Punk ROC

A grand farewell to the ROC

2011-03-15T17:57:00.003-04:00

Dear loyal readers:

The time has come, as it does for many young Rochestarians, for this punk chick to move on outta Rochester. I am off to one of punk's finest homes, San Francisco, so writing about the music scene in Rochester, though I love it, loses its cred.

I want to share a special thanks to the bands and individuals along the way that have shared their passion for music with me. Lapse. Call Me The Patriot. Makyo Star. And especially, the discerning voice of Sakes Alive!!, Chris Vandevivier. Thanks to my dude, Dan, for letting me rip his old Murdock and Museums albums, while inspiring me with his drum work.

Thanks to Such Gold, Polar Bear Club, Like Wolves, and many others for your dedication to keeping hardcore and punk alive in Rochester.

Thank you to the fine folks of Water Street Music Hall, Flying Squirrel, The Bug Jar, and Montage for their continued efforts to showcase local music.

Thanks to the copycats and haters. You make me smile.

Always,
PunkROC aka Stephanie (@Strep)

Homegrown punk goodness

2011-03-07T11:06:00.005-05:00

I have admittedly been missing out on few recent great shows, and since I'm leaving Rochester soon (details to come), I frantically realized that I wanted some delicious hometown music before I check out.

Thankfully, the BugJar is my savior, and is hosting a sweet group of bands this Sunday. For less than $10 you can stop by, enjoy the people watching, and vibe to some dirty, DIY, Roc music–some indie, some punk, some....et cetera.

Doors at 8, music at 9, including Bad Kids, Torus, Sexy Neighbors (Brooklyn), and Goons.

Drunken Lullabies

2011-02-23T13:56:00.003-05:00

Flogging Molly is playing The Armory tomorrow night. This girl will be hoisting Guinness and carrying on, will you be in attendance?

Here's Your Valentine

2011-02-14T11:08:00.001-05:00

Happy Valentine's Day, punks.

Saturday night in the ROC

2011-02-11T17:33:00.002-05:00

What do you get when you add one part Hot Rod Circuit, one part Taking Back Sunday, one part Coheed and Cambria and a heaping spoonful of some fantastic, dance-along ska/punk? A solid night at Water Street.

Saturday night in the ROC, we welcome ska all stars Streetlight Manifesto on their Ship of Fools Tour featuring opener and pop-rock conglomerate Terrible Things to the stage at Water Street. I saw Streetlight back in 2009 on Warped Tour, and they were a personal favorite with their horn section and enthusiastic beats. Anyone who can get hundreds of exhausted, sweaty Warped Tour-goers to smile in the middle of the day and dance along earns a special spot in my heart.

It's guaranteed to be a night of fantastic music, ranging from punk to pop. Doors at 6:30, tickets are $20 at the door.

Art For Our Sake

2011-02-01T09:19:00.014-05:00

There comes a time in every musician's tenure where they are faced with the harsh reality that the outside world pushes against them. Most of the local bands that I've chatted with over the course of the 1.5 years I've been writing this blog have shared an experience or two.

Usually, this experience manifests as a hesitance to tour widely or press a ton of records before testing the waters of what their audience will support. But, I wanted to share a post from my boy Chris of Sakes Alive!! and his take on creating music for the sake of the art form and his thoughts on taking the life risk to keep playing, despite the odds.

"I don’t know if this is all that relate-able for you, but I never received any type of support from my family for pursuing music as my lot in life.

I mean, it makes a ton of sense. Could you ever imagine telling your kid “hell yeah! School? Fuck that! You should scream and yell and make shit tons of noise all for the love of it instead of attending college, which would cement a salary that’ll cover your ass when the going gets tough. Music is what FUELS the soul”?

So (un)surprisingly enough, they made every effort to shake me of the siren song that was calling my name towards the hazardous rocks of ruin.

They couldn’t break me from the spell though. And ever since, I’ve been chasing my white whale with no consideration for life, limb, finance, or relationship since. It’s been a long road of extreme highs and lows. Some of the most euphoric moments I’ve ever experienced in my life. And then immediately crushed by the most cruel lows I think anyone could ever endure.

It’s hard living an art-centered lifestyle. The biggest reason honestly because you seem to be fighting off the army of cynicism and criticism from every angle. Being surrounded on all sides, a lone ship that’s been hopping from island to island for a quick reprieve from the advancing fleet. A drink from the oasis, a visit to the merchant for supplies, and off again. Fighting to taste the bittersweet freedom that hangs in the air and your nostrils, teasing you like a carrot on a stick.

Maybe not for all, but I’ve dealt with a large share of criticism. None of it I would say unreasonable from the opposing point of view. But ultimately makes for a shoddy support system. More or less you have to rely on your self-confidence and squash your self-doubt to keep moving ahead."

Read the rest of the post here

Ladies Night in Rochester

2011-01-29T20:48:00.000-05:00

Don't ask Danielle LeBeau if she'll play Business Men. Lauren Ciarpelli will not be found crooning from a standstill any longer. These ladies are half of one of the latest indie/hardcore incarnations to take Buffalo and Rochester, Lapse. And, if they look and sound familiar, it's because only months ago they were half of Lights of Autumn, a Rochester pop-rock favorite.

But those poppy tunes are behind them as they embark with fellow musicians, Joey Raab, Garrett Tuchrello and newly added guitarist, Will Whaley, into a newer, harder, more experimental sound that they won't commit to one genre. As Ciarpelli says "We're melodic with a hardcore sound, but we're not 'melodic hardcore.'"

Confusing, right? Well, don't let the lack of definition throw you, Lapse has a specific sound and they're not afraid to shout it all the way to the back of the club. With the ladies citing their influences as a range of metal, punk, and hardcore, and Ciarpelli and Raab driving the creative force, expect great things from them.

I had the luck of finally seeing Lapse live at Holiday Havoc in December after a few misses at other live shows. With the other bands sticking to textbook metal breakdowns and unintelligible lyrics, Lapse stepped up and wailed us with a wall of music. Real music. Don't get me wrong, Ciarpelli is up front shredding her vocal cords like we've never heard before, but it mixes with the instruments in a way that totally rocks. They don't rely on tried and true metal or hardcore structure to build their tracks, and the result is uniquely them.

