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Mithy's top Emo, Screamo, and related Post-Hardcore releases.I LOVE Emo! In all shapes and sizes. From the screamy and chaotic to the soft and twinkly and everything in between. There is a variety of everything to be found within...





spoiler: click to read



Emo has one of the most complicated histories in the history of Rock music. Tracing it back to it's beginnings to where it is today would be a feat unto itself something that I would love to take an in depth crack at one day. At the moment, the best resource on the web thus far is this site here:



*Post-Hardcore is a bit of a tricky term. It's got a wide interpretation and can define many things. I will have plenty of Post-Hardcore releases on this list, but mostly those as they relate to Emo.



This also serves as a recommendation list as well as a good hardly list of my favorite Emo releases. Even though there is plenty here, it's not a list of every single fricken Emo band that I listened to and liked, only what I like the best. And its not limited to just albums, as in the world of Emo there are tons of EPs, demos, splits, etc. I'm going to try to keep it tight, putting multiple releases from a band only in essential cases. Not saying that other bands here don't have other great releases as well, but I'd like to avoid clutter, and if anyone who is reading this list as a point of reference; if they enjoy that one release from a band that I recommend most, well they can check into the other releases that said band has to offer. I'm also keeping it an open list where I can make any kind of adjustments or additions as I see fit.Emo has one of the most complicated histories in the history of Rock music. Tracing it back to it's beginnings to where it is today would be a feat unto itself something that I would love to take an in depth crack at one day. At the moment, the best resource on the web thus far is this site here: http://www.fourfa.com/ It's an excellent site although it's way out of date and it leaves out many other great bands from the 90s to present day that I believe should be represented.*Post-Hardcore is a bit of a tricky term. It's got a wide interpretation and can define many things. I will have plenty of Post-Hardcore releases on this list, but mostly those as they relate to Emo.



**This is broken up into 4 different eras: (80s, 90s, the 00s decade, and 2010 and beyond)...keeping it open to add new essentials throughout the coming years... NOW IN CHRONOLOGICAL ORDER! **This is broken up into 4 different eras: (80s, 90s, the 00s decade, and 2010 and beyond)...keeping it open to add new essentials throughout the coming years... NOW IN CHRONOLOGICAL ORDER!

spoiler: click to read



Emo has one of the most complicated histories in the history of Rock music. Tracing it back to it's beginnings to where it is today would be a feat unto itself something that I would love to take an in depth crack at one day. At the moment, the best resource on the web thus far is this site here:



*Post-Hardcore is a bit of a tricky term. It's got a wide interpretation and can define many things. I will have plenty of Post-Hardcore releases on this list, but mostly those as they relate to Emo.



This also serves as a recommendation list as well as a good hardly list of my favorite Emo releases. Even though there is plenty here, it's not a list of every single fricken Emo band that I listened to and liked, only what I like the best. And its not limited to just albums, as in the world of Emo there are tons of EPs, demos, splits, etc. I'm going to try to keep it tight, putting multiple releases from a band only in essential cases. Not saying that other bands here don't have other great releases as well, but I'd like to avoid clutter, and if anyone who is reading this list as a point of reference; if they enjoy that one release from a band that I recommend most, well they can check into the other releases that said band has to offer. I'm also keeping it an open list where I can make any kind of adjustments or additions as I see fit.Emo has one of the most complicated histories in the history of Rock music. Tracing it back to it's beginnings to where it is today would be a feat unto itself something that I would love to take an in depth crack at one day. At the moment, the best resource on the web thus far is this site here: http://www.fourfa.com/ It's an excellent site although it's way out of date and it leaves out many other great bands from the 90s to present day that I believe should be represented.*Post-Hardcore is a bit of a tricky term. It's got a wide interpretation and can define many things. I will have plenty of Post-Hardcore releases on this list, but mostly those as they relate to Emo.



**This is broken up into 4 different eras: (80s, 90s, the 00s decade, and 2010 and beyond)...keeping it open to add new essentials throughout the coming years... NOW IN CHRONOLOGICAL ORDER!



80s Emo



I'm going to have this as a separate section to examine few of the more essential and/or what I think are some of the more quality releases from this era.

I'm going to have this as a separate section to examine few of the more essential and/or what I think are some of the more quality releases from this era.

Hüsker Dü Metal Circus

Some might question why I have this here? Well if there ever was a recording that would be considered 'Proto-Emo', this would be it. Husker Du, branched out of the Hardcore sound, going for more of a melodic approach, with a mite less aggression, but twice as impassioned, and lyrically more introspective, with vocals that range from slightly tunefully singing to near-screams. Pretty much the primordial building blocks of all emo to come. There is no doubt in my mind that the members of Rites of Spring were heavily influenced by this new path that Husker Du was undertaking on this Metal Circus EP as well as Zen Arcade.

Some might question why I have this here? Well if there ever was a recording that would be considered 'Proto-Emo', this would be it. Husker Du, branched out of the Hardcore sound, going for more of a melodic approach, with a mite less aggression, but twice as impassioned, and lyrically more introspective, with vocals that range from slightly tunefully singing to near-screams. Pretty much the primordial building blocks of all emo to come. There is no doubt in my mind that the members of Rites of Spring were heavily influenced by this new path that Husker Du was undertaking on this Metal Circus EP as well as Zen Arcade.

Gray Matter Food For Thought + Take It Back

1985/1986



One of the original Revolution Summer bands, love the organic sound of these recordings and they also seem to retain more of a biting Punk edge than most of the other secondary RS bands.

1985/1986



One of the original Revolution Summer bands, love the organic sound of these recordings and they also seem to retain more of a biting Punk edge than most of the other secondary RS bands.

Rites of Spring Rites of Spring

This is where it all started. ROS burst out of the gates with a new emotive style of Hardcore Punk, that was more introspectively aggressive and self loathing. There are many other great Revolution Summer bands, but none really compare to ROS. They fire on all cylinders and let everything out on the floor with a passion that translates throughout the ages. Guy's vocal performance with ROS is ablaze with inner strife which single-handedly created a new style of Hardcore Punk singing, crooning and choking and spitting out lyrics, leaving his heart bare for the world to see. For me this album sounds just as explosive and refreshing today as it did when it was released nearly 3 decades ago, truly a timeless piece of art.

