If you want to listen to Western emo music, start here! A list of overseas emo bands
Even when we say “emo,” there are a variety of interpretations.
Sometimes the bands themselves don’t embrace the label, and fans may be divided, but in this article we focused on bands that are widely recognized and loved as emo bands.
When you think of emo, the common image might be introspective lyrics that pour in everyday emotions paired with melodic, dark tunes.
Still, this article highlights a broad range—from bands leaning more alternative to those closer to pop-punk.
From the timeless staples to the hidden gems, we’ve selected many bands, so be sure to give them a listen!
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If you want to listen to Western emo, start here! List of overseas emo bands (41–50)
Everyone Is My FriendOWLS
This is a band made up of members from Cap’n Jazz, excluding Davey von Bohlen.
With the Kinsella brothers both on board, you get that intertwining of off-kilter vocals with a sound that incorporates dissonance and odd time signatures, yet it somehow ends up feeling pleasant to listen to—that’s the magic they pull off.
If you want to listen to Western emo music, start here! A list of overseas emo bands (51–60)
At Your FuneralSaves the Day
Saves the Day is a four-piece band from New Jersey.
The song “At Your Funeral” is included on their 2001 album “Stay What You Are,” released by Vagrant Records, known for releases by bands like The Get Up Kids.
The album was produced by Rob Schnapf, known for his work with Elliott Smith.
This Life CumulativeJanne Da Arc
Joan of Arc was formed in 1996 around Mike and Tim Kinsella—brothers from the former Cap’n Jazz—and Sam Zurick.
However, with each subsequent release the lineup kept changing, and the sound became increasingly free, blending elements of acid folk, jazz, and electronic music into a mixed brew.
Saccharinesunday’s best
Sunday’s Best is an emo band formed in 1997.
Their 2000 release Poised to Break on the emo label Polyvinyl delivers a driving, fast-paced sound, while the follow-up album The Californian places greater emphasis on melodic beauty and gentle songwriting.
I think it will appeal not only to emo fans but also to lovers of guitar pop.
WantJawbreaker
This is a band led by Blake Schwarzenbach, the melody-maker of the emo scene.
They were active during the early, raw phase of emo, delivering full-throttle passion and gravelly vocals.
Their melodic songs carry a rugged, masculine quality with a bittersweet emo sensibility, and they went on to influence many later bands.
Schwarzenbach would later form JETS TO BRASIL.
Into your armsStarmarket
Star Market is an emo band from Sweden.
In their early days, they showcased a passionate and intense sound, but on their third album, Four Hours Light, released in 2000 and including this track, they offer a warm, wistful sound that makes them seem like a different band altogether.
NEW SONG 2019Asking Alexandria
Asking Alexandria is a metalcore band from the United Kingdom.
In their early days, they were known for songs that blended metalcore riffs and breakdowns with EDM elements.
Since the 2010s, they’ve increasingly incorporated melodious, catchy, yet heavy sounds influenced by ’90s hard rock and heavy metal, broadening their fan base.