But, die hard LOA fans will probably be let down by this departure, though awesome. Lapse anticipates this and for the mean time are releasing their tracks digitally and in limited hardcopy quantities. LeBeau says it's also because people are hesitant to spend their cash on different genres than what they're used to. This is not the first time I've heard this from a local band. With independent financial backing and new musical offerings, who can blame them for testing the waters with an EP.

Overall, their sound is refreshingly hard, which I hope draws fewer Paramore comparisons on their behalf. The end of one chapter, and the beginning of the next, as LeBeau said "Why stick with the same thing?" Indeed. Be sure to check out Lapse this Sunday at Buffalo's Sugar City along with Iron Rain, Better Times, and Worthless.

All My Best Friends Are Metalheads

2011-01-16T23:03:00.000-05:00

With Bayside and Terrible Things come and gone-and me still pissed I had to miss them- it's time to get geared up for the next great show to come to the ROC. It's almost time for one of the more prolific 90s-2000s pop-punk-ska band to light up Rochester with their confetti guns and horn section.

Last time Less Than Jake came to town I was lucky enough to catch their acoustic set at the HOG and snag an autograph from Chris Damakes. This time, I'll be less of a stalker, and more of a devoted fan from the pit at Water Street on January 31st. Tickets are $16, $20 at the door. Featuring Supervillians, Off With Their Heads and more.

New year, same old song

2011-01-01T09:31:00.000-05:00

I posted it last year, I'll post it again:

Happy New Year!

Snowbirds and Townies

2010-12-15T13:20:00.002-05:00

When I first heard that Hit the Lights was coming through the ROC, I knew that their show would be the highlight of the winter. With Rochester natives Nate VanDame and Kevin Mahoney on stage, it was bound to be an awesome homecoming show.

And then, the openers were announced.

One after another the supporting acts were announced and the list reads like a who's who of awesome hometown acts, across the genre spectrum of rock, punk, indie and pop punk: Preemptive Strike, A Summer Scene, Joywave, Avenue You, Such Gold.

Needless to say, I will be camped out at Water Street all night to catch them all. And you should too, as this is the best lineup of Roc-local bands we've seen in a while. Thursday night, doors at 6:30.

Oi to the World

2010-12-09T09:09:00.004-05:00

Just like last year's post about the Punk Rock Advent Calendar, tis the season to get in the mood for some holiday music. Enjoy these while you're trolling the mall or at home drinking eggnog and shopping online:

HardROC night

2010-12-01T14:36:00.000-05:00

What are you doing on Friday?

Black Friday Rule

2010-11-26T11:38:00.002-05:00

Now that the turkey is long forgotten and Black Friday is upon us, enjoy this chilly vacation day with some local music:

Kicking off their tour- Young Bloods at Montage Music Hall. Opening are His Name Was Yesterday and A Thousand Shades of Gold, Shadows of the Past, and Yesterdays Heroes. Doors at 7, tickets are $5

Returning to the ROC- Joywave at Water Street Music Hall. Sharing the stage with BEDROC. Doors at 7, tickets are $10.

Local music this weekend

2010-11-19T12:11:00.014-05:00

There is a sweet handful of local music playing this weekend, spanning ska, punk, pop-punk and rock. Be sure to check out the following shows and support your local scene tonight and tomorrow:

Friday
Syracuse natives, Honor Bright, are opening for Alesana at Waterstreet. Doors at 6, $15 tickets, ages 16+ without a guardian.

Even Jeff Spevak, who I consider a total fogie when it comes to local music reviews knows what's up with this show: 5Head Reunion Show featuring The Beaumonts. Expect awesomeness from this ska show with their indie openers. Both, that's right both, are diamonds in the rough of Rochester's local scene. Doors at 8, $15 tickets, ages 16+ without a guardian.

Saturday
Arguably the best show this winter to commute for, the AP Tour is coming just outside of Buffalo. We're excited for Bring Me The Horizon, but the showstopper is always Rochester/Syracuse's own sons, Polar Bear Club. Doors at 6, $17 tickets.

Please Don’t Hang Out In Front Of The House

2010-11-18T23:15:00.001-05:00

Ever cram into someone's house (or equally intimate venue) for a show and it rocked your face off? The close-quarters, shitty acoustics and racing-heart emotion that happens in someone's basement or garage is hard to replicate.

If this is your idea of a solid Saturday night, check out the first volume of Please Don’t Hang Out In Front Of The House featuring tracks from some freakin-sweet artists playing songs about playing house parties. Very introspective, eh?

Notable acts include Attica! Attica!, Mayflower, The Sweet Revenge, and Roch's own Sakes Alive!!, featuring Hit the Lights guitarist, Kevin Mahoney.

Follow the link below to download and enjoy:

Volume 1 download

Happy Birthday to ME!

2010-11-10T08:54:00.007-05:00

I am a Sagittarius- optimistic, a little crazy, super loyal and a bit mouthy. This year, as I approach a milestone birthday near the end of the month, I was looking for a way to celebrate that's as loud and boisterous as myself and fellow Sagittarii can be. The answer? Rochester's Skanksgiving.

If you've read this blog for a few posts you'd see that deep down, ska is the soundtrack of my life. My heartbeat is a horn section. Which is why I'm so obsessed with Rochester's ska/punk scene. (And why I nearly pounced on Chris Vandeviver when he worked some horns into a new Sakes Alive!! track)

So, without further ado, here is the list of acts for Skanksgiving, an all-day ska show at Dubland Underground on the 27th and unofficial way to celebrate another year of my fantastic being. Doors at 1:30, show at 2:00:

2:00-2:25 Condition Oakland (Ashland PA folk punk)
2:30-2:55 Radioactive Snowshu (Rochester thrash n' ska)
3:05-3:30 Cobrafield (Rochester pop-punk)
3:40-4:05 Free For All (Rochester punk/ska)
4:15-4:40 4point0 (Syracuse ska)
4:50-5:15 The Steakouts (Rochester ska)
5:25-5:50 The Couchtesters (Rochester ska)
6:00-6:25 Two Ton Ska (Rochester ska/rock)
6:35-7:00 Fun with Shot Gun Shells (Rochester punk)
7:10-7:40 Do it with Malice (Buffalo skacore,)
7:50-8:15 Sand Bar (Rochester dub/ska, NYC return show)
8:25-9:00 Mrs Skannotto (Rochester rockin ska/reggae)

A change for The Sunstreak?

