West Milford is home to many, but few have knowledge of the small bands that have emerged from the students here at West Milford High School, from graduates to presently enrolled. Here are a few bands you should look out for if you are into supporting local bands and the hardcore/metal genre.

The band most have heard of or have seen sported on a shirt is Stronger Than Death. STD is fronted by the now senior Jason Quinones, yet was previously fronted by graduated Robert Knapp. Bringing back elements of traditional metal with new death metal-esque screaming vocals, the band is a must see. It consists of four WMHS alumni, James Collins, Jake Petrane, Ian McAllister, and Dan Pay.

Another band to come from West Milford is the Traveling Mugs. You may or may not have seen their van parked by the English wing a while back!The only member who still attends WMHS is Mike Sosa. The band uses a more humorous, punk sound with occasional screaming vocals. This band is great to see live just for the time in between songs. During this time they entertain with silly banter and crowd interaction. Although going through members changes, the band still puts out music and works hard at their craft.

A fresh band that started this year is Vengeance, a metal band that pulls influence from artists like Avenged Sevenfold, and the like. They use a more melodic vocal style with some traditional metal and hardcore/metal instrumental styles. The band consists of Joe Bellina, Kevin Leal, Marc Pelett, and Christian Hanson, all members of the class of 2016. The band is in the writing process, but should still be on your radar for your local shows.

Lastly is the band formed by the now graduated James Taylor, A Vixen’s Flaw. Using a more heavy, drop downed tone and death metal style vocals, the band has played several shows and is currently working on an EP (Extended Play). Mike Sosa, who still attends, is a member of this band, as well as his older brother, Ed Sosa.

Several other bands that can be found on Facebook or Bandcamp are Something Like Us, The Fox and the Rose, the Big Drops, Too Far Lost, Recreation Department, and Hell Mary. Be sure to check out these bands if you’re interested, and keep an eye out for any local shows!