Bring Me The Horizon: The Epic Story You Need To Know

Hey guys! Ever wondered about the rollercoaster ride that Bring Me The Horizon (BMTH) has been on? From their deathcore beginnings to becoming the stadium-filling rock icons they are today, it's a journey worth diving into. So, buckle up, and let's explore the incredible story of Bring Me The Horizon!

The Sheffield Roots and Deathcore Days

Alright, let's rewind to Sheffield, England, in 2004. This is where it all began for Bring Me The Horizon. The original lineup featured Oli Sykes, Lee Malia, Matt Kean, Matt Nicholls, and Curtis Ward. These guys, fueled by a passion for heavy music, started crafting what would become their signature sound. In these early days, deathcore was the name of the game. Think brutal breakdowns, guttural vocals, and an overall aggressive vibe. Their initial releases, like the EP "This Is What the Edge of Your Seat Was Made For," and their debut album, "Count Your Blessings," were raw, chaotic, and unapologetically heavy.

Count Your Blessings, released in 2006, really put them on the map within the deathcore scene. Tracks like "Pray for Plagues" became anthems for headbangers and mosh pit enthusiasts. The album's intensity and sheer aggression were groundbreaking, solidifying BMTH's place as a force to be reckoned with. However, this sound wasn't without its critics. Some found it too generic, while others questioned their authenticity. Despite the criticism, the band's popularity continued to grow, and they quickly gained a dedicated following.

The band's early sound was heavily influenced by bands like Norma Jean, The Dillinger Escape Plan, and At The Gates. These influences helped shape their chaotic and aggressive style. They were part of a wave of bands pushing the boundaries of heavy music, experimenting with breakdowns, blast beats, and dissonant harmonies. While their technical skills might not have been as polished as some of their peers, their raw energy and passion were undeniable. This is part of what made them so appealing to a younger audience eager for something new and extreme.

Their relentless touring schedule during these early years helped them build a solid fan base. They played countless shows, often in small, crowded venues, sharing the stage with other up-and-coming metal bands. These experiences helped them hone their stage presence and connect with their fans on a personal level. They were known for their energetic and often chaotic live performances, which became a key part of their identity. Even though the deathcore scene was relatively niche, BMTH managed to stand out with their unique blend of aggression and melody.

Transition and Evolution: "Suicide Season" and Beyond

But here's where things get interesting! Bring Me The Horizon weren't content with staying in one place. They started experimenting with their sound, incorporating influences from various genres. This evolution became evident with their second album, "Suicide Season," released in 2008. While still retaining some elements of deathcore, this album saw them venturing into more melodic territory, incorporating electronic elements and experimenting with different vocal styles. "Suicide Season" marked a significant turning point for the band. They began to explore themes of depression, anxiety, and self-destruction, which resonated deeply with their audience. The album's raw honesty and vulnerability set it apart from many of their contemporaries.

The album featured tracks like "Chelsea Smile" and "Diamonds Aren't Forever," which became instant fan favorites. These songs showcased their ability to blend heavy riffs with catchy melodies, creating a sound that was both aggressive and accessible. The use of electronic elements added a new dimension to their music, giving it a more modern and experimental feel. "Suicide Season" was a bold move that paid off, earning them critical acclaim and expanding their fan base significantly.

Their evolution continued with each subsequent release. "There Is a Hell Believe Me I've Seen It. There Is a Heaven Let's Keep It a Secret." (2010) saw them pushing the boundaries even further, incorporating orchestral arrangements, choirs, and even more electronic elements. This album was a sprawling, ambitious work that showcased their growing musical maturity. The lyrics became more introspective and philosophical, dealing with themes of faith, doubt, and the search for meaning. The album's complexity and depth earned them even more respect within the music industry.

The production quality of their albums also improved significantly over time. They worked with renowned producers who helped them refine their sound and create a more polished and professional product. This attention to detail helped them appeal to a wider audience and gain mainstream recognition. They also started experimenting with different visual elements, creating stunning music videos and developing a distinct aesthetic that complemented their music. Their willingness to take risks and embrace change is what has allowed them to stay relevant and continue to grow as a band.

