Formation: Formed in Sheffield, South Yorkshire, England, in 2004
Genres: Metalcore, alternative metal, alternative rock, pop rock, electronic rock, early work in deathcore
Notable Albums: Debut ‘Count Your Blessings’ (2006), ‘Suicide Season’ (2008), ‘Sempiternal’ (2013), ‘That’s the Spirit’ (2015), ‘Amo’ (2019)
Record Labels: RCA Records globally, Columbia Records in the United States
Current Members: Oli Sykes, Lee Malia, Matt Kean, Matt Nicholls
Bring Me the Horizon (often abbreviated as BMTH) is a British rock band that has significantly impacted the rock and metal music scene since its formation in 2004. Let’s dive into their fascinating journey.
Formation and Early Years
Bring Me the Horizon was formed in Sheffield, England, by a group of teens who shared a passion for heavy music. Lead vocalist Oliver Sykes, drummer Matt Nicholls, guitarist Lee Malia, bassist Matt Kean, and guitarist Curtis Ward (who was later replaced by Jona Weinhofen in 2009) came together to create a sound that was loud, raw, and unapologetically intense. Fun fact: their name was inspired by a line from the 2003 film Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl.
The Birth of BMTH
In their early days, BMTH was all about deathcore—a genre characterized by its intense, aggressive sound. Their debut EP, This Is What the Edge of Your Seat Was Made For (2005), set the stage for their debut album, Count Your Blessings (2006). The album was a brutal introduction to the band, filled with guttural vocals and blistering riffs that quickly gained them a loyal following.
Awards and Achievements
4 Kerrang! Awards, including 2 for Best British Band and 1 for Best Live Band; nominated for 2 Grammy Awards; over 5 million records sold worldwide.
Bring Me The Horizon T-Shirts
Check out this epic Bring Me the Horizon T-shirt, featuring vibrant, eye-catching designs that perfectly capture the band’s intense and unique aesthetic. It’s ideal for fans looking to showcase their love for BMTH in style!
Musical Evolution
BMTH’s journey through the music scene has been anything but static. They’ve evolved dramatically, shifting from their deathcore roots to exploring various genres and styles.
- Deathcore Beginnings: Count Your Blessings (2006) was steeped in deathcore, a style they soon began to outgrow.
- Metalcore Transition: With Suicide Season (2008), they started incorporating metalcore elements, showcasing a more polished and expansive sound.
- Experimental Phase: There Is a Hell Believe Me I’ve Seen It. There Is a Heaven Let’s Keep It a Secret. (2010) blended post-hardcore, orchestral, and electronic elements, pushing the boundaries of their music.
- Mainstream Breakthrough: Sempiternal (2013) was a game-changer, combining metalcore with electronic influences and achieving significant commercial success.
- Alternative Rock: That’s the Spirit (2015) marked a shift to a more radio-friendly alternative rock sound.
- Pop and Electronic Influences: Amo (2019) embraced pop and electronic elements, surprising fans with its catchy hooks and danceable beats.
- Return to Heavier Sounds: Post Human: Survival Horror (2020) saw the band revisiting heavier styles while incorporating modern production techniques.
Commercial Success and Awards
BMTH’s willingness to experiment has paid off, both critically and commercially. They’ve sold over 5 million records worldwide, with multiple UK chart-topping albums, including Amo and Post Human: Survival Horror. Their impressive list of accolades includes four Kerrang! Awards and two Grammy nominations.
Band Members
The current lineup of BMTH is as follows:
- Oliver Sykes (Lead Vocals): Born on November 20, 1986, in Ashford, Kent, England. He is known for his dynamic stage presence and as the founder of the clothing brand Drop Dead.
- Matt Nicholls (Drums): Born on March 22, 1986, in Rotherham, South Yorkshire. Self-taught drummer who brings relentless energy to the band’s rhythm section.
- Lee Malia (Guitar): Born on June 4, 1984. I started playing guitar at 11 and brought a blend of technical skill and melodic sensibility to the band.
- Matt Kean (Bass): Born on June 2, 1986. Known for his solid bass lines and a penchant for pranks, he’s been with BMTH since the beginning.
- Jordan Fish (Keyboardist/Programmer): Joined the band from the group Worship and has been instrumental in evolving BMTH’s sound with electronic influences.
Popular Songs
BMTH has a plethora of popular tracks that have resonated with fans across the globe. Some of their biggest hits include:
Throne: Released 2015
Drown: Released 2014
Mantra: Released 2013
Parasite Eve: Released 2020
Can You Feel My Heart: Released 2013
Shadow Moses: Released 2013
Happy Song: Released 2015
Teardrops: Released 1988
Each of these tracks showcases a different facet of their musical evolution, from the heavy breakdowns of “Shadow Moses” to the anthemic chorus of “Throne.”
Impact of The Band
BMTH has influenced the sound of modern rock and metal and left a mark on culture and fashion. Oli Sykes’ clothing brand, Drop Dead, is a staple in alternative fashion, and the band’s use of social media, particularly MySpace in their early days, was pioneering. They’ve also collaborated with various artists, including Ed Sheeran, Yungblud, and Babymetal, further blurring the lines between genres.
Controversies and Challenges
BMTH has faced its share of controversies like any band that dares to evolve. Some fans have been critical of their stylistic changes, longing for the heavier sounds of their early days. Despite this, the band’s ability to adapt and grow has earned them a broader audience and critical acclaim.
Legacy
Their fearless approach to music defines bring Me the Horizon’s legacy. They’ve revitalized British rock, bringing it back into the mainstream with a unique blend of styles that continue to surprise and captivate audiences. Their willingness to experiment and push boundaries has set them apart in a genre often resistant to change.
Discography Highlights
Here’s a quick look at BMTH’s notable albums:
- Count Your Blessings (2006): Their deathcore debut.
- Suicide Season (2008): Marked their first chart success in the US.
- There Is a Hell… (2010): An experimental masterpiece.
- Sempiternal (2013): Their mainstream breakthrough.
- That’s the Spirit (2015): A shift towards alternative rock.
- Amo (2019): Embraced pop and electronic influences.
- Post Human: Survival Horror (2020): A return to heavier sounds with modern twists.
