Top 10 Best Post-Hardcore Songs

Post-hardcore is a genre that takes the raw energy and aggression of hardcore punk and blends it with emotional intensity, intricate musicianship, and experimental sounds. It's a space where bands push boundaries, layering heavy riffs with melodic vocals, switching between unfiltered screams and introspective lyrics, and exploring themes that often dig deeper than the surface-level defiance associated with punk. Born out of the hardcore punk scene in the 1980s, post-hardcore has evolved over decades, inspiring countless bands to put their own spin on its unique balance of chaos and melody.

When you think about the best post-hardcore songs, you're probably picturing tracks that ignite something visceral, whether it's the thrill of a relentless breakdown, the catharsis of a heart-wrenching chorus, or the electrifying push and pull of aggressive and tender moments in the same song. The best songs in the genre aren't just a collection of riffs and screams. They're experiences that connect with fans in powerful ways.

The Top Ten

King for a Day - Pierce the Veil

This is an amazing song. Not a lot of people I know are into it, but anyone with a liking for post-hardcore will adore King for a Day. It was my first ever post-hardcore song, and it sparked my love for the genre.
Love it. I believe that this definitely should be in the top three.

I think this song should be at the top of the list. This is my favorite post-hardcore song by far. Pierce the Veil pairs amazing lyrics with the fantastic vocals of both Kellin and Vic. All of the instruments fit perfectly.
The Final Episode (Let's Change the Channel) - Asking Alexandria

Asking Alexandria is truly one of those bands that stand out in the post-hardcore scene. The vocals are just one contributing factor to this particular song.
The instrumentation is brutal and edgy, yet very grounded too. It's a good track to headbang to. Also, mixing electronic elements into the sound is just one of those things that makes Asking Alexandria stand out and makes The Final Episode shine on the album.

Asking Alexandria is one of those post-hardcore bands that stand out from the rest. They mix electronic synths with heavy drumming and hard-hitting guitars to create a seamless, integrated sound.
The Final Episode is just a standout track from an already fantastic album.
You Wear a Crown but You're No King - Blessthefall

This is for sure the best band in the world, and they certainly deserve all the prizes. They always surprise and never disappoint. I'm proud to have them as a favorite band.

Pretty technical, not generic!

This song is by far the best on this list. It should be number one.
One Armed Scissor - At the Drive-In
The Artist in the Ambulance - Thrice

It's a shame that Thrice doesn't get as much recognition as they deserve. They are one of the most versatile bands in terms of style, yet they remain consistent in quality.
Caraphernelia - Pierce the Veil
If You Can't Hang - Sleeping with Sirens

You can't have the top 10 best post-hardcore bands without one of their best songs in the top 10.

The first post-hardcore song I heard. I instantly loved it.
Death of a Strawberry - Dance Gavin Dance

Why is this so low on the list? Hello? Lemon Meringue Tie? Uneasy Hearts Weigh the Most?
Bulls in the Bronx - Pierce the Veil

This was the first song that got me into this whole genre. I praise Pierce the Veil.
Waiting Room - Fugazi

The Newcomers

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A Match Into Water - Pierce the Veil
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A Boy Brushed Red Living in Black and White - Underoath

The Contenders

The Guillotine - Escape the Fate

To be honest, I think The Guillotine 2 is better, but if this is considering all three, I couldn't agree more. The screams are okay, but the lyrics and guitar are absolutely fantastic.
F**k - Bring Me the Horizon
Seven Years - Saosin

This song is part of one of the greatest post-hardcore EPs ever. Saosin is amazing.

Absolutely incredible lyrics and drums.
My Apocalypse - Escape the Fate

Dudes! I'm new to this song, and it's 2016, so I know I'm late to the party, but it is the best ever!

Epic screaming and melodic guitar parts! Just one of my favorite songs ever!

Literally my favorite song ever. So happy to see it in this top ten.
Hospital for Souls - Bring Me the Horizon

This song is incredibly powerful and has such a strong message. This piece of music speaks to you and asks how you feel about the situation in your life.
Being realistic, sometimes we all feel like we should be in a hospital for souls. We feel like we are slowly burning. This song will take your breath away.
This War Is Ours - Escape the Fate

Amazing. All the Guillotine songs by the best band in the world are the top three for me.

Amazing song. The screams, the guitar riffs, and the drumming are absolutely awesome.
The Downfall of Us All - A Day to Remember
The Drug in Me Is You - Falling in Reverse
Turnover - Fugazi
The Sky Under the Sea - Pierce the Veil

This is an amazing song. Some people may not agree with me, but the lyrics are consuming.
Blueprint - Fugazi
What's Left of Me - Blessthefall

I just love this song. Also, Blessthefall is amazing. Best band and best song.
The Thespian - Alesana

This song gives me chills, but I absolutely adore it!
People Like Me, We Just Don't Play - Emarosa
Paper Thin - Dangerkids