Bring Me The Horizon: The Ultimate Guide
Hey guys! Are you ready to dive deep into the world of Bring Me The Horizon? If you're a die-hard fan or just curious about this awesome band, you've come to the right place. We're going to explore everything from their early days to their latest hits, so buckle up and let's get started!
The Genesis of Bring Me The Horizon
Bring Me The Horizon (BMTH), often affectionately called BMTH by fans, formed in Sheffield, England, back in 2004. Can you believe it's been that long? The original lineup included Oliver Sykes on vocals, Lee Malia on guitar, Matt Kean on bass, Matt Nicholls on drums, and Curtis Ward on guitar. These guys came together from various disbanded local bands, united by a shared love for heavy music and a desire to create something groundbreaking. Imagine the scene: a bunch of young musicians, full of energy and ambition, ready to take on the world. Their initial sound was a raw blend of deathcore, characterized by aggressive breakdowns, guttural vocals, and chaotic arrangements. Think intense, heavy, and not for the faint of heart!
Their early influences included bands like Norma Jean, The Dillinger Escape Plan, and At the Gates. These bands were known for pushing the boundaries of metal and hardcore, and BMTH definitely took note. They quickly gained a local following, playing gigs in and around Sheffield. It wasn't long before their reputation started to spread, and they began to attract attention from record labels. The energy and intensity of their live performances were a key factor in their early success. If you ever get a chance to see early BMTH footage, you'll understand what I mean. It’s pure, unadulterated chaos, but in the best way possible. This period laid the foundation for what Bring Me The Horizon would become. They were young, hungry, and determined to make their mark on the music scene. Their dedication and hard work paid off, setting them on a path to becoming one of the most influential bands of the 21st century.
From Deathcore to Metalcore: The Evolution of Their Sound
Okay, so let's talk about the evolution of Bring Me The Horizon's sound. The transition from their initial deathcore style to a more melodic metalcore sound was a game-changer. Their early work, like their debut album "Count Your Blessings" (2006), was straight-up deathcore – brutal, heavy, and uncompromising. It was the kind of music that would make your ears bleed (in a good way, of course!). But as they matured, the band started experimenting with new sounds and influences. This led to a gradual shift towards metalcore, which incorporated more clean vocals, catchy melodies, and structured songwriting. Their second album, "Suicide Season" (2008), was a significant step in this direction. While it still retained some of the aggression of their earlier work, it also showcased a newfound sense of melody and experimentation. Tracks like "Chelsea Smile" and "Diamonds Aren't Forever" became instant classics, blending heavy riffs with infectious hooks.
This change wasn't without its critics. Some fans accused them of selling out, abandoning their roots in favor of a more mainstream sound. But for many, the evolution was a natural progression, reflecting the band's growth and artistic vision. The release of "There Is a Hell Believe Me I've Seen It. There Is a Heaven Let's Keep It a Secret." (2010) solidified their status as a leading force in the metalcore scene. This album was a complex and ambitious work, incorporating elements of electronic music, classical orchestration, and even spoken-word passages. It was a bold statement that showed Bring Me The Horizon were not afraid to take risks and push the boundaries of their sound. The album's success proved that their evolution was paying off, attracting a wider audience and earning them critical acclaim. Whether you prefer their early deathcore days or their later metalcore phase, there's no denying that Bring Me The Horizon's willingness to experiment and evolve has been a key factor in their longevity and success. They've never been afraid to try new things, and that's what makes them such an exciting and unpredictable band.
Breaking Boundaries: The Experimentation Years
Now, let’s get into the era where Bring Me The Horizon really started to break boundaries. After establishing themselves in the metalcore scene, they weren't content to stay put. They began to experiment even further, incorporating elements of electronic music, pop, and even alternative rock into their sound. This period was marked by a willingness to take risks and a desire to create something truly unique. "Sempiternal" (2013) was a pivotal album in this regard. It saw the band embrace a more atmospheric and melodic sound, with greater emphasis on clean vocals and electronic textures. Tracks like "Shadow Moses" and "Sleepwalking" became massive hits, showcasing their ability to blend heavy riffs with catchy hooks and soaring choruses. The addition of Jordan Fish on keyboards and programming played a crucial role in this transformation, adding a new layer of depth and complexity to their music.
