21 Metalcore Bands Like Bullet For My Valentine You Must Hear

Bullet for My Valentine has made a significant impact on the metalcore scene with their powerful blend of aggressive riffs, melodic hooks, and emotionally charged lyrics. Known for their ability to seamlessly merge the intensity of metal with accessible melodies, they have inspired a generation of bands that follow in their footsteps.

This article explores some of the top bands that share a similar sound and energy to Bullet for My Valentine, highlighting their careers and contributions to the genre.

Whether you’re a fan of metalcore or just discovering the genre, these bands offer a compelling listen that complements the legacy of Bullet for My Valentine.

21 Heavy Bands Similar to Bullet For My Valentine for Your Metalcore Playlist

These bands share similar musical styles, blending heavy riffs, melodic vocals, and metalcore influences, making them appealing to fans of Bullet for My Valentine.

Here’s a list of 21 bands that are similar to Bullet for My Valentine, known for their blend of metalcore, hard rock, and melodic elements:

#1 Avenged Sevenfold

Avenged Sevenfold, often abbreviated as A7X, is a California-based band known for their blend of metalcore, hard rock, and heavy metal. Formed in 1999, the band initially gained popularity within the metalcore scene, with their debut album Sounding the Seventh Trumpet. However, it was their third album, City of Evil (2005), that catapulted them to mainstream success. This album marked a departure from their earlier sound, incorporating more melodic elements, complex guitar solos, and a broader range of vocal styles.

Over the years, Avenged Sevenfold has evolved their sound further, exploring different genres, including progressive metal and classic rock influences. The band has released several critically acclaimed albums, such as Nightmare (2010) and Hail to the King (2013), earning a loyal global fanbase. Known for their dynamic live performances and musicianship, Avenged Sevenfold continues to be a dominant force in the modern rock and metal scenes.

#2 Trivium

Trivium is an American heavy metal band from Orlando, Florida, formed in 1999. Known for their fusion of metalcore, thrash metal, and melodic death metal, Trivium quickly gained recognition with their second album, Ascendancy (2005), which is often hailed as a landmark in the metalcore genre. The album’s success was driven by the band’s intricate guitar work, aggressive riffs, and a blend of harsh and clean vocals, making them a staple in the New Wave of American Heavy Metal movement.

As their career progressed, Trivium continued to evolve, experimenting with different styles while maintaining their core sound. Albums like Shogun (2008) and In Waves (2011) showcased the band’s growth, incorporating more complex songwriting and diverse influences. Trivium’s relentless work ethic, combined with their technical prowess and ability to adapt, has solidified their reputation as one of the leading bands in the modern metal scene.

#3 Killswitch Engage

Killswitch Engage, formed in 1999 in Massachusetts, is often credited as one of the pioneering bands in the metalcore genre. Their blend of melodic death metal, hardcore punk, and metalcore elements set them apart, especially with the release of their breakthrough album, Alive or Just Breathing (2002). The band is known for its powerful riffs, emotive lyrics, and the dual vocal style that alternates between guttural growls and soaring clean vocals.

The release of The End of Heartache (2004) marked a significant moment in their career, with the title track earning a Grammy nomination and the album achieving widespread commercial success. Killswitch Engage has maintained a strong presence in the metal scene with subsequent albums like As Daylight Dies (2006) and Disarm the Descent (2013). Their influence on the metalcore genre is profound, inspiring countless bands that followed in their footsteps.

#4 Atreyu

Atreyu, a metalcore band from Orange County, California, was formed in 1998 and quickly became one of the leading bands in the early 2000s metalcore movement. Their debut album, Suicide Notes and Butterfly Kisses (2002), introduced their heavy yet melodic sound, characterized by brutal riffs, dual vocals, and emotive lyrics. Atreyu’s sophomore release, The Curse (2004), further solidified their status, featuring a more polished sound and stronger songwriting, which resonated with a wider audience.

As their career progressed, Atreyu continued to evolve, exploring different musical directions while maintaining their core elements. Albums like Lead Sails Paper Anchor (2007) saw the band incorporating more hard rock influences, which brought them mainstream success. Despite several lineup changes and a brief hiatus, Atreyu remains a significant player in the metalcore and hard rock scenes, known for their energetic performances and dedicated fanbase.

#5 Asking Alexandria

Asking Alexandria, a British metalcore band formed in 2008, quickly rose to prominence with their debut album, Stand Up and Scream (2009). The album was a defining moment in the metalcore genre, combining heavy breakdowns, electronic elements, and catchy melodies. Asking Alexandria’s sound is marked by the fusion of aggressive riffs, electronicore influences, and a blend of clean and screamed vocals, which resonated with a broad audience, particularly within the post-hardcore and metalcore scenes.

