The Very Best Metalcore Bands
Making some of the best metal songs to date, the best metalcore bands listed here are ranked best to worst by fans. This list of the top metalcore bands in the world includes all musicians who have released recordings that have gotten distribution, containing artists such as Mike Portnoy, Disturbed, Joey Jordison, and As I Lay Dying.
This includes both newer and older metalcore bands, serving as an accurate compilation of the best examples of metalcore, as well as a good place to start if you're asking yourself, or friends, exactly how to get into modern or classic metalcore music.
Who are the best and biggest metalcore bands of all time? And who is the greatest metalcore musician ever? If you know enough about the genre, please vote based on the quality of the artists' music (albums and songs) instead of just voting for the most popular metalcore groups that you might've heard of, but not really listened to closely enough to cast an informed vote.
Hailing from Brighton, England, The Architects have been an unstoppable force in the metalcore scene since their formation in 2004. With a unique blend of technical riffs, jaw-dropping breakdowns, and unforgettable lyrics, it's no wonder they've become synonymous with the genre. Their powerful messages, tackling subjects like social and political issues, resonate with fans worldwide. From Hollow Crown to Holy Hell, The Architects' impressive discography showcases the band's evolution while maintaining their signature sound.
Killswitch Engage are widely considered pioneers of the metalcore genre, having formed in Massachusetts back in 1999. Their groundbreaking blend of melodic hooks and aggressive riffs, showcased in their debut album Alive or Just Breathing, quickly made them stand out among their peers. They achieved widespread acclaim with lead vocalist Jesse Leach's emotive delivery, which has struck a chord with fans throughout their illustrious career. As a testament to their staying power, Killswitch Engage continues to be a formidable presence in the metalcore scene, constantly reinventing themselves and pushing boundaries.
Renowned for their relentless energy and technical prowess, August Burns Red has been captivating audiences since their inception in 2003. Hailing from Lancaster, Pennsylvania, this five-piece band is famous for their intricate guitar work and crushing breakdowns, garnering them multiple Grammy nominations. Furthermore, drummer Matt Greiner's exceptional skills and complex rhythms provide the foundation for their distinct sound. August Burns Red is undeniably a force to be reckoned with, proven by their ever-growing fan base and consistently outstanding records.
Formed in San Diego, California, in 2000, As I Lay Dying solidified their place in metalcore history with their unique mix of melodic death metal influences and powerful, emotive lyrics. With albums like Shadows Are Security and An Ocean Between Us, they've consistently delivered a blend of aggression and melody that has won over legions of devoted fans. Despite facing controversies and lineup changes, As I Lay Dying remains an undeniable powerhouse in the metalcore scene, continuing to raise the bar with each new release.
Hailing from Australia, Parkway Drive burst onto the scene in 2003 with their relentless energy and aggressive sound. Their distinctive combination of heavy breakdowns, catchy choruses, and Winston McCall's powerful vocals have captivated fans worldwide. From their debut album Killing with a Smile to their more recent work like Ire, Parkway Drive continues to evolve while maintaining their signature style. Unafraid to tackle darker themes and experiment with their sound, this band's impressive discography speaks for itself.
Emerging from Orlando, Florida, Trivium became a dominant force in the metalcore scene with their debut album, Ember to Inferno, released in 2003. Known for their intricate guitar work, tight songwriting, and Matt Heafy's versatile vocal range, they've crafted a distinctive sound that sets them apart from other bands in the genre. Through albums like Ascendancy and The Sin and the Sentence, Trivium demonstrates their ability to seamlessly blend melody and aggression while exploring new sonic territory.