2010-11-05T12:22:00.006-04:00

Tonight The Sunstreak is hosting a small, secret (not-so-secret), acoustic set at A-Pub Live to get together with some fans for the last time before they refresh their style. According to them "Expect a fresh new sound and image in preparation for the follow up to our last record..." I'm placing a bet that they get more synth heavy, but not-so-secretly on my part, we all know I'd love for them to get an edgier sound.

The Sunstreak
A-Pub Live
Doors @ 9pm, $5
w/special guests Badgemen

Blueprint to a BMTH cover?

2010-11-03T15:59:00.005-04:00

Blueprint to a Fire...I feel like I've seen this before:
Oh, that's right, Bring Me the Horizon did it in 2008:

November 2, 2010

2010-11-01T16:26:00.004-04:00

Two very important things are going on tomorrow that all Rochesterians (especially those of you over 18) should be aware of.

Be sure to get out and vote (assuming you are registered, which is a whole other issue if you're not). If you are unsure of your polling location, check out this link.

After that's over, come down to Water Street Music Hall, because The Ataris are going to be tearing up the Flower City. Doors are at 6 and tickets are $12 day of sale. Word on the street is that Roc locals, Young Bloods will be opening.

Let's see if we can get them to close with this favorite like they used to in the old days.

Two random Halloween jams

2010-10-31T22:29:00.002-04:00

They're in my head. Now, they're in yours. Happy Halloween!

This is Halloween

2010-10-28T13:25:00.004-04:00

Behind the 4th of July, Halloween is my absolute favorite holiday of year. Sorry, Christmas, New Years, and my impending milestone birthday. Luckily, Rochester is lousy with things to do to celebrate Mischief Night and Halloween. Check some of these out, and support your local musicians and businesses while getting frisky on mysterious, dry ice-infused beverages. And, if you see me downtown (A sinner being pitchforked by my devil roommate) give a shoutout to your favorite Rochester punk-lover.

2010 Zombie Walk and 24-hour Horror Fest at The Little

Halloween Havoc at Montage Music Hall

Halloween Extravaganza at The Bug Jar

Concert announcement

2010-10-23T00:35:00.004-04:00

The only thing that could make Friday being here a little sweeter is that Less Than Jake will be returning to the ROC this January at Waterstreet.

If you didn't go last Saturday...

2010-10-19T13:02:00.004-04:00

You really should check out Rochester's latest rock-incarnation, Lapse, tonight in Buffalo with Fat Wreck Chords' Dead to Me.

#MusicMonday

2010-10-11T13:45:00.004-04:00

After a looooong weekend of roadtripping to my alma mater, this girl is kicking back and celebrating #MusicMonday with some Midtown. Specifically, Midtown that reminds me of senior year and interesting life choices:

An October to Remember

2010-09-30T16:32:00.000-04:00

In case your October isn't filling up as mine is with weddings, reunions and awesomeness, here's a few shows to fill the gaps:

10/ 1
Sailing to Rome Reunion Show- Mohawk Place

10/2
Shonen Knife- Mohawk Place

The 2nd Annual Rochester Invasion ft. Sirens and Sailors & Nightmares. Featuring Call me the Patriot, Mercia, 31goings, Soma Slumber, Storm the Bay, Every Last Thursday, The Dream Anatomy, Heavy Lies the Crown, A Dreadful Awakening - Salvation Army in Canandaigua

10/10 Rhinoceros, The Mongoloids and more- Mohawk Place

10/14 The “Goodbye, Goodnight Tour” Mae w/Terrible Things, Windsor Drive- Water Street

10/15 Young Bloods- Water Street

Mrs. Skannotto, The Couchtesters, The Steakouts, Free For All, and New Ways- Water Street

10/16 DEBUT: LAPSE with Sans Ego, Avenue You- Montage Music Hall

10/19 Dead To Me (Fat Wreck Chords), Lapse, Don't Lose Hope, Real People- The Wolves' Den

10/24 GWAR w/ the Casualties- Water Street

10/28 Matt & Kim- Water Street

10/29 Cry to the Blind, Every Last Thursday- Water Street

10/30 Halloween Havoc- Montage Music Hall

Scream SAKES ALIVE!!

2010-09-29T21:01:00.016-04:00

Chris Vandeviver is no fool. He sees his music for what it is and what it can be. And, he won't tour until the fans ask for it.

But a year ago was a different story: Vandeviver's brainchild, Sakes Alive!! was caught up in the heat of touring, weaving across the eastern part of the US, patience and pocket money wearing thin. After a bit of tour-induced turmoil, and down a drummer, SA!! shook loose its bandmates and slimmed down to its singer and founder as a solo act.

The past 10 months have been a reawakening for Vandeviver and Sakes Alive!!. After the post-tour smoke cleared, he took some time to realign his plans for the band and got back in the recording studio. And by studio, we mean the one he's set up in his living room (which he prefers over the austerity of a real studio).

However, Vandeviver is not caught up in the thrill of "making it big" like many of the younger Rochester area bands are. This time around he's more concerned with working with new talent, experimenting with technique and overall, creating great music. When we talked of their tour last summer, Vandeviver shuddered at the album SA!! was pushing: Act II. Citing that the sound was "too weird," his goal now is to explore new theatrical avenues, such as incorporating the trumpets and violas one hears on SA!!'s new track, A Toast to the Often Fabled Heart (his girlfriend helps out with the strings).

Another goal for forthcoming tracks, and perhaps an EP, is to increase collaborative efforts with outside musicians. In the past, Vandeviver dreamed up the music and members such as Kevin Mahoney, Mike Schwartz, and Thom Bulman executed it. Now, he desires to develop music with others including possibly calling on bands he admires such as Albany's Aficionado to join in more of a creative partnership.

