Bring Me The Horizon: The Ultimate Guide

Hey guys! Ever heard of Bring Me The Horizon? If you're into rock, metalcore, or just music that makes you feel something, then you're in for a treat. This band has been tearing up the scene for years, and their evolution is seriously something to witness. So, buckle up as we dive deep into the world of BMTH!

The Genesis of Bring Me The Horizon

Bring Me The Horizon, often abbreviated as BMTH, formed in Sheffield, England, in 2004. Can you believe it's been that long? The original lineup included Oli Sykes on vocals, Lee Malia on guitar, Matt Kean on bass, Matt Nicholls on drums, and Curtis Ward on rhythm guitar. These guys came from various local bands and initially bonded over their shared love for American metalcore acts. Think bands like Norma Jean, The Dillinger Escape Plan, and even a bit of early Slipknot. Their early sound was raw, chaotic, and heavily influenced by the deathcore scene. It was all about aggressive breakdowns, guttural screams, and a relentless energy that was impossible to ignore.

The band's early days were marked by a relentless touring schedule. They hit the road hard, playing shows across the UK and Europe, building a dedicated fanbase one gig at a time. This DIY approach helped them hone their skills and develop a reputation for their intense live performances. Imagine being in a small, packed venue with the band just going absolutely wild – that was the essence of early BMTH. Their initial releases, including their debut EP "This Is What the Edge of Your Seat Was Made For" in 2004, and their first album "Count Your Blessings" in 2006, captured this raw energy. "Count Your Blessings" is particularly notable for its aggressive sound and controversial lyrics, which quickly made them a talking point in the metal scene. Despite the mixed reviews, it established Bring Me The Horizon as a force to be reckoned with, setting the stage for their future evolution.

From Deathcore to Metalcore: The Evolution Begins

As Bring Me The Horizon matured, their sound began to evolve. The transition from deathcore to a more melodic metalcore style was evident in their second album, "Suicide Season," released in 2008. This album marked a significant shift, with the band incorporating more structured songwriting, catchy riffs, and even some clean vocals. While still heavy, "Suicide Season" was more accessible than their debut, opening them up to a wider audience. One of the key factors in this evolution was the band's willingness to experiment and push their boundaries. They started incorporating influences from other genres, such as electronic music and even elements of pop. This experimentation didn't always sit well with their original fans, but it was a crucial step in their journey.

The release of "There Is a Hell Believe Me I've Seen It. There Is a Heaven Let's Keep It a Secret." in 2010 further solidified their evolution. This album was a blend of heavy breakdowns, soaring melodies, and atmospheric soundscapes. It was ambitious, complex, and showcased the band's growing confidence in their songwriting abilities. The album's themes were also more introspective, dealing with personal struggles, mental health, and the search for meaning. Tracks like "Blessed with a Curse" and "It Never Ends" became instant classics, demonstrating the band's ability to balance aggression with emotion. This album really showed that BMTH was not just another metalcore band; they were artists with something to say and a unique way of saying it.

The Electronic Infusion and Mainstream Breakthrough

The next big leap in Bring Me The Horizon's evolution came with the release of "Sempiternal" in 2013. This album saw the band fully embrace electronic elements, creating a sound that was both massive and atmospheric. The addition of Jordan Fish on keyboards and programming was a game-changer, adding layers of texture and depth to their music. "Sempiternal" was a critical and commercial success, earning rave reviews and catapulting the band into the mainstream. Tracks like "Shadow Moses" and "Sleepwalking" became anthems, showcasing the band's ability to write catchy, impactful songs that resonated with a wide audience. The album's themes of self-discovery, redemption, and the search for hope also struck a chord with listeners.

Following the success of "Sempiternal," BMTH continued to push their sound in new directions with "That's the Spirit" in 2015. This album saw them leaning even further into rock and electronic influences, creating a sound that was both accessible and experimental. While some fans missed the heavier elements of their earlier work, "That's the Spirit" was a massive commercial success, cementing their status as one of the biggest rock bands in the world. Songs like "Throne" and "Happy Song" became stadium anthems, showcasing their ability to write songs that could connect with a massive audience. The album's themes of escapism, self-acceptance, and the search for happiness resonated with listeners, making it a defining album of the decade.