This is where it all started. ROS burst out of the gates with a new emotive style of Hardcore Punk, that was more introspectively aggressive and self loathing. There are many other great Revolution Summer bands, but none really compare to ROS. They fire on all cylinders and let everything out on the floor with a passion that translates throughout the ages. Guy's vocal performance with ROS is ablaze with inner strife which single-handedly created a new style of Hardcore Punk singing, crooning and choking and spitting out lyrics, leaving his heart bare for the world to see. For me this album sounds just as explosive and refreshing today as it did when it was released nearly 3 decades ago, truly a timeless piece of art.

Squirrel Bait Squirrel Bait

As requested, I'm adding Squirrel Bait to the list, if anything to add something more to the slim 80s section. They seem to have been sparked by the same fire of influence as their Mid-80s contemporaries from the DC/Dischord scene. No doubt Hüsker Dü is a prime influence, which becomes all too blatant with their "Skag Heaven" LP. I personally think this self-titled EP is a little more original and for the sake of the list has more of those trace prototype elements of Emocore. Of course the Post-Squirrel Bait history is vast, and nothing exists within a vacuum, so bands like As requested, I'm adding Squirrel Bait to the list, if anything to add something more to the slim 80s section. They seem to have been sparked by the same fire of influence as their Mid-80s contemporaries from the DC/Dischord scene. No doubt Hüsker Dü is a prime influence, which becomes all too blatant with their "Skag Heaven" LP. I personally think this self-titled EP is a little more original and for the sake of the list has more of those trace prototype elements of Emocore. Of course the Post-Squirrel Bait history is vast, and nothing exists within a vacuum, so bands like Bitch Magnet and Slint should also be of related interest for the curious.

As requested, I'm adding Squirrel Bait to the list, if anything to add something more to the slim 80s section. They seem to have been sparked by the same fire of influence as their Mid-80s contemporaries from the DC/Dischord scene. No doubt Hüsker Dü is a prime influence, which becomes all too blatant with their "Skag Heaven" LP. I personally think this self-titled EP is a little more original and for the sake of the list has more of those trace prototype elements of Emocore. Of course the Post-Squirrel Bait history is vast, and nothing exists within a vacuum, so bands like Bitch Magnet and Slint should also be of related interest for the curious.

Dag Nasty Can I Say

One of the most renown bands off the Dischord roster. Dag Nasty helped usher in the new melodic DC sound, influencing not just the post-Revolution Summer emocore that followed but many more melodic HC and Punk bands that came ever afterward. "Can I Say" picks up where Minor Threat left off, extracting an even more melodic form of Hardcore with big sugary hooks and some excellent emotive sung/shouted vocals by Dave Smalley, who had joined up with these cats after leaving DYS. Unfortunately he only stuck around for this one album... they became less aggressive and more poppy/punk after that. The later albums are still decent, but for the purposes of this list, "Can I Say" is where it's at!

One of the most renown bands off the Dischord roster. Dag Nasty helped usher in the new melodic DC sound, influencing not just the post-Revolution Summer emocore that followed but many more melodic HC and Punk bands that came ever afterward. "Can I Say" picks up where Minor Threat left off, extracting an even more melodic form of Hardcore with big sugary hooks and some excellent emotive sung/shouted vocals by Dave Smalley, who had joined up with these cats after leaving DYS. Unfortunately he only stuck around for this one album... they became less aggressive and more poppy/punk after that. The later albums are still decent, but for the purposes of this list, "Can I Say" is where it's at!

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The Hated 1986 Demo [aka No More We Cry]

The band that should have been but never was... Their kvlt has grown far greater long after their existence. I can't really vouch how much of an influence they were on the early days of Emo being that I wasn't there during that time. But they certainly have a huge Husker Du influence (almost to the point of being a ripoff band) and as I mentioned before Husker Du hit on an impassioned style of Hardcore with their Metal Circus record which I believe to be highly influential in the earliest days of Emo. The Hated have A LOT of material out there, ranging from fast Hardcore Punk on their first demo to their later acoustic endeavors. I prefer the recordings on this demo the most, the approach is very tuneful and it's got a nice fiery emotive sound that rides on those Husker Du melodies as well as doppelganging a Bold Mould vocal style without shame.

The band that should have been but never was... Their kvlt has grown far greater long after their existence. I can't really vouch how much of an influence they were on the early days of Emo being that I wasn't there during that time. But they certainly have a huge Husker Du influence (almost to the point of being a ripoff band) and as I mentioned before Husker Du hit on an impassioned style of Hardcore with their Metal Circus record which I believe to be highly influential in the earliest days of Emo. The Hated have A LOT of material out there, ranging from fast Hardcore Punk on their first demo to their later acoustic endeavors. I prefer the recordings on this demo the most, the approach is very tuneful and it's got a nice fiery emotive sound that rides on those Husker Du melodies as well as doppelganging a Bold Mould vocal style without shame.

One Last Wish 1986

1986



One of Guy Picciotto's and Brendan Canty's 'inbetween' bands after Rites of Spring, but before Fugazi. While not quite as influential as either of those bands OLW still stand on their own pretty well. More controlled and less despairing than Rites, and not nearly as progressive as Fugazi, but there's still plenty of passion here in the tightly knit song structures and the constant emotional vocal delivery of Guy. They're a stepping stone band no doubt, but still a good band to appreciate on their own.

1986



One of Guy Picciotto's and Brendan Canty's 'inbetween' bands after Rites of Spring, but before Fugazi. While not quite as influential as either of those bands OLW still stand on their own pretty well. More controlled and less despairing than Rites, and not nearly as progressive as Fugazi, but there's still plenty of passion here in the tightly knit song structures and the constant emotional vocal delivery of Guy. They're a stepping stone band no doubt, but still a good band to appreciate on their own.