Through these collaborations, Vandeviver plans to crank out at least three more songs after Fabled Heart by the end of the year. But, Rochester punk fans shouldn't get their hopes up on seeing a re-formed Sakes Alive!! in concert any time soon. Between the aftershock of the last tour and his own caution, Vandeviver would prefer to keep producing great music and fulfilling fans digitally in both the area and abroad (as far as Germany and Japan) instead of burning out on tour again. However, with his unapologetic passion for Sakes Alive!! and the mantra that music should be "consistent, not constant" we should expect great things from Vandeviver in the future.

Four Superbowls, No Rings

2010-09-19T14:09:00.005-04:00

I am watching the Bills right now (currently 13-7, Packers) and stumbled on Such Gold's video for their jam Four Superbowls, No Rings. I now have my new BB's soundtrack:

Check out their new EP while you're at it:

&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;a href="http://suchgold.bandcamp.com/album/pedestals"&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;Pedestals by Such Gold&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/a&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;

Hurley

2010-09-07T15:58:00.007-04:00

Hurley. I hate you less than Raditude.

Though Weezer's latest album officially drops on the 24th, check it streaming now on MySpace. Particularly songs Unspoken and Hang On.

Labor Day

2010-09-06T09:08:00.003-04:00

In honor of Labor Day, a holiday created to celebrate those who were toiling in factories during the Industrial Revolution, here's some industrial music to enliven your Monday off:

New Sakes Alive!!

2010-09-02T09:52:00.004-04:00

I love Sakes Alive!! and can't get enough of them. And, they're from Rochester, which makes me even happier. Dig the new song A Toast to the Often Fabled Heart

&amp;amp;lt;a href="http://score.sakesalive.org/track/a-toast-to-the-often-fabled-heart"&amp;amp;gt;A Toast to the Often Fabled Heart by Sakes Alive!!&amp;amp;lt;/a&amp;amp;gt;

Rage Fest. In seven words or less.

2010-08-31T12:58:00.002-04:00

Storm the Bay
Buffalo produces pop beats, beards, hand claps

Sirens and Sailors
Pack the club, SandS is on stage!

Call Me the Patriot
Going deaf from awesome. I'm not sorry.

Young Bloods
Don't worry, boys, your hair looked great.

Endyga
Melodies and harmonies? Other bands, take note.

The Dream Anatomy
Sounds like Ace Ventura joining Cannibal Corpse

Every Last Thursday
Hey, there's a chick up there. Rockin'.

Such Gold
585 hardcore is alive and well, thanks!

Rage Fest 2010

2010-08-26T23:00:00.009-04:00

We're 24 hours out from Rage Fest 2010 and this girl couldn't be any more excited. Three weeks ago I thought I couldn't go, this week I snagged a ticket off the boys of Young Bloods, tomorrow over 20 local bands that range from punk to metal are tearing the roof off of Water Street.

Headliners include Such Gold, Every Last Thursday, Sirens and Sailors, Storm the Bay and Mercia. Also keep an eye out for support bands Call Me The Patriot, Soma Slumber, Heavy Lies The Crown, and Red Letter Statement.

Doors at 5 and tickets are $10 in advance. Get down to Water Street early to catch a prime spot as it will be jammed with the 18 and under crowd quickly.

My Best Theory

2010-08-13T10:01:00.001-04:00

I'm digging Jimmy Eat World's new single....but I feel like I've heard it somewhere before...

(585) Call Me The Patriot

2010-08-03T21:52:00.008-04:00

Jake Regruit is excited.

Well, his exact sentiment was that he's "stoked on the future." And rightfully so: the just-barely-20-year-old and his motley crew of bandmates who make up Call Me The Patriot are embarking on their first big tour, hitting stops along the way through the east and midwest.

The boys of Patriot have traveled a long hard year to get here, facing lineup changes, commuting to record and a little run-in with the law. Lead singer Adrian Blackwell credits this trying year with teaching them a lot about the music business, including who to trust and work with, and who not to. A little older and much wiser since we last caught up with them at Rage Fest 2009, Patriot has pulled it all together, releasing their album This Life That We Know in June.

Sunday night Call Me The Patriot got their start at Dubland and won't be back until the 13th. But, I recommend holding out until Rage Fest 2010 when the boys will join their Rochester cohorts at Water Street for the annual show. Along the way we expect them to rock tour cities with their favorites Chopper Gunner (Blackwell) and I Forget the Day Before Yesterday (Regruit) and probably cranking fan-favorite Magic Taxi.

The band is hoping to shake off the haters that tend to seek out Rochester hardcore bands and in turn drum up new fans while on the road. Mentored by Rochester's favorite lead singer to hate, Young Bloods' Joey Arena, CMTP is looking to get out of the Roc to help build up their home fan base. Sound crazy? Not so, say Blackwell and Regruit as familiarity tends to breed contempt for local bands.

We will be sure to welcome them back and show them our love for Roc local metalcore bands, come the 27th.

Social D in the ROC

2010-07-30T08:57:00.003-04:00

The hallmark band of the American punk scene in the late 80s to 90s, Social Distortion will be playing August 5th at Nola's in Charlotte. Tickets are $30 and doors are at 6pm.

PunkROC Warped Tour Best of Awards 2010

2010-07-18T22:15:00.008-04:00

Warped was the annual sweaty, humid, punk-fest that we have come to know and love year after year. Just like last year, we did the rounds and observed dozens of bands. Below I present my votes for the best of the best of the Warped Tour 2010.

Mr. Congeniality
It was a tie this year between Roc/Syracuse-locals Polar Bear Club and Bouncing Souls. Before PBC got deep into their set on the AP stage, lead singer Jimmy Stadt humbly thanked the huge crowd that had turned out for their support and yielded some serious cheers from their Western NY fanbase. Bouncing Souls on the other hand, though drawing hundreds to their show on the main stage, offered pieces of their time slot to a few smaller acts to get their names out to a bigger audience.

Best West Coast Import
Ok, it has become increasingly obvious that I am crazy in love with this band, so I'll keep it short. Best West Coast Import goes to Set Your Goals of San Francisco, CA.

Most Motivational
Without a doubt in my mind this winner is Buffalo natives Every Time I Die. Though Flatfoot 56 was able to coax an Egyptian-themed circle pit out of only a couple dozen fans, ETID was able to move their hundreds of fans to follow instructions, even in the height of the steamy Darien heat. Although I'm sure their request to acheive the biggest Warped circle pit for The Guinness Book of Records was just a ploy, they sure did rock out the main stage with a vengeance.

