What is melodic hardcore?

Melodic hardcore is a subgenre of hardcore punk that incorporates elements of melody and harmonies into the traditional aggressive and fast-paced hardcore sound. It is often characterized by its emotional lyrics, dynamic song structures, and a combination of harsh vocals with clean-singing.

Bands such as Rise Against, A Day to Remember, and The Ghost Inside are known for popularizing melodic hardcore, blending aggressive punk rock with catchy hooks and melodic guitar riffs. The genre has roots in the 1980s hardcore scene but has evolved over the years to incorporate influences from pop-punk, metalcore, and post-hardcore.

Melodic hardcore lyrics often touch on themes of personal struggles, social justice, and introspection, aiming to convey a message of empowerment and resilience. The genre has gained a dedicated fanbase and continues to be a significant presence in the punk and hardcore music scene.