We were over the moon for the opportunity to check out the new single, “Great Escapes” via Punkerton Records, from , St. Petersburg, Florida high energy melodic punk rock band , Lot Lizards You can listen to “Great Escapes” Here
Formed in 2021 in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, the band found its voice by leaning into raw emotion, tight musicianship, and a love for the kind of punk that sticks with you.
Taking influence from bands like Face to Face, Bigwig, Propagandhi, No Use for a Name, and Lagwagon, Lot Lizards creates punk rock that is catchy, aggressive, and built for the stage. Their songs are meant to be played live, turned up loud, and shouted back by the crowd.
The band is made up of Jon Barnes on vocals and guitar,Alex Trellu on bass and vocals, and Mikey Henk on drums. Together they bring a no-nonsense, full-throttle approach that has earned them a growing reputation for powerful shows and honest songwriting.
Lot Lizards isn’t here to reinvent the genre. They’re here to remind you why you fell in love with it in the first place.
Regarding the new single, Jon Barnes (Lot Lizards) says, “Great Escapes is a song about hiding from the horrors of everyday life by letting your mind go where it wants to go.”
Melodic, fast , and catchy as heck! Lot Lizards, have hit an absolute home run with “Great Escapes” If you need a new favorite song … look no further than , “Great Escapes “ from Lot Lizards.
Upcoming Shows:
April 19, 2025 VFW – St Petersburg, FL
April 25 2025 Dunedin Brewery – Dunedin, FL
May 1, 2025 529 – Atlanta, GA
May 2, 2025 Blackstrap Rock Hall – Gainesville, GA
The new album, “Under A Plastic Bag”, via Stomp Records , from Edmonton’s pop-punk powerhouse Real Sickies, is an absolute punk rock thrill that we didn’t want to end. You can listen to “Under A Plastic Bag” You can listen to “Under A Plastic Bag”, on Spotify Here, Apple Music Here you can check out their latest video for “Wild Imagination “ below
We absolutely love the style and vibe of Real Sickies, “Under A Plastic Bag” is an absolute gem.
Known for their relentless touring and infectious melodies, the band channels the spirit of punk’s golden age with a fresh and approachable modern twist. Even Billie Joe Armstrong of Green Day has hailed RealSickies as his favorite Canadian punk band, cementing their status as a standout act in the global punk scene.
Real Sickies, hold nothing back, as soon as we heard the opening track, “Under A Plastic Bag“ ( which is also the title track ) we knew we were about to experience a complete punk rock adrenaline rush.
Photo Credit: Lyle Bell
Described as “the Teenage Bottlerocket of the Great White North” by The Punk Site, Real Sickies fuse the raw power of Ramones-core with melodic hooks that could just as easily resonate in packed punk venues as on alternative FM radio. Written between whirlwind international tours, late-night demo sessions, and chaotic live performances, Under a Plastic Bag is an album brimming with raw, high-energy anthems. Tracks like “Wild Imagination,” “Should Have Seen It Coming,” and “Triage” showcase the band’s knack for crafting catchy choruses and sharp songwriting, blending the simplicity of the Ramones with the wild edge of Teenage Head, the melodic urgency of the Buzzcocks, the quirky, off-kilter energy of Devo, and the brooding intensity of The Sound.
The recording process for Under a Plastic Bag was as intense as the themes the album explores. Engineered and produced by Joshua Wells (Autogramm, Lightning Dust), the album was recorded in Edmonton’s Riverdale Recorders during one of the city’s coldest winters. “I was brought in specifically to bring more of the post punk weirdo sound to this record,” said Wells of the sessions. “Josh flew in from Chicago and joined us in our Little Italy studio in Edmonton,” recalls frontman Ben Disaster. “We hunkered down with coffee and sandwiches, sometimes only sleeping five hours a night. It felt right—it was positive, freeing, and creative. We had a lot of songs and big ideas, but everything came together in that short, freezing stretch of time.” The studio itself became a character in the creative process. “We built a fort in the studio to keep warm, drank endless coffee, and powered through long nights,” Ben shares. “The cold and isolation somehow fueled the energy of the recordings. It was a weirdly perfect environment to make a record about chaos, resilience, and piecing things back together.” The result is an album that retains the band’s signature energy while pushing into new sonic territory.
Every song on “Under A Plastic Bag, is absolutely phenomenal, however the one track that stood out to us was , “Wild Imagination “, we love everything about this track . The sound and vibe on “Wild Imagination” is absolutely breathtaking. You can also check out the video for “Wild Imagination“
If punk rock is your thing you can’t afford to miss “Under A Plastic Bag “, from Real Sickies.
We recently had the absolutely amazing opportunity to check out the debut album “One Cut Away From Love” via Punkerton Records from Jacksonville,Florida based punks , KNIVES.
You can listen to “One Cut Away From Love “ Here . You can order the LP (Vinyl/CD ) Here
First things first…. We freaking love absolutely everything about KNIVES. We love the sound the vibe …. EVERYTHING. These guys ( DannyAttack – Vocals/GuitarBrendan Morrison – Screams/GuitarAdam Johnson – Bass Josh Kidd – Drums) ) are the real deal and then some. The combination vocals of Danny Attack and screams of Brendan Morrison, make KNIVES one of the most versatile punk bands out there.
KNIVES was originally meant to be a one-show project. But the self-proclaimed “boys of summer” quickly realized they were onto something more. Soon after, they added Josh Kidd (Drums) and Adam Johnson (Bass) to complete the lineup. With soul-baring lyrics, blood-curdling screams, infectious grooves, and catchy melodies, the sky is the limit for this up-and-coming pop-punk juggernaut.
We were in pure punk rock bliss, as we made our through “One Cut Away From Love” Every song hit just right, half way through listening our fingers got tired from hitting repeat so many times.
“Moments”, “KNVS, “Oh This Sin Of Mine” are just a few of our favorite tracks. If we had to pick our favorite ( So hard to do) it would without a doubt be “Ghost”. “Ghost “ is KNIVES at their absolute hands downs best.
Do Yourself a favor and check out “One Cut Away From Love “ from KNIVES, you will be in punk rock heaven.
