The 80+ Best Metalcore Bands, Ranked
Killswitch Engage are widely considered pioneers of the metalcore genre, having formed in Massachusetts back in 1999. Their groundbreaking blend of melodic hooks and aggressive riffs, showcased in their debut album Alive or Just Breathing, quickly made them stand out among their peers. They achieved widespread acclaim with lead vocalist Jesse Leach's emotive delivery, which has struck a chord with fans throughout their illustrious career. As a testament to their staying power, Killswitch Engage continues to be a formidable presence in the metalcore scene, constantly reinventing themselves and pushing boundaries.
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Hailing from Brighton, England, The Architects have been an unstoppable force in the metalcore scene since their formation in 2004. With a unique blend of technical riffs, jaw-dropping breakdowns, and unforgettable lyrics, it's no wonder they've become synonymous with the genre. Their powerful messages, tackling subjects like social and political issues, resonate with fans worldwide. From Hollow Crown to Holy Hell, The Architects' impressive discography showcases the band's evolution while maintaining their signature sound.
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Hailing from Australia, Parkway Drive burst onto the scene in 2003 with their relentless energy and aggressive sound. Their distinctive combination of heavy breakdowns, catchy choruses, and Winston McCall's powerful vocals have captivated fans worldwide. From their debut album Killing with a Smile to their more recent work like Ire, Parkway Drive continues to evolve while maintaining their signature style. Unafraid to tackle darker themes and experiment with their sound, this band's impressive discography speaks for itself.
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Renowned for their relentless energy and technical prowess, August Burns Red has been captivating audiences since their inception in 2003. Hailing from Lancaster, Pennsylvania, this five-piece band is famous for their intricate guitar work and crushing breakdowns, garnering them multiple Grammy nominations. Furthermore, drummer Matt Greiner's exceptional skills and complex rhythms provide the foundation for their distinct sound. August Burns Red is undeniably a force to be reckoned with, proven by their ever-growing fan base and consistently outstanding records.
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Formed in San Diego, California, in 2000, As I Lay Dying solidified their place in metalcore history with their unique mix of melodic death metal influences and powerful, emotive lyrics. With albums like Shadows Are Security and An Ocean Between Us, they've consistently delivered a blend of aggression and melody that has won over legions of devoted fans. Despite facing controversies and lineup changes, As I Lay Dying remains an undeniable powerhouse in the metalcore scene, continuing to raise the bar with each new release.
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Emerging from Orlando, Florida, Trivium became a dominant force in the metalcore scene with their debut album, Ember to Inferno, released in 2003. Known for their intricate guitar work, tight songwriting, and Matt Heafy's versatile vocal range, they've crafted a distinctive sound that sets them apart from other bands in the genre. Through albums like Ascendancy and The Sin and the Sentence, Trivium demonstrates their ability to seamlessly blend melody and aggression while exploring new sonic territory.
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Since their formation in 2005, Pennsylvania's Motionless In White has been known for their unique blend of metalcore, industrial, and gothic influences. Their theatrical live performances and striking visuals have garnered them a dedicated following, with fans eagerly awaiting each new release. Frontman Chris "Motionless" Cerulli's hauntingly powerful vocals set them apart from other bands in the scene, as evidenced in tracks like "Reincarnate" and "Necessary Evil." With each album, Motionless In White continues to evolve, showcasing their refusal to be confined by genre limitations.
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Born out of Orange County, California, in 2009, Of Mice & Men quickly made a name for themselves with their debut self-titled album. Their aggressive sound, complemented by Austin Carlile's distinctive high-pitched screaming and Shayley Bourget's clean vocals, resonated with fans across the globe. Even after lineup changes and shifts in their sound, Of Mice & Men have remained a consistent force in the metalcore scene, churning out powerful anthems for legions of dedicated fans.
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Founded in Ocala, Florida, in 2003, A Day To Remember quickly gained a dedicated following thanks to their unique fusion of pop-punk and metalcore. Their memorable hooks and hard-hitting breakdowns, showcased on albums like For Those Who Have Heart and Homesick, have made them a staple in the scene. Frontman Jeremy McKinnon's ability to seamlessly switch between clean vocals and aggressive screams is truly impressive, solidifying A Day To Remember as one of the most versatile bands in the genre.
