[Alternative]

Tool is a band that I simply cannot say enough about. They are amazing, simply amazing. Their intricate and complicated song structures, melodies, harmonies, rhythyms, and distinctly mystical sounds are some of the best modern music ever created. I am confident that this band will live on as a legend after it's passing, which hopefully will not be for a long time yet. This band is incredible. Maynard's vocals are intense, heartfelt, and biting as they swiftly deliver the message of rebellion against tradition, society, and religion over complex rhythyms and harmonies. Many of the songs display an almost Eastern flair to them. The only downside to this band, in my opinion, is their hatred of Christianity. Many people would argue that this there best point, however. It all depends on your viewpoint. In any case, Tool is groundbreaking, fascinating, and not to be missed.

Favorite CD: Aenima

Nine Inch Nails is another one of the breakthrough bands of our modern age. Composed entirely of Trent Reznor, the sharp-edged industrial satire and harsh commentary of Reznor is dealt out with an intensity and delivery that has never been done before. Fusing glam and goth rock with electronic and industrial instrumentation, Reznor singlehandedly created his own style of dirty, intentionally messy industrial rock that has struck a chord with thousands of devoted followers. Many admire NIN for the attitude alone, an attitude of revolution against the blind followers of today's bland culture and stupidity that abounds.

Favorite CD: The Fragile

Chevelle is not nearly as revolutionary or rebellious as the preceding two groups, but their most recent CD really surprised me with it's dark and powerful alternative hard rock. This is a heavy record, but it is metered with a wonderful passion and almost gothic flair. Very good.

Favorite CD: Wonder What's Next

Embodyment used to be a death metal outfit, but towards the end of the 20th century they changed their artistic direction drastically. They dropped their growling vocalist, and picked up a smooth-singing alternative vocalist, and with their Narrow Scope of Things release, they redefined themselves so completely that they were almost unrecognizable. What's even more surprising, though, is that this new sound is still attractive. Their music, which formerly was some of the greatest death metal ever created, is now very contemplative and thoughtful, yet tempered with a little fun here and there also. Embodyment is making quite a stir in the Christian hard alternative world now.

Favorite CD: Hold Your Breath

Alice in Chains was one of the first grunge bands to break through to the mainstream, and their melodic, dark, brooding music spearheaded a new sound that was copied by an endless stream of bands that followed it. Alice Chains were one of the first, and without a doubt one of the best.

Favorite CD: Dirt

Stone Temple Pilots really used to be cool, I don't care what you say! Their first CD, Core, was great, and the next few CDs were also some great grunge music. They got a little wierd later on, but all in all they have had a good career. So fine, I like grunge, so what. . .

Favorite CD: Core