We recently had the stellar opportunity to check out the new single “Bookstore” from Yard Sign . You can listen to “Bookstore” Here.
Yard Sign is an online punk rock band, one-man folk punk act and Tik Tok Emo from Columbus, Ohio. They specialize in songs about life, love, loss and Star Wars. No matter the incarnation, Yard Sign is a variety of musical outputs led by Scott Marks, an elder millennial punk rock Swemo originally from New York, but calling central Ohio home for the past decade.
We instantly felt drawn to “Bookstore” from Yard Sign. It’s a smartly crafted song that has a memorable melody that we happily enjoyed having it stay in our head long after the music ended .
Coming of musical age in both the New York hardcore and pop-punk scenes, Marks played all different instruments for all different bands before settling into middle-agedom in the Midwest.
After 10+ years of musical semi-retirement, Yard Sign emerged from the pandemic, churning out full-band punk rock (and adjacent) anthems on the internet and leading sing-along kazoo parties across Ohio and beyond in their one-of-a-kind-one-man pop-folk-punk shows.
When asked about “Bookstore”, Scott Marks shares , “Bookstore’ is kind of a Frankenstein of different song ideas. I always wanted to write a song called ‘bookstore’. I’m a big reader and fan of romantic comedies, so bookstores are kind of a sacred place to me. Movies like ‘You’ve Got Mail’, ‘Notting Hill’, ‘When Harry Met Sally’, all about bookstores! Then one day I was scrolling through the internet and was presented with a meme from one of those ‘words are my porn’ kinda pages that said “someone telling you they read the book you recommended is the ultimate love language” or something like that. So the idea for the song was basically the opposite of that; someone NOT reading the book you recommended to them. I picked up the ukulele and the line ‘had an idea, but it was stupid’, just came right out. The rest of the song kind of wrote itself from there. I wanted it to feel like that middle act in a rom-com where the two leads breakup/fallout/get sad at each other. Sad, longing, but maybe also a little hopeful.”
So find your favorite music listening spot and get lost in “Bookstore” from Yard Sign.
We recently had the most excellent opportunity to check out the new album “EXES “ from Los Angeles based pop-punktrailblazer deegie. You can listen to “EXES” Here.
We have to be honest… we freaking love “EXES” from Deegie. It is 10 tracks of pure pop punk genius.
The LP is a brutally honest collectionof 10 song sallabout the exploration of dating.Sonically daring, the music serves as both a time capsule of contemporary romantic struggles and a cathartic scream into the void for anyone who’s ever navigated the treacherous waters of modern relationships.
The idea for the EXES was sparked when deegie stumbled upon her online journals spanning nearly a decade, which included details about her past casual and serious relationships that were too good not to indulge in. From men who made it clear they never wanted to be serious, to clingy, cloying men who held her too tight, each song is an exploration of memory, accountability, and the perspective bestowed by time.
The songwriting and melodies on “EXES” are absolutely flawless. The record is personal and authentic. You can’t fake real and Deegie, has crafted an absolute gem of album .
There is also a relatability within the album, in that we have maybe been or know someone who has been in similar relationship situation.
Every song is pure pop punk perfection. We honestly can’t pick a favorite song , as every song is a work of art.
So find your favorite music listening spot and get lost in the greatness that is “EXES” from Deegie.
We recently got the awesome opportunity to check out the new single and video for “See All Colors” from OC Ska/Punk vets The Goodwin Club. You can listen to “See All Colors” Here And you can check out the video below.
Listening to the new single “See All Color” from The Goodwin Club, is a bright beautiful blast from the past and we are absolutely loving it .
The Goodwin Club became staples in the early-mid 90’s OC ska scene, playing early packed shows with the likes of Reel Big Fish, No Doubt, Sublime,The Aquabatsand more before dissolving in 1995. The lively local act featured members that went on to be in such bands as The Aquabats, The Hippos, The Scholars, Teen Heroes and Reel Big Fish.
The early.mid 90’s OC ska scene was such a vibrant scene , we are thrilled to know that The Goodwin Club has delivered a kick ass new tune with “See All Color” and… we are also thrilled to know that The Goodwin Club is announcing today that they are signing with SoCal label Wiretap Records as they prep their new album “Join the Club” almost 30 years after their first album.
Vocalist Tami Demaree says, “I think we were so young we were kinda set apart from other bands. We had both a male and female singer which was different from other bands back then as well. Other than surf all we had to do back then in Orange County was have a band. We practiced a lot and we immediately recorded a four song demo. Doing that, we got on lots of shows quickly. John Pantle from the Knuckle brothers took us under his wing and had us opening for lots of shows. He was probably the only ska promoter back then and the reason the ska scene was so big in OC.”
The band says, “30 years between album releases might sound impossible to some, but we in The Goodwin Club stare impossibility square in the eyes and say NAY, It shall be done!
We’ve loved creating the best high energy live show possible together these past few years but now we’ve bottled up that energy, churned it like crazy, and channeled it into our new album, “Join The Club” coming out on Wiretap Records, this summer! We can’t wait for you to listen, come to the shows again, and . . . JOIN. THE. CLUB!!!”
The Goodwin Club started in 1993. Members were all from the Huntington Beach area and mostly went to Edison High School. The original line up was Tami Demaree (vocals), Charles Grey (guitar) , Erick Hauser (bass), Marc Bosman (keys) , Andy Goodman (drums), Patrick McDonald (trombone), Jesse Wilder (sax), Adam Diebert (trumpet), Christ Scott (vocals). Later members included Aaron Barrett (trombone), Scott Klopfenstein (trumpet), Grant Barry (trombone), Dean Medford (sax) , Corey Pollack (guitar) and Rich Zahniser (trombone). The band dissolved in 1995 due to half the band going on to college. Most remaining members joined The Aquabats while other members were in The Hippos, The Scholars, Teen Heroes and Reel Big Fish.
We recently had the opportunity to check out the track and video for “Pop Punk Fuck Up”
You can listen to the song Here You can also check out the video below
Los Angeles-based pop punk outfit Cold Weather Kids is excited to release their brand new single “Pop Punk Fuck Up” via Revival Recordings.