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Formed in Wales in 1998, Bullet for My Valentine quickly became a household name in the metalcore world with their debut album, The Poison, released in 2005. Their signature blend of melodic hooks, catchy choruses, and crushing riffs struck a chord with fans across the globe. Frontman Matt Tuck's powerful vocals and emotive lyrics, along with the band's tight musicianship, have kept them at the forefront of the genre throughout their storied career.
Since their formation in 1994 as Burn the Priest, Virginia's Lamb of God has been pushing the boundaries of metalcore with their fusion of groove metal and hardcore punk elements. Randy Blythe's distinct guttural vocals, coupled with Mark Morton and Willie Adler's masterful guitar work, have set them apart from other bands in the genre. With seminal albums like Ashes of the Wake and Sacrament, Lamb of God has established themselves as true innovators in the metal world.
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Hailing from Australia, The Amity Affliction has been captivating audiences with their unique blend of melodic metalcore since their formation in 2003. Known for their deeply emotional lyrics and powerful dual-vocal approach, featuring Joel Birch's visceral screams and Ahren Stringer's melodic singing, this band has struck a chord with fans worldwide. From their early work on Severed Ties to the more recent Misery, The Amity Affliction consistently delivers memorable hooks and meaningful messages, solidifying their status as a force to be reckoned with in the metalcore scene.
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Originating in England in 2006, Asking Alexandria burst onto the metalcore scene with their debut album Stand Up and Scream. Fueled by Danny Worsnop's unique vocal range and the band's signature mix of electronics and heavy riffs, their sound has resonated with fans around the globe. Despite lineup changes and shifts in musical direction, Asking Alexandria continues to be a prominent force in the metalcore world, showcasing their evolution and versatility with each new release.
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All That Remains, formed in Massachusetts in 1998, started as a side project of former Shadows Fall vocalistPhil Labonte, which quickly evolved into a relentless powerhouse in the metalcore scene. With their perfect balance between melodic and heavy elements, as showcased in albums like The Fall of Ideals and Overcome, they've captivated fans worldwide. Furthermore, Oli Herbert's intricate guitar work and Labonte's versatile vocal range provide a distinct sound that sets them apart from their contemporaries.
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Formed in Boston, Massachusetts, in 2002, Ice Nine Kills gained widespread recognition for their unique brand of theatrical metalcore and intriguing horror-inspired concepts. Led by the charismatic Spencer Charnas, the band's penchant for storytelling and blending genres has earned them a dedicated following. From their early work on Safe Is Just a Shadow to the critically acclaimed The Silver Scream, Ice Nine Kills has consistently shown their ability to captivate fans with their innovative approach and commanding stage presence.
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Emerging from Columbus, Ohio, in 2012, Beartooth quickly gained attention within the metalcore scene for their aggressive sound and raw, emotional lyrics. Founded by former Attack Attack! vocalist Caleb Shomo, the band's blend of heavy breakdowns and anthemic choruses has garnered them a devoted fan base. From their debut album Disgusting to their more recent work like Disease, Beartooth continuously delivers powerful performances and thought-provoking messages that resonate with fans around the world.
Hailing from Detroit, Michigan, I Prevail exploded onto the scene in 2014 with their cover of Taylor Swift's Blank Space, showcasing their unique blend of metalcore aggression and pop sensibilities. Fronted by vocalists Brian Burkheiser and Eric Vanlerberghe, the band's combination of clean and screamed vocals brings a distinctive dynamic to their sound. With their debut album Lifelines and follow-up TRAUMA, I Prevail has continued to push boundaries and evolve, solidifying their status as a standout act in the metalcore genre.
Representing the Detroit metalcore scene since 2005, We Came as Romans burst onto the scene with their debut album To Plant a Seed. Their unique blend of heavy breakdowns, melodic hooks, and dual-vocal style from frontmen Kyle Pavone and Dave Stephens has earned them a devoted following. Despite facing the tragic loss of vocalist Pavone in 2018, We Came as Romans has persevered as a strong presence in the genre, continuing to impact fans with their emotionally charged music.
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Hailing from Tyler, Texas, Fit for a King carved out their place in metalcore with their distinctive heavy sound and powerful lyrics. Since their formation in 2007, the band has captivated audiences with their tight musicianship and passionate live performances. From their early work on Descendants to their most recent album The Path, Fit for a King has continued to evolve and push the boundaries of the genre while maintaining their signature aggression and intensity.
