how many people who have listened to emo and either loved it or hated it have actually heard the following bands:

sunny day real estate

chamberlain

split lip

elliott

mineral

the gloria record

lifetime

texas is the reason

christie front drive

Most of these bands helped pioneer the music in the mid 1990s.  It is unfortunate that the "emo" we hear today is comprised of very poor bands.  The bands above led the way and were absolutely amazing - it's a shame that emo is now associated with more indie-rock/major label wannabes than the "emo-core" of these bands.  It would be cool if those who occasionally bash emo could listen to these bands, as I'm sure their perception will change.