Metalcore Essentials

Metalcore Essentials

Metalcore is one of the most popular—if misunderstood—heavy genres, namely because it’s constantly evolving. The style’s modern roots are in both early-2000s hardcore brutality (Converge) and thrashing metal riffage (Killswitch Engage). However, the subsequent popularity of the Vans Warped Tour expanded metalcore’s reach into the mainstream, as bands such as A Day to Remember and Atreyu found kindred spirits (and punkish inspiration) there. These days, metalcore is a big tent with denizens known to pair pile-driving breakdowns and gruff growls with flourishes such as chaotic synths, cinematic production, and even radio-ready hooks.

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