Over the years, the band has undergone several lineup changes and stylistic shifts, particularly with the release of their self-titled album in 2017, which leaned more towards hard rock and mainstream metal. Despite these changes, Asking Alexandria has maintained a strong following and continues to be a prominent name in the scene. Their ability to adapt and evolve has kept them relevant, making them one of the most influential bands in modern metalcore.

#6 All That Remains

All That Remains, an American metalcore band formed in 1998 in Massachusetts, is known for their blend of melodic death metal, metalcore, and hard rock. The band gained significant attention with their third album, The Fall of Ideals (2006), which featured some of their most iconic tracks, including “This Calling” and “Six.” The album is noted for its powerful riffs, intricate guitar solos, and a balance between aggressive and melodic elements, which has become a hallmark of their sound.

Throughout their career, All That Remains has consistently released albums that push the boundaries of metalcore, incorporating elements of alternative metal and hard rock into their music. Albums like Overcome (2008) and For We Are Many (2010) further established their reputation as one of the leading bands in the genre. Despite the tragic passing of their lead guitarist, Oli Herbert, in 2018, All That Remains continues to tour and release new music, maintaining their status as a mainstay in the metalcore scene.

#7 Bring Me the Horizon

Bring Me the Horizon, formed in 2004 in Sheffield, England, started as a deathcore band before evolving into one of the most influential bands in modern rock and metalcore. Their early albums, like Count Your Blessings (2006), were characterized by heavy breakdowns, growling vocals, and a brutal approach to metalcore. However, with the release of Sempiternal (2013), the band shifted towards a more melodic and experimental sound, incorporating elements of electronic music, pop, and alternative rock.

This transformation broadened their appeal, and they have since become one of the most commercially successful and critically acclaimed bands in the scene. Albums like That’s the Spirit (2015) and amo (2019) have solidified their status as genre-defying artists, continually pushing the boundaries of what metalcore and rock music can be. Bring Me the Horizon’s ability to evolve while maintaining a strong fanbase has made them a key influence in modern alternative music.

#8 Parkway Drive

Parkway Drive, hailing from Byron Bay, Australia, formed in 2003 and quickly became one of the leading bands in the metalcore genre. Their debut album, Killing with a Smile (2005), set the tone for their career with its intense breakdowns, aggressive riffs, and raw energy. Over the years, Parkway Drive has steadily grown in popularity, thanks to their relentless touring and powerful live performances. Albums like Horizons (2007) and Deep Blue (2010) further solidified their position as heavyweights in the metalcore scene.

As their career progressed, Parkway Drive began to incorporate more melodic and anthemic elements into their music, as seen in albums like Ire (2015) and Reverence (2018). This evolution has broadened their appeal, making them one of the most successful metalcore bands globally. Parkway Drive’s ability to maintain their core sound while expanding their musical horizons has earned them a dedicated fanbase and critical acclaim.

#9 Escape the Fate

Escape the Fate is an American post-hardcore band formed in 2004 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Known for their blend of post-hardcore, metalcore, and hard rock, the band gained early recognition with their debut album, Dying Is Your Latest Fashion (2006), which featured their first lead vocalist, Ronnie Radke. Following Radke’s departure, the band brought in Craig Mabbitt as the new frontman, and they released This War Is Ours (2008), which marked a new chapter in their career with a more polished sound and greater mainstream appeal.

Escape the Fate continued to evolve, incorporating more hard rock elements into their music while maintaining the intensity of their early work. Albums like Ungrateful (2013) and Hate Me (2015) showcased their ability to craft catchy, anthemic songs with a darker edge. Despite numerous lineup changes and personal struggles, Escape the Fate has remained a prominent band in the post-hardcore and metalcore scenes, known for their resilience and ability to adapt.

#10 A Day to Remember

A Day to Remember, often abbreviated as ADTR, is an American rock band formed in 2003 in Ocala, Florida. The band is known for their unique fusion of metalcore and pop-punk, which has earned them a dedicated following across multiple genres. Their breakthrough came with the release of Homesick (2009), which featured a blend of heavy breakdowns, catchy choruses, and emotionally charged lyrics. This album, along with its predecessor For Those Who Have Heart (2007), established ADTR as a force in both the metalcore and pop-punk communities.

Throughout their career, A Day to Remember has continued to evolve, experimenting with different styles while maintaining their signature blend of heaviness and melody. Albums like What Separates Me from You (2010) and Bad Vibrations (2016) showcased their versatility and ability to connect with a wide range of audiences. ADTR’s energetic live performances and ability to seamlessly blend genres have made them one of the most popular bands in modern rock and metalcore.