But the experimentation didn't stop there. "That's the Spirit" (2015) saw them move even further away from their metalcore roots, embracing a more alternative rock sound with strong electronic influences. Some fans were taken aback by this dramatic shift, while others praised their willingness to evolve and reinvent themselves. Regardless of opinion, the album was a commercial success, proving that Bring Me The Horizon could appeal to a wider audience without sacrificing their artistic integrity. "amo" (2019) was perhaps their most experimental album to date, incorporating elements of pop, electronic, and even R&B. It was a bold and ambitious work that divided fans and critics alike. Some praised its willingness to push boundaries and explore new sonic territories, while others criticized its lack of focus and its departure from their heavier sound. Despite the mixed reactions, "amo" demonstrated that Bring Me The Horizon were not afraid to take risks and challenge expectations. They were determined to create music that was both innovative and personal, even if it meant alienating some of their fans. This constant experimentation has kept their music fresh and exciting, ensuring that they remain one of the most relevant and influential bands in the scene.
Current Era: Post Human
Alright, let's talk about the current era of Bring Me The Horizon: Post Human. This is where things get really interesting. After years of experimentation, the band seems to have found a way to blend their diverse influences into a cohesive and compelling sound. The "Post Human" series is a collection of EPs, each exploring different themes and sonic territories. The first installment, "Post Human: Survival Horror" (2020), was a return to their heavier roots, with elements of metalcore, electronicore, and even a bit of deathcore thrown in for good measure. It was a response to the COVID-19 pandemic and the sense of anxiety and uncertainty that it brought. Tracks like "Parasite Eve" and "Teardrops" were instant hits, showcasing their ability to blend heavy riffs with infectious melodies and thought-provoking lyrics.
The "Post Human" project is an ambitious undertaking, and it's clear that Bring Me The Horizon are not afraid to take risks and push the boundaries of their sound. They continue to evolve and experiment, while still staying true to their roots. This is what makes them such an exciting and unpredictable band. As they continue to release new music and tour the world, it's clear that Bring Me The Horizon are here to stay. They've proven that they can adapt and evolve, while still remaining true to their artistic vision. Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer to their music, there's no denying that Bring Me The Horizon are one of the most important and influential bands of the 21st century. Their ability to blend different genres and styles, their willingness to take risks, and their commitment to creating meaningful and thought-provoking music have earned them a devoted following and critical acclaim. So, keep an eye on Bring Me The Horizon – they're sure to surprise you with what they do next!
Key Members and Their Contributions
Let's dive into the key members of Bring Me The Horizon and their awesome contributions. First up, we have Oliver Sykes, the frontman and the voice of the band. Oli's vocals are instantly recognizable, ranging from guttural screams to melodic singing. But he's not just a vocalist; he's also the band's main lyricist, and his words often explore themes of mental health, addiction, and personal struggles. He's a true creative force, and his passion and intensity are a huge part of what makes Bring Me The Horizon so compelling.