Mainstream Success: "Sempiternal" and "That's the Spirit"

The real game-changer came with "Sempiternal" in 2013. This album was a masterpiece of modern rock, blending soaring melodies, heavy riffs, and electronic textures seamlessly. With tracks like "Shadow Moses" and "Sleepwalking," "Sempiternal" catapulted them into the mainstream. It was a critical and commercial success, solidifying their status as one of the biggest rock bands in the world. The album's themes of overcoming adversity and finding strength in vulnerability resonated with a massive audience.

"Sempiternal" marked a significant shift in their songwriting approach. They focused on crafting more concise and memorable songs, with a greater emphasis on melody and hooks. The addition of Jordan Fish on keyboards and programming was also crucial, adding a new layer of texture and depth to their sound. The album's production was slick and polished, making it radio-friendly without sacrificing their artistic integrity. This album proved that they could evolve and experiment without alienating their core fan base.

Then came "That's the Spirit" in 2015, which saw them embrace a more alternative rock sound. While some longtime fans were initially hesitant, the album's infectious hooks and anthemic choruses won over many. Tracks like "Throne" and "Happy Song" became massive hits, cementing their place at the top of the rock world. "That's the Spirit" was a bold statement of intent, signaling their desire to break free from the constraints of genre and create music that was both personal and universal. The album's themes of mental health, addiction, and self-acceptance resonated deeply with a generation struggling with similar issues.

The success of these albums allowed them to play bigger venues and headline major festivals around the world. They developed a reputation for their explosive live performances, which were known for their energy, intensity, and visual spectacle. They invested heavily in their stage production, creating immersive and unforgettable experiences for their fans. Their shows became more than just concerts; they were events that brought people together and celebrated the power of music.

Recent Years and "amo"

In recent years, Bring Me The Horizon have continued to push boundaries and experiment with their sound. Their 2019 album, "amo," saw them incorporating elements of pop, electronica, and even R&B. While this album was divisive among fans, it demonstrated their willingness to take risks and explore new sonic territories. "amo" was a deeply personal album for Oli Sykes, dealing with themes of love, loss, and the complexities of human relationships. The album's experimental nature and genre-bending approach challenged listeners and sparked debate within the music community.

Despite the mixed reception, "amo" was a commercial success, proving that they could still attract a large audience even when pushing the boundaries of their sound. The album's singles, such as "MANTRA" and "medicine," were massive hits, showcasing their ability to blend different genres and create catchy, radio-friendly songs. They also continued to experiment with their visual identity, creating stunning music videos and developing a distinct aesthetic that complemented their music.

Their latest releases, including the "Post Human: Survival Horror" EP, have seen them return to a heavier sound while still incorporating elements of their more experimental work. This EP was a critical and commercial success, proving that they can still deliver the heavy riffs and aggressive vocals that their fans love. The "Post Human: Survival Horror" EP was a response to the COVID-19 pandemic and the social and political upheaval of the time. The EP's themes of survival, resilience, and the power of human connection resonated deeply with listeners around the world.

The Legacy

So, what's the legacy of Bring Me The Horizon? They're a band that's never been afraid to evolve, experiment, and challenge expectations. From their deathcore roots to their stadium-filling rock anthems, they've consistently pushed the boundaries of their sound. They've inspired countless bands and continue to be a major force in the music world. Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer, there's no denying the impact that Bring Me The Horizon has had on modern music. Their journey is a testament to the power of creativity, innovation, and the unwavering pursuit of artistic excellence.

Bring Me The Horizon's journey is far from over, and it's exciting to imagine what the future holds for them. They've proven that they can adapt and evolve without losing their core identity, and they continue to surprise and inspire their fans with each new release. Their story is a reminder that music is a constantly evolving art form, and that the best bands are the ones that are willing to take risks and push the boundaries of what's possible.

From Sheffield's underground scene to global stardom, Bring Me The Horizon's story is one of relentless ambition, creative exploration, and unwavering dedication to their craft. They've overcome obstacles, defied expectations, and emerged as one of the most important and influential rock bands of the 21st century. So, crank up your favorite BMTH track and celebrate the incredible journey of this groundbreaking band!