Top 10 Best Christian Metalcore Bands
Metalcore is a fusion between extreme metal and hardcore punk. Many of the metalcore bands are Christian.
What do you think is the best?
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August Burns Red
August Burns Red is an American metalcore band from Manheim, Pennsylvania. The group was formed in 2003 while most of its members were still in high school.
They began performing in the Lancaster area and were first signed to CI Records. They later joined Solid State Records and most recently... read more
There's a reason these guys headline this list. If you're truly searching for honest, pure metal done expertly and at standards that far exceed anything, either secular or Christian, these are your guys. There is literally nothing bland, standard, boring, or simple from these guys. There is only progression and perfection.
Since Rescue & Restore, each song feels meticulously crafted with incredible and remarkably unique breakdowns and bridges that never get old. There just isn't a band out there capable of what ABR does regularly.
The impeccable artistry of all five of these regular dudes leaves me at a loss every time I hear them. When I think of Jesus-loving, gut-wrenching, sonic metal whose lyrics often trump hymns, I think of ABR.
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As I Lay Dying
As I Lay Dying is an American metalcore band from San Diego, California. The band was founded in 2000 by vocalist Tim Lambesis, and its first full lineup, including drummer Jordan Mancino, came together in 2001. As of 2024, the band has released seven studio albums, including Shaped by Fire, along with... read more
It's hard to say whether this band is truly Christian. They openly professed the Christian faith in the past and called themselves Christians, but honestly, I have my doubts. Currently, the singer is arrested, leaving the band on hiatus, and he revealed he became an atheist.
For those who do not believe, look at the lyrics of some songs, like "This is Who We Are." It may seem they are not practitioners of Christianity, but I think they had a different view on religion, an unusual way of interpreting and expressing their faith.
All indications are that the remaining members will continue to make music without bringing Christian references into their compositions. There has been a change, but we must know that they were a Christian band. The singer's statements about his atheism concern the change he underwent later.
Despite the controversy, we must consider As I Lay Dying a Christian metalcore band. Only by examining the lyrics can we draw clearer conclusions. The truth is, they deserve to be on the list. They are amazing!
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The Devil Wears Prada
The Devil Wears Prada is an American metalcore band from Dayton, Ohio, formed in 2005. The band's lineup includes Mike Hranica on vocals, Jeremy DePoyster on rhythm guitar and vocals, Andy Trick on bass, and Daniel Williams on drums. Known for blending aggressive music with melodic elements, they have... read more
Amazing. Listen to Rosemary Had an Accident. The band has been on the scene since at least 2005 and continues to produce beautiful compositions. There are a lot of poetic metaphors in the lyrics.
They don't just write songs. They write albums which tell stories, are themed, and have purpose. The vocals are very unique, and the drumming is out of this world.
This band should be in first place. They have an original and awesome sound. They don't do generic metalcore songs, and they have real, deep, and wise lyrics, unlike other bands that just fill space with their lyrics.
Truly a great band.
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Underoath
Underoath is an American rock band from Tampa, Florida. It was founded by Dallas Taylor and Luke Morton on November 30, 1997, in Ocala, Florida. The band later added members from the Tampa area and became known for its mix of post-hardcore and metalcore styles, with successful albums like They're Only... read more
Probably the most well-known Christian metalcore band out there, and for good reason! They had one of the most talented clean vocalists in the metalcore scene and have well-written songs, both musically and lyrically!
Come on! It's Underoath. Even though they aren't necessarily a Christian band right now, they've made plenty of songs during their time.
These guys were one of my first metalcore bands other than Demon Hunter, and I still love them to this day!
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Haste the Day
This is a great band with great melodies and magnificent choruses. Their songs are incredible. I just think that the vocals could be improved, but they are great! All of their work often brings excellent choruses and fantastic breakdowns.
I love them.
Haste the Day - When Everything Falls. I think it's number one myself. Although the others are nice also, this is my favorite band. I did not think it was a Christian band when I first heard it.
Truly an epic band. I listened to every one of their albums for months at a time before I eventually settled on Dreamer and Pressure the Hinges.
I love this band!
