AFI's roads-to-riches story is almost unbelievable. Just ten years ago, its future seemed perilous -- members came and went and the band hadn't yet discovered its signature Gothic punk sound.
Everything changed with Black Sails in the Sunset (1999). Instead of generic hardcore, the album featured dark romantic melodies and poetical lyrics. Around this time, lead singer Davey Havok adopted his current avatar -- gothic make-up and black clothing.
The album put AFI on the map, with subsequent efforts, The Art of Drowning and Sing in Sorrow, vaulting the band through punk's low ceiling and into the mainstream music world.
Its most recent album, Decemberunderground reflects this evolution. The band tinkers with synthpop and jazz techniques, raising the ire of long-time fans while procuring praise from critics. The album debuted at Number One on the Billboard Top 200 in 2006.
AFI is perfect for the Live Earth Concert. It's famed for both its political messages and intense live performances. Havok is a spokesperson for the straight edge movement (no drinking, smoking, drugs or pre-marital sex) and is a devout vegan. He once jumped into the crowd during a show to apprehend a man who was assaulting a female concert-goer.
Must have album: Black Sails in the Sunset
Greatest songs: God called in sick today, Miseria canterie, Miss Murder
Image: AFI's Davey Havok and Hunter Burgan perform at the Gibson Ampitheatre in Los Angeles last year. Photograph: Kevin Winter/Getty Images
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