Rain La vache qui rit

1986



Such a delicious Emocore band from the 80s, that finally got a proper rerelease a few years ago on Dischord records. They sound like they were primarily influenced by Rites of Spring, but desperately trying to put their own melodic spin on that Revolution Summer style that was even less abrasive than RoS. I think they accomplished that for the most part. Maybe not an essential but certainly a quality and quaint second-tier Revolution Summer band that shouldn't be missed...

1986



Such a delicious Emocore band from the 80s, that finally got a proper rerelease a few years ago on Dischord records. They sound like they were primarily influenced by Rites of Spring, but desperately trying to put their own melodic spin on that Revolution Summer style that was even less abrasive than RoS. I think they accomplished that for the most part. Maybe not an essential but certainly a quality and quaint second-tier Revolution Summer band that shouldn't be missed...

Embrace Embrace

There always seemed to be something disingenuous about Embrace. There's something sardonic behind everything Ian Mackaye sings about here. Either way Embrace, while not on the same level as Rites of Spring, is still a fun band to listen to. Very catchy songs, and hooks that will stick with you for days. Ian still has a lot of vitriol in his singing, and I like the contrast of mostly clean vocals with the occasional throaty shouts. Influential band, and I think one album from Embrace was enough, but it was a well formed stepping stone towards what's to come.

There always seemed to be something disingenuous about Embrace. There's something sardonic behind everything Ian Mackaye sings about here. Either way Embrace, while not on the same level as Rites of Spring, is still a fun band to listen to. Very catchy songs, and hooks that will stick with you for days. Ian still has a lot of vitriol in his singing, and I like the contrast of mostly clean vocals with the occasional throaty shouts. Influential band, and I think one album from Embrace was enough, but it was a well formed stepping stone towards what's to come.

Swiz No Punches Pulled

1987-1990



Band always reminded me of a more burly version of Embrace. Not exactly Emo, more of a Mid-paced Hardcore band, but they definitely took on a strong influence from their fellow DC/Emocore peers. Not an essential band but they put their own spin on things and are unique enough that they deserve bit of recognition.

1987-1990



Band always reminded me of a more burly version of Embrace. Not exactly Emo, more of a Mid-paced Hardcore band, but they definitely took on a strong influence from their fellow DC/Emocore peers. Not an essential band but they put their own spin on things and are unique enough that they deserve bit of recognition.

Fugazi 13 Songs

1988/1989



Fugazi is rarely considered an Emo band, but no doubt they were one of the biggest influences on the Emo sound as well as being the grandfathers of Post-Hardcore. You can't listen to early Emo heavyweights like, Current, Indian Summer, and Embassy and not think about Fugazi. Each and every one of Fugazi's albums are beyond godly IMO, and Fugazi in a live setting a are even greater! So this is put here to represent the eternal influence Fugazi has had on many/most bands on this list.

1988/1989



Fugazi is rarely considered an Emo band, but no doubt they were one of the biggest influences on the Emo sound as well as being the grandfathers of Post-Hardcore. You can't listen to early Emo heavyweights like, Current, Indian Summer, and Embassy and not think about Fugazi. Each and every one of Fugazi's albums are beyond godly IMO, and Fugazi in a live setting a are even greater! So this is put here to represent the eternal influence Fugazi has had on many/most bands on this list.

Moss Icon Hate in Me

1988



A game changer here, while Rites of Spring is generally known as THEE first Emo band, Moss Icon advanced this style of Emotive Hardcore/Post-Hardcore to a whole new level. MI is mostly likely the first band to create the soft/loud Emo crescendo, as well as going from soft vocals to all out screams. They really are a blue print band for all that is to come, and in Black Metal terms I often equate Rites of Spring to Venom - being the first, and Moss Icon to Bathory - pretty much setting a standard that can be heard in pretty much all Emo/Screamo/and related Post-Hardcore to follow afterwards.

1988



A game changer here, while Rites of Spring is generally known as THEE first Emo band, Moss Icon advanced this style of Emotive Hardcore/Post-Hardcore to a whole new level. MI is mostly likely the first band to create the soft/loud Emo crescendo, as well as going from soft vocals to all out screams. They really are a blue print band for all that is to come, and in Black Metal terms I often equate Rites of Spring to Venom - being the first, and Moss Icon to Bathory - pretty much setting a standard that can be heard in pretty much all Emo/Screamo/and related Post-Hardcore to follow afterwards.

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Moss Icon Lyburnum Wits End Liberation Fly

Recorded in 1988, not officially released till 1994.



Their debut album has somewhat of a delayed influence it would seem as it didn't officially come out till 1994... so makes me wonder how people were listening to Moss Icon back in the late 80s/early 90s? Apparently a few kids were, because Moss Icon's influence is undeniable, but they did have those other releases that came out before hand. I also wonder who might have influenced Moss Icon? At times is seems there is clearly a Fugazi/DC influence, they can also be comparable to Slint, but all 3 of these bands were recording/releasing material around the same time, and while there is most likely a taint of the DC Post-Hardcore sound in Moss Icon, they also seem to be outside of all that creating something completely refreshing and new, but not fully appreciated by a larger number till long after their existence. Moss Icon is no doubt an original, and their influence extends far and wide, and there is also a bit of a mystique that adds to their kvlt status. I just wish I knew more about MI and their true history and also the early Emo and Post-Hardcore musicians who were directly influenced by them. If there ever was a book to be written about an album, this one here should be a top candidate. Some one contact those folks at 33⅓! Either way this album is true original and a masterpiece, a temple of light on a mountain, beckoning all to come and worship at it's steps.

Recorded in 1988, not officially released till 1994.