Best Bioootch
Ok, so this one is a satirical award this year. The best bitch I saw was Tyson Ritter of All American Rejects. Somewhere along the way between 2005 and present day, I think some exec thought it was a good idea for them to "stay relevant" by emo-ing themselves out in image while maintaining their poppy rock tunes. Ritter looks like he crawled out of his coke den just long enough to put on a white suit (?) and stumble through the songs that made them big years ago. Lamest. Warped. Act. Ever.

Best of Show
I was going to reluctantly settle into watching Suicide Silence, when on a whim I rechecked the schedule of bands. Already pissed I had missed the early showing of The Mighty Regis, I saw that I could catch my other Celtic recommendation, Flatfoot 56 just around the corner. True to their roots, they rocked out with bagpipe and mandolin. In fact, I now want to marry Brandon Good, the mandolin player, based solely on his enthusiasm and stage presence. They stuck to true punk roots with their styling and execution and the fans responded like they were the second coming. Overall in the Celtic-punk arena they are my new favorites and highly suggest that everyone should check them out too.

Warped 2010

2010-07-11T22:30:00.023-04:00

In grand PunkROC tradition, it has come time to herald in this year's Warped Tour at Darien Lake with a run down of the must-see acts on our leg of the tour. Just like last year, take a look below and you will see my recommendations:

Roc City locals:
Sirens and Sailors
Polar Bear Club

Bands we already have a love affair with that we'll absolutely be elbowing through the crowd to see:
Alkaline Trio
Anarbor
Andrew WK
Breathe Carolina
Bring Me the Horizon
Eyes Set to Kill
Four Year Strong
Mayday Parade
Motion City Soundtrack
Reel Big Fish
Set Your Goals
The Bouncing Souls
The Casualties
The Swellers
We the Kings

Bands that are new/new-ish to us that we'll throw down with a poseur 15 year-old to get a good look at:
AM Taxi
Far From Finished
Fight Fair
Left Alone
Middle Finger Salute
Of Mice and Men
Suicide Silence
The Flatliners
The Mighty Regis

But, let's be honest, so many awesome acts I saw last year I stumbled upon traveling between stages. Don't forget your closed-toed shoes and a shitload of sunscreen, Warped Tour 2010 is upon us!

Throwback punk

2010-07-07T09:29:00.004-04:00

Tonight is old school punk night at Vertex. Come down and hear your favorites including Dead Kennedys, Bad Religion and Black Flag. 10pm-2am. 169 N. Chestnut Street. $3 21+, $8 for unders.

100 posts

2010-07-06T14:06:00.005-04:00

For my 100th post, I'm celebrating this scorching Rochester summer day with some older summer tunes. I fell in love with a boy at the rock show. No really, Warped Tour 2005: It happened somewhere between MXPX and Fall Out Boy. Now, taste my throwback anthem for impending Warped Tour 2010:

#MusicMonday

2010-06-28T15:56:00.008-04:00

For this #MusicMonday, here's what's coming up in the next couple days around Rochester. A little punk, a little metal. Time to see what some local and national acts can do to kick off this week:

Tuesday the 29th- Such Gold with A Loss For Words and Transit.
Dubland Underground.
Time 6pm

Wednesday the 30th OTEP with Vanity Strikes and more
Montage Music Hall
Time 7pm

Roc Quake

2010-06-23T14:01:00.004-04:00

In honor of the Lake Champlain earthquake of 2010 that shook us up all over upstate, enjoy the soundtrack to the shifting floor beneath you.

Let Your Earth Quake, The Thermals
Daughter Of The Sea , Young Guns
Start Over Starting Over, We Are The Union
Shake Me, Millencolin
Stateside, Hot Rod Circuit

#MusicMonday

2010-06-21T09:19:00.006-04:00

Back again to my favorite Twitter day of the week, #MusicMonday. This week, in preparation for Warped Tour which is rapidly approaching, I'm listening to my favorite British thrashers, Bring Me the Horizon. Be sure to keep an eye out for my upcoming epic Warped posts, and check the boys of BMTH out yourself on July 14th at Darien Lake.

I've got my tickets....

2010-06-08T16:47:00.003-04:00

...on the way to me tonight. Did you get yours yet?
Joywave's first show in the ROC since becoming Joywave is this Friday at the German House. Tickets are $10 in advance. Doors at 6m.

East End Fest rockers

2010-06-04T16:25:00.004-04:00

Fairport teen rockers, Vanity Strikes, won the Insider/Metromix Battle of the Bands and are playing the 5:45 slot at the Metromix stage tonight, kicking off East End Fest. Come down and support these underage winners by buying a beer and enjoying the scene.

Hardcore Friday

2010-05-31T22:31:00.005-04:00

It was a hot night in the B-lo, and the ultimate way to kick off a long weekend was with deafening hardcore punk.

Rochester natives Such Gold brought the heat (pun intended) and got the crowd primed in the pit. They mixed up their set with old and new songs, the latter baiting us for their upcoming album release this summer (details to come).

Direct support Rust Belt Lights was a new band to us, though they are favorites in the Buffalo area. They kept the crowd pumped up as Polar Bear Club lingered in wings; and though it was easy for me to deduce that their flavor of punk was right up my alley, they definitely deserve a second and third listen after the show.

When headliner Polar Bear Club struck the first chord, the pit erupted into a throwback hardcore scene. The die hard fans pushed up front to help vocalist Jimmy Stadt round out the set list while those dodging windmill-arms sang every word from the back. Former bassist, Josh Dillon, took the stage in place of Goose who is nursing a busted knee and didn't miss a beat.

The energy was high and the boys seemed more on-point than their September show. However, in a basement like Dubland, who can blame them. PBC played a few favorites, giving a nod to their latest release Chasing Hamburg and also brought listeners back to The Redder the Better with Parked In the Parking Lot of Your Heart dedicated to two newly-engaged fans.

Mark your calendar as they will be back in this neck of the woods July 14th at Warped Tour.

