One of my highlights of my first ever SXSW was seeing a tiny band from Peoria IL deliver one of the most emotionally intense sets I’ve ever seen. And, this was in the middle of the day in the jovial madness that is Sixth Street in downtown Austin, Texas. This band is the hardcore group Ghost Key, whom recently signed to No Sleep Records. Many of the struggles the band attacks headfirst they are still in the throes of, and they invite you into the madness for camaraderie, in hopes that both parties might get some therapy out of it. Following the harrowing set ender “3:33″ at a recent show, vocalist Austin O’Brien wandered into the onlookers, giving out hugs to anyone willing. These hugs were of gratitude for listening, but I had the sense that he needed them too.

On a lighter note, who said that tackling tough topics and some good old fashioned throwing down in the pit for fun can’t go hand in hand? Ghost Key is proof that these things happening simultaneously are not in bad taste whatsoever. It’s our honor to preview them for Audiofeed 2015. Here are their answers to the Tuned Up Audiofeed Q&A:

[soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/197463628” /]

Q: Summer festivals seem to be the in thing now, if you had your own, what would it be called? And who would you get to play it?

A: For Your Health Fest. The Carrier, Converge, Stick To Your Guns, Superheaven, Turnstile, and Modern Life Is War

This festival is held over 4th of July weekend. What is your favorite 4th of July tradition?

A: Eating as much cook out food as we can, and pool parties

Sweet tea or lemonade?

A: Sweet tea all the way

Describe your band in 3 words

A: Smelly, obnoxious, and loud

If you have played this festival before what is your favorite thing about it? If not what are you looking forward to?

A:Most of us had a deep love for Cornerstone for all the good times it brought us, and Audiofeed doesn’t fall short in bringing back all those feelings. The camping, fellowship, music, and generosity feels just as great if not better, and everyone feels welcome no matter who you are.

What’s your favorite fair/festival food? What fair food would pair best with your sound?

A: Corn dogs and elephant ears

Is the band trying to send a message to the world? If so, what?

A: If there’s a message we want to send, its that life has ups and downs, and the downs can hit hard. There is no promise that it is going to get better, but that doesn’t mean you have to do it alone. No matter how dark things may seem, your life is worth living.

What summer blockbuster has you most stoked? This can include movies that are already out.

A: Age of Ultron or Jurassic World

What’s the one band from your area everyone needs to know about and why?

A: Drained. Super talented dudes, making some really cool, passionate tunes

Who are you most excited to see on the Audiofeed lineup and why?

A: Tons of really talented. close friends of our are playing this year. In Exile, Household, New Heart, Strengthen What Remains, Comrades, Keyoung, and our best friends Church Tongue