1. Texas in July-Number one on this list because of their raw talent and unrealized potential, this young band hails from Ephrata, Pennsylvania. Signed to Equal Vision Records last July, and routinely packing out the 850 plus person capacity Chameleon Club in their hometown, none of the band members can even drink. Texas in July’s sound is no less impressive than their above accomplishments as they truly embody the metalcore genre with rugged breakdowns, guttural vocals and a surprising developed sense of musicality for a immature band.

Check out- From the first studio album, check out the song “Hook, Line and Sinner.” Also check out the softer side of the band in an acoustic track from called “I Am Yours.”

2. It Dies Today- One of the first aboveground bands to popularize the ganre of metalcore, It Dies Today, or IDT, formed in September of 2001, and has since released three studio albums on Trustkill Records and remains my hands- down favorite on this list. The only reason this band does not deserve the number one spot is the band’s most recent album, Lividity, is a far cry from the great music of The Caitiff Choir album, and shows no musical progression. Not many metal bands can write a record that makes you want to stop life and sit down and listen all the way through. Tried and true, this band has great guitar tone and a gritty yet uplifting sense of composition that makes them an essential part of this genre.

Check Out- The group’s first album, The Caitiff Choir, and sophomore album, Sirens. Both are amazing. Check out the song “Marigold” from The Caitiff Choir and “The Bacchanal Affair” from Sirens.

3. I Am Abomination-Combining soaring orchestral music with two and three part guitar harmonies, I Am Abomination stands out on this list as being the only band that does not scream vocals. Another young band, these guys from Michigan take a strong stand on moral issues and address atheism and the current ideals of the United States government among others. Signed to Good Fight Music, be on the lookout for these guys in the popular music scene in the years to come.

Check Out- From their debut album, To Our Forefathers, check out “Since 1776” and another favorite, the song “Rock N’ No Soul.”

4. Parkway Drive-AC/DC is not the only band from Australia that deserves recognition. Parkway Drive is arguably the hardest band on this list vocally and rhythmically. Specializing in good old fashioned blast beats and chugging detuned guitars, Parkway Drive is a rising star in the world of rock. Their newest release Deep Blue is a concept album about one man’s search for truth that takes him beneath the ocean and back again.

Check out- “Alone” from Deep Blue, and “Idols and Anchors” from the band’s second album Horizons.

5. MyChildren MyBride-Signed to Solid State Records, MCMB is a Christian metalcore band that shreds harder and outplays their peers nine times out of ten. Known for a bitter social outlook and a strong sense of self reliance, this Alabama raised band has found success with their newest and best album Lost Boy after many years on the road. MyChildren MyBride is simply brutal and not for the casual rock listener. However, if you are looking for a Christian band that uses more than three guitar chords, this is the band for you.

Check Out- The track “On the Wings of Integrity” from the first studio album Unbreakable.