The single speaks to a feeling that many may feel with themselves and the world around them. When discussing the inspiration behind the track, vocalist Ryan Solava stated, “Experience the raw, unfiltered emotion of “Pop Punk Fuck Up,” a new anthem for those grappling with life’s relentless challenges. With candid lyrics that delve into mental health struggles and self-realization, this track captures the essence of the pop punk genre, blending angst with a touch of introspective humor. Don’t miss this unapologetically honest journey through the highs and lows of modern existence.”
When going through the concept of the music video for “Pop Punk Fuck Up”, Ryan said, “When writing it I just wanted to be relatable and there seems to be this stereotype that if you’re in your 30’s in a pop punk band. It’s like a walking red flag.” But really the bottom line for the band was to make a video that was fun but also true to how they live their lives. “It’s easy to hate, sometimes even fun cause it probably makes others feel better about their lives in comparison. So rather than complain about our problems, we’d rather acknowledge that we’re just going do us and accept everybody has problems and nobody cares,”Ryan continued.
There is this real no B.S. authenticity with “Pop Punk F#%k Up” Cold Weather Kids do a brilliant job of not only keeping it real but doing it with a killer sound and melody
Brooklyn based post-punk outfit Clone brilliantly and artfully test the boundaries of music and sound on their new LP “CL.1”via Portland label Little Cloud Records and North Carolina’s 5BC Records , and we love every single minute of it.
“CL.1” is a record makes you immediately take notice . Clone is hardly a musical clone they have a vibe and sound that is uniquely their own.
The album opens with the well crafted gem “Room Of Tears” we found ourselves hanging on every word. The vocal performance on “RoomOf Tears “ is absolutely stunning.
We found ourselves instantly drawn to “Dazzler” by the chorus we were eagerly singing along . Single, “Divided Line” shows a band that is in sync and on point .
Every song on “CL.1” is excututed with absolute perfection. However, if we had to pick a favorite it would be “Insides” Clone absolutely brings everything they have on this track and boy does it show – Bravo
Recorded and mixed by NYC legendary producer Martin Bisi (Sonic Youth, Swans, Brian Eno, Herbie Hancock, Iggy Pop, Helmet) at the famed BC Studio, built with BRIAN ENO. Co-produced with DEAD LEAF ECHO‘s,LG Galleon this record was mastered by Fred Kevorkian The White Stripes, Sonic Youth, Juliana Hatfield, Lloyd Cole).
We highly recommend checking out “CL.1” from Clone . It’s an absolute can’t miss.
We recently had our day totally made because we got to check out the new video for “Trees Sway” from one of our absolute favorite bands – The Dollyrots (Kelly Ogden (bass and vocals), Luis Cabezas (guitar and vocals), and Simon Hancock, drums)
You can check out the stunning new video for “Tree’s Sway” below
You can also check out the phenomenal record, where “Tree’s Sway “ is from – “Night Owls” on DSP’s Here
Cabezas shares, “I was gifted the song in a dream and woke up abruptly, turned to Kelly and said, ‘Turn your phone audio record on, I’ll be right back.’ I grabbed a guitar and played the whole thing, front to back, complete with lyrics in one go. That became the song, and when she sang it for the record, it took on a life of its own.”
We loved “Trees Sway” from the first time we heard it. We are simply over the moon , that there is now a visual for the track .
The band is set to embark on The Wrapped In The Sunshine Tours, hitting the West Coast in June with Diesel Boy and Go Betty Go on select dates, and East Coast dates in July with The Boreouts and Soraia. The full list of tour dates is below, and tickets are available Here
Ahead of the June shows, the band will be releasing a limited edition 7-inch single on colored vinyl via Wicked Cool Records, featuring two brand new tracks produced by the band and longtime collaborator John Fields (Meet Me At The Altar, Jimmy Eat World, Soul Asylum).
We recently had the amazing opportunity to check out the latest single “Hate You Sober” from Chicago Pop-punk band featuring Spencer Charnas of Ice Nine Kills .
MEST will release the new album ‘Youth’ via SBÄM Records on June 21.
Following last month’s release of the lead single “WHEN WE WERE YOUNG” (feat. Jaret Reddick from Bowling For Soup), MEST has just debuted the second single, “HATE YOU SOBER” (ft. Spencer Charnas ofIce Nine Kills. The track delves into the theme of a toxic relationship, depicting how one might endure it by numbing themselves with alcohol, while also exploring the journey towards summoning the courage to break free from the toxicity.
Speaking on the recording of the new album, founding member and front man Tony Lovato says, “The drives to the studio were about an hour and 20 minutes long. A lot of my inspiration for this record was found on those drives. I would just listen to all the records that I grew up listening to. Which brought back a ton of memories. It would just put me in another state of mind. The majority of “Youth” was written up in the hills of Los Angeles where I recorded a bunch of our early records. I would get random flashbacks seeing spots I hadn’t seen in years. But as much as I love all the memories and stories of the past, I’m not one to think that the best days are over. I’m creating new core memories and living my life now, so that in 20 years I’ll look back fondly. The same as I do now. These songs are a cheers to the past with a here’s to the future.”
We are loving “Hate You Sober” from Mest featuring Spencer Charnas from Ice Nine Kills and we are counting the days till we can listen to “Youth” on June 21st.
We started The Whole Kameese back in 2020 as a way to keep busy during the pandemic. We are so lucky to have worked with so many wonderful artists, promoters and other music professionals. We were also so blessed to be able to share so much amazing music . We have made the difficult decision to put the blog on the back burner. At this time we need to focus on other important matters. We do not know how long we will be away but, we will return. We thank all of you for your support
We recently had the chance to check out the blazing new single “Cheerful Coping” from Boston and Brooklyn alt-rock and pop-punk trio, We Demand Parachutes . You can listen to “Cheerful Coping” on Spotify Here and on Apple Music Here
“Cheerful Coping “ is the start of a new chapter for the band, who in 2022 unveiled their debut album Outside The Null Field to wide acclaim and last fall linked up with Fake Feelings for a collaboration called “Still Trying”. The melodic and explosive “CheerfulCoping,” produced and engineered by Alan Day of Four Year Strong, captures the spirit of the modern day – and the little things we do in order to keep moving forward as the world burns around us.