Terrible Things Thursday

2010-05-27T09:57:00.002-04:00

Taking Back Sunday + Hot Rod Circuit + Coheed And Cambria = Terrible Things

Though they will be playing a handful of Warped Tour shows out West, this is the ROC's chance to see them in action.

Water Street Music Hall with Anberlin and Story of the Year
Doors: 6 pm
Cash: $18

Happy Anniversary to This Girl

2010-05-20T11:28:00.003-04:00

I was so busy rocking the pit on vacation, I forgot my 1 year anniversary last week! Many thanks to my friends and followers who like to get down with the get down, the lovely folks at The Insider (past and present), my partner-in-crime, and of course all the amazing Roc-area local bands who have been totally ok with me stalking them and peering in their windows.

XOXO, PunkROC

Punk Out the West Coast

2010-05-19T12:39:00.004-04:00

Vacation is a time to step away from work and personal responsibilities and kick back. But, if you're anything like me, it's also an opportunity to experience what you love in a different setting. Case and point: Cali punk.

On holiday in the Bay Area, I was sure to put some shows on my docket, especially since the larger cities tend to reap better acts. Sorry, Rochester, but you know it's true. Not only did we get to freeze our asses off outside to see Cake (where they played favorites including Love You Madly and Stickshifts and Safetybelts) but we also got a chance to revisit San Francisco's version of Water Street, Slim's, and take in some authentic Golden State punk. I had last visited this venue in 2007 to see the Ataris play, and found it to be just like our ROC counterpart: small, gritty and easily accessible to the stage.

With my perennial partner-in-crime in tow, we unfortunately arrived late, missing opener Title Fight. But, I had seen them back in September at Dubland with Polar Bear Club, so few tears were shed. Comeback Kid was striking their open chords as our hands were stamped and we settled in to the crowd. Though they were pretty unfamiliar to me, CBK brought the noise with their absolutely unforgettable guitar leads and well-timed balance of vocals.
Set Your Goals took the stage and immediately prepared us for a lineup change. Days earlier, lead singer Jordan had gotten sick on stage and would be sitting out the band's closing show in their hometown. Our skepticism about what would result was soon washed away as singer after singer from the tour and other bands took turns cranking out songs. Though we wish we had seen Jordan in action, we were pleased with this opportunity to mix it up a bit.

As expected, Set Your Goals did not disappoint, even with their hodge-podge of band members. Their musicianship stood up to this challenge and the audience received them without missing a beat. I loved seeing a personal favorite, Gaia Bleeds, live as the "bombs away" refrain was picked up by the audience and regurgitated back with such ferocity that it harked back to the 90s hardcore movement. An awesome show to close out the week.

Your week in punk

2010-05-10T11:35:00.002-04:00

I am off on vacation this week and missing a few awesome shows in the Greater Roc area. So awesome, that if I weren't seeing Set Your Goals and Cake on my trip, I would be inconsolably jealous. Check these out, and you will not be disappointed:

Punk- Neutron Rats at the Bug Jar 5/10. Between the close quarters at Bug Jar and the way this Albany band shreds, losing your hearing is bound to happen. But, it will be totally worth it for a night of authentic punk.

Christian Metal- We Sail at Dawn at the Bug Jar 5/12. Nothing like the uplifting words of Christianity, melded with the pounding, gut-wrenching guitars that come with deathcore.

Ska/punk- Big D and the Kids Table at Water Street 5/13. Our favorites, Big D, are joining together with locals Mrs. Skannotto for a night of ska/punk/dub to jam to.

Surf rock- The Isotopes at the German House 5/14. Join as these Roc Locals while they film their new live concert DVD. Openers are Mulletude, a hair band cover group.

Promise and Precision and Mess of Youthful Innocence

2010-05-06T22:50:00.003-04:00

It's not even Friday yet and I've already got Saturday by FOB in my head. Maybe it's because the other side of this weekend kicks off my first vacation in 3 years, but this catchy tune is heralding Saturday fast as can be. Turn Pat and Pete up to 11, because this Saturday welcomes two awesome shows, of two completely different genres:

Straight-edge hardcore Buffalo punks, Snapcase, are reuniting for one show only at the Town Ballroom. Following their 2004 disbanding and a brief 3-show reunion in 2007, Snapcase's absence is making upstate New York crave some delicious, shredding 90s hardcore. We've always been huge fans of how rythmically demanding Snapcase's music is, focusing on their guitar leads. Not to mention how powerful, often uplifting and compelling their lyrics can be. Snapcase is playing a short tour in Europe and one show only stateside: Buffalo. Be sure to catch them now, as you never know when they'll be back around.

For a shorter drive to a show that's more family friendly than hardcore, Roc-local indie band, Walri, is bringing their psychedelic rock to the Genesee Valley Sports Complex. What's more, they're playing the halftime show for the Roc City Roller Derby's first home bout of the 2010 season. Walri's jams tend to be more ecclectic, drawing influces from punk, bluegrass, bossa nova and rock, making them more accessible to a wider audience. Doors at 6, bout starts at 7, Walri plays halfway through.

End of April, Time to Rock

2010-04-30T13:17:00.004-04:00

If punk music (and derivatives of) were food, then the shows going on tonight are of the guilty pleasure variety...like s'mores and Guinness. There is no better way to celebrate the end of another month and welcome the coming weekend than one of these two shows in both Buffalo and Roc City.

Ska your pants off:
That's what we imagine will happen with how much move-busting there will be going on at Water Street tonight. Mrs. Skannotto & Among Criminals with The Sandwich Crackers, Murphy's Kids, Jack Bandit, Oh Cassandra, and Preemptive Strike at The Club side. Get down there early, because with presale tickets at $10 and $12 at the door, this is going to be a packed event.

Pop punk for the soul:
New Found Glory at Medaille campus in Buffalo. SOLD OUT right from under us, but that's the breaks with one of the most popular pop punk bands-gone-mainstream-awesome. So, a moment of silence as we enjoy their tunes:

Summer in the ROC

2010-04-22T09:22:00.004-04:00

I was driving home from work as I normally do with the windows down on a stunning 65 degree day. WBER was killing it with back-to-back great songs (below) and it struck me: it is nearly summertime in the ROC. Enjoy this first taste of the sweet season:

Turning a new leaf

2010-04-19T11:56:00.005-04:00

Roc local pop-rockers and keystone chick-lead band, Lights of Autumn, has announced their final show.