The Experimental Phase: "amo" and Beyond

In 2019, Bring Me The Horizon released "amo," an album that further divided fans but showcased their relentless desire to experiment. "amo" saw the band incorporating elements of pop, electronic, and even R&B into their sound. It was a bold move, and while some fans were turned off by the departure from their heavier roots, others praised the band for their willingness to take risks and push boundaries. The album's themes were deeply personal, dealing with love, loss, and the complexities of human relationships. Tracks like "MANTRA" and "Medicine" were catchy and infectious, showcasing the band's ability to write songs that were both experimental and accessible.

Following "amo," BMTH released the "Post Human: Survival Horror" EP in 2020, a return to their heavier roots that pleased many longtime fans. This EP was a response to the criticism of "amo," showing that the band could still deliver the heavy, aggressive sound that made them famous. The EP's themes were dark and apocalyptic, reflecting the anxieties and uncertainties of the COVID-19 pandemic. Tracks like "Parasite Eve" and "Teardrops" were brutal and intense, showcasing the band's ability to blend their experimental tendencies with their classic sound. This EP was a reminder that Bring Me The Horizon is a band that can do it all, from heavy metal to pop to electronic, and everything in between.

Oli Sykes: The Voice and Vision

No discussion about Bring Me The Horizon would be complete without talking about Oli Sykes. As the frontman and lyricist, Sykes has been the driving force behind the band's evolution. His lyrics are often deeply personal, dealing with his struggles with addiction, mental health, and the search for meaning. Sykes's vocal style has also evolved over the years, from the guttural screams of their early work to the more melodic and nuanced vocals of their later albums. He's not just a singer; he's a performer, a provocateur, and a visionary. Sykes's fashion sense and stage presence have also made him a style icon. He's known for his bold choices, his tattoos, and his overall rebellious attitude. He's not afraid to express himself, and that's something that resonates with a lot of fans.

Beyond his musical contributions, Sykes is also a successful entrepreneur. He owns the clothing line Drop Dead, which is known for its edgy and alternative designs. He's also involved in various philanthropic efforts, using his platform to raise awareness about mental health and addiction. Sykes is a complex and multifaceted figure, but one thing is clear: he's a force to be reckoned with. He's not just a rock star; he's an artist, an entrepreneur, and an advocate. He's someone who's using his platform to make a difference in the world, and that's something to be admired.

Bring Me The Horizon's Enduring Impact

So, why does Bring Me The Horizon matter? Well, for starters, they've consistently pushed the boundaries of what a rock band can be. They've never been afraid to experiment, to take risks, and to challenge expectations. They've evolved from a relatively unknown deathcore band to one of the biggest rock acts in the world, and they've done it on their own terms. They've influenced countless other bands and artists, and their music has resonated with millions of people around the world. They've also been vocal advocates for mental health awareness, using their platform to break down stigmas and encourage people to seek help.

Bring Me The Horizon is more than just a band; they're a cultural phenomenon. They represent a generation of young people who are searching for meaning, for connection, and for a way to express themselves. They're a band that's not afraid to be honest, to be vulnerable, and to be real. And in a world that's often fake and superficial, that's something truly special. So, whether you're a longtime fan or a curious newcomer, I encourage you to dive into the world of Bring Me The Horizon. You might just find something that resonates with you.

Essential Bring Me The Horizon Tracks

To get you started on your BMTH journey, here are some essential tracks:

• Shadow Moses: From "Sempiternal," this track is an anthem with its iconic riff and soaring vocals.
• Throne: A stadium-ready rocker from "That's the Spirit" that's impossible not to sing along to.
• Happy Song: Another gem from "That's the Spirit," known for its dark humor and infectious energy.
• MANTRA: A standout track from "amo" that blends rock and electronic elements seamlessly.
• Teardrops: From "Post Human: Survival Horror," this track is a heavy and intense return to their roots.

Final Thoughts

Bring Me The Horizon is a band that defies easy categorization. They're metalcore, they're rock, they're electronic, they're pop – they're all of these things and none of them at the same time. They're a band that's constantly evolving, constantly experimenting, and constantly challenging themselves. And that's what makes them so exciting. So, crank up the volume, dive into their discography, and get ready for a wild ride. You won't be disappointed!