Complete History and Evolution of Bring Me The Horizon (BMTH): From Deathcore to Global Rock Phenomenon

Introduction

Bring Me The Horizon (often abbreviated as BMTH) is a British rock band from Sheffield, England. Known for their genre-blending style, the band has evolved from deathcore roots into a globally recognized act that spans metalcore, alternative rock, pop rock, electronic, and more. With a bold vision and a constantly shifting sound, BMTH has captivated audiences around the world, making them one of the most innovative bands of the 21st century.

Band Formation and Early Years (2004–2006)

BMTH was formed in 2004 when vocalist Oliver Sykes joined forces with guitarist Lee Malia, bassist Matt Kean, drummer Matt Nicholls, and keyboardist Jordan Fish (who officially joined later). Their early sound was heavily influenced by deathcore, a brutal blend of death metal and hardcore.

In 2005, the band released their debut EP, This Is What the Edge of Your Seat Was Made For. The raw energy and aggression of the EP caught the attention of fans and record labels, paving the way for their first full-length album.

Breakthrough with Count Your Blessings (2006)

Released in 2006, Count Your Blessings showcased BMTH’s commitment to technical brutality. Though it polarized critics, the album built a strong underground following. Tracks like "Pray for Plagues" became iconic within the deathcore scene.

Musical Maturation: Suicide Season (2008)

With Suicide Season, BMTH took a dramatic stylistic turn. Moving away from pure deathcore, the album incorporated elements of metalcore and electronic sounds. It was a bold evolution that divided fans but ultimately expanded their audience. Songs like "Chelsea Smile" and "Diamonds Aren't Forever" remain fan favorites.

Artistic Growth and Critical Acclaim: There Is a Hell... (2010)

There Is a Hell Believe Me I've Seen It. There Is a Heaven Let's Keep It a Secret (2010) further pushed BMTH’s boundaries, integrating orchestral elements, clean vocals, and ambient textures. The album received critical acclaim for its ambition and emotional depth.

Mainstream Success: Sempiternal (2013)

The addition of Jordan Fish on keyboards marked a turning point for the band. Sempiternal (2013) blended metalcore with electronic and alternative influences. The album featured hits like “Can You Feel My Heart” and “Sleepwalking,” and marked their entry into mainstream consciousness.

Continued Evolution: That's the Spirit (2015)

With That's the Spirit, BMTH embraced a more polished alternative rock sound, distancing themselves from their metalcore roots. The album included chart-topping tracks such as "Throne" and "Drown," and was both commercially successful and critically praised for its accessibility and emotional themes.

Experimental Shift: amo (2019)

amo was a daring record that infused pop, EDM, hip-hop, and alternative rock. While controversial among longtime fans, the album demonstrated BMTH’s fearless artistic experimentation. "Medicine," "Mother Tongue," and "Nihilist Blues" showcased their willingness to defy genre expectations.

Post-emo Futurism: Post Human: Survival Horror (2020)

Returning to heavier roots, Post Human: Survival Horror blended modern metalcore with electronic aggression. Featuring guest appearances from artists like YUNGBLUD and BABYMETAL, the record was praised for capturing the chaos of the COVID-19 era with both fury and finesse.

Influence and Legacy

BMTH has influenced an entire generation of musicians, with their sonic evolution serving as a blueprint for bands seeking reinvention. From underground metal gigs to international festival headliners, they’ve shown remarkable adaptability while staying true to their emotional intensity and artistic vision.

Band Members

Oliver Sykes – Lead vocals (2004–present)

Lee Malia – Lead guitar (2004–present)

Matt Kean – Bass (2004–present)

Matt Nicholls – Drums (2004–present)

Jordan Fish – Keyboards, synthesizers, backing vocals (2012–present)

Discography (Studio Albums)

Count Your Blessings (2006)

Suicide Season (2008)

There Is a Hell... (2010)

Sempiternal (2013)

That's the Spirit (2015)

amo (2019)

Post Human: Survival Horror (2020)

Post Human: Nex Gen (TBA)

Key Achievements

Multiple Kerrang! Awards and NME nominations

Consistent UK Albums Chart success

Headlined major festivals such as Reading and Leeds

Influential in shaping modern metalcore and alternative rock

Over 1 billion streams across platforms

Conclusion

Bring Me The Horizon's journey from deathcore upstarts to genre-defying rock titans is a testament to their resilience, creativity, and refusal to stagnate. As they continue to push boundaries with new projects and collaborations, their influence on modern music remains undeniable.