Photo credit – Mickey Renger
We were absolutely intoxicated by the melody of “Cheerful Coping “ coupled by flawless vocals, “Cheerful Coping “ from We Demand Parachutes is one of those special otherworldly songs that you can’t ignore.
The title track to a new six-track EP due out later this year, “Cheerful Coping” reflects a creative songwriting shift for the band, taking demos and ideas born in isolation and rebuilding them through the pre-production process in the studio with Day at Ghost Hit Recording studio in West Springfield, Massachusetts. Early seeds of the song were first planted by McCord a few weeks after completing Outside The Null Field, and after a heavy workshop on the chorus by the band, the song began to take its current shape.
Cheerful Coping” from We Demand Parachutes is the absolute perfect storm in musical perfection.
It’s almost impossible not like F.O.D. , they have a style and sound that absolutely down right brilliant.
Infusing their sound with harmonies and catchy melodies, F.O.D. draws inspiration from legendary 90s predecessors like GreenDay, Descendents, Lagwagon, and BadReligion while adding their unmistakable twist.
From the opening track “Plain Sight” it is clear that F.O.D. Is showcasing their one of a kind energy on “The Once A Virgin Club” and we freaking love it .
The most recent album from the band, ‘Sleepville,’ transcended the confines of punk rock, guiding listeners through a musical odyssey complemented by an accompanying book. Unfortunately, due to the impact of Covid, it couldn’t have the release party and tours it rightfully deserved. With this new album ‘Once A Virgin Club’, F.O.D. returns to their roots with fast, catchy melodic punk rock songs.
The album title alludes to the band members aging, reminiscing about the time when they first formed a band as inexperienced youngsters (pre-FOD), eager to explore the world of music.
Our favorite track on the album is “Back To Where You Once Belonged “ The track is an absolute melodic gem, we found ourselves hitting repeat on this one quite a bit .
You can check out the video below
With flawless vocals and catchy melodies, “The Once A Virgin Club “ from F.O.D. Is a record you can’t miss.
We recent had the amazing opportunity to check out the absolutely stunning new EP, from Canadian pop punk trailblazers, Chief State, “The Acoustic EP” via Mutant League Records.
You can listen to “The Acoustic EP” on Spotify Here and on Apple Music Here
Mike Millan
The Acoustic EP”invites listeners to rediscover Chief State’s catalog through a captivating and intimate lens.
Chief State prove that they are a group of master musicians who have artfully reimagined their songs on The Acoustic EP , giving already high quality musical compositions a whole new dimension.
We found ourselves looking at these songs in a whole new light, Do yourself a favor and check out “The Acoustic EP” from Chief State .
New Album ‘Self-Maintenance’ Out April 12th, 2024 via SBÄM Records
We recently had the amazing opportunity to check out the new single “My Favourite Place” via SBÄM Records from Munich based Cadet Carter,featuring Kayleigh Goldsworthy
You can listen to “My Favourite Place” Here You can also watch the video below
As of late the Pop Punk sound has definitely found its way back into mainstream music. While Munich based Cadet Carter consider themselves very much part of this genre, their sound is much closer to the likes of Jimmy Eat World and Taking Back Sunday than it is to artists like Machine Gun Kelly, Mod Sun and Avril Lavigne
The Munich-based band, fronted by Welsh lead singer Nick Sauter, has made quite an impact on the European music scene since starting out in late 2017. Their 2020 album Perceptions made it to #14 on the European Alternative Rock chart, and before the pandemic stopped all touring, the band played a ton of shows supporting artists like Touché Amoré, The Dangerous Summer, Stand Atlantic and As December Falls.
We absolutely love the latest single “My Favourite Place from Cadet Carter “ featuringKayleigh Goldsworthy. When the two join forces the results are absolutely stunningly brilliant.
Photo Credit: Nikki Lindner
The energy on “My Favourite Place” is absolutely off the charts . Cadet Carter are expert level musicians who craft well written songs with both memorable hooks and melodies that will keep you singing for days .
Kayleigh Goldsworthy’s flawless vocals on “My Favourite Place” gives the already amazing track an extra jolt ( and we love it)
CADET CARTER’s brand-new album Self-Maintenance, their first release with Austria-based Punk Rock label SBÄM will be out on April 12th. The new record is a collection of songs bursting with catchy melodies, clever arrangements,and heartfelt lyrics. “All these songs are like little odes to taking care of yourself and focusing on what’s good in life rather than letting the more gloomy side of your character win“, says Nick.
We are so excited for the new album! In the mean we will keep hitting repeat on “My Favourite Place.
Last Friday, we had the amazing opportunity to check out Raleigh, North Carolina based hype rock band ColorMeKrazy! and their phenomenal new single “Ex-Friend”, which is simply electrifying. You can check out “Ex-Friend on Spotify Here and on Apple Music Here . We recently chatted with ColorMeKrazy! As they are our Artist Of The Day for March 7th 2024 .
The Whole Kameese: Thank You so much for taking the time to chat with us here at The Whole Kameese .
All: Thanks for having us!
The Whole Kameese : Can you please introduce yourselves and your role in the band . Part 2 can you tell us how you all came to be ColorMeKrazy?
Mia: I’m Mia, I’m the lead vocalist and a co-producer for the band. I add beep boops and write lyrics! Tom: My name is Tom. I arrange songs & play guitar for ColorMeKrazy! Drew: I’m Drew, I absolutely shred on a variety of spreadsheets and documents to keep the band running smoothly. And I occasionally strum the guitar. Zach: I’m Zach! I play drums in the band, dabble in running our live sound, and I mix/produce our tracks.
Courtesy Of ColorMeKrazy
Tom: The band came to be in late 2023, after Mia reached out to me online. She’s a bit of an insomniac, so I got a message at like 3:00am asking to start a band. I work nights, so I answered right away, & we practically had plans for this thing solidified by dawn. A few more messages brought the rest of the gang into the mix shortly thereafter.
The Whole Kameese: ColorMeKrazy! has an amazing one of kind sound that we absolutely love ! What are some of the influences that helped shape your sound?
