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Guide
Short, sharp essays for people who love songs but hate being talked down to. Steal a mental model, then wander Timeline / Genres / People.
- 01
What is a band?
A shared name, a shared set of records, and people who may leave. The name often outlasts the lineup.
- 02
How to read rock history
You do not need the full encyclopedia. Pick one song, find its year, then add one neighboring act.
- 03
Genres are labels, not purity tests
Stop asking "is this really metal?" Ask which records and scenes it sits next to.
- 04
Same logo, different lineup
"Classic lineup" usually means a peak album cycle. The longer plot is people moving between names.
- 05
You can like the hit
Deep cuts are optional. Hits are valid entry points. No apology required.
- 06
"Firsts" are contested; landmarks are entry points
Who invented metal or punk is not settled. Landmarks give you a dated track to start the argument from.