Their debut album has somewhat of a delayed influence it would seem as it didn't officially come out till 1994... so makes me wonder how people were listening to Moss Icon back in the late 80s/early 90s? Apparently a few kids were, because Moss Icon's influence is undeniable, but they did have those other releases that came out before hand. I also wonder who might have influenced Moss Icon? At times is seems there is clearly a Fugazi/DC influence, they can also be comparable to Slint, but all 3 of these bands were recording/releasing material around the same time, and while there is most likely a taint of the DC Post-Hardcore sound in Moss Icon, they also seem to be outside of all that creating something completely refreshing and new, but not fully appreciated by a larger number till long after their existence. Moss Icon is no doubt an original, and their influence extends far and wide, and there is also a bit of a mystique that adds to their kvlt status. I just wish I knew more about MI and their true history and also the early Emo and Post-Hardcore musicians who were directly influenced by them. If there ever was a book to be written about an album, this one here should be a top candidate. Some one contact those folks at 33⅓! Either way this album is true original and a masterpiece, a temple of light on a mountain, beckoning all to come and worship at it's steps.

After Words After Words

1989



Slowly trying to add more into the primordial Emo ooze that is the 80s section of the list. After Words had a short existence during the late 80s, hailing from Georgia, but they practically could have been from DC. In fact this album was on Sammich Records, sort of an extension label of Dischord run by Amanda MacKaye. Style is similar in nature to other Melodic HC/Emocore bands of the era Soul Side, 1989Slowly trying to add more into the primordial Emo ooze that is the 80s section of the list. After Words had a short existence during the late 80s, hailing from Georgia, but they practically could have been from DC. In fact this album was on Sammich Records, sort of an extension label of Dischord run by Amanda MacKaye. Style is similar in nature to other Melodic HC/Emocore bands of the era Ignition 3 , (a few other bands that I haven't listed here, but Emo archeologists ought to at least look into.)

1989



Slowly trying to add more into the primordial Emo ooze that is the 80s section of the list. After Words had a short existence during the late 80s, hailing from Georgia, but they practically could have been from DC. In fact this album was on Sammich Records, sort of an extension label of Dischord run by Amanda MacKaye. Style is similar in nature to other Melodic HC/Emocore bands of the era Ignition, Soul Side, 3, (a few other bands that I haven't listed here, but Emo archeologists ought to at least look into.)

Jawbreaker Demo #1

1989



Since there are so few releases in my 80s section, I put this demo here to represent what's to come in the near future with many other DC influenced Emocore bands like Jawbreaker, Samiam, Hot Water Music, Lifetime, etc. This demo is good stuff though, but I'll say that Jawbreaker's albums are far more essential and hugely influential not only for Emo but 90s Punk in general...

1989



Since there are so few releases in my 80s section, I put this demo here to represent what's to come in the near future with many other DC influenced Emocore bands like Jawbreaker, Samiam, Hot Water Music, Lifetime, etc. This demo is good stuff though, but I'll say that Jawbreaker's albums are far more essential and hugely influential not only for Emo but 90s Punk in general...



90s (1990-1999)



Throughout the decade, the Emo brand really branched off onto dozens of different directions. From the dissonant and screamy to the soft and poppy. I like a little something from all areas here.



*I added year tabs, considering how crucial the entirety of the 90s was for the genre.

Throughout the decade, the Emo brand really branched off onto dozens of different directions. From the dissonant and screamy to the soft and poppy. I like a little something from all areas here.



*I added year tabs, considering how crucial the entirety of the 90s was for the genre.

1990

Admiral Admiral

Solid, primordial Emocore crossing over into the 90s. Unfortunately only had 2 7"EPs; too bad they didn't stick around, they coulda been a contender, they coulda been somebody....

*members went on to play in dozens of other bands though: Solid, primordial Emocore crossing over into the 90s. Unfortunately only had 2 7"EPs; too bad they didn't stick around, they coulda been a contender, they coulda been somebody....*members went on to play in dozens of other bands though: Navio Forge Hoover , etc

Solid, primordial Emocore crossing over into the 90s. Unfortunately only had 2 7"EPs; too bad they didn't stick around, they coulda been a contender, they coulda been somebody....

*members went on to play in dozens of other bands though: Navio Forge, Hoover, etc

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Breathing Walker Breathing Walker

Here be a short lived project formed by members of Here be a short lived project formed by members of Moss Icon . Very little in the way the Emo indicative to the list, but a logical progression from the artistic experiment that was Moss Icon. Just check the last songs Moss Icon ever wrote/recorded with their Memorial / Moth 7" and you'll see how this is the next big leap in that direction. Same desperate/poetic style, gone in a Prog/Folk direction, w/violin, hand percussion, non-distortion guitar + basslines, etc. It's mellow album, almost seems improvised, led by Jonathan Vance's stream-of-though lyrics/vocals, with that same stretched tension that Moss Icon developed so well. To these veteran ears this sounds like it was very much informed by the Prog/Psych/Folk of the late 60s/70s, I could be wrong, but one of those questions I would love to ask the old members of Moss Icon. For a band that pioneered the style what we now know as Emo today, it's interesting to see what a giant leap in progression they took with Breathing Walker, no doubt these folks were way ahead of their time even before most emo bands ever got their start...

Here be a short lived project formed by members of Moss Icon. Very little in the way the Emo indicative to the list, but a logical progression from the artistic experiment that was Moss Icon. Just check the last songs Moss Icon ever wrote/recorded with their Memorial / Moth 7" and you'll see how this is the next big leap in that direction. Same desperate/poetic style, gone in a Prog/Folk direction, w/violin, hand percussion, non-distortion guitar + basslines, etc. It's mellow album, almost seems improvised, led by Jonathan Vance's stream-of-though lyrics/vocals, with that same stretched tension that Moss Icon developed so well. To these veteran ears this sounds like it was very much informed by the Prog/Psych/Folk of the late 60s/70s, I could be wrong, but one of those questions I would love to ask the old members of Moss Icon. For a band that pioneered the style what we now know as Emo today, it's interesting to see what a giant leap in progression they took with Breathing Walker, no doubt these folks were way ahead of their time even before most emo bands ever got their start...

Fuel Fuel

Bay Area answer to DC. Very DC influenced Post-Hardcore. Their seminal release Monuments to Excess (contained in this discography CD) shouldn't be missed.

Bay Area answer to DC. Very DC influenced Post-Hardcore. Their seminal release Monuments to Excess (contained in this discography CD) shouldn't be missed.

