Whatever emo may have evolved into by the early 2000s, there is simply no question where it came from. Formed in Washington, D.C., in the mid 1980s by future Fugazi members Guy Picciotto and Brendan Canty, Rites of Spring brought to hardcore punk a deep emotional intensity that was previously absent from the style. Though hardcore was known for its passion and power, Rites of Spring's supremely anthemic songs, soul-baring lyrics, and epic near-religious live shows were something new entirely. Like many D.C. bands of the era, Rites of Spring lasted only a brief time, but the mark they left on punk rock is indelible.