely a band to check out. Gonna go see them at Facedown Fest!!! Yeah baby!

Haste The Day

If you look to left now you can see we are approaching Haste the Day. An extremely high-energy band. With the head banging skills of a professional metal head, this band is surely not one to miss live. 5 extremely talented young men, Haste The Day is most definitely one of my personal faves. Have a listen and let me know what you think.

Avenged Sevenfold

Avenged Sevenfold is my favorite metal band. What's so awesome about them, is that in their new album, City of Evil, they totally made such an evil album about how they were so stoked to go to hell, and found out that life sucks down there, and wished they'd made a better decision. I know, I know it sounds bad, but it did for me was that it totally convinced me that I can't let that same story happen to people all over the world. So it really helped me reassure myself that I want to be a youth pastor. I made that decision a long time ago, but this is just kinda reminding me why. I know, it sounds kinda lame, but it really works for me. The lyrics are demonic, but once again, I love the music and NOT the lyrics. The metal is awesome.

Less Than Jake

Less Than Jake. My second favorite ska band. Chris(vocals/guitar), Roger(vocals/bass), Vinnie(drums/lyrics), Buddy(trombone), and JR(saxophone) put everything they learned into making a great band. There isn't much to say about these guys, except they're really awesome. My favorite tracks are "The Ghosts of Me and You," and "All My Friends are Metal Heads." Enjoy.

The Aquabats

"Deep in the South Pacific lies an undiscovered island. This island housed a people raised on the foundation of song and the luxury of time. An island named after it's amphibious and bat-like people...AQUABANIA! Life could not be too good on the island, from churro-baking contests to Calypso Camp, until an evil force descended upon the island and life would never be the same. Pushed to the brink of disaster, eight (or sometimes nine) men escaped impending doom. In a hollowed out log, these eight (or nine) men made their way to the highest waterfall and dropped into the raging sea. Drifting aimlessly for days, they washed up on a sandy beach owned by a fantastically insane scientist known only as "The Professor." Pulling them from their wooded tomb, he laid them on the sand and having pity on them, he took them under his care. Later, they explained their story and looked up into his bespectacled eyes for pity.

Learning of their peril, he decided to help them fight their cause by giving them the only gift he was capable of - The Power of Insanity. Through the use of The Professor's scientiffically altered convenience store foods, these eight (or nine) men gained powers well beyond that of ordinary Aquabanians. They became the "AquaBuds"...then the "AquaBoys"...then finally, just "Mel and Friends." But later the truth was revealed to them - THEY WERE THE AQUABATS!

With their new-found abilities, they set out on a rigorous course of training. Everyday The Professor would would give them their morning corndog and they set out to the water for surf and energy enhancing sun activities. Later in the day, a nourishing churro would give them the power they needed to withstand even a brick to the forehead.

In the evening , they played music (which The Professor would help them with his own Hypno-mind-controlling wave patterns). This would help them gain the unwilling loyalty of those who would dare to listen! By gaining such a following, The Professor knew they (and he) could gain power over the evil forces that led them so far from home. Armed with radioactive rash guards and anti-negativity helmets, these eight (or nine) Aquabats had set out to conquer the world!!!"

Okay, okay - so maybe it didn't happen that way. But these guys are definitely worth checking out due to their successful combination of powerpop, surf rock, pop-punk, and third-wave ska, complete with catchy tunes and hilarious lyrics. Easily one of the most underrated "ska/punk" groups nowadays. I mean, c'mon! They're wearing skintight uniforms!

LINKAGE:
The Aquabats on purevolume
The Aquabats on purevolume (unofficial)
The Aquabats on MySpace

Guidelines for band posting.

> When you post one of your bands, make sure you post them once and ONLY once.
> Band posts are limited to one per day.
> Don't make a huge deal out of them (i.e. "ohh, man! these guys RULE!!!1 sooo beter then your band!!!lol), but rather be humbling yet honest at the same time.
> Obviously, non-Christian bands are allowed, but PLEASE no bands who are known for their awfully explicit lyrics - bands/musicians such as Eminem or The Bloodhound Gang.

When posting...
> Include a link to some songs, like the band's purevolume or MySpace page. Use the "Link" bar underneath the "Title" at the posting page.
> Include a good photo of the group and not one of their album covers. To do this, locate a photo of another site, then right-click on it and selecting "Copy Image Location." Then when posting, click on the picture-looking icon where a pop-up window will say "...add an image from the web." Select the box below and press on your keyboard CTRL and V (holding down at the same time). Voila! There ya go.

