I have an old rocker soul. I've listened to rock for all of my life thanks to my parents, who gave me my wonderful taste in music. I listen to "oldies" like The Who and The Beatles, to the 70s like Led Zeppelin, 80s like Ozzy and AC/DC, all the way up to today's best rock hits. In my short "concerting" days I've luckily come to see many of my favorite artists like Rob Zombie and Alice in Chains live. I've also found new locally-known rock bands at these concerts that I'd like to bring attention too. These artists are all "rock-sign" worthy and I believe they're incredibly underappreciated. Here are my top 8 underappreciated rock bands of today. (I found most of these bands at Carolina Rebellion in Charlotte, NC)
1. Heaven's Basement
This locally known band in Charlotte caught my ear with awesome guitar riffs. When the singer belted his first note it reminded me a lot of Jack White from The White Stripes but also gave me a pop feel like The Offspring. They're definitely someone I'd introduce to people who are fans of Papa Roach or maybe even Good Charlotte.
2. 12 Foot Ninja
These guys are definitely in my favorite bands. When we first heard them they sounded incredibly Irish rock, like the Dropkick Murphies. Then they changed their sound like the flip of a switch. They sounded very Hawaiian rock, if there was such a thing. They use a lot of funky bass that sounds very interesting behind very metal guitar riffs. Definitely look these guys up.
3. Trivium
These guys are definitely harder than the two aforementioned. It was especially dark when their singer had the whole crowd split into two for the Wall of Death. When they sang "In Waves" everyone rushed at each other. We were the third line from the front, pretty intimidating to see people posed ready to pounce.
4. Halestorm
Lzzy Hale is an amazing woman whom I may have a woman-crush on. She has a deep rasping voice that can also screech like a hawk. She teamed up with her brother, the drummer, to create an awesome rock band. My favorite moment of seeing Halestorm perform was when she sang "Close My Eyes Forever" with Device's David Draiman. Lzzy Hale and Halestorm are so good they deserve a look up.
5. Device
David Draiman has one of the sexiest singing voices I've ever heard. He has such a range with his vocals it amazes me. Many people know Disturbed but I'm bringing some light to Device, his second smaller band. They have a distinct sound that somehow distinguishes them from Disturbed which earns a gold star in my book.
6. Truck Fighters
From Sweden, these guys have a very unique sound that reminds me of a mix between the Red Hot Chili Peppers and Nine Inch Nails some how. I love this band. Plus, a rock band from Sweden? Come on it makes you a little curious. The singer has an amazing voice and is backed by some very talented musicians.
7. Anti-Mortem
This Southern metal band claims their accent and make it rock. He's got a very gritty gut-pounding voice that makes you just want to bang your head. Look em up.
8. Hell Yeah
Vinny Paul, Dime-bag Darrell's brother, is the drummer for this band along with Mudvayne's vocalist Chad Gray (who is also underappreciated but they are no longer creating music). They are considered heavy metal and they rock. Check out their new album Undeniable.
I hope that you will take these bands into consideration when looking for new tunes. I certainly have many Spotify playlists that include these artists. Enjoy and rock on!
P.S. if you haven't already check out the Red Hot Chili Peppers' new album "The Getaway." Its amazeballs.
