Tag #POWER-POP

The Peppermint Kicks Are The Cure For Your Rock And Roll Sweet Tooth, With Their Decadent New Album, “Pop Rocks In My Chewing Gum “

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When done right, rock and roll can be the sweetest treat you’ll ever consume. This is with a doubt the case with the sensational new album, via Rum Bar Records, “Pop Rocks In My Chewing Gum”, from Boston , power pop rock and roll treasure, The Peppermint Kicks.

You can listen to “Pop Rocks In My Chewing Gum” on Spotify Here, Apple Music Here and on Bandcamp Here

In the world of technology, there is a term , “Plug and Play” Which by definition – is used to describe computer equipment, for example, a printer, that is ready to use immediately when you connect it to a computer ( So basically nothing complicated just plug and go ) The same could be said for the brilliant new album , “Pop Rocks In My Chewing Gum”, from The Peppermint Kicks . A straight up power pop rock and record that all you need to do is press play and… You achieve rock and roll music listening perfection instantly.

Ever since we heard the June single and fiery ode to the airwaves “Radio Wam Bam Boom”, we have been fixing for more rock and roll goodness…. And that’s exactly what we got with “Pop Rocks In My Chewing Gum”

Courtesy Of The Band

The Peppermint Kick, ( The Boston duo of Dan Kopko and Sal Baglio) triumphantly return with their first new Peppermint Kicks album in three years in Pop Rocks In My Chewing Gum, a livewire collection of anthemic, retro-kissed power-pop and neo-glam belters out via CD and streaming today, (Friday, August 1 ) on Rum Bar Records.

“Pop Rocks In My Chewing Gum” , from beginning to end, is loaded with every you would ever want in the perfect rock and roll record.

10 tracks – swirling around playful themes of lollipops and candy, crushes and longing, breakups and redemption, all served with a sizable sonic dose of hope and fun – explode out of the speakers with distinct personality and purpose. And the lyrical subject matter is varied, but oddly pointed. 

“The Peppermint Kicks go international on Pop Rocks In My Chewing Gum – perhaps even unintentionally, but we are not telling!” says Baglio with a laugh. “There are songs about French girls, candy, and trash cans. Twiggy-esque Lollipop Girls in the UK. An Italian female pop star from the ‘60s, paeans to classic Japanese cartoons, NYC, and Boston, too. And it would not be a Kicks record without songs about radio and rock and roll.” 

We felt ourselves falling deeper and deeper for the sweet sounds of The Peppermint Kicks, with every song sounding better than the last.

“Pop Rocks In My Chewing Gum, its title taken from a lyric in the album’s riff-tastic spotlight single “Too Sweet (Oh Yeah!)” – “Excitations on my tongue / pop rocks in my chewing gum,” We can neither confirm or deny that we may have been belting these lyrics EVERYWHERE.

It is next to impossible to pick a favorite song from “Pop Rocks In My Chewing Gum”. “Little Doll (Piccola Pupa) “ , “Shangri La” and “Lollipop Girl” , had us dancing our hearts out. However, the one song that really hit the sweet spot , was without question- “Number One Record “ we simply could not get enough of this freaking power pop masterpiece.

Both Dan Kopko and Sal Baglio performed all the instrumentation on the record –  Baglio on guitars, piano, vocals and Kopko on guitars, bass, vocals – aside from drums, which were provided by Kevin Rapillo, Chris Anzalone, and Napoleon Hashimoto. The album was mixed and mastered by Kopko’s alter ego, Danny The K. 

If it is music you crave…. Then you owe it to yourself to check out “Pop Rocks In My Chewing Gum” from The Peppermint Kicks.

Joy Buzzer Brings Absolute Joy With Electrifying New Single, “Simone”

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We recently had the distinct honor to check out the stunning new standalone single, “Simone” via Wicked Cool Records from New York City’s premier Power Pop band, Joy Buzzer. You can listen to “Simone” Here

This latest track, “Simone”, follows their recent LP, Pleased To Meet You, which was released last October via Wicked Cool Records.

Describing the new song, the band says, “It’s a heartbreaking story of isolation and unrequited love—blasted out by drums and wires at 500 mph.”

Don’t miss Joy Buzzer live at NYC’s Bowery Electric on Thursday, June 12th!