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Oh, Sleeper
Oh, Sleeper is an American Christian metalcore band from Fort Worth, Texas, formed in 2006. They were previously signed to Solid State Records and have since become an independent band. Known for their concept albums and lyrical themes centered around morality and conflict, the band has released several... read more
This band is definitely one of my favorite metalcore bands out there. Every one of their songs has a deeper meaning behind it, like Son of the Morning and The Finisher. At first, I didn't get either of the songs until I looked them up, and it blew me away.
I am so proud of this band. I can tell you, listen to any one of their songs, and you will like it! Check them out, they are sick!
Love this band. Children of Fire is one song you must hear before you die.
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For Today
For Today was an American Christian metalcore band from Sioux City, Iowa, formed in 2005. The band was originally signed to Facedown Records and later to Razor & Tie. They announced their disbandment in 2016 after a farewell tour.
This is the band that really got me into metalcore. I was quite surprised when I saw that their lyrics were similar to those of the artists we play in my church. When I listened to My Confession for the first time, I just loved the lyrics as well as the music. The message was clear, and I really felt that I could relate to it.
In my opinion, it's the best Christian metalcore band, along with August Burns Red and Demon Hunter.
My favorite of all time. I met Mattie Montgomery at a show, and watching him pray with every individual fan had me in tears. He and the rest of the band are true inspirations, and they speak truth to troubled youth. They have shown me through God that I am not useless and that I have a purpose.
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The Chariot
This band belongs to a particular style of metalcore known as mathcore. It is a very technical and experimental style (and very chaotic, I would say).
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Demon Hunter
Demon Hunter is an American Christian metal band from Seattle, Washington, founded in 2000 by brothers Don Clark and Ryan Clark. Although the brothers launched the band together, Don eventually left to focus on his family and design work. Ryan remains the frontman, and the band has released several albums... read more
I like Demon Hunter because they motivate me to seek the ways of God! These guys have a gift! I also like August Burns Red, As I Lay Dying, The Devil Wears Prada, Wolves at the Gate, and Oh, Sleeper the same way!
This band has been a godsend for this broken vet. Coming home from war with multiple injuries, both seen and unseen, this band helped me bare my soul and allowed me to heal.
Not I! is the number one song for me. It makes me want to violently trash my house or break a chair over something while screaming at the top of my lungs!
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War of Ages
These guys are straight hardcore. They bear no relation to ABR at all. However, they are actually really solid in most ways. As is the case with most hardcore, their style can get stale and clunky, but what's nice is how rare that actually is with WoA.
They have some really slick and balanced breakdowns, and their singer does more than just talk-scream. Lyrically, they touch on Christian struggles and contemporary issues. Musically, they fall in between Snapcase and maybe A Day to Remember.
B- all day.
One of the best Christian bands around. Look at all the music they're turning out. Definitely driven, and always something new to listen to.
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Becoming the Archetype
Becoming the Archetype is, in my opinion, the best Christian metalcore band of all time. Their music is much more complex than some of the top-ranked bands on this list. They are much more progressive in style and bring an avant-garde metal sound that comes close to rivaling bands like Meshuggah and Gojira.
Artistically, they are far and away better than any band on this list. No offense to August Burns Red or As I Lay Dying because I love the sound of most metalcore bands, especially the bands that have positive song concepts. That being said, BTA should be much higher on this list if you are listing real metalcore bands that totally shred from the first song to the last.
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Mouth of the South
Listen to Simply Grace! These guys had it right.
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Blessthefall
Blessthefall is an American metalcore band that originated in Phoenix, Arizona, in 2004. Their music combines post-hardcore elements with both clean and screamed vocals. The band is known for emotionally intense lyrics and intricate musical arrangements.... read more
These guys are marginally Christian. Sure, Jake Luhrs has a cameo on a song off Hollow Bodies, but their song content is very worldly (for lack of a better word). These guys walk the line, but musically, BTF is tight, heavy, and trendy.
If you're looking for nebulous, Christian metal, with a little Memphis May Fire and Of Mice and Men, with a splash of I See Stars, these are your guys.
It is a Christian band and a great one!
Hollow Bodies is a gorgeous album!
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Fit for a King
Perfect balance of melodic and heavy styles. Not only do they have brutal breakdowns and fierce screams, but they have something many alternatives out there don't: gripping emotion. Tracks like Oblivion will show you what I mean. This band is the definition of Christian metalcore.
