Marilyn Manson is an American alternative metal band based in Los Angeles, California. Advocates of nonconformity, and often utilizing controversial imagery and lyrical content, the band is commonly described as shock rock. It is difficult to categorize the band, as it displays influences from many genres of hard rock, including industrial, heavy metal, glam rock and gothic rock. Each album thus far has had a distinct and individual sound, and the band and frontman endeavor to devise and use a unique image and aest.