Joy Buzzer, packs the perfect melodic punch and it is on full display on the brilliant new single, “Simone”

Flawless , catchy vocal woven effortlessly between picture perfect melodies. One Listen to “Simone” from Joy Buzzer, and it is obviously that we have hit the power pop jackpot.

With a winning combination of catchy hooks and jet fuel, JOY BUZZER has quickly moved up the ranks as one of New York’s premier power pop acts. Inspired by bands such as Fountains of Wayne, XTC, Squeeze, Todd Rundgren and Badfinger,JOY BUZZER delivers an abundance of big-time melodies and blissful choruses.

Travels With Brindle Embarks On A Brilliantly Breathtakingly Beautiful Journey With, “No.1 In Heaven Starring Travels With Brindle

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Art Credit: Catherine Maddux

Creativity truly sparks greatness…. Today, (March 7th) Travels With Brindle releases a fully licensed covers EP of Sparks‘ 1979 Giorgio Moroder, produced disco album, dubbed No. 1 in Heaven Starring Travels With Brindle. 

You can listen to “No.1 in Heaven” Starring Travels With Brindle “ on Bandcamp Here, Spotify Here and Apple Music Here

To celebrate the EP, Chelsea Spear’s lo-fi ukulele power-pop project performs live at The Dance Complex in Cambridge with Balter Dance group on March 14, and then Spear performs at SOLOCOM ‘25 on April 11 at The Pit in New York City 

No. 1 in Heaven Starring Travels With Brindle, made possible by a successful 2024 Kickstarter project, recorded at the Boston Public Library, and endorsed by WBUR, Boston’s NPR as one of the most anticipated Boston records of Winter 2025, is both faithful and unfaithful to the original.

It features all six beautiful tracks – including lead single “Tryouts For The Human Race,” released last fall, and the title cut, “The Number One Song In Heaven,” which hit the streams on February 7 ahead of the release of the music video, filmed at Bellforge Arts Center, on February 13. (which is absolutely stunning and you can watch below)

  “A lot of the covers of Sparks tend to stay close to the original versions of the songs,” Spear notes. “I think they’d appreciate the originality! Beyond that, I think Ron — who favors rap and heavy metal — would be disappointed that it’s not aggressive enough”

Photo Credit: Krzystina Calderone for Vintage Girl Studios

Spear says she was drawn to the enduring legacy of these tracks, and allowing some room for reinvention falls well in line with the Sparks ethos. No. 1 In Heaven Starring Travels With Brindle – her second covers record after 2018’s I Love You Like A Cover, where she took on Alex Lahey’s debut album – showcases more than just ukulele; it draws in the creative world around her. 

Across these six tracks, Spear performs ukulele, vocals, finger snaps, shaker, and torn-paper snare drum, as heard on the George Formby-inspired “Tryouts For the Human Race,” the September single that was arranged by Sage Harrington of Ukulele Swing School. Circe Red performs a tap dance, engineered by William Hall Esq., on the propulsive “Academy Award Performance”; and Tyler Hauer delivers the trumpet on “La Dolce Vita,” giving it a new sense of buoyancy. Vocals on the record were engineered by Joel Edinberg, it was mastered by Joshua Cohen, and Spear mixed the album and engineered the ukulele.

We found ourselves positively enchanted with the absolutely divine musical work of art that is NO.1 in Heaven Staring Travels With Brindle . Every song is an artistic triumph honoring not only Sparks, but it also honors the brilliant creative vision that Chelsea Spear has artfully brought to life.

Our favorite track on the album, is “Academy Award Performance “ there is an abundance of artistic goodness to love on this track . We loved the tap dance performed by Circe Red , and the vocals were flawlessly spectacular.

The world is most definitely a better because of the artistic and musical wonderment of “No. 1 In Heaven Starring Travels With Brindle”

Pete Mancini Proves His Stories Need To Be Heard With Stunning New Album, “American Equator “

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Sometimes when we settle in and review new music, we truly never know what we are going to get when we hit play. However, every once in a while we find something really special, this is definitely the case with NYC songwriter Pete Mancini. We first had the pleasure of hearing Pete, when we reviewed his single, “Technicolor Days”…. We were absolutely floored. Then we listened to “Stomping Grounds and we realized that Pete Mancini is a voice of great importance. Now that we have had the amazing opportunity to listen to his new album, “American Equator,via Paradiddle Records we realize Pete Mancini might one of the great singer songwriters of the modern generation.

