critical

The Story of Critical: A Genre in Peril

Critical music, born from the ashes of the 90s hardcore scene, is a genre that demands attention. It’s a sonic assault that punches you in the gut with its raw aggression and a lyrical barrage that questions everything. But what exactly is critical music, and why is it so… critical?

From Hardcore’s Inferno to Critical’s Fire:

It all started with bands like Refused, At the Drive-In, and Converge who pushed the boundaries of hardcore, incorporating elements of metal, punk, and even experimental music. The result? A rawer, more politically charged sound, rife with dissonance and a relentless, almost frantic pace.

Funny Fact: Refused were so committed to their anti-capitalist message that they once staged a fake death for their singer Dennis Lyxzén, only to reappear in a new band called The (International) Noise Conspiracy.

This rawness and lyrical depth attracted a new breed of bands in the early 2000s. The Dillinger Escape Plan, Every Time I Die, and Converge became the forefathers of what would be dubbed “critical music”. They weren’t just playing fast and loud; they were using their music to critique society, political systems, and even the music industry itself.

Funny Fact: The Dillinger Escape Plan frontman Greg Puciato was once arrested for punching a fan in the face. He later explained it was a “poorly-executed attempt at crowd surfing.”

The Evolution of the Sound:

Critical music evolved beyond the hardcore scene, embracing a wider range of influences. Bands like Cult of Luna and ISIS introduced doom metal elements, while The Chariot incorporated mathcore rhythms. This diversity, however, wasn’t without its critics.

Funny Fact: The Chariot were known for their live shows, where frontman Josh Scogin would frequently dive into the crowd and stage-dive from ridiculous heights. This once led to a hilarious incident where he landed on a security guard’s head, prompting Scogin to shout, “I’m so sorry, I thought you were a cushion!”

The Future of Critical:

Today, critical music continues to evolve. Bands like Code Orange, Turnstile, and Obituary are pushing the genre in new directions, blending heavy metal, hardcore, and even pop elements.

Funny Fact: Turnstile frontman Brendan Yates is a self-proclaimed lover of all things Disney. His bandmates have even been known to play Disney songs in their dressing room before shows.

So, while critical music may seem like a niche genre, its influence on modern music is undeniable. It’s a genre that is constantly challenging, evolving, and above all, intensely critical. And while it’s often heavy and intense, there’s also a playful sense of humor lurking beneath the surface.

Ultimately, critical music is a reminder that music can be more than just entertainment; it can be a powerful tool for questioning, challenging, and even laughing at the absurdity of the world around us.