#11 August Burns Red

August Burns Red is an American metalcore band formed in 2003 in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Known for their technical proficiency, intricate guitar work, and complex song structures, the band quickly became a staple in the metalcore genre with the release of Messengers (2007). This album, characterized by its heavy riffs, breakdowns, and anthemic choruses, solidified their reputation as one of the most skilled and consistent bands in metalcore.

Over the years, August Burns Red has continued to push the boundaries of the genre, incorporating elements of progressive metal and melodic hardcore into their music. Albums like Constellations (2009) and Rescue & Restore (2013) have been praised for their innovation and technical mastery. August Burns Red’s ability to evolve while staying true to their roots has earned them a loyal fanbase and critical acclaim, making them one of the most respected bands in the metalcore scene.

#12 Papa Roach

Papa Roach, formed in 1993 in Vacaville, California, is a band that has continually evolved throughout their career, blending elements of nu-metal, hard rock, and alternative metal. They gained mainstream success with their breakthrough album Infest (2000), which featured the hit single “Last Resort.” This album’s raw energy, angsty lyrics, and rap-metal fusion resonated with a generation, catapulting them to international fame.

As their career progressed, Papa Roach shifted their sound towards more melodic and hard rock elements, with albums like Getting Away with Murder (2004) and The Paramour Sessions (2006) showcasing their versatility. The band has remained relevant over the years by continually experimenting with new sounds while maintaining the intensity and emotional depth that originally defined their music. Papa Roach’s ability to adapt to changing musical landscapes has ensured their enduring presence in the rock and metal scenes.

#13 Architects

Architects is a British metalcore band formed in 2004 in Brighton, England. Known for their blend of technical metalcore, melodic elements, and socially conscious lyrics, Architects have become one of the leading bands in the modern metalcore scene. Their breakthrough album, Hollow Crown (2009), was praised for its complex guitar work, aggressive vocals, and atmospheric elements, setting them apart from their peers.

The band continued to evolve with albums like Daybreaker (2012) and Lost Forever // Lost Together (2014), which introduced more melodic and experimental elements while maintaining their heavy foundation. Architects’ 2016 album, All Our Gods Have Abandoned Us, is considered one of their most powerful works, combining intense emotion with intricate musicianship. Despite the tragic loss of their lead guitarist Tom Searle in 2016, Architects have continued to push the boundaries of metalcore, earning critical acclaim and a devoted global following.

#14 Five Finger Death Punch

Five Finger Death Punch (FFDP), formed in 2005 in Las Vegas, Nevada, is a band known for their blend of heavy metal, hard rock, and groove metal. Their debut album, The Way of the Fist (2007), introduced their aggressive sound, characterized by powerful riffs, anthemic choruses, and themes of personal struggle and resilience. FFDP quickly gained a reputation for their high-energy live performances and their ability to connect with fans through their music.

Over the years, the band has released a string of successful albums, including War Is the Answer (2009) and American Capitalist (2011), which further solidified their place in the metal and rock scenes. Five Finger Death Punch’s music often blends intense aggression with melodic hooks, making their songs both heavy and accessible. The band’s relentless work ethic, combined with their ability to produce hit after hit, has made them one of the most commercially successful modern metal bands.

#15 Trivium

Trivium is an American heavy metal band from Orlando, Florida, formed in 1999. Known for their blend of metalcore, thrash metal, and melodic death metal, Trivium quickly gained recognition with their second album, Ascendancy (2005), which is often hailed as a landmark in the metalcore genre. The album’s success was driven by the band’s intricate guitar work, aggressive riffs, and a blend of harsh and clean vocals, making them a staple in the New Wave of American Heavy Metal movement.

As their career progressed, Trivium continued to evolve, experimenting with different styles while maintaining their core sound. Albums like Shogun (2008) and In Waves (2011) showcased the band’s growth, incorporating more complex songwriting and diverse influences. Trivium’s relentless work ethic, combined with their technical prowess and ability to adapt, has solidified their reputation as one of the leading bands in the modern metal scene.

#16 The Devil Wears Prada

The Devil Wears Prada, an American metalcore band formed in 2005 in Dayton, Ohio, quickly gained prominence in the metalcore scene with their debut album Dear Love: A Beautiful Discord (2006). The band is known for their blend of brutal breakdowns, melodic elements, and Christian-themed lyrics. Their second album, Plagues (2007), further established their place in the genre, featuring tracks that combined aggressive metalcore with electronic influences.

Over the years, The Devil Wears Prada has continued to evolve, experimenting with more atmospheric and post-hardcore elements in albums like With Roots Above and Branches Below (2009) and Dead Throne (2011). Despite these changes, they have maintained their core sound and continue to be a significant presence in the metalcore scene. Their ability to blend heavy, aggressive music with thoughtful lyrics has earned them a dedicated fanbase and critical recognition.

