Dying Wish are one of the best hardcore/metalcore bands around, and their recently-released sophomore album Symptoms of Survival is one of the best new albums in that style. They’re already the kind of band that you can picture young bands looking up to one day (if they aren’t already), and if you’re wondering what bands they looked up to, you’re in luck. Vocalist Emma Boster has made us a list of her 10 favorite hardcore albums of all time, which range from Hatebreed to Foundation to No Warning, with commentary on each pick.
Read on to see what she had to say, and see upcoming Dying Wish tour dates here.
Hatebreed – Satisfaction is the Death of Desire
The greatest hardcore record of all time. The blueprint. My #1 until the day I die.
100 Demons – In The Eyes Of The Lord
I struggled between picking this and the self-titled but ultimately chose this record. Banger after banger and a masterclass for how to write a breakdown. This is an absolute staple from one of my favorite eras of hardcore music.
Terror – One With The Underdogs
Terror has never written a bad record but this is their best. This band is the perfect example of what hardcore should be.
Foundation – When The Smoke Clears
To me, this was the most important band of the 2010s decade. They came through the Northwest a few times when I was a teenager and had a massive impact on me. Emotive lyrics and violent shows but an overall very positive sense of community. One of the best bands I’ve seen come and go. RIP.
Killing Time – Brightside
NYHC has many impressive and influential exports but Killing Time has to be my favorite. This record is perfect. I named my booking outlet in Portland “Brightside Social Club” after this masterpiece.
King Nine – Death Rattle
The most underrated band in hardcore music currently. Their first LP Scared To Death served as a standard for the last decade. For some reason I find myself revisiting Death Rattle more which is why I chose it.
Twitching Tongues – In Love There Is No Law
This band was massively ahead of their time and it’s so good to see them getting their flowers now. When this record came out it was an instant classic for me.
No Warning – Ill Blood
Starting a record with “Behind These Walls” was a statement and the rest of the record lives up to it. The guitar tone is perfect. Overall a perfect hc moment.
The Rival Mob – Mob Justice
Include their entire discography honestly. This band was so special. I love the vocal style and the punk leaning hardcore edge. Glad I got to see them live a couple times before they called it quits.
Product Of Waste – You Won’t Take Me Alive
The best hardcore record you’ve probably never heard. This band was all about ethics. Fuck the system, fuck cops, be loud. I’ll shut up the day I’m fucking dead (RIP).
