A band whose early albums practically defined emo, the Promise Ring created a rich body of work that gradually moved from melodic post-hardcore to delicate, sparkling indie pop. The sentimental, boyish vocals and lyrics gave voice to a whole new audience of sensitive boys (and the girls who loved them), thumbing its nose at punk and hardcore's outsized machismo. By the time of their initial breakup, following the release of the gently strummed, lush Wood/Water, they were the most popular band in the growing emo genre.