#17 Of Mice & Men

Of Mice & Men is an American metalcore band from Costa Mesa, California, formed in 2009. The band quickly rose to fame with their self-titled debut album in 2010, which showcased a blend of heavy breakdowns, melodic hooks, and emotionally charged lyrics. Their sophomore album, The Flood (2011), further solidified their status in the metalcore scene, featuring a more refined sound and tracks that resonated with both fans and critics.

Over the years, Of Mice & Men has continued to evolve, incorporating elements of alternative metal and hard rock into their music. Albums like Restoring Force (2014) and Cold World (2016) demonstrated their ability to blend aggression with melody, earning them a broader audience. Despite lineup changes and personal challenges, Of Mice & Men remains a prominent force in modern metalcore, known for their powerful live performances and ability to connect with listeners on a deep emotional level.

#18 Blessthefall

Blessthefall is an American metalcore band from Phoenix, Arizona, formed in 2003. The band gained early attention with their debut album, His Last Walk (2007), which featured a blend of metalcore and post-hardcore elements. Following the departure of their original vocalist, Blessthefall recruited Beau Bokan and released their second album, Witness (2009), which marked a significant step forward in their sound and solidified their place in the metalcore scene.

Blessthefall is known for their dynamic live performances, which are characterized by high energy and a strong connection with their audience. Their subsequent albums, including Awakening (2011) and Hollow Bodies (2013), showcased the band’s growth and ability to blend heavy riffs with melodic choruses and electronic elements. Blessthefall has remained a consistent and influential band within the metalcore genre, known for their ability to evolve while maintaining their core sound.

#19 In Flames

In Flames is a Swedish metal band formed in 1990, originally known for pioneering the melodic death metal genre with albums like The Jester Race (1996) and Whoracle (1997). As their career progressed, In Flames began incorporating more alternative metal and modern rock influences into their sound, leading to a broader appeal. Their album Clayman (2000) marked a turning point, blending melodic death metal with more accessible elements, and it remains one of their most celebrated releases.

In Flames continued to evolve their sound with albums like Reroute to Remain (2002) and Come Clarity (2006), which showcased their ability to balance heaviness with melody. This evolution helped them gain a significant following outside of the melodic death metal scene. Despite criticism from some early fans, In Flames has maintained a strong presence in the global metal scene, consistently releasing music that bridges the gap between aggression and accessibility.

#20 Shinedown

Shinedown, an American rock band formed in 2001 in Jacksonville, Florida, has built a reputation for their blend of hard rock, post-grunge, and alternative metal. Their debut album, Leave a Whisper (2003), introduced their powerful sound, characterized by Brent Smith’s distinctive vocals and the band’s knack for crafting anthemic rock songs. The success of singles like “Fly from the Inside” and “45” helped Shinedown gain a solid fanbase early in their career.

Over the years, Shinedown has consistently released hit albums, including The Sound of Madness (2008) and Amaryllis (2012), which solidified their status as one of the leading bands in modern rock. Their music often features a balance between heavy, guitar-driven tracks and more melodic, radio-friendly songs. Shinedown’s ability to evolve while staying true to their rock roots has earned them widespread commercial success and a loyal fan following.

#21 Breaking Benjamin

Breaking Benjamin is an American rock band formed in 1999 in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania. Known for their post-grunge and alternative metal sound, the band gained early success with their debut album, Saturate (2002), and their follow-up, We Are Not Alone (2004), which featured hit singles like “So Cold” and “Sooner or Later.” Breaking Benjamin’s music is characterized by its emotional depth, powerful vocals, and heavy guitar work, making them a staple in the modern rock scene.

Throughout their career, Breaking Benjamin has continued to release successful albums, including Phobia (2006) and Dark Before Dawn (2015), both of which topped the charts and solidified their place in rock music. Despite a hiatus and lineup changes, Breaking Benjamin has remained a prominent and influential band, known for their consistent ability to produce emotionally resonant music that connects with a wide audience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What genre do most bands like Bullet for My Valentine belong to?

Most bands like Bullet for My Valentine belong to the metalcore genre, which blends elements of hardcore punk and heavy metal, often featuring aggressive guitar riffs, breakdowns, and a mix of clean and screamed vocals.

Which band is known for a similar blend of metalcore and melodic elements as Bullet for My Valentine?

Trivium is known for a similar blend of metalcore and melodic elements, combining technical guitar work with both harsh and clean vocals, much like Bullet for My Valentine.

Has Bullet for My Valentine influenced any other bands in the metalcore scene?

Yes, Bullet for My Valentine has been a significant influence on many newer metalcore bands, inspiring them with their combination of heavy riffs and melodic hooks.

Are there any British bands similar to Bullet for My Valentine?

Yes, Bring Me the Horizon is another British band similar to Bullet for My Valentine, known for evolving from metalcore roots to incorporate a wider range of musical influences.