Moral Decay To Build an End

What a weird fucking band. Might be the only band to ever play a genre of their own design: Emotive Technical Thrash Metal!? I would almost say this is way ahead of its time, but either time has yet to catch up with this singular demo recording or the clash of genres almost seem like an anathema that they would exist together, especially back in 1990! I would love to talk to the members of this old band, were they really listening to both Jawbreaker and Mekong Delta back in 1990? Nowadays this kind of taste diversification is common, but back then, who knows? And while no doubt the Metal/Thrash element is one side of this equation, the DC Emocore influence is glaringly apparent, especially for a veteran of both styles like me! But who knows, maybe they just thought they were doing their own kind of melodic and unique Thrash Metal, unaware of the other burgeoning style taking place within their music. But once again, that's hard to believe especially when those "Emotive Hardcore/Post-Hardcore" elements stick out like a sore thumb! One top of it all, this is a really tight outfit, the guitar leads are neoclassical in design, the basslines are standout and precise, the drumming is ever active and keen on accentuating the music. And of course I love the vocals, this guy has a set of lungs, and he's got the Emo crooning to glass shattering skramz down pat! Honestly, this is almost the kind of music that I would make had I the talent and resources! Or had I a label, I would do all within my power to reissue this sucker on vinyl or something. A very "progressive" and quaint peace of music that has gone unheard for far to long... I myself only heard of this oddball band/demo due to some RYM kids knowing my taste and telling me that I GOT to hear this!

What a weird fucking band. Might be the only band to ever play a genre of their own design: Emotive Technical Thrash Metal!? I would almost say this is way ahead of its time, but either time has yet to catch up with this singular demo recording or the clash of genres almost seem like an anathema that they would exist together, especially back in 1990! I would love to talk to the members of this old band, were they really listening to both Jawbreaker and Mekong Delta back in 1990? Nowadays this kind of taste diversification is common, but back then, who knows? And while no doubt the Metal/Thrash element is one side of this equation, the DC Emocore influence is glaringly apparent, especially for a veteran of both styles like me! But who knows, maybe they just thought they were doing their own kind of melodic and unique Thrash Metal, unaware of the other burgeoning style taking place within their music. But once again, that's hard to believe especially when those "Emotive Hardcore/Post-Hardcore" elements stick out like a sore thumb! One top of it all, this is a really tight outfit, the guitar leads are neoclassical in design, the basslines are standout and precise, the drumming is ever active and keen on accentuating the music. And of course I love the vocals, this guy has a set of lungs, and he's got the Emo crooning to glass shattering skramz down pat! Honestly, this is almost the kind of music that I would make had I the talent and resources! Or had I a label, I would do all within my power to reissue this sucker on vinyl or something. A very "progressive" and quaint peace of music that has gone unheard for far to long... I myself only heard of this oddball band/demo due to some RYM kids knowing my taste and telling me that I GOT to hear this!

1991

Fuel / Angry Son Fuel / Angry Son

1991



Already have Fuel, but this is included for the Angry Son side. They were a short lived band between 90-91 hailing from Oklahoma City. Pretty solid Emocore band who deserve a bit of recognition. Beyond this they also had a few demo tapes, boasting even more exclusive tracks. For having such a short existence they certainly had a healthy amount of songs written/recorded. If further interested you should be able to find those demos for DL with a bit of searching.

1991



Already have Fuel, but this is included for the Angry Son side. They were a short lived band between 90-91 hailing from Oklahoma City. Pretty solid Emocore band who deserve a bit of recognition. Beyond this they also had a few demo tapes, boasting even more exclusive tracks. For having such a short existence they certainly had a healthy amount of songs written/recorded. If further interested you should be able to find those demos for DL with a bit of searching.

Drive Like Jehu Drive Like Jehu

DLJ were a very engaging, in-your-face band, they played a loud and angular style Post-Hardcore that was full of aggression. Emo only by the older definition of..., and their influence goes well beyond just Emo and Post-Hardcore, into realms Alt and Indie, Math Rock/Post-Rock, Metal an so forth. Band is timeless, both their albums (the other being Yank Crime) are about equal in greatness really.

DLJ were a very engaging, in-your-face band, they played a loud and angular style Post-Hardcore that was full of aggression. Emo only by the older definition of..., and their influence goes well beyond just Emo and Post-Hardcore, into realms Alt and Indie, Math Rock/Post-Rock, Metal an so forth. Band is timeless, both their albums (the other being Yank Crime) are about equal in greatness really.

Greyhouse Revolution by Numbers

Early New Jersey Emo/Post-Hardcore band that definitely deserves more recognition. Listening to them now they are a band very much of their time, but at that time they must have sounded phenomenal, and to these ears they still do! A lot of youth and impassioned energy on display here, a VERY Fugazi influenced band, (just check those delicious basslines!) but not exactly a clone, cause they certainly had something going that was all their own. This is their first 7" and only had coupla more 7's and coupla split EPs and that's all she wrote. Interested parties can easily DL their entire discography here: Early New Jersey Emo/Post-Hardcore band that definitely deserves more recognition. Listening to them now they are a band very much of their time, but at that time they must have sounded phenomenal, and to these ears they still do! A lot of youth and impassioned energy on display here, a VERY Fugazi influenced band, (just check those delicious basslines!) but not exactly a clone, cause they certainly had something going that was all their own. This is their first 7" and only had coupla more 7's and coupla split EPs and that's all she wrote. Interested parties can easily DL their entire discography here: greyhouse-1991-1997

Early New Jersey Emo/Post-Hardcore band that definitely deserves more recognition. Listening to them now they are a band very much of their time, but at that time they must have sounded phenomenal, and to these ears they still do! A lot of youth and impassioned energy on display here, a VERY Fugazi influenced band, (just check those delicious basslines!) but not exactly a clone, cause they certainly had something going that was all their own. This is their first 7" and only had coupla more 7's and coupla split EPs and that's all she wrote. Interested parties can easily DL their entire discography here: greyhouse-1991-1997

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Lifetime Somewhere in the Swamps of Jersey

1991-1994



Lifetime are a long lasting melodic HC band, with a good helping of Emo influences. In fact their earliest material (contained on this 2CD set) sounds like an odd hybrid between Jawbreaker and Gorilla Biscuits. Shifting tempos and song structures between morose slow/mid paced passages with whinny vocals and sharper/faster youthful quick paced shouty Hardcore anthems. Their later albums are much more in the melodic HC fashion, but always retaining an emotive edge... The recordings here (mostly on disc 1) are some early examples of some formative Emo from the early 90s.