The more I am listening to Fit For A King, the more I love this band. Everything matches: sound, vocals, lyrics, and the full power of positive energy.
The lyrics hit home. If more people could get past the sound, they'd love it.
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Wolves at the Gate
Super versatile. See Back to School. These guys are so underrated. Great vocals, solid breakdowns, and a sincere devotion to Christ.
They are absolutely amazing. Great sound, inspirational lyrics, and awesome message!
Amazing sound. Amazing lyrics! An amazing group of guys spreading the gospel!
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Living Sacrifice
Living Sacrifice is an American Christian metal band formed in Little Rock, Arkansas, in 1989. Their musical style spans thrash metal, death metal, and metalcore, evolving over the years while maintaining a complex and aggressive sound. They are considered pioneers in the Christian metal genre and are... read more
Original, brutal, unrelenting. Like nothing else. An absolute pleasure to listen to.
They should easily be at the top of this list. They, along with ZAO, basically started Christian metalcore!
They are one of the most influential Christian metal bands.
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Impending Doom
Impending Doom is a Christian deathcore band from Riverside, California. The group has released five full-length studio albums and currently performs as a five-member ensemble. Vocalist Brook Reeves is one of the two original members still with the band.... read more
100% brutality, 100% Gospel of Jesus Christ-driven.
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Phinehas
This band is extraordinary. They make beautiful vocals, awesome guitar solos, and awesome breakdowns, with bass and drums in tune. The band is true metalcore. I just think some of their songs are very gloomy and depressing, but they are amazing! I love these guys. They are great and should be among the top ten.
Great band, awesome vocalist, awesome acoustic songs as well. Probably one of my favorite bands - they really helped me turn my life around.
Why are they not at the top of the list? Such good guys, amazing artists, great lyrics.
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Memphis May Fire
Memphis May Fire is an American metalcore band formed in Denton, Texas, and currently signed to Rise Records. The band was formed in 2006 and is known for their energetic performances and emotionally driven lyrics. Their discography includes albums such as The Hollow, Challenger, and Remade in Misery... read more
With their newest album, Unconditional, there is no longer any question regarding these guys' devotion to Christ. If you're looking for heavy without the radio flair, these are the guys you've been searching for.
Looking for that super heavy, breakdown band you can show off to your friends? Boom, got them.
Highly recommend The Hollow as an introduction.
My best band so far. Their songs have been an inspiration in my life. I thank God for their music every day!
These guys remind me to stay true to my faith. Thank God I have them to look to when I need uplifting!
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Norma Jean
I've had a long, long "love" affair with these guys. There isn't a genre that quite fits them. Their library is quite extensive and covers a lot. Some albums scream the gospel, and others seem like aimless noise.
There is no question these guys have a uniqueness to what they bring to metal, a constant to their heaviness. They are literally pioneers. But at times, I feel like I'm being taken advantage of too. Look, just know Living Sacrifice, The Chariot, and Maylene and the Sons of Disaster all came from or became who NJ is today. Never judge a book by its cover.
A great tune from them is "I Used to Hate Cell Phones, Now I Hate Car Accidents." When I heard it for the first time, I knew they were a great metalcore band!
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Silent Planet
One of my all-time favorites! Great guys with love for people.
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Sleeping Giant
I've never seen them live, but I've watched them on YouTube countless times. Tommy is an amazing man of faith and pure love for people. He loves Jesus so much, and it is shown in praise dancing, bowing, and full outpour at every show. This band is thick with the Holy Spirit and never fails to give praise.
Most definitely the best! I so wish I could be at their concerts. I love how they preach and pray for others. I smile when I see their videos. They are awesome to me.
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Blessed by a Broken Heart
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Texas in July
Texas In July was an American metalcore band formed in Ephrata, Pennsylvania in 2007. Their sound combined melodic metalcore and progressive metal, featuring intricate guitar riffs and complex drum patterns. The band became known for their high-energy live performances.... read more
Very great. Much like their newest album, which is definitely a much better-produced work than their first album.
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Fallstar
Yeah, underrated. Backdraft is one of my top ten albums. The band has an awesome style and passion for God.
This is the best band ever. Should be in the top ten.
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My Heart to Fear
These guys have amazing and technical breakdowns.
They are very good with their instruments.
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The Great Commission