[2025] The Appeal of Mixed-Bag Sounds: A Roundup of Western Crossover/Mixture Bands

You Can’t Stop MeGuano Apes

Guano Apes – You Can’t Stop Me (HD 720p)

Guano Apes is a German band formed in 1994.

They’re known for their heavy sound and the cool factor of their female vocalist, who pulls off rap and powerful shouts on par with any male vocalist.

Amber311

311 – Amber (Official Music Video)

Debuting in the early 1990s and redefining the horizons of alternative rock, 311 has continued to captivate fans with a unique sound that deftly fuses hip-hop, punk, and reggae.

Their self-titled 1995 album went triple platinum, bringing widespread recognition to their musical style.

Hits like “Down” and “All Mixed Up” are still beloved by many, showcasing the band’s diversity and innovation.

If you came of age in the ’90s, you might well think of music like theirs as “mixture rock.” After returning to Japan in 2024 for the first time in a while and delighting their Japanese fans, here’s hoping we can look forward to new music from them soon!

Flag of the BeastEmmure

Emmure – Flag of the Beast (Official Music Video)

Since their formation in 2003 in New Fairfield, Connecticut, and up to their current base in Queens, New York, Emmure has continued to captivate fans with a hard-hitting, passionate sound.

Skillfully blending elements of nu metal, metalcore, and djent, their music is known for its candid references to relationships and social issues.

Their lyrics are also peppered with nods to video games and comics, lending a distinctive cultural backdrop.

Notably, vocalist Frankie Palmeri has spoken openly about reflection and growth regarding past lyrics, fostering a sincere connection with listeners.

As pioneers of nu-metalcore, they’re a band well worth checking out—even if you haven’t encountered them before!

COMAIssues

Issues – COMA (Official Music Video)

Formed in Atlanta, USA in 2012 by former members of Woe, Is Me, Issues was a band that delivered a genuinely “mixed” spirit distinct from conventional metalcore and post-hardcore, offering a fresh sound.

Armed with Tyler Carter’s extraordinary vocals and their deft ensemble work, they breathed new life into the scene with a sound that incorporated a wide range of genres, including R&B and electronic music.

Their debut EP, Black Diamonds, shocked metalcore fans with its refined musicality.

Both their 2014 debut album Issues and their 2016 sophomore album Headspace achieved commercial success and gained popularity in Japan as well.

Although they unfortunately disbanded in 2024, their influence will surely be carried on by the bands that follow.

AngerDownset.

Downset Anger

Downset are pioneers of hardcore/crossover from Los Angeles, and since their formation in 1986, they’ve drawn attention for both their musical style and socially conscious messages.

Their 1994 debut album “Downset” fused elements of rap, funk, and heavy metal, creating a sound that can rightly be called true “mixture rock.” Perhaps because they’ve stuck to a no-frills sound and approach, staying apart from trends in the scene, their name recognition in Japan is somewhat lower compared to other bands.

However, releases after their reunion—such as “One Blood”—deliver an aggressive sound reminiscent of their peak years, making them highly recommended even for those who’ve only listened to their early work.

Shinobi Vs Dragon NinjaLostprophets

LOSTPROPHETS – Shinobi Vs Dragon Ninja

I’m sure many of you were surprised by the song title, but LOSTPROPHETS is a band known for its powerful sound and catchy songs.

In 2012, vocalist Ian Watkins was charged with sex offenses, and the band announced their breakup in 2013.

When Worlds CollidePowerman 5000

Powerman 5000 – When Worlds Collide

Powerman 5000 is an American band formed in 1991.

They are also known as PM5K.

Their songs feature driving, heavy bass-laden sounds that pair well with the vocalist’s powerful, heavy voice.