1991-1994



Lifetime are a long lasting melodic HC band, with a good helping of Emo influences. In fact their earliest material (contained on this 2CD set) sounds like an odd hybrid between Jawbreaker and Gorilla Biscuits. Shifting tempos and song structures between morose slow/mid paced passages with whinny vocals and sharper/faster youthful quick paced shouty Hardcore anthems. Their later albums are much more in the melodic HC fashion, but always retaining an emotive edge... The recordings here (mostly on disc 1) are some early examples of some formative Emo from the early 90s.

1.6 Band 1.6 Band Broke Up 1991-1993

NY Emo/Post-Hardcore band from the early 90s. No doubt a convert to the DC sound, 1.6 pull in influences from Dag Nasty, Fugazi and perhaps even a little NYHC from their own stomping ground. Excellent guitar playing matched with a breakneck rhythm section, they come pretty darn close to matching the musical skill of Fugazi. An all shouted vocal delivery is powerful at first, but as the disc plays on it becomes a bit samey and monotone after a while... would have been nice to have changes with the vocals now and then, just a minor complaint tho, and for the time their style was pretty unique, and the instrumentation holds ups pretty well.

NY Emo/Post-Hardcore band from the early 90s. No doubt a convert to the DC sound, 1.6 pull in influences from Dag Nasty, Fugazi and perhaps even a little NYHC from their own stomping ground. Excellent guitar playing matched with a breakneck rhythm section, they come pretty darn close to matching the musical skill of Fugazi. An all shouted vocal delivery is powerful at first, but as the disc plays on it becomes a bit samey and monotone after a while... would have been nice to have changes with the vocals now and then, just a minor complaint tho, and for the time their style was pretty unique, and the instrumentation holds ups pretty well.

Platypus Scourge Platypus Scourge

This a funny little emotive Post-Hardcore/Punk band here. A very early band starting in 1988 having later relations to This a funny little emotive Post-Hardcore/Punk band here. A very early band starting in 1988 having later relations to Sinker Amber Inn and Bureau of the Glorious . I don't think I would say that Platypus Scourge was a very 'good' band either, both in song quality and as general musicians. They sound like a handful of drunk dudes trying to do Fugazi! No doubt a 'first band' for those involved and but I don't mind it... so it's entertaining for a spin or two, but I include it here more as an odd relic than anything else.

This a funny little emotive Post-Hardcore/Punk band here. A very early band starting in 1988 having later relations to Sinker, Amber Inn and Bureau of the Glorious. I don't think I would say that Platypus Scourge was a very 'good' band either, both in song quality and as general musicians. They sound like a handful of drunk dudes trying to do Fugazi! No doubt a 'first band' for those involved and but I don't mind it... so it's entertaining for a spin or two, but I include it here more as an odd relic than anything else.

1992

Current Discography

1992-1994



I always said Current is basically all the hooks and bombast of Fugazi, just without the intricate/experimental guitar side. Sure the influence is blatant, even the dudes vocals are a dead ringer for Guy Picciotto, but Current's songs really do stand on their own, very infectious and instantly memorable. Plus there is a lot more screaming going on in Current than Fugazi as well. One of the very best Emo bands of the 90s IMO.

1992-1994



I always said Current is basically all the hooks and bombast of Fugazi, just without the intricate/experimental guitar side. Sure the influence is blatant, even the dudes vocals are a dead ringer for Guy Picciotto, but Current's songs really do stand on their own, very infectious and instantly memorable. Plus there is a lot more screaming going on in Current than Fugazi as well. One of the very best Emo bands of the 90s IMO.

Finger Print Discography

1991-1993



I guess its about time I add this seminal French Emotive Hardcore band here. This is pretty much square one for the French Emo/Screamo movement. A few years of existence managed to write and record a good handful of songs all contained in this discography CD. After the break up members went onto 1991-1993I guess its about time I add this seminal French Emotive Hardcore band here. This is pretty much square one for the French Emo/Screamo movement. A few years of existence managed to write and record a good handful of songs all contained in this discography CD. After the break up members went onto Undone and Jasemine . I don't know of any other country other than France (and possibly Germany) that were really absorbing those early emotive HC sounds that were coming out of the US at that time.

1991-1993



I guess its about time I add this seminal French Emotive Hardcore band here. This is pretty much square one for the French Emo/Screamo movement. A few years of existence managed to write and record a good handful of songs all contained in this discography CD. After the break up members went onto Undone and Jasemine. I don't know of any other country other than France (and possibly Germany) that were really absorbing those early emotive HC sounds that were coming out of the US at that time.

In/Humanity Violent Resignation: The Great American Teenage Suicide Rebellion 1992-1998

(1991 – 1998)



Actually missed putting this highly influential band the first time around. Along with Honeywell, Mohinder, etc one of the earliest Chaos Screamo bands in existence. In/Humanity might also be the most destructive bands on this list, they are indeed chaos incarnate with an experimental edge that just adds to the layers of violent noise they created. They also coined the term Emo Violence, more as a joke than anything but it caught on and so goes the history of music...



*This CD I believe has most things they ever recorded, at least the LPs, EPs, splits etc... but true to their nature the whole thing is messed up and chaotic, you do get the full releases, but all the songs are scattered about...

(1991 – 1998)



Actually missed putting this highly influential band the first time around. Along with Honeywell, Mohinder, etc one of the earliest Chaos Screamo bands in existence. In/Humanity might also be the most destructive bands on this list, they are indeed chaos incarnate with an experimental edge that just adds to the layers of violent noise they created. They also coined the term Emo Violence, more as a joke than anything but it caught on and so goes the history of music...