After two years together, a handful of notable tracks, and a legion of followers, the former quintet is heading there separate ways. Word on the street is that bassist Danielle will be pursuing new sounds with LOA members Tom and Alex, while lead crooner, Lauren, will be heading her own way for post-graduate endeavors.

The last show will be on May 21st at The California Brew Haus featuring Flood The Shoreline (of Buffalo), and Roc locals Storm The Bay and Sans Ego. More details to come.

April Showers Bring Badass Shows

2010-04-11T21:22:00.006-04:00

So I have been excruciatingly MIA the past few weeks. But, to make up for my lack of presence, I've chased this sincere apology with the remaining concerts for April. They are pretty freakin' sweet, so let's hope this makes up for my laziness:

4/15
Cute Is What We Aim For at Mohawk Place
Power pop from the B-lo

4/16
This Is an Empire & Tubestar at Dubland Underground
Rock/electronica, Buffalo and Roc City represent

4/17
Andy Smash and the Rust Belt Hotrods at Record Archive
Punk. Indie. Christian. ROC.

Cry to the Blind, Your Own Reflection, Vanity Strikes at The German House
Rock/metal. Roc represent

Strong Willed at Flying Squirrel Community Space
Straight edge hardcore

Do It With Malice at Mohawk Place
Ska-core from Buffalo

4/18
Eve 6 at Keuka College
90's-2000's Pop punk/rock

4/20
Velvet Elvis at The Bug Jar
Garage rock sexiness

4/22
Faith and the Muse at Waterstreet
Goth electronica

4/24
Mercia, Call Me the Patriot et al at Waterstreet
Roc metal/rock

This Is a Stick Up, A Billion Ernies at Montage
Ska, punk, hardcore = awesome

4/27
Mastodon at Waterstreet
Heavy metal

4/28
The Wonder Years at Mohawk Place
Pop punk/hardcore

4/29
Angels and Airwaves, Say Anything at The Main Street Armory
Blink-offshoot rock, pop punk

4/30
Mrs. Skannotto w/Among Criminals, The Sandwich Crackers at Waterstreet
Ska & reggae

Skate or DIE!

2010-03-29T10:41:00.012-04:00

Regardless of what our own individual music/lifestyle preferences are, alterna-kids always have to stick together and represent. And what is often a common thread across the board? Skating.

Support a truly positive endeavor for the great city of Rochester this Wednesday as locals come together to help build a skate park in the ROC. This project is grassroots, and grassroots = DIY. And, we all know how this girl feels about doing it yourself.

Awesome locals sponsoring the event involved include:
Krudco (the only place I buy my boards from...)
One Mind Design
KKBB Apparel (wicked gear)
Vanity Strikes

Come down and check out raffles for some pretty sweet prizes, as well as skater-themed drinks all night (I'm all over a couple of "nose grinds"). Cost: $10 over 18, $5 over 21.

March Madness Final Four

2010-03-25T11:59:00.009-04:00

My bracket is busted. Yours probably is too, especially if you leaned on the Big East early. Let's all take out our frustration by rocking out at four badass shows at the end of this month:

Friday 3/26-
Krypton 88 at Monty's Crown. Straight up, bitchin' rockabilly music, fused with a little rock and bluegrass. Winner of the Final Four's economy award at $3 to get in, this is the chance to dance off the rage of losing your bracket pool. Starts at 10 pm.

If the jazzy sounds of rockabilly are not your thing, and you would rather thrash out than dance out your March Madness rage, come to The California Brew Haus for hardcore/death metal band Str8jacket. Show is at 9 pm and bring your closed-toe shoes and ear plugs.

Saturday 3/27-
A cool mix of punk, hardcore, pop punk, electronic and alternative bands showing at Montage for Spring Meltdown 2010. Rochester favorites A Scene Unseen will be headlining the 8+ act show, and we're excited to see pop punkers What It's Worth. $10 will get you in, doors at 6 pm.

Local metal and hardcore enthusiasts should come out to welcome Storm the Bay's new album, By All Means, to Waterstreet this weekend. With a line-up of excellent openers, this is another chance to rock your March Madness woes away. Come check out our recommended Call Me the Patriot and Heavy Lies the Crown at 5pm for $12 day of, $10 presale from the bands.

March Madness Continues...

2010-03-18T11:45:00.007-04:00

Get ready for back-to-back marathon music, spanning indie, hardcore and ska, in 24 hours or less. Gas up your car, because we're racing back and forth between Buffalo and the ROC to appreciate some of these shows:

Thursday the 18th:

Rochester- Perfect to bring your girl to, indie rock headliners Sherwood bringing in Orchard Drive, Lyrics to Life, and Reece. Tickets are $14 at Ticketmaster outlets and doors are at 6, show at 6:30.

Buffalo- Punk rock veterans H2O are blowing the doors off Mohawk Place with The Swellers. Also check out openers The Mongoloids and Buffalo's own Chosen Ones. Tickets will set you back $15.

Friday the 19th:

Rochester- Be a do-gooder while getting your skank on. Mrs. Skannotto is playing a Haiti Benefit show at Dubland Underground. Price is undetermined, but who the hell cares because it's for a great cause. Show is at 6pm.

The Green Album

2010-03-17T09:08:00.002-04:00

If I could compile some of my favorite Celtic tunes and St. Patrick's beats, I would call the following tracks my Green Album:

F– You, You're Irish, Hub City Stompers
Pints of Guinness Make You Strong, Against Me!
The Dirty Glass, Dropkick Murphys
Goodnight Irene, The Pogues

#FollowFriday

2010-03-05T09:28:00.002-05:00

Twitter's #FollowFriday– ROC Bands you should get to know on a personal basis because they kick ass:

March Madness Starts Here

2010-03-04T10:09:00.002-05:00

Winter is dying down, Roc city punks, and it's time to start creeping out of hibernation, shaking off those cobwebs, and getting ready for the concert season to arrive. We think there's no better way to kick off our own version of March Madness by packing the upcoming weekend with local music. Clear your schedule all weekend long, because you don't want to miss a minute of these recession-friendly shows.

