Rites of Spring

Rites of Spring was an American punk rock band from Washington, D.C., formed in late 1983. Along with Embrace and Beefeater, they were one of the mainstay acts of the 1985 Revolution Summer movement which took place within the Washington, D.C. hardcore punk scene. They increased the violence and passion of hardcore while at the same time experimenting with its rules. Compared to other bands of the time, their lyrics were very personal, leading to them being considered the first emo band.