If you want to listen to Western emo music, start here! A list of overseas emo bands

If I’m James Dean, Then You’re Audrey HepburnSleeping with Sirens

Sleeping With Sirens – If I’m James Dean, You’re Audrey Hepburn (Official Music Video)

The American hardcore band Sleeping With Sirens.

With guitar sounds woven into the clean parts sung in vocalist Kellin Quinn’s high-toned voice, they’re a band you should definitely know if you want to get into emo.

The members’ clothing and hairstyles also feature the so-called emo hair look, making them noteworthy not just for their songs but for their appearance as well.

In BetweenBeartooth

Beartooth – In Between (Official Music Video)

This is the new band formed by Caleb Shomo, who handled synthesizers—and later switched to vocals—for Attack Attack!, the group that gained popularity by boldly fusing flashy synths with post-hardcore to metalcore elements.

Their sound pushes the later-era Attack Attack! style in a more hardline direction, and every album they’ve released so far has received high praise.

Centered on Caleb’s vocals—which range from hardcore-leaning screams to emotional melodies—the solid band ensemble showcases impressive skill despite their relatively young status.

California GurlsEskimo Callboy

Electric Callboy – California Gurls (Katy Perry cover) official

Eskimo Callboy is a screamo band with a one-of-a-kind sound that refuses to play by the rules.

The core of their sonic identity is the bleepy, chiptune-like synthesizer.

It’s wildly fun—the dramatic fusion of two contrasting personalities creates a sound that feels like a disco hijacked by a screamo band.

Don’t miss their playful music videos, too.

The ResolutionJack’s Mannequin

Jack’s Mannequin – The Resolution [Official Music Video]

Formed in 2004 as Andrew McMahon’s solo project, they disbanded in 2012 but reunited in 2016 for the 10th-anniversary tour of their debut album.

As a representative piano rock band, they are notable for powerful piano melodies and McMahon’s refreshing vocals.

This song makes you reflect on what it means to live and to exist.

I Woke Up In A Carsomething corporate

Something Corporate – I Woke Up In A Car

With its tightly pulsing keyboard melody and bouncy, upbeat rhythm, this track delivers an instantly pleasant sound from the very beginning.

As the orchestra and synthesizers join in, the arrangement grows increasingly dramatic, creating a sense of beauty.

Then comes a chorus that’s incredibly satisfying and moving.

Among emo tracks, this one is quite pop-leaning and easy to listen to.

Keep In MindChase Your Words

Chase Your Words – “Keep In Mind” (Official Lyric Video)

A pop-punk band from Canada.

They deliver a youthful emo/pop-rock/pop-punk sound, and their refreshing vibe is particularly striking.

The chorus is perfectly on pitch, making it very pleasant to listen to.

It’s an ideal track for summer or a drive.

With its catchy melody, it’s the kind of song you’ll find yourself humming along to!

Constant HeadacheJoyce Manor

Joyce Manor – Constant Headache

Based in Torrance, California, Joyce Manor is a band that continues to pursue its own expression while carrying on punk rock’s innovative spirit.

Since forming in 2008, they’ve injected fresh energy into the alternative scene with a sound that weaves together elements of power pop, emo, and more.

Their debut album, Joyce Manor, released in January 2011, was selected as one of Punknews’s Albums of the Year, gaining momentum through online word of mouth.

They have since released four more albums, steadily growing to the point of charting on the Billboard 200.

Teaming up with producer Rob Schnapf on the album Cody, they established a more refined musical identity.

With short yet striking songs and a live performance brimming with defiance, they’ve become a leading presence in today’s punk scene.