Since forming in Troy, Ohio, Miss May I quickly distinguished themselves within the metalcore scene with their relentless riffs and visceral screams. Frontman Levi Benton and bassist/clean vocalist Ryan Neff's dynamic vocal interplay is a defining characteristic of the band's sound. With albums like Apologies Are for the Weak and Rise of the Lion, they've consistently delivered a potent blend of melody and intensity that keeps fans coming back for more.
Blending elements of metalcore, hard rock, and heavy metal, Avenged Sevenfold rose to prominence in the early 2000s with their iconic albums Waking the Fallen and City of Evil. Hailing from Huntington Beach, California, the band's ambitious songwriting, intricate musicianship, and M. Shadows' powerful vocals have earned them legions of dedicated fans. They continue to push the envelope with each new release, unafraid to experiment with different styles while maintaining their signature sound.
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Originally formed in Sheffield, England, in 2004, Bring Me The Horizon initially gained attention for their intense, chaotic brand of metalcore. However, over time, the band has evolved their sound to incorporate elements of electronic, pop, and alternative rock. Led by enigmatic frontman Oli Sykes, their willingness to experiment and push boundaries has won them legions of fans worldwide. Albums such as Sempiternal and That's the Spirit display the band's incredible evolution and ability to create unforgettable anthems.
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Originating in Phoenix, Arizona, in 2004, Blessthefall quickly captured the attention of metalcore fans with their explosive live shows and melodic sound. Led by charismatic frontman Beau Bokan, the band's emotional and dynamic performances have made them a mainstay in the scene. From their debut album His Last Walk to their most recent offering Hard Feelings, Blessthefall has evolved while staying true to their metalcore roots.
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Memphis May Fire
Hailing from Dallas, Texas, Memphis May Fire exploded onto the metalcore scene in 2006, captivating audiences with their unique blend of aggressive riffing, soaring melodies, and introspective lyrics. Frontman Matty Mullins' powerful vocal performance and emotional delivery has struck a chord with fans across the globe. From their debut Sleepwalking to their more recent album Broken, Memphis May Fire has consistently pushed the envelope, showcasing their versatility and growth as musicians.
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Sheffield, England's very own While She Sleeps has been a powerful force in the metalcore scene since their formation in 2006. Their blend of intricate guitar work, crushing breakdowns, and politically charged lyrics delivered by vocalist Lawrence Taylor has resonated with fans worldwide. Albums like This Is the Six and Sleeps Society demonstrate the band's commitment to pushing boundaries and delivering thought-provoking messages through their music.
Hailing from Tampa, Florida, Underoath has been a dominant force in the metalcore scene since the late 1990s. Known for their emotional intensity, complex musicianship, and genre-defying sound, the band's impact on the metalcore landscape is undeniable. With influential albums like Define the Great Line and They're Only Chasing Safety, Underoath's daring and experimental approach to their music has solidified their status as true pioneers within the genre.
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Since their formation in Sydney, Australia, in 2009, Northlane has been captivating metalcore fans with their unique blend of atmospheric instrumentation, gripping breakdowns, and heartfelt vocals. Their thought-provoking lyrics and willingness to experiment with different genres have earned them a devoted fan base. From their debut album Discoveries to the more recent masterpiece Alien, Northlane's innovative approach to metalcore continues to set them apart from their contemporaries.
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Originating in Orange County, California, in 1998, Atreyu gained recognition for their combination of melodic metalcore and post-hardcore elements. Their dynamic songwriting, powerful vocals, and catchy hooks quickly earned them a dedicated following. Albums such as The Curse and Lead Sails Paper Anchor showcase the band's ability to seamlessly blend aggression and melody, making them a seminal act in the metalcore scene.
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Whitechapel
Formed in Knoxville, Tennessee, in 2006, Whitechapel has made a name for themselves in the metalcore scene with their pulverizing blend of technical death metal and hardcore elements. Phil Bozeman's guttural vocals and the band's penchant for crushing breakdowns have earned them legions of fans. With albums like This Is Exile and The Valley, Whitechapel continues to push the boundaries of what metalcore can be while staying true to their brutally heavy roots.
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Hailing from Chicago, Born of Osiris has been a powerful presence in the metalcore scene since their formation in 2003. Blending elements of progressive metal, deathcore, and electronica, their unique sound has garnered them a devoted fan base. Their intricate musicianship, coupled with Joe Buras' haunting keyboard work and Ronnie Canizaro's ferocious vocals, make Born of Osiris a truly standout act within the genre.
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