Means was a Canadian melodic hardcore band, active during the mid-2000s. Emerging from Saskatchewan, Canada, the group made waves in the underground music scene with their emotionally charged lyrics and powerful melodies. The band built a loyal fanbase through relentless touring, heartfelt performances, and a discography that captured themes of struggle, hope, and perseverance. They were a significant presence in the hardcore and post-hardcore scene during their active years.
Music Type
Means’ music is rooted in melodic hardcore, characterized by its blend of aggressive guitar riffs, driving rhythms, and impassioned vocals. The band’s sound often incorporated elements of post-hardcore, showcasing dynamic shifts between heavy and melodic passages. Their lyrics conveyed introspective themes, exploring personal growth, faith, and the challenges of life. Means’ ability to balance raw energy with melodic undertones set them apart in the genre, making their music both cathartic and uplifting.
Collaborations
Though primarily focused on their own material, Means was part of a vibrant hardcore community and often shared stages with other notable bands in the scene. Their collaborations were more about live performances and tours rather than studio projects, fostering camaraderie and mutual influence within the melodic hardcore genre.
Latest Songs and Music Albums
Means released three major projects during their active years:
- “More Than Watchmen for the Morning” (2006)
This EP marked their early experimentation with a more refined melodic hardcore sound. The album’s shorter tracklist hinted at the band’s evolving songwriting style, balancing intricate instrumentals and emotive lyrics. - “Sending You Strength” (2007)
This album was a turning point for Means, showcasing a matured sound and greater lyrical depth. Tracks like “Learning to Be Brave” and “Cadences” became fan favorites, blending heartfelt lyrics with anthemic melodies. - “To Keep Me from Sinking” (2008)
The band’s final album solidified their legacy in the melodic hardcore scene. With songs like “Of Dread and Dreams” and “We Dwell in Possibility,” the record is an emotional journey through themes of resilience and hope, representing a culmination of their artistic growth.
Most Popular Songs
Some of the standout tracks from Means’ discography include:
- “Learning to Be Brave” (2007): A fan-favorite track known for its inspiring lyrics and catchy melody.
- “Of Dread and Dreams” (2008): A hauntingly beautiful song that resonates deeply with listeners, capturing the essence of their final album.
- “There Are Other Places” (2006): A powerful opener from their debut EP that sets the tone for their early sound.
- “Connected” (2007): A melodic anthem that showcases the band’s ability to blend intensity with emotional depth.
Full Discography Table
Here’s a complete list of Means’ tracks with their release years:
| Track Name | Year |
|---|---|
| There Are Other Places | 2006 |
| Never Walk Alone | 2006 |
| You Will Become | 2006 |
| My Everything | 2006 |
| Looking For Life | 2007 |
| Learning To Be Brave | 2007 |
| The Promise | 2007 |
| Connected | 2007 |
| Where Truth Is Told | 2007 |
| Cadences | 2007 |
| These Are The Words | 2007 |
| Throw Open The Gates | 2007 |
| Through The Wires | 2007 |
| I Choose Her Over Light | 2007 |
| Down To The Spark | 2007 |
| On The Broken | 2007 |
| Awareness | 2008 |
| Breaking In | 2008 |
| Somewhere up Ahead | 2008 |
| Blackout | 2008 |
| Steadily | 2008 |
| We Dwell in Possibility | 2008 |
| Burned into Me | 2008 |
| Refuge | 2008 |
| What We Seek | 2008 |
| Of Dread and Dreams | 2008 |
Conclusion
Means may have had a relatively short-lived career, but their impact on the melodic hardcore scene was profound. With three solid releases, the band demonstrated a remarkable ability to craft music that was both raw and emotionally resonant. Their thoughtful lyrics, blending themes of hope and struggle, continue to inspire listeners, even years after their disbandment.