Pete Mancini, artfully takes elements of folk, rock, Americana, country and pop on “American Equator “and creates memorable musical compositions that stay with you long after the music has faded .

You can listen to “American Equator “ Here

The opening track, “Calamity People “ has a powerful folk rock vibe that serves as the perfect introduction to “American Equator “ we found ourselves clapping and singing along right away . We also love the 60’s vibe and killer guitar work on the track as well.

The title track, “American Equator “, has both a strong melody and a strong message. We found ourselves hitting repeat quite often.

Besides being a master class musician, Pete Mancini is a world class storyteller teller . This is front and center on songs like , “Spy Rock Road, “The Paris Hotel ( this song would be perfect for a blockbuster movie on the silver screen) and “Leaving For Raleigh “

Every song on “American Equator” , from Pete Mancini is a gem . It is the type of album that you can just hit play and not skip a single track .

“American Equator”, was produced by Matt Patton, recorded and mixed by Henry Barbe at Dial Back Sound , Water Valley, Ms , mastered by Clay Jones.

Contributions from Jay Gonzalez (Drive By Truckers), Tim Lee, Schaefer Llana, and John Smith (Dexateens) support Mancini as he confidently treads new sonic territory. 

Do yourself a favor and get lost in the musical greatness on “American Equator “ , from Pete Mancini

Hedge Delivers A Beautifully Loud ,Sonically and Melodically Pleasing New Album “Better Days”

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Artwork @tomlowell

We recently had the tremendous opportunity to check out the well crafted new record “Better Days” via Bloated Kat Records and Midnight Werewolf Records from Worcester, Massachusetts based Pop-punk band Hedge . ( Christopher , vocals,guitar, Pete, bass guitar and Julian, drums)

You can listen to “Better Days” Here

Hedge is one of those bands that have the ability to produce a memorable and catchy melody on every track, seriously we were singing along almost immediately. “Better Days is a treasure trove of pop punk goodness. Hedge also brilliantly mixes in a jangle pop sound similar to The Lemonheads . However, like most well put together bands , Hedge artfully presents a sound all their own .

Photo courtesy of the band

“Better Days” was skillfully produced by Ezra Cohen. One listen to “Better Days” and it is crystal clear that Ezra definitely knows what buttons to push as he has the band sounding great on “Better Days”

From the first note on “Boulder Toss” we were completely captivated by honest and authentic sound of Hedge.

“SPF” (this song had a killer melody mixed with an addictive guitar riff. The title track “Better Days” is definitely a defining moment on the album. Hedge, displays expert musicianship on this track. We can not confirm or deny that we had an office dance party with “No Monsters” and “Bike Song “ It is almost next to impossible to pick a “favorite” song , especially with the quality of song assembled on “Better Days” but we without question have to say our favorite is “Peeling Back The Vines” We loved everything about this tune , the band was firing on all cylinders on this one.

From top to bottom Hedge has delivered an album in “Better Days “ that we think might be your new favorite album… You just don’t know it yet .

Jr. Juggernaut Knock It Way Out Of The Park With New Album “Another Big Explosion “

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We recently had the opportunity to check out the brand new record “Another Big Explosion “ from LA power trio Jr. Juggernaut.

You can listen to “Another Big Explosion” Here

It is so refreshing to listen to a record like “Another Big Explosion “ Right from the first note it is crystal clear that Jr. Juggernaut ( Mike Williamson,lead vocals, Wal Rashidi,drums and Noah Green ,bass) had an absolute blast making its fourth full length “Another Big Explosion “ which is their first record on Mindpower Records, and the first to feature bassist Noah Green (of L.A.’s The Pretty Flowers).

“Another Big Explosion “ is a real live and kicking rock record that has a big loud and authentic sound that we simply can’t get enough of enough.

“Another Big Explosion “ is the kind of the record that you turn on and not skip over a single track . We found ourselves singing along and playing air guitar almost instantly.

Some of our favorite tracks on “Another Big Explosion “ are “Hang On” ( The opening lick is mint) “Take Alone” and “After Tonight” are two other highlights from “Another Explosion “ .

Jr. Juggernaut, have delivered an absolute phenomenal record. It is an absolute must listen.

