I know you explained yourself a bit more above, but calling them a guilty pleasure is just dumb. They're extremely talented musicians and have released some great stuff. I wouldn't call them 'cheesy' either.
There's definitely a little cheese to Story of the Year guys lol. I wouldn't say they're a cheesy band but do they have some pretty cringe lyrics? Especially on their debut? Yeah. They're a product of their times so I don't blame them but yeah.
It doesn't keep me from liking them at all, but when I hear a killer song like "The Virus" open with "I AM THE HAMMER YOU ARE THE NAIL" it's hard not to crack a sardonic smile.
Oh same. I mean I only listen to Wake and "Choose Your Fate" but I'm just saying. It's like how I love Alien Ant Farm despite them being a little cheesy.