All Out War

All Out War is a foundational pillar of the metallic hardcore (metalcore) movement, emerging from Newburgh, New York, in the early 1990s. Led by vocalist Mike Score, the band became a bridge between the New York Hardcore (NYHC) scene and the extreme metal world. Their sound identity is defined by the integration of Slayer-influenced thrash metal riffing with the rhythmic 'mosh' dynamics of hardcore. Unlike the melodic metalcore that rose to prominence in the 2000s, All Out War maintains a bleak, aggressive, and uncompromising aesthetic often associated with the 'Holy Terror' sub-movement alongside bands like Integrity.

Their career arc is marked by longevity and consistency, with their 1998 album 'For Those Who Were Crucified' widely regarded as a genre-defining masterpiece. Over three decades, they have evolved from a raw crossover act into a more nuanced extreme metal entity, as evidenced by the blackened and death metal influences on later releases like 'Celestial Rot'. Culturally, they are respected as 'the band's band,' having influenced a generation of heavy acts while maintaining a presence in both underground VFW halls and major metal festivals. Critical consensus highlights their ability to maintain intensity without sacrificing the technicality of their thrash roots.