Evaride Delivers Red Hot New Single “This Thing We Call Life”

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We all know that one song that is just an instant hit , from the moment you hear you are hooked for life. If it’s been a while since you have felt that way about a song… Let us introduce you to “This Thing We Call Life “ from Pop-rock duo Evaride ( frontman Sean Michael Murray and guitarist Hayden Maringer) You can listen to “This Thing We Call Life” Here

“This Thing We Call Life “ is a brilliant song that is both sonically and melodically pleasing , Evaride, have crafted an absolute pop-rock gem.

With the perfect combination of raw talent, enduring drive, soaring vocals and rhythmic guitar riffs, Evaride has already garnered the attention of some of the music industry’s best. On their highly anticipated EP, Vol. 2. Evaride worked alongside several top producers, including Matt Wallace (Maroon 5, DesRocks, Goo Goo Dolls, Train), Doug Rockwell (Sabrina Carpenter, 5 Seconds of Summer, Joshua Bassett) as well as Grammy Award-winning mix engineer Joe Zook (One Republic, AJR, Rachel Platten, One Direction, Andy Grammar) 

Both Sean and Hayden had very successful individual careers in the music industry prior to forming the band in 2018. Sean Michael Murray grew his pop/rock roots starring in Billie Joe Armstrong’s Broadway musical American Idiot as the lead, Johnny. He also won VH1’s reality show Make a Band Famous hosted by none other than All American Rejects frontman Tyson Ritter. The win led to his first record deal with Republic Records. You might recognize Hayden from FOX’s Glee, or from the multitude of his nationally televised performances. He’s played guitar on the American Country Music Awards, the Billboard Music Awards, Ellen, and most recently on NBC’s This Is Us with Mandy Moore and the Iheart Radio Festival in Vegas with legendary band TLC 

A catchy song with an addictive melody and beat , “This Thing We Call Life “. from Evaride is the perfect song to super charge your summer

Cold Weather Kids Keep It Real With New Song And Video

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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

The Dollyrots Deliver Beautiful New Video For “Trees Sway”

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Photo credit – Jen Rosenstein

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).

Announcement: The Whole Kameese Is Going On Hiatus

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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

-Jay

Robotic Hawks Deliver Perfect , Poetic , Powerful 12 Minutes Of Greatness On New EP “All Business”

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Robotic Hawks play The Rock & Roll Rumble on Saturday, April 13

We recently had the distinct honor and privilege to check out the new EP “All Business “ from New Hampshire Power-Pop trio Robotic Hawks .

You can listen to “All Business “ on Spotify Here and on Apple Music Here and on Bandcamp Here

From the moment we heard the first track “High Maintenance “ on the new EP “All Business “ we knew we were in for a world class music experience.

Photo credit- Kelly Davidson

“High Maintenance “ is a well crafted anthem that has an infectious melody and vibe that, will have you singing along long after the music has stopped. Robotic Hawks ( Tyler Pollard , vocals/bass , Shawn Doherty, guitars and Brian Sturk,drum) have this one of a kind musical energy that grabs your attention in every song , it is simply stunning.

“Cab Ride” which, is a cover of The Squeaky Fromme’s “Cab Ride,” a song near and dear to Pollard originally penned by his close longtime friend Damien Pratt. Robotic Hawks have such a unique groove unlike few bands we have heard in quite some time. It is because of this, that each song has so many special “ musical moments” that make the songs so memorable on “All Business “

“The song themes on All Business center around the need for self-awareness,” Pollard admits. “Sometimes you have to ask yourself the hard questions, whether you want to or not. Trust yourself before you can trust others. Gotta have faith, right?” 

We were absolutely captivated by every song on “All Business “ however, the one that really stood out to us and made us push repeat again and again is “Further” We listen to a lot of music here at The Whole Kameese ( We’re a music blog it’s what we do) But we can honestly say that “Further” is one of those special songs , that you remember for the rest of your music loving life. Flawless epic rock vocals coupled by an absolutely mesmerizing melodic jaw dropping groove.

So if “All Business “ was just a 3 song EP we would be grateful…… But as luck would have it there is a 4th track and it is straight up phenomenal……. Robotic Hawks deliver a sensational cover of Terence Trent D’Arby’s classic “Wishing Well “ and it is amazing.

Pollard says the Terence Trent D’Arby classic was one of those songs that just connected with him when he was younger, on a level like Paul Simon’s “50 Ways To Leave Your Lover”, Asia’s “Heat of the Moment”, or Simple Minds’ “Don’t You Forget About Me.” He calls it a “lightning strike” song for him when it came out, and now he gets to apply the alt-rock treatment to it.  

