Walls of Jericho

Walls of Jericho is an American metalcore band formed in 1998 in Detroit, Michigan. The band was founded by vocalist Candace Puopolo, guitarist Chris Rawson, bassist Aaron Ruby, and drummer Derek Grant. They gained popularity in the early 2000s with their intense live performances and a sound that combines elements of hardcore punk and heavy metal. The band released their debut album, 'The Bound Feed the Bound' in 1999, which established their presence in the underground music scene. Throughout their career, Walls of Jericho has undergone several lineup changes but has remained a prominent act in the metalcore genre. They are known for their energetic shows and strong female vocals, with Puopolo being a prominent figure in the male-dominated metal scene.

Walls of Jericho draws influence from a variety of musical genres, primarily hardcore punk and heavy metal. They cite bands such as Earth Crisis, Hatebreed, and Slayer as significant influences on their sound. The fusion of aggressive instrumentation with melodic elements also reflects the influence of melodic hardcore and metalcore bands like Converge and Poison the Well. Additionally, the band’s lyrical themes often reflect personal struggles, empowerment, and social issues, aligning with the messages found in the hardcore punk scene.

Walls of Jericho is known for their DIY ethic and has been a part of the underground music scene since their inception. The band's name is inspired by the biblical story of Jericho, symbolizing overcoming obstacles. They have a reputation for strong feminist themes in their music and have been advocates for the inclusion of women in heavy music genres. Walls of Jericho has been involved in various charitable initiatives and has participated in numerous benefit shows. The band has also toured extensively in the United States and internationally, sharing stages with notable acts in the metal and hardcore scenes.

Walls of Jericho is significant for their contribution to the metalcore genre, particularly in the early 2000s, where they helped bridge the gap between hardcore punk and metal. Their powerful female vocalist, Candace Puopolo, has inspired many young women in the heavy music scene, challenging gender norms and paving the way for future female artists in metal. The band's relentless touring and dedication to their craft have earned them a loyal fanbase and respect within the music community. Their approach to songwriting, which combines aggression with melody, has influenced many contemporaries and emerging bands in the genre.