Mia: Definitely for me, I have produced a lot of soundcloud rap and hyperpop over the years, as well as being an avid gamer, so a lot of my influences are really electronic sounding artists like 93FEETOFSMOKE, Grimes, or EDEN. Drew: It’s a list long enough to put us beyond our word count, but I can speak for both myself & Tom when I say the catchy riffs and melodies are inspired by bands like: A Day To Remember, Yellowcard, Paramore, Story of the Year, The Early November and Jimmy Eat World. Zach: Yeah, most of my drum parts take great influence from bands like Green Day, Blink-182, My Chemical Romance, and other bands from the warped tour era.
The Whole Kameese: We love the latest single “Ex Friend” , the vibe and sound is absolutely electric. Can you talk about how the song came to be ?
Mia: I actually wrote the lyrics for this song after a really close friend betrayed my trust in a really deep way. Tom sent over this instrumental, I think it was just the chorus bit, and it was so in your face I knew exactly what to take my anger out on!
Courtesy Of ColorMeKrazy
The Whole Kameese : Is there any special meaning behind the band name?
Mia: Me and Tom went back and forth so many times on band names. I kept suggesting names that were too soft, Tom’s names were too dark, I think I let my ghost hunting interest bleed in somewhere. At some point Tom just brought the name up. It sounded like a cool blend of the two of us, I like to think of us as Hot and Cold, Color and Krazy! Tom: yeah, I was talking to my buddy at work, & he said “Now, color me crazy, but I think…” & I was like “Hold that thought!!” I practically ran away from the man just to write it down. It just felt right.
The Whole Kameese: What Is the band beverage of choice ?
Mia: We are a healthy bunch, we are always bringing water to things! But probably a more fun answer is whatever soda we decide to pick up at Cookout! Zach: & A few of us enjoy dabbling in all things whiskey!
The Whole Kameese: Can you talk about your writing process as a band? Is one person the main writer or is it a group effort?
Tom: Typically, I’ll make a rough roadmap of how I see a song going in my head. I leave room in the demo for 808s & electronic elements, so that Mia can come in & work her magic. Drew has a wonderful ear for adding little ambient lead parts that compliment what’s already there. Zach, of course, writes his own drum parts. It all comes together in a really beautiful way.
The Whole Kameese: If ColorMeKrazy could play a show anywhere, where would it be?
Drew: A sold out crowd at The Ritz in Raleigh would be amazing. Mia: I think for me, I’d love to go back north and play a show in NYC. I miss New York a lot. Zach: Personally, being originally from DC, it would be awesome to play any of the bigger DC clubs like 9:30, The Anthem, Union Stage. But I truly enjoy all live music venues and any chance at being on stage. Tom: A lot of my early involvement in the music scene also took place in & around DC & Baltimore. The energy surrounding alternative music in that part of the country is unmatched in my experience. So I’d say there.
The Whole Kameese: Finish the sentence… The best part of being in ColorMeKrazy! is?
Mia: My friends! When I first moved to NC I didn’t know anyone. I’m really happy I got to meet all these guys, and can proudly say they are quickly becoming my favorite people to be around. Drew: Getting to be creative with other creative people. Zach: The creativity and unique perspectives that all the members bring. We truly do come from differing musical backgrounds and I think it shows in our original music. Tom: Everything. I spent 10 years out of bands, & I missed it every day. Now that I’m back in the saddle, I love it all. Even the really tedious stuff. It’s all great.
The Whole Kameese: If you could open for any band who would it be ?
Mia: Right now, I’d say Meet Me @ The Altar. I went to their show in Greensboro, and I feel like we would vibe really well. Zach: To name a few, Pierce the Veil, My Chemical Romance, State Champs, or Knuckle Puck. Have seen most of them live and am a huge fan of their music and live performances. Drew: A Day To Remember. They bring insane amounts of energy and the crowds at their shows always bring it as well. Tom: I’d like to open for Senses Fail again. My old band played a show with them back in like 2012, & it was at a point in their career where they were NOT popping, not like they are today. But even with a crowd of probably 60 people in a 1800 cap room, they brought ALL the heat that night. It set a precedent for me as a performer going forward, it’s 100% or nothing. So I’d love to open for them now that they’ve regained their footing & are filling those bigger rooms like they deserve!
The Whole Kameese: What is next for ColorMeKrazy! In 2024
Mia: This is our first year, but it’s jam packed. By the end of the year, we will have a full EP out and hopefully will have played a bunch of shows we can tell you about next time!
Courtesy Of ColorMeKrazy
We are super excited to see what’s next for ColorMeKrazy they are most certainly a band on the rise.
You can check out ColorMeKrazy on Instagram Here on Twitter Here on TikTok Here on YouTube Here and on their website Here
Featuring artwork from Samuel Lucas, the physical-only release is comprised of 17 hits including unreleased songs from Winning Streak, Trashed Ambulance and Twenty2!
Shipping in May 2024
We are pretty pumped about this… Canadian punk rock label Thousand Islands Records is thrilled to launch its ‘The Sauce’ compilation series with Volume 1, now available to pre-order on vinyl and CD. Featuring artwork from Samuel Lucas, the physical-only release is comprised of 17 hits, including unreleased songs from Winning Streak, Trashed Ambulance and Twenty2!
Available on two vinyl colors, Purple and Green with the latter limited to 100 and exclusive to our store. All vinyl orders include the 4-panel CD, while supplies last!
Purple LPs will also be available to purchase at shows from all the bands featured on the compilation.
Check out this track list !!!!
SIDE A:
CHASER – Fight of Our Lives
Handheld – Once Again
Debt Cemetary – Let’s Murderlize ‘Em!
Drunktank – Kindle The Flame
Straightline – Weltschmerz
For Heads Down – Still
The Corps – On The Brink
Dead Alright – Playing with Fire
SIDE B:
The Speakeasy – Bright Side
Counterpunch – Calling All Scars
Trashed Ambulance – Split The Difference
Belvedere – Good Grief Retreat
Record Thieves – Eyelids
Winning Streak – Just Start Again
Twenty2 – Before You Save Us (Feat. Joe Doherty)
Strike Twelve – Baseball Bat
Melonball – Break a Leg
Tracklist arrangement and vinyl master by Vincent Côté
We recently had the phenomenal opportunity to check out North California punky alt-rock trio StrateJacket and…. not one but two new singles (So freaking cool !) “Be My Drug” and “Bad Start” Both songs are absolutely beyond amazing.
