System of a Down

Genre: Metal

Formed: 1999

Description: This group of musicians born in Armenia were founded in 1999 under American Recordings and are currently one of the top selling artists in this genre and my particular favourite. Their lyrics tell of a capitalistic system of murder, greed, lust, famine, poverty, misinformation and oppression from the perspective of 3rd world countries and middle eastern nations in which the systemic downfall of democracy will surely fall. The band currently has 3 albums out, the self titled 'System of a Down' followed by 'Toxicity' and 'Steal this Album!' they fill listeners with messages of truth and use political satire to convey their point across a large spectrum of fans. "The whole world's gone crazy over the past couple of years, so that's brought out a lot of emotions and affected our song writing," guitarist Daron Malakian said in a statement. "We just want to make a great rock record, a record that will be heavy, but heavy in emotion, not just heavy in riffs."

Nas

Genre: Hip-Hop

Artist release date: 1991

Description: This New York rapper first started out as a fledgling musician in a ramshackle ghetto with hopes of a good life in the middle of municipal Queens. With only a mouth full of rhymes and a lot of musical prowess, his lyrical genius reaches out to everyone and inspires us all. He speaks of the hardships and crime in modern America and the brutality and animosity that entwines it. With his debut CD 'Illmatic' Nas was dubbed New York's best lyricist and followed up with many albums to add to his repertoire.

Our Lady Peace

Genre: Alternative

Formed: 1996

Description this Canadian alternative rock band has been one of the most popular groups in the western hemisphere and has topped the charts on numerous occasions, following the release of their smash album 'Clumsy' the went on to perform at many concerts all over North America. They've recently come out with a new album call 'Gravity' featuring the hit titles 'Innocent' and 'Somewhere Out There'.