Metalcore is the genre that blends the aggressive energy of metal with the raw intensity of hardcore, creating a powerful and dynamic sound. Emerging in the late 1990s and early 2000s, it was popularized by bands like Killswitch Engage, As I Lay Dying, and Bullet for My Valentine, who brought a fresh, melodic twist to extreme music. Metalcore's appeal lies in its combination of brutal riffs, melodic hooks, and emotional depth. Today, it continues to thrive, with new bands and artists exploring its unique, hybrid sound and pushing its boundaries.