You can listen to “Be My Drug” Here and “Bad Start” Here
Originally featured on EA Sports’ NHL24 Soundtrack in tandem with NHL24’s Playlist last year, “Bad Start” was one of the first songs the young band ever wrote together. The band – made up of Jackson Roemers (lead vocals/guitar, 24), Fabian Angel (vocals/bass, 23) and Nate Mangold (drums, 22) – says the song is pretty much about “being an idiot but meaning well.”
While “Be My Drug” follows in line with the sound of “Bad Start,” it explores a more character driven story and talks of the similarities between what being in love and being on drugs can feel like. “I don’t think a song on the album better represents who we are better than ‘Be My Drug’ does,” the band says. “I really wanted a song that captured the [highs and lows/push and pull] feeling of those two things together. It’s a theme I look forward to exploring more in the future.”
“Be My Drug” and “Bad Start” are the first single taken from the band’s debut album (out in 2024) and they were recorded at Vancouver’s Armory Studios in November of 2022 with the Juno/BMI-winning Canadian producer/songwriter Brian Howes (Hinder, Skillet, Boys Like Girls) and Grammy Award-winning Chris Lord-Alge (Green Day, Muse, Prince) mixed the album.
Some song just have this amazing power to win you over. You can’t explain it … it just does. “Be My Drug” and “Bad Start “ and two brilliantly put together songs that have completely won us over . StrateJacket is a band you need to remember. Perfect melodies mixed with flawless vocals. We have a feeling StrateJacket is just getting warmed up.
Celebrating 10 Years As A Fully Independent Festival
Saturday & Sunday, June 22-23, 2024 at Historical Landmark Carrie Furnace in Pittsburgh, PA
We are so excited for The 2024 edition of the Four Chord Music Festival, celebrating its 10th anniversary, has revealed its dates and the initial lineup of artists.
This year’s confirmed acts include: A Day To Remember, All-American Rejects, The Story So Far, Something Corporate, State Champs, Motion City Soundtrack, Four Year Strong, The Get Up Kids and many more. See below for the complete lineup.
The highly successful independent music festival will be held on June 22 and 23 at the historic The Carrie Furnace in Pittsburgh, PA. Situated within the remnants of the iconic U.S. Steel Homestead Steel Works, the Carrie Blast Furnaces stand as a testament to Pittsburgh’s industrial prowess in the 20th century. This unique setting adds a distinctive touch to the festival’s decade-long legacy.
Attendees can choose from General Admission and VIP tickets, with a new Deluxe VIP tier now available. This exclusive option provides access to a spacious elevated viewing lounge, private bathrooms, a partially open bar, and more, enhancing the overall festival experience.
Early Bird GA + VIP tickets will go on sale on Wednesday, February 21st at 11AM ET.
Public On Sale kicks off on Friday, February 23rd at 11AM ET.
See the lineup below. Additional acts to be announced!
Saturday & Sunday, June 22-23, 2024
at Carrie Furnace
Address: 801 Carrie Furnace Blvd, Pittsburgh, PA 15218
DAY 1 (Saturday, June 22)
A Day to Remember
The Story So Far
Senses Fail
State Champs
Four Year Strong
Microwave
Militarie Gun
Koyo
Eternal Boy
Driveways
Action/Adventure
Cliffdiver
Mallory Run
DAY 2 (Sunday, June 23)
The All-American Rejects
Something Corporate
Motion City Soundtrack
The Get Up Kids
RelientK
Taylor Acorn
Hunny
Patent Pending
Keep Flying
People R Ugly
House Parties
Goalkeeper
Don’t Panic
Old Neon
What began in 2014 as a local punk rock festival in a 1500-capacity club, has grown into a massive stadium-sized 2-day destination event, featuring the punk scene’s biggest and brightest, while keeping its independent DIY roots intact.
Festival founder Rishi Bahl said, “10 years is a long time. Most things that you were into 10 years ago have not survived, so to reach the 10th anniversary of Four Chord Music Fest is something we are very proud of. We really tried to make this one the biggest and best one yet and are stoked to spend the weekend with all of you at our brand new, historical landmark of a location, The Carrie Furnace. Get out the sunscreen and bring the Advil, it is going to be a party.”
This year, Four Chord Fest welcomes the nonprofit partner Biggies Bullies. Established in 2011, this Pittsburgh-centered organization is dedicated to the rescue and rehoming of pitbull-type dogs in both Pittsburgh and its neighboring regions.
Additional sponsors include Monster Energy Drink, Pabst Blue Ribbon, and Captain Morgan.
We are over the moon excited that we finally get to check out the new 2 song single “The Albatross “ and “I Remember Damage “ from L.A. melodic punk supergroup Fire Sale, which, is out today ( February 9th) via the awesome folk at Negative Progression Records.
You can feast your ears on the melodic goodness of “The Albatross “ and the equally amazing B-side “I Remember Damage” Here
We make no secret about how we feel about Fire Sale here at The Whole Kameese. Heck if it wasn’t for Fire Sale and “That One Time On Tour “ podcast there would be no The Whole Kameese . Fire Sale a punk rock supergroup composed of Matt Riddle (Face toFace and No Use For A Name), Chris Swinney(The Ataris), Pedro Aida (Ann Beretta), Matt Morris and Brad Edwards are the text book definition of what amazing melodic punk should sound like .
The latest offering from Fire Sale, is a 2 song single “The Albatross “ that is without question Fire Sale at their absolute best.
The single was mixed at the world famous Blasting Room and features hand painted art from Mark DeSalvo (NOFX,Lagwagon)
There is this immediate cinematic vibe to “The Albatross “ that really makes it stand out . It is also clear that the level of musicianship within Fire Sale is off the charts
Everything on “The Albatross “ is well thought out and orchestrated perfectly giving way to a unique melodic punk sound that brilliantly infuses a pop punk sound and a prog-rock feel that makes for a one of kind musical experience. Lyrics delve into the difficult issue of gun violence and scream for a change.
