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)
Happiness is all the rageThe Promise Ring
The Promise Ring is a band formed around Davey von Bohlen, formerly of Cap’n Jazz.
This song opens their third album, Very Emergency.
With its poppy sound, it feels closer to guitar rock than emo.
It was released on JADE TREE, a label representative of emo, while the Japanese edition was inexplicably released through Avex’s Cutting Edge imprint.
You’re Not AloneSaosin
Hailing from California, USA, Saosin has delivered an emotional, richly layered sound rooted in post-hardcore and screamo since their formation in 2003.
Their early EP “Translating the Name” established a solid presence in the scene, and their 2006 self-titled album “Saosin” stands as one of their signature works.
The record features the fan favorite “Voices” and the powerful ballad “You’re Not Alone,” a track that has long been cherished and was certified Gold in May 2023.
Their delay-driven guitar work and the striking contrast between the vocals of Anthony Green and Cove Reber leave a vivid impression.
From early on, the band also stood out for actively leveraging social media.
Highly recommended for listeners drawn to music that balances intensity with delicacy, and for those who want to immerse themselves in dramatic songs that touch the heartstrings.
Pacific 231BURNING AIRLINES
Burning Airlines is a band led by J.
Robbins, renowned as a top producer in the emo scene.
J.
Robbins originally played in Government Issue, a band from around Fugazi’s Dischord circle, and after they broke up he formed Jawbox.
Jawbox went on to have a huge influence on later emo bands.
While continuing his work as a producer, Robbins also poured his energy into this band, Burning Airlines.
Their songs are wonderful—complex in structure while carrying on the lineage of Jawbox.
DriftHands Like Houses
Hands Like Houses is an Australian emo band.
They’re incredibly cool from the intro onward, and their clean, polished guitar and vocal sound delivers a dramatic feel that never lets you down.
Since there aren’t many metalcore elements, they’re a great recommendation for those who aren’t into that style.
They’ve also played the Warped Tour, the American festival of hardcore and extreme sports.
They’re a band I personally recommend.
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.
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.
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.