Not trying to make people look stupid, just making sure everything's "crystal-clear." Heheh.

Coldplay

Coldplay first attained world-wide success on the strength of their memorable romantic-dream pop--the classic "Yellow," from their Parachute debut being just one gleaming example. By the time of their third album, X&Y, the band had grown to such ridiculous commercial heights that they could easily have stuck to earlier formulas without risking or adding anything new. Yet Colplay explores alot of new territory in X&Y, referencing everyone from Kraftwerk to Radiohead. Coldplay's ascension as the rock heroes of the new millenium rivals that of Nirvana's just ten years earlier. Both were unwitting heroes of a rock scene desperate for a leader and both donned their crowns with great reluctance. But unlike Nirvana, Coldplay chose the dream-pop route to success.

These guys are awesome. If you haven't listened to my other bands before, this would be the one to check out.

Goldfinger

Goldfinger, definitely my favorite ska band(followed by Less Than Jake). For ten years Goldfingers been playing 2,ooo plus shows, trying their best just to be entertaining. And they've done it. As far as punk-ska bands go, Goldfinger writes and performs punchy, three minute slices of adrenaline as well as anyone. Of course the genre is haunted by the spector of the late, great Clash, who did it better than anyone(in their time). Some of their best songs include "Superman", "Spokesman", "Stalker", "Counting the Days", "Open Your Eyes", "Vintage Queen", and of course my favorite, "99 Red Balloons." These guys are worth checking out.

Blindside

Straight outta Sweden, these guys can rock. I love 'em, and they are one of the most amazing bands live I have ever seen.

Radio

Uhh ya the title pretty much says it all. The radio is free, has tons of options, and has a variety of music so pretty much everyone can listen to it. Any favorite stations? Do i win the battle?(notice how teh color and the radio match huh huh, am i good or am i good : ))

Thrice

People, meet Thrice. Easily one of my favorite bands. The outburst of 80s thrash, classic British metal, and post-punk melodies forge Thrice into an emocore epic of rare proportions. Atypically for it's genre, Thrice stabs at punk-pop with grandiose guitar harmonies, hardcore vocal wails, and a Metallic(note the big "M") chunk that transforms it's emo turnarounds into progressive hardcore theater. The Artist in the Ambulance is one of my favorite albums by them, and Vheissu is next to that(even though the new producer changes it up a bit). Currently my favorite song is "Image of the Invisible," which comes from the album "Vheissu." If you've never heard of these guys before, you should definitely check them out. Don't worry, they're nothing like My Chemical Romance or Green Day! I think they're a Christian band, but I'm not positive.

Explosions in the Sky

Calling the dry plains of Austin, Texas, their home, experimental/instrumental post-rock Explosions in the Sky are simply one of the most innovative bands in the 2000s. As you listen, beware - these guys are known for their unpredictability via random bursts of flailing guitars. No vocals are needed here, people. The amazing-sounding simplicity of this four-piece indie extraordinaire are just, seriously, too awesome for words. (Then, why the flip am I even using such long words to describe them? Boredom. As usual.)

Please...give these guys a listen, no matter how different or bland you may think the two songs on their purevolume site are. It'll give you a glimpse of the future of music.

My Chemical Romance

Well, again it's a battle of my bands vs. Matt's bands. So I thought I'd throw another one in there. Amanda, Jamie, Shannon, you guys should add some too. But anyway, Gerard Way is the lead singer of this punk-emo band. Him and his high school best friend got together and started making their own band, and writing songs on the steps of their high school campus, and forming what would later be "My Chemical Romance." They got Gerard's brother to play the bass, and found two other guitar players. Gerard's best friend plays the drums. But enough about that. These guys have made a couple huge hits with "I'm Not Okay(I Promise)," "Helena," and "The Ghost of You." They are kind of a gothic-emo band(you know with the long black hair and eye-liner). Their big hits were kinda pop-punk, but everything else on their CD, "Three Cheers for Sweet Revenge" is all hard core. Yes, yes, I see the Parental Advisory, but believe it or not, there is only 1 cuss word on the whole CD, meaning that most of the lyrics are violent. I know it's a bad thing, but what if we don't care about the lyrics, and what if we like the music? I don't know. Whatever. Here's My Chemical Romance.