To Kill a Monster – “Growing Up”: This is an act that I greatly adore. I first came to know of them years ago through fellow Tuned Up writer Marco Castro, as his band played with them often, and I instantly became a fan, as their live show is something to see. If I had an introduction to the Columbus music scene, it was these guys along with The Castros and Ranger Danger. This latest song is a testament to their drive and desire. Over the years they’ve had numerous line-up changes and other obstacles, but they have kept going. Why? Well, this is their passion and this song is about just that. As kids we are told we can do and be anything we want. Music is what these guys want to do, and this is testament to that. And also this is a fun pop-punk track that will get you moving. Never grow up if it means giving up!

Clemens & Co – “Moving On”: I came to know of Clemens & Co through local musician Derek Christopher. We would meet on the #5 bus about the same time every day, and we would talk music and life—mostly music. Well one day he mentioned a local musician named Eric Clemens. He thought it would be something I liked, and turns out he was right. This track is beautiful, and I can’t help but smile when I listen to it. It’s perfect for that Sunday afternoon chill time. One of the aspects that really stick out are the dual vocals of Eric and Kristen Elliott. The timing of this release is perfect as it will be part of your summer soundtrack. And if you’re not in love, it’s going to make you want to fall in love. Damn, that smile is back. And you can catch them at their album release show on May 17^th at Bros. Drake.

Zach Frost – “Rock Bottom”: Songs about real life are the ones that matter. This is one those. Zach Frost does not hold back at all, and he is an open book about his downfalls he has had in his life. And that is what makes this song so good. We all have had those days, those nights, and those moments when we hit rock bottom. But the thing about it is how we rise from that, and that is what sticks out about the video: Zach is surrounded by some of his best friends, and at the very end they lift him up. How poetic is that? Oh, and his gravel voice is to die for. Love it!!!

Courtney from Work – “Count Me Out”: My first experience with this band was seeing them live. I caught the last three songs, and I wish I had seen more. They were fantastic. The energy they possess is outstanding. So naturally I was wondering if that would transfer to an album, and I was right. It does. You can feel the energy in this track, and you can’t help but nod your head and maybe even jump around a little. At times I get a feel of 90s rock a la Nirvana, a band I never really liked, but over the last few years that has changed slowly. If this is what the rest of their new album sounds, like then we all are in for a treat.

90’s Kids – “Slow Motion”: Over the past few years I have become more and more of a fan of pop and pop rock. I’m not sure why, but I have. It excites me. So when I found out that there was an area band with the sound I liked, I had to check them out. 90’s Kids have been quickly been making a name for themselves over the past few years, and with the release of this single they show no signs of slowly down. This song could easily be on the radio. And it should be. It has everything a pop song should and more. If you don’t find yourself dancing along to this, are you even human?

-Ray Cobra