All Business is positioned well. Robotic Hawks, fresh off being named “Rising Star: New Hampshire” at the 2023 New England Music Awards, are set to perform at the 2024 Rock and Roll Rumble at The Middle East in Cambridge on Saturday, April 13. It marks a long-awaited return to the “World Series of Boston Rock” for Pollard, who in 1999 participated with his band the control group, which also featured Robotic Hawks’ producer Andrew James King. 

“All Business “ from Robotic Hawks is a collection of songs that we simply couldn’t get enough of.

The Shang Hi Los Share Spectacular New Video For The Irresistible “Op-Operator “

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How in the world did we get so lucky ??? First we got the brilliantly crafted single “Op-Operator “ via Rum Bar Records, from Boston rock and roll and power-pop dynamo The Shang Hi Los ( You can listen to “Op-Operator” Here) And…. now today (Wednesday, March 20th ) we get the stunning video for “Op-Operator” which was directed by the incredibly talented Joan Hathaway.

You can watch the amazing new video for “Op-Operator “ below

The video was filmed filmed at Stereo Jack’s Records in Somerville and Nicole Tammaro’s legendary basement.

We love everything about both the video and single for “Op-Operator “ The Shang Hi Los are world class musicians with a world class sound. And… now a world class video

“This is the sound and feeling that is fundamental to the band – upbeat, hooky, rich with layers of harmonies and guitars, and solid backbeat,” says D’Angora, who describes “Op-Operator” as “an instant mood booster” with its March release “timed perfectly for escaping the doldrums of winter.” Adds Kopko: “It’s been almost a year since our last release, so yeah, we are so ready to push some fresh music out there, like lilies from the frozen ground.”

The quirky storyline that comes to life in “Op-Operator” across its nearly three minutes of chewy, crunchy power-pop goodness plays out in kaleidoscopic color in the music video, where the band act out the scenes – and throw down a live performance. D’Angora praised Hathaway for being “so much fun to work with, and she’s got great ideas – luckily, we’re all a bunch of hams, so it was easy and a wicked good time.” 

Do yourself a favor and check out the tremendous new video for “Op-Operator “ from The Shang Hi Los , your soul will thank you for sure

FOUR CHORD MUSIC FEST 10 ANNNOUNCED

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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.

Tickets on sale at FOURCHORDMUSICFESTIVAL.COM

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

Relient K

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.

Your Wednesday Just Got Better…. Way Better! The Dreaded Laramie Release Power-Pop Single “Breakup Songs” via Smartpunk Records

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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. Vocalist MC 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.

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Kurt Baker Delivers The Ultimate Rock N Roll Record With His Latest “Rock N Roll Club”

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We recently got the chance to check out the brand new record “Rock N Roll Club “ via Wicked Cool Records from American musician/songwriter, and power pop/rock maestro Kurt Baker.

You can listen to “Rock N Roll Club “ on Spotify Here and on Apple Music Here

Sometimes a record is so good that it makes you smile . We definitely felt this way about “Rock N Roll Club” from Kurt Baker, from start to finish we simply could not stop smiling.

Kurt Baker has crafted some of finest power pop songs our ears have ever heard “Rock N Roll Club “ is over flowing with catchy melodic songs that we can’t stop playing ( We might sprain our finger from constantly hitting repeat )

We really loved the melody on the title track “Rock N Roll Club” The chorus is so addicting that we found ourselves singing it throughout the day.

Some of the other tracks that we really liked were “She Don’t Wanna Be Alone “ The opening melody on “Anchors Up “ is positively otherworldly.

One of our favorites on the record is “Bright Blue Sky” The song features drop dead perfect guitar work and flawless vocals .

A video was recently shot for “Bright Blue Sky” Baker says, “The video was shot in Benicassim, Spain on a day off from tour. It’s a beautiful beach. Nice town! Great people too. Like Luis Sanchez, who helped film this video for us. We wanted to do a video that was visually appealing but also didn’t distract too much from the song. I’m amazed none of us broke our necks… those “things” were we standing on were pretty high up and I don’t think balance is one of the finer traits of any members in the KB Band… no idea what I’m talkin’ about? Watch the video!!”

“Rock N Roll Club “ is a spectacular record, Kurt Baker has really knocked it out of the park with this one . Do yourself a favor and check it out !