Denmark

One of the top exponents of European hardcore, Denmark's Barcode first formed in 1995, and have had only mysteriously named guitarist Panter as a constant presence. Co-founding vocalist Greg Fastrup and second guitarist Kenneth Madsen were dispensed with shortly after the band's 1997 debut, Hard Jet Super Flash (overseen by top metal producer Tommy Hansen -- Helloween, Pretty Maids, etc.), and respectively replaced by Butch and Hatesphere member Jacob "Dr. J" Bredahl. Ensuing Barcode albums have included 1999's Beerserk, 2000's Aarhus Oedelaegger Julen split 7", 2002's simply named Hardcore, and 2005's Showdown, as well as numerous compilation appearances -- all of them dealing in only the most authentic and pure hardcore. ~ Eduardo Rivadavia