Next, there's Lee Malia, the lead guitarist. Lee's riffs are the backbone of the band's sound, providing the heavy and melodic foundation for their songs. He's a master of his craft, and his guitar work is both technical and emotive. He also contributes to the songwriting process, helping to shape the band's overall sound. Then we have Matt Kean on bass. Matt's basslines provide the low-end groove that makes Bring Me The Horizon's music so powerful. He's a solid and reliable player, and his contributions are essential to the band's sound. And let's not forget Matt Nicholls on drums. Matt's drumming is the driving force behind the band's energy, providing the rhythmic foundation for their songs. He's a skilled and versatile drummer, able to play everything from brutal blast beats to intricate fills. Last but not least, there's Jordan Fish on keyboards and programming. Jordan joined the band in 2012, and his addition has been a game-changer. He's responsible for the electronic textures and atmospheric soundscapes that have become such a prominent part of their music. He's also a talented songwriter and producer, and his contributions have helped to shape the band's sound in exciting new ways. Together, these key members form a powerful and creative team, constantly pushing the boundaries of their music and challenging themselves to evolve. Their individual talents and contributions are what make Bring Me The Horizon such a unique and compelling band.
Discography Highlights: Must-Listen Albums
Now, let's talk about the must-listen albums from Bring Me The Horizon! If you're new to the band, or just looking to revisit some classics, here are a few highlights to get you started. First up, we have "Count Your Blessings" (2006). This is their debut album, and it's a raw and brutal slab of deathcore. It's not for the faint of heart, but if you're a fan of heavy music, you'll definitely appreciate its intensity and aggression.
Next, there's "Suicide Season" (2008). This album saw the band start to evolve their sound, incorporating more melodic elements and experimenting with different song structures. It's still heavy, but it's also more accessible than their debut, with tracks like "Chelsea Smile" and "Diamonds Aren't Forever" becoming instant classics. Then we have "There Is a Hell Believe Me I've Seen It. There Is a Heaven Let's Keep It a Secret." (2010). This is a complex and ambitious album that saw the band pushing the boundaries of their sound even further. It incorporates elements of electronic music, classical orchestration, and even spoken-word passages. It's a challenging listen, but it's also incredibly rewarding. "Sempiternal" (2013) is another essential album. This saw the band embrace a more atmospheric and melodic sound, with greater emphasis on clean vocals and electronic textures. Tracks like "Shadow Moses" and "Sleepwalking" became massive hits, showcasing their ability to blend heavy riffs with catchy hooks and soaring choruses. "That's the Spirit" (2015) is a controversial album, as it saw the band move even further away from their metalcore roots, embracing a more alternative rock sound with strong electronic influences. Some fans were turned off by this change, but others praised their willingness to evolve and reinvent themselves. Regardless of your opinion, it's an interesting and experimental album that's worth checking out. Finally, there's "Post Human: Survival Horror" (2020). This is the first installment in their "Post Human" series, and it's a return to their heavier roots, with elements of metalcore, electronicore, and even a bit of deathcore thrown in for good measure. It's a response to the COVID-19 pandemic and the sense of anxiety and uncertainty that it brought. These albums represent just a small fraction of Bring Me The Horizon's discography, but they offer a good overview of their evolution and their diverse range of sounds. So, if you're looking to get into the band, these are definitely the albums to start with!
Conclusion: The Enduring Legacy of Bring Me The Horizon
In conclusion, the enduring legacy of Bring Me The Horizon is undeniable. From their early days as a deathcore band to their current status as a genre-bending force, they have consistently pushed the boundaries of their sound and challenged expectations. Their willingness to experiment and evolve has earned them a devoted following and critical acclaim. Bring Me The Horizon has proven that they can adapt and reinvent themselves while still remaining true to their artistic vision. They have influenced countless bands and inspired fans around the world with their innovative music and their thought-provoking lyrics.
Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer to their music, there's no denying that Bring Me The Horizon are one of the most important and influential bands of the 21st century. Their ability to blend different genres and styles, their willingness to take risks, and their commitment to creating meaningful and thought-provoking music have cemented their place in music history. So, let's celebrate the incredible journey of Bring Me The Horizon and their enduring legacy. They have given us countless hours of music, memories, and inspiration, and they will continue to shape the music scene for years to come. Keep rocking, guys! And thanks for joining me on this awesome journey through the world of Bring Me The Horizon! Stay tuned for more music insights and band deep-dives. Peace out!