*This CD I believe has most things they ever recorded, at least the LPs, EPs, splits etc... but true to their nature the whole thing is messed up and chaotic, you do get the full releases, but all the songs are scattered about...

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Lincoln Watermark 7"

Another one of the big names in 90s Emo/Hardcore. Pretty solid little 7" here that touches on a bit of Post-Hardcore and DC melody but for the most part it's quite groovy with a lot of aggression.

Another one of the big names in 90s Emo/Hardcore. Pretty solid little 7" here that touches on a bit of Post-Hardcore and DC melody but for the most part it's quite groovy with a lot of aggression.

Merel Merel

92-93



One of the earliest tagged Screamo bands, yet like most early emo/screamo bands, they didn't consider themselves as such thus exploring new territories with their brand of emotive Hardcore not really following any set of rules. Chaotic and abrasive tunes are a rhythmic feast with twin dissonant guitar melodies weaving overtop some fantastic basslines. The double agonizing vocals snarl and croon and emote all over the place. There's still a hint of straight up Hardcore to everything they do making Merel a perfect example of a prototypical Screamo band. Some of the members later went on to form the more popular 92-93One of the earliest tagged Screamo bands, yet like most early emo/screamo bands, they didn't consider themselves as such thus exploring new territories with their brand of emotive Hardcore not really following any set of rules. Chaotic and abrasive tunes are a rhythmic feast with twin dissonant guitar melodies weaving overtop some fantastic basslines. The double agonizing vocals snarl and croon and emote all over the place. There's still a hint of straight up Hardcore to everything they do making Merel a perfect example of a prototypical Screamo band. Some of the members later went on to form the more popular Rye Coalition if anyone cares...

92-93



One of the earliest tagged Screamo bands, yet like most early emo/screamo bands, they didn't consider themselves as such thus exploring new territories with their brand of emotive Hardcore not really following any set of rules. Chaotic and abrasive tunes are a rhythmic feast with twin dissonant guitar melodies weaving overtop some fantastic basslines. The double agonizing vocals snarl and croon and emote all over the place. There's still a hint of straight up Hardcore to everything they do making Merel a perfect example of a prototypical Screamo band. Some of the members later went on to form the more popular Rye Coalition if anyone cares...

Native Nod Today Puberty, Tomorrow the World

1992-1996



One of the pioneers of the true Emo sound and also one of the best Emo/Post-Hardcore bands of the 90s. They created a very anxious and unsettling style of Emo. Dude sounds like he's off his meds and is about to freak out or something, constantly in a state of panic. The Moss Icon influence is apparent but NN seems to be way more anxiety driven, carving out a sound all their own. Only 9 songs to their name, but man they are so fucking good.

1992-1996



One of the pioneers of the true Emo sound and also one of the best Emo/Post-Hardcore bands of the 90s. They created a very anxious and unsettling style of Emo. Dude sounds like he's off his meds and is about to freak out or something, constantly in a state of panic. The Moss Icon influence is apparent but NN seems to be way more anxiety driven, carving out a sound all their own. Only 9 songs to their name, but man they are so fucking good.

Nuzzle Junk of Myth

Nuzzle were a Emo/Post-Hardcore band, played in that noisy/dissonant style that was so prevalent at the time. Most likely just as influenced by Nuzzle were a Emo/Post-Hardcore band, played in that noisy/dissonant style that was so prevalent at the time. Most likely just as influenced by Unwound and Drive Like Jehu as they were by the Gravity Records roster. There's definitely an underlying melody to each of their songs, and they also toy a-plenty with the soft/loud dynamic, but that buzzing/looseness is always present making it sound like the song is going to fall apart into ramshackle at any given moment. A bit too melodic/poppy to be 90s-screamo, but too jagged/noisy to be of the softer Emo variety, and yet not really of the Indian Summer/Current breed either, a pretty unique band if I might say... this be a discography CD, find it, buy it!

Nuzzle were a Emo/Post-Hardcore band, played in that noisy/dissonant style that was so prevalent at the time. Most likely just as influenced by Unwound and Drive Like Jehu as they were by the Gravity Records roster. There's definitely an underlying melody to each of their songs, and they also toy a-plenty with the soft/loud dynamic, but that buzzing/looseness is always present making it sound like the song is going to fall apart into ramshackle at any given moment. A bit too melodic/poppy to be 90s-screamo, but too jagged/noisy to be of the softer Emo variety, and yet not really of the Indian Summer/Current breed either, a pretty unique band if I might say... this be a discography CD, find it, buy it!

Policy of 3 An Anthology

1992-1995



I guess we can't forget about Policy of 3. A very respectable and hardworking Emo/Post-Hardcore band. Never reaching the level of popularity as their influences (Fugazi for one.) You can tell that they put 100% into everything they did and left their hearts completely on the floor. I would have loved to have seen this band when they were active, I'm sure their live shows were off the charts!

1992-1995



I guess we can't forget about Policy of 3. A very respectable and hardworking Emo/Post-Hardcore band. Never reaching the level of popularity as their influences (Fugazi for one.) You can tell that they put 100% into everything they did and left their hearts completely on the floor. I would have loved to have seen this band when they were active, I'm sure their live shows were off the charts!

Rights Reserved Galleons Lap [EP]

This band had its beginnings in way back in the late 80s, and had a handful of releases ending with their self-titled full-length in 1996 (which I have yet to hear.) This EP is a nice blend Melodic Punk and DC Emocore, with sassy/spazzy vocals. A good fermenting piece of early 90s undefined Emo to investigate.

This band had its beginnings in way back in the late 80s, and had a handful of releases ending with their self-titled full-length in 1996 (which I have yet to hear.) This EP is a nice blend Melodic Punk and DC Emocore, with sassy/spazzy vocals. A good fermenting piece of early 90s undefined Emo to investigate.

Sleeping Body Awaken

1992 not 1993, RYM fouls up again...



