Our Chosen Genre - Metalcore

Metalcore is a subgenre of heavy metal combining various elements of extreme metal and hardcore punk. The name is a mixture of the names of the two genres.

History of Metalcore

Metalcore has originated from a mixture of other metal subgenres over the years with different styles and techniques being incorporated. Bands such as 'Black Flag' and 'Bad Brains' are among the orignators of hardcore genre taking inspiration from rock band 'Black Sabbath.'

Thrash metal has also had an influence in the progression of metalcore with some hardcore bands playing alongside thrash metal bands 'Metallica' and 'Slayer.' This has then led to the formation of bands incorporating similar styles from both genres and producing something original.

Metalcore Bands

There have been many successful metalcore bands over recent years that have not only made the genre more well known but have also continued to evolve metalcore as a genre.

Asking Alexandria are a 5 piece metalcore band from York. They have 2 albums, 'Stand Up and Scream' and 'Reckless and Relentless' which was released in 2011.

The Devil Wears Prada are a 6 piece metalcore band from Ohia, USA. They are a Christian band with 4 full length albums.

Misery Signals are a 5 piece metalcore band from Winconsin, USA formed in 2002 with 3 full length albums.









Features of Metalcore

Metalcore is distinguished from other punk metal fusions by its emphasis on general heavy metal characteristics as well as breakdowns which are slower, intense passages conducive to moshing.
The vocals in metalcore are screamed vocals and often with clean vocals during the bridge or chorus of the song.

Representation of Metalcore Bands

Metalcore bands often feature quite young members, from late teens to early 20's. They are at an age where they have heard different types and sub-genres of metal and have these bands to influence what style of music they write. Normally there are around 4-6 members in a metalcore band, with 5 being the most common number. One drummer, one bassist, two guitarists and one main vocalist. 

The dress code of the metalcore scene is very distinguishable as alot of fans have a similar look.
The main characteristics are -

• Mid to long hair length with a fringe swept across
• Band tee shirts
• 'Wifebeater' vest
• Skinny jeans, normally very tight
• Plimsoles, 'Vans' are very common
• Facial piercings such as a norse ring or 'snakebites' in lips
• Stretched ears with plugs or tunnels
• Tattoos, full sleeves etc

Target Audience

Our target audience will be mainly aimed at male fans aged from mid teens to early twenties. Males find the genre much more appealing but there are still female fans we will be aiming at. As the fans are similar ages of most band members a stronger connection is formed with lyrical content and the evolving nature of the genre. Being from the same generation any lyrical topics are often relatable with day to day life or negative aspects of life such as break ups from relationships etc.