Words: Ray Cobra/Picture: Michael Herrick

Souvenirs – This alt-rock band from California has been around since 2011. They even have played Columbus a few times since I have been here, one of those include Fashion Meets Music Festival. It took me until a few months ago when they were announced as support for AFI to give them a listen. And let me say I was instantly in heaven. They have a sound that is early 2000s emo and 80s college rock. The resulting sound is one that is very calming on the ears and mind, as they have become my go to band for late night listening. Last month they released, Posture of Apology on Other People Records, which has already become my favorite release of 2017. This is a band to keep a watch on this year.

Hot Mulligan- Every once in a while a band comes along that absolutely blows me away. This does not happen often but when it does I fall hard. Right now Hot Mulligan is that band. For the last few years, folks such as Pitchfork, Alternative Press, and Stereogum have been throwing around the term “emo revival.” And they have used it for bands I would consider trendy, I mean look at who is using the term. Anyways if they are going to use this term a band they are overlooking is Hot Mulligan. These 5 guys from Lansing, Michigan are on to something great. By year’s end, they very well could be the biggest emo band around and that my friends is very possible. I highly suggest if you are a fan of the classic Midwest emo sound then this is your band.

https://youtu.be/iHvnkdvzpsg

Undergrads – Undergrads are a pop punk band from Columbus, OH that are poised to have a breakout year. After a few member changes, it seems they have found the lineup that is going to work for them. And I for one am excited about what the future holds for them. Late last year they released a new song, “Silvertoes” which will be on their upcoming EP and the buzz around that song was amazing. I am not the only excited about this band and that is awesome. Their sound is one that is a throwback to early 2000s pop-punk, they have done their homework. Keep your eyes open for the EP and in the meantime if you are local to Columbus and the surrounding area be sure to check them out this spring, as they have a few shows coming up with bands such as Settle your Scores, My Heart, My Anchor, Capstan, and The Ongoing Concept to name a few. Their live show is one not to be missed.