Early dissonant and brutal Hardcore with that Emo/Screamo sound creeping in all over this sucker. With a barrage of screamed vocals, sombre/caustic melodies, and off-beat drum patterns this is one of the earliest examples of true blue 90s Screamo. Safe to say they were pioneering a style that would become more widely copied later on.

1992 not 1993, RYM fouls up again...



Early dissonant and brutal Hardcore with that Emo/Screamo sound creeping in all over this sucker. With a barrage of screamed vocals, sombre/caustic melodies, and off-beat drum patterns this is one of the earliest examples of true blue 90s Screamo. Safe to say they were pioneering a style that would become more widely copied later on.

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Vine Sun Kiss

A mega-Fugazi influenced Emo/PH band not too dissimilar to A mega-Fugazi influenced Emo/PH band not too dissimilar to Current and what I have said about them: all the hooks and bombast of Fugazi, just without the intricate/experimental guitar shit. The singer is also the spawn of Picciotto and MacKaye, sounding a little like both. Beyond this one and only 3 song EP release, there is a DL you can find out there that has another 14 songs that were recorded but never released, wow!

A mega-Fugazi influenced Emo/PH band not too dissimilar to Current and what I have said about them: all the hooks and bombast of Fugazi, just without the intricate/experimental guitar shit. The singer is also the spawn of Picciotto and MacKaye, sounding a little like both. Beyond this one and only 3 song EP release, there is a DL you can find out there that has another 14 songs that were recorded but never released, wow!

1993

Antioch Arrow In Love With Jetts / Lady Is a Cat (Plus)

1993



I guess I should include this here. Don't listen to it as much any more and I probably would if the production was just a bit less muffled. One thing I cant stand is when vocals are pushed too far into the background lessening the impact of the scream. But I recognize its importance and uniqueness, and definitely deserves praise for the chaos and experimentation AA brought to the table.

1993



I guess I should include this here. Don't listen to it as much any more and I probably would if the production was just a bit less muffled. One thing I cant stand is when vocals are pushed too far into the background lessening the impact of the scream. But I recognize its importance and uniqueness, and definitely deserves praise for the chaos and experimentation AA brought to the table.

caP'n Jazz Analphabetapolothology

1993-1995



Yeah, well its kind of the quintessential Emo release. But there is a reason why these forefathers of twinkle are so renown, because of their (then) fresh take on Emotive Fugazi schooled Post-Hardcore plus they were just so damned good at what they did, every song is full of youth, creativity and memorability... The members also went on to form many other influential bands. Cap'n Jazz is the first name in 90s Emo and their influence is timeless.

1993-1995



Yeah, well its kind of the quintessential Emo release. But there is a reason why these forefathers of twinkle are so renown, because of their (then) fresh take on Emotive Fugazi schooled Post-Hardcore plus they were just so damned good at what they did, every song is full of youth, creativity and memorability... The members also went on to form many other influential bands. Cap'n Jazz is the first name in 90s Emo and their influence is timeless.

Chino Horde Chino Horde

RnR infused early 90s Emocore/Post-Hardcore band, extracting the more "rocking" side of Emocore with very little if any of the EMOtional baggage that normally comes with the style. Primarily DC inspired of course, with a nice rough and loose edge, a hint of Jawbreaker might be present with a few of those semi-pretentious spoken/Moss Icon moments to fill in the gaps. A lot of non-Emo people tend to be fond of Chino Horde, most likely due to the lack of 'whine', personally I still prefer their contemporaries, the likes of Current, Indian Summer, etc... but Chino Horde is good band to throw on for some straightforward loud rocking Emocore.

RnR infused early 90s Emocore/Post-Hardcore band, extracting the more "rocking" side of Emocore with very little if any of the EMOtional baggage that normally comes with the style. Primarily DC inspired of course, with a nice rough and loose edge, a hint of Jawbreaker might be present with a few of those semi-pretentious spoken/Moss Icon moments to fill in the gaps. A lot of non-Emo people tend to be fond of Chino Horde, most likely due to the lack of 'whine', personally I still prefer their contemporaries, the likes of Current, Indian Summer, etc... but Chino Horde is good band to throw on for some straightforward loud rocking Emocore.

Driftwood



Driftwood are the root in a family tree of bands that include, Still Life, Driftwood are the root in a family tree of bands that include, Shroomunion Ribbon Fix , etc. This 7" here contains 4 primitive Emocore tracks. There is a 50/50 divide between the 2 more aggressive Punk tunes and the 2 softer/sappier Emo cuts. Might be a bit too crude for Topshelf Records kids, but its a nice relic that showcases the more Hardcore Punk roots of Emo moving into a softer/sappier future.

Driftwood are the root in a family tree of bands that include, Shroomunion, Still Life, Ribbon Fix, etc. This 7" here contains 4 primitive Emocore tracks. There is a 50/50 divide between the 2 more aggressive Punk tunes and the 2 softer/sappier Emo cuts. Might be a bit too crude for Topshelf Records kids, but its a nice relic that showcases the more Hardcore Punk roots of Emo moving into a softer/sappier future.

Evergreen Evergreen

1993-1997



One of the earliest soft Indie Emo bands. A band that dwelt in the quite subdued side of their music just as much as they did the louder more rocking side. The vocal performance (like CFD) I always thought could have been a little better; they're just kind of deadpan and sappy, but I guess it suits the music well. Evergreen was a raw and solid blueprint for so many bands to come. The release I put here is a bootleg discography of sorts which I only have a DL of.

1993-1997



One of the earliest soft Indie Emo bands. A band that dwelt in the quite subdued side of their music just as much as they did the louder more rocking side. The vocal performance (like CFD) I always thought could have been a little better; they're just kind of deadpan and sappy, but I guess it suits the music well. Evergreen was a raw and solid blueprint for so many bands to come. The release I put here is a bootleg discography of sorts which I only have a DL of.

Honeywell Industry

Quite possibly the first Screamo/Emo Violence band ever. This album, along with their first 7" from 1992 and the split with Quite possibly the first Screamo/Emo Violence band ever. This album, along with their first 7" from 1992 and the split with Reach Out are all pretty essential. Honeywell is the personification of emotional dissonance and pure fucking chaos!