Singer Pedro Aida says, “The Albatross is about the frustrating and hopeless feeling we have when we send our children to school and the worry of bullying, bad grades, and drug use have been overshadowed by the fear that they won’t come home at all.”Guitarist Chris Swinneyadds, “The Albatross is a song that we have been trying to write since the beginning of the band. If you grew up listening to anything on Fat or Epitaph…it is a huge nostalgic slap in the face.”
Equally impressive is B-Side“I Remember Damage” which, features melodic vocals that ride the wave of driving power chords and a lead guitar riff that dances all over the fretboard. “I Remember Damage” is an absolute gem that showcases the one of a kind energy that makes Fire Sale such an electrifying musical tour de force .
We are looking for Bands/Artist to send their vinyl releases for 2024. We are putting together a new video segment where we will be featuring vinyl releases. If you are a band or artist and you are going to be putting out a vinyl release in the new year we want to tap to you . You can find our information on the contact section of our website or send us a message through our socials @TheWholeKameese
Right from the opening track which, happens to be the title track “Lost And alone “, you can sense that Go For Gold is a band you need to know about . The melodic structure on “Lost And Alone “ is perfect .
All four tracks on “Lost And Alone “ show a band in Go For Gold that are in top form
“Lost And Alone” is the kind of EP , that you can keep on constant loop and never tire of the dynamic sound of Go For Gold .
Our favorite track on the EP is “Take It Back” flawless and perfect vocals coupled with a brilliant melody, make “Take It Back” a song you need to hear.
So do yourself a favor and check out “Lost And Alone” from Go For Gold – You won’t regret it.
Band Fronted By Musician/Actor Thomas Nicholas of ‘American Pie’ / “Rookie Of The Year” Fame
We recently got a chance to check out the latest single “Better Than Home “ via Sbäm Records from Thomas Nicholas Band .
You can listen to “Better Than Home” Here and you can check out the lyric video below
Thomas Nicholas Band are currently writing original songs for their 7th studio album being produced by Taylor Carroll (LIT, Kemikalfire) in collaboration with artists such as, Jaret Reddick (Bowling for Soup), Ace Enders (the Early November), Tom Higgenson (Plain White T’s) Matthew Kennedy (The Dangerous Summer) Adrian Estrella (Zebrahead), Ajay Popoff (LIT), Andrew Goldstein and more
Thomas says, “While I was working in the studio with my producer Taylor Carroll (Kemikalfire, LIT), his friend Zac Barnett (American Authors) decided to stop by and say hello. Taylor grabbed a guitar and played him a chorus we were writing and before I knew what was happening, Zac started singing the melody what would become the opening versus for the song, “Better than Home”
I threw out some lyric ideas and then I tried to retract them because they were too personal … Zac immediately suggested that those were the best kind of lyrics and that I should write about what I’m scared to talk about. So here I am with my heart on my shirtsleeve with this song.
To really drive it all home, the artwork includes a reflection of the first place I lived. A double wide trailer outside of Las Vegas. I will also be heading to my other hometown of Santa Cruz to film in the parking lot of the Catalyst – a venue that I finally got to perform at last year with Bowling For Soup.”
Catch the Thomas Nicholas Band in the UK this March as part of the Naked AttracTour with Don’t Panic and Who Saves The Hero? this March. Details below
“Better Than Home” from Thomas Nicholas Band, is a perfectly crafted song that has “all the feels” “Better Than Home” plays like a three minute and forty one second time capsule, and we loved every second of it
UK Tour Dates:
22 MARCH King Tut’s Wah Wah Hut : Glasgow, SCT
23 MARCH The Key Club : Leeds, ENG
24 MARCH Rescue Rooms : Nottingham, ENG
25 MARCH Exchange : Bristol, ENG
26 MARCH The BOILEROOM : Guilford, ENG
27 MARCH The Globe Cardiff : Cardiff, WAL
28 MARCH The Deaf Institute : Manchester, ENG
29 MARCH Camden Assembly : London, ENG
30 MARCH The Craufurd Arms (Live Music Venue) : Milton Keynes, ENG
It’s been a while since we’ve said it but…. Have we mentioned how much we adore The Dollyrots ???
The Dollyrots are pure fun and we are on board for absolutely all of it!
The Dollyrots, Kelly Ogden (bass and vocals), Luis Cabezas (guitar and vocals), with Simon Hancock as their current touring drummer are ready to kick 2024 into high gear as they get set for a January tour run with Bowling For Soup and Lit, tickets available now at https://www.dollyrots.com/tour. In March the band will tour with Gymshorts as support, tickets go on sale on December 8. Full list of dates is below.
If you live even remotely close to any of these tour stops , you owe it to your music loving soul to go see The Dollyrots live .
They also have delivered a spectacular lyric video for “Tonight With You” from their recent album release “Night Owls” you can watch the video below
For our take on wild teenage abandon for this newest album we’re offering up “Tonight With You”. The feel of riding fast in a car with your crush and the tingling sensation of knowing it’s just a little bit naughty. Of all the songs on the new album “Night Owls” it’s the one that sounds most like vintage Dollyrots, and if it does that’s intentional,”shares Ogden
On Night Owls, the Dollyrots once again highlight their ability to craft music that resonates deeply, whether it’s through high-energy punk tracks or introspective ballads. Each track brings its own flair, with subtle tweaks and shifts that keep the listening experience fresh from start to finish. Hear Night Owls at your favorite streaming platform Here
Mark your calendars for “A Dollyrots Valentine’s Day Serenade” on Saturday, February 10th at 1:00 pm pst / 4:00 pm est. Get your ticket for this ‘pay what you can’ show Here
Tour dates:
January with Bowling For Soup and Lit
1/21 at Revolution in Ft Lauderdale, FL
1/23 at Vinyl Music Hall in Pensacola, FL
1/24 at Southport Hall in New Orleans, LA
1/25 at Ponte Verde Concert Hall in Ponte Verde, FL
1/26 at Hard Rock Live in Orlando, FL
1/28 at Jannus Live in St. Petersburg, FL
March –
3/7 at X-Ray Arcade in Cudahy, WI with Gymshorts
3/8 at James Ballentine “Uptown” VFW in Minneapolis, MN with Gymshorts
3/9 at Reggie’s in Chicago, IL with Gymshorts
3/10 at Old Rock House in St. Louis, MO with Gymshorts
3/11 at Night Shop in Bloomington, IL with Gymshorts
3/12 at Southgate House in Newport, KY with Gymshorts
3/13 at Melody House in Indianapolis, IN with Gymshorts
3/14 at Rumba Café in Columbus, OH with Gymshorts
3/15 at Sanctuary in Detroit, MI with local support
3/16 at Beachland Tavern, Cleveland, OH with local support
Be sure to catch The Dollyrots this winter, anyway you can, you won’t regret it!
