Moss Icon is a seminal post-hardcore band from Annapolis, Maryland, that emerged in the late 1980s and is often credited with helping to pioneer the emotional hardcore genre that would later come to be known as "emo." Formed in 1986 by vocalist Jonathan Vance, guitarist Tonie Joy, bassist Monica DiGialleonardo, and drummer Mark Laurence, the band weaved intricate and introspective lyrics with dynamic, explosive music that defied the hardcore punk conventions of the time.

The band's influence was both immediate and enduring despite a relatively sparse output before their initial breakup in the early 1990s. After releasing a series of singles and split releases, Moss Icon consolidated their work with the 1993 compilation "Lyburnum – Wits End Liberation Fly," which has been re-released multiple times, including as an anniversary edition that attests to the band's lasting impact. Their "Complete Discography" assembles their powerful body of work, while "Mirror," a more obscure early recording, reveals the raw energy and creativity that fueled their cult status. While Moss Icon may not have garnered widespread commercial success, their unique sound and emotional depth have secured them a dedicated following and significant influence on the post-hardcore and emo scenes that followed.

Genres

Emo

Emo Punk

Emocore

Post-hardcore

Latest Release

Complete Discography

Moss Icon

Album - 19 Tracks - Released August 5, 2012