Bring Me The Horizon
Biography
Bring Me the Horizon (BMTH) is a British rock band that formed in Sheffield, England in 2004. The group's current lineup consists of lead vocalist Oli Sykes, guitarist Lee Malia, bassist Matt Kean, and drummer Matt Nicholls. The band's name was inspired by a line from the 2003 film "Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl".
Formation and Early Years (2004–2007)
The founding members of Bring Me The Horizon came from various musical backgrounds within the rock and metal scene. Oli Sykes and Matt Nicholls shared an interest in American metalcore. They later met Lee Malia, who was interested in thrash and melodic death metal. The band officially formed in March 2004. Bassist Matt Kean, who was active in other local bands, completed the initial lineup. In the months after their formation, they created a demo album titled "Bedroom Sessions". Their first EP, "This Is What the Edge of Your Seat Was Made For," was released in September 2004. The band's debut full-length album, "Count Your Blessings," was released in 2006 and showcased a deathcore sound.
Musical Evolution
Suicide Season and a Shift in Style (2008–2009)
In 2008, the band released their second album, "Suicide Season," which marked a significant turning point in their musical direction. This album moved away from their deathcore roots and began incorporating elements of metalcore, demonstrating a more polished and expansive sound. This period also saw a lineup change in 2009 when guitarist Curtis Ward departed and was replaced by Jona Weinhofen.
Further Experimentation (2010–2014)
Their third album, "There Is a Hell Believe Me I've Seen It. There Is a Heaven Let's Keep It a Secret." (2010), propelled them to greater international fame. It expanded their sound by blending post-hardcore with orchestral and electronic elements. The major label debut, "Sempiternal," was released in 2013 and was a commercial success, achieving Gold certification in Australia and Silver in the UK. This album was noted for combining metalcore with electronic influences. Keyboardist Jordan Fish joined the band in 2012, initially as a session musician, and became a full member in 2013, playing a key role in evolving the band's sound.
Mainstream Success (2015–Present)
"That's the Spirit" (2015) marked a shift towards a more alternative rock sound and debuted at number two on the UK and US album charts. Their sixth studio album, "Amo" (2019), embraced more pop and electronic elements and became their first UK chart-topper. This album earned them a Grammy nomination for Best Rock Album. In 2020, they released "Post Human: Survival Horror," the first of a planned series of EPs, which revisited their heavier sounds with modern production.
Discography
Studio Albums:
- Count Your Blessings (2006)
- Suicide Season (2008)
- There Is a Hell, Believe Me I've Seen It. There Is a Heaven, Let's Keep It a Secret. (2010)
- Sempiternal (2013)
- That's the Spirit (2015)
- Amo (2019)
- Post Human: Nex Gen (2024)
Awards and Recognition
Bring Me The Horizon has sold over 5 million records worldwide. They have received seven Kerrang! Awards, including two for Best British Band and one for Best Live Band. The band won a BRIT Award for Best Rock/Alternative Act in 2024 and has been nominated for two Grammy Awards.