For Closure (fronted by vocalist Gizz Lazlo (Dr. Know, U.K. Subs, The Freeze)
We recently had the distinct honor of checking out the new single “The Moon At Noon” via Mindpower Records, from LA punk/power-pop band For Closure ( fronted by vocalist Gizz Lazlo (Dr. Know, U.K. Subs , The Freeze
Frontman Gizz Lazlo says, “”Moon at Noon” was written a few days after my dad’s first major heart attack in May of 2018.
I was sitting on my parent’s porch while my dad lay in the hospital in a coma for 6 days. As I sat there confused and worried about what was going to happen, I needed to write something to calm my nerves a bit. Luis had sent me a demo that I’d listened to a few weeks prior.
While I was listening to the music over and over on my headphones, chain-smoking trying to distract myself, certain phrases kept coming back as I was humming melodies over the music.
A few hours later I’d finished these lyrics and just left them alone as I went back and forth to the hospital trying to deal with my mother and relatives who started arriving from Mexico to see my dad. When my dad was discharged from the hospital I couldn’t sleep thinking that this may happen again
. About a week after my dad was home I found myself in my studio wondering what these lyrics would sound like to the music. I spent about an hour behind the mic recording the original demo for this song.
I sent it to Luis and we instantly knew we HAD to record this song. It’s definitely not something we usually write together. That’s the thing I love about writing songs with Luis is that we both don’t care what people are going to think about them.
If “we” like them then let’s record them. Everything we’ve written in the past few years are songs about the dark side of life. Not everything is rainbows and butterflies. As much as we want it to be, it just isn’t. My hope is that whoever listens to our songs finds something that they can hold on to if they ever feel down.
I grew up with songs that helped me through some tough times. Maybe, just maybe we can help someone through their personal trauma with our songs. I’ve been close to the end many times, but I’m still here. So I guess the best advice I can give is to – Never Lose Hope!! You are loved!!”
We are absolutely over the moon for the new For Closure single “Moon At Noon”
Music is by far the best form of expression and For Closure have crafted an absolute gem.
What really makes “ Moon At Noon” shine , is how For Closure artfully works in not only punk and pop-punk elements in to the song , But, you also can also feel the Emo and melodic hardcore elements as well.
We can’t wait for more music from For Closure, “Moon At Noon” is an absolute can’t miss.
We were absolutely beyond delighted to check out the new single “Breakup Songs” from Nashville based power pop band The Dreaded Laramie … But wait there’s more!!!
Today The Dreaded Laramie announce that they are joining the Smartpunk Records roster with the release of their latest single “Breakup Songs.” (Cue confetti here)
You can listen to “Breakup Songs” on Spotify Here and on Apple Music Here
Photo by : Megan Anderson
The track is a glittery showcase of the band’s femme power pop balanced with grittier rock nuances. VocalistMC Cunningham wears her heart on her sleeve with melodic moments and brutally honest lyrics about moving on from a bad breakup. This single marks the first release under Smartpunk Records with more gender-bending punk-tinged indie rock tunes en route in 2024.
Vocalist MC Cunningham explains “To try to capture where I was at moving forward from the breakup, I wanted to write a song that, stylistically, I would’ve been embarrassed to show my ex while we were together. I am super proud of the result, though. It is a song that feels and sounds like emotional liberation to me.”
The Dreaded Laramie has a sound and vibe that you simply cannot resist. We found ourselves blissfully singing along to “Breakup Songs” almost instantly.
They recorded their forthcoming debut LP with producer/mixer/engineer Dave Schiffman (PUP, Weezer, Vampire Weekend). The new record comes on the tail of their 2022 EP, “Everything A Girl Could Ask” (produced and co-written by Rozwell Kid’s Adam Meisterhans), which Punk News described as “gender-bending… marbled with sickly sweet, hyper-feminine vocals encapsulated by indie rock tinged boppy pogo punk and sprinkled with sudden moments of very macho displays of musicianship.” In 2023, The Dreaded Laramie conquered a 60-city tour across North America, joining festival lineups from Gainesville’s Fest to Montreal’s Pouzza Fest, and sharing stages with the likes of Soccer Mommy, Bad Moves, Rozwell Kid, and Tsunami Bomb.
Band Playing Hometown Show with Lucky Boys Confusion on December 16 at Chicago’s Concord Music Hall
We are absolutely through the roof excited because Chicago based pop punk band Showoff have released a new single, “Bitter Pill” , first new music in nearly 6 years.
You can listen to “Bitter Pill” on Spotify Here and on Apple Music Here. You can check out the video for “Bitter Pill” below
Beloved Chicago pop-punks Showoff(who, at one time, were signed to Madonna’s Maverick Records label) are back with the new single “Bitter Pill”, their first new music since 2017’s ‘Midwest Side Story.”
Founding member and front man Chris Envy says, “It’s been 6 years since our last release. This is the first video we have released since 1999. Having Mickey (Molinari) back on drums (he was the drummer on the 2006 “Waiting For You” album) has been so great. Everyone just clicked. This song was written as a band from start to finish and it felt like Showoff was moving forward in a direction it was always meant to get to. It’s been such an amazing experience.”
Showoff is a band who seem to have this limitless supply of energy. You can definitely feel the energy full force on their new electrifying new single “Bitter Pill”
Showoff will celebrate the release of “Bitter Pill” on December 16 , when they play a hometown show at Concord Music Hall with fellow pop punk heroes Lucky Boys Confusion. Get tickets HERE.
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