Friday the 5th
If your preferences tend to aim more towards reggae, ska and dub, get down to Dubland Underground for an extremely eclectic mix of sounds. Look forward to a chill Friday night with bands including Two Ton Ska, Reviving Ivory, and headliner Jatas. Tickets will only set you back the price of a beer.

Saturday the 6th
It's déjà vu all over again if you were at the German House over Thanksgiving vacation. But, if you are a fan of down-home Rochester kids making sweet, sweet rock music and the sound of screaming 15-year-old girls, this is your show. Headliners The Sunstreak welcome back Mochester, Avenue You, and This AM Static as openers. Tickets are $10 through Ticketmaster, or the respective bands.

Sunday the 7th
This is the show I'm most looking forward to, if only to take notes on up-and-coming Roc talent: Vanity Strikes, Yesterday's Heroes, Every Last Thursday, Whitecliff Drive, 441 and Oh Cassandra. $12 at the door for this Battle of the Bands DVD release party at Water Street buys you access to see some hot bands that range from pop punk to metal, some of the members still in high school.

Bring on the freakin' weekend!

Ok Go Crazy

2010-03-02T09:57:00.003-05:00

Alternative rockers Ok Go have once again created an absolutely eye-catching music video to herald in their new single This Too Shall Pass. Like the treadmill choreography of Here It Goes Again, the video has the type of imagery that keeps you watching and saying WTF?

The band, with assistance from members of Syyn Labs, used the concept of a Rube Goldberg machine which is hardly innovative. However, theirs is less streamlined and more destructive than ones we've seen in the past, and we love the messy outcome, as well as the indie sound of the song itself. Enjoy:

#MusicMonday

2010-03-01T14:35:00.006-05:00

This Twitter #MusicMonday is brought to you with a royal theme. The origin of my first name means "crowned one" (which I like to remind people of ALL the time.) so let's kick off this work week with some music fit for a King (or Queen):

Nightingale, Saves The Day
The Queen and I, Gym Class Heroes
Royal Oil, Mighty Mighty Bosstones
You Were Right, Badly Drawn Boy

Going the Distance

2010-02-18T21:03:00.009-05:00

Olympic season is upon us and with the adrenaline pumping athletics comes the heartbeat of music behind it. As a former part-time jock, I lived my in-season life with headphones on to get amped for tournaments. So, with the need to keep energy and spirits high, is it any wonder that hardcore Canadian rockers Alexisonfire were tapped to play live at the Olympic venue?

The New York Times ran a cool interactive article featuring 5 Olympic snowboarders from different nations sharing biographical video snippets. Besides "First Trick," the one category struck a chord with us was "Riding to a Soundtrack." Though most interviewed admitted their eclectic tastes on the mountain, it was classic rock lover Shaun White that we most aligned with. Aside from his penchant for AC/DC and Iggy Pop, here's our suggestions for the Winter Olympics 2010 soundtrack:

Delirium, Motion City Soundtrack
Sugar, System of a Down
Survival of the Fittest, The LeVar BurTones
Here We Go Again Kids, 7 Seconds
Girlfriend's Ringtone, Vice Grip
We Shall Overcome, The OC Supertones

Fall back down

2010-02-09T11:46:00.002-05:00

My many, sincere apologies for falling off the face of the earth. I have been working through a personal incident from late January and am trying to claw my way back into regular posting. Fear not though, as there is a bitchin' spring concert lineup taking shape, and my punk-ass will get back in gear soon. Dedicated to my support system:

Do you have what it takes?

2010-01-30T22:31:00.004-05:00

Local pop rock outfit, Lights of Autumn, is looking to turn a new leaf come spring. Guitarist, Chris Manzella, is taking a permanent hiatus to pursue his college career and, following their show on February 21st, LOA will be hunting for a new lead.

Details can be found on their blog on Myspace, but the gist is that they're hunting for someone age 18-25, with stage presence and an enthusiasm to tour. If you have the equipment, the desire and the skills to pay the bills, you might be just what LOA is looking for.

Come out Sunday the 21st to Montage, and see what LOA is all about. They will be sharing the stage with Rookie of the Year, What Happened in Vegas, Farewell, and Sans Ego for what promises to be a badass night.

Details:
Montage Music Hall
6 PM

January Hometown Hardcore

2010-01-21T09:58:00.005-05:00

After the buzz of Winter Sucks 2010 and Makyo Star wore off, we realized that there is a serious chill in the punky winter concert season for Rochester. Flogging Molly comes in February and the acts start heating up in March, but thankfully, we have Like Wolves to get us through the cold spell.

We first caught notice of Like Wolves as an opener for Polar Bear Club back in September. Their soul-shredding authentic hardcore was a true crowd pleaser. You know–the type that they must hate at Dubland because the audience is all flying feet, inches away from the overhead pipes in the cellar.

Nevertheless, Like Wolves are bringing their enthusiastic, kickass tunes to the Flying Squirrel Community Space in Cornhill on the 22nd at 6PM. Bring your protective footwear, and pit love.

New Year, New Album – Part 2

2010-01-13T17:05:00.006-05:00

For the first few listens of Makyo Star's new self-titled album, I was a skeptic. All this time spent and post-Waiting hype? There was nothing that really stood out to make it a unique pop-punk album, other than track 9, and that was because it features a cello. The poppy vocals won out as the predominant auditory focus, and there was nothing really shocking or different about their songs.

And then, I listened in my car with the volume up.

Suddenly, all the nuances in the guitars and drums were thrust right in front of me. The songs shredded, and, most importantly, though the boys of Makyo Star have streamlined their music into a consistent sound, they have not overlooked variety. No Worries, my personal favorite, features wavering guitar riffs that are undeniably metal, especially in the latter half of the song. Then, the album rolls right into Make Believe, mixing acoustic and electric guitar into a rock anthem. Later, they supplement with the swooning notes of a cello, which layers in a more intimate depth to Silent Mouths Empty Hearts.

What is most noticeable about this album is once you really let the songs rip, there is a robust, layered texture of music on each track. It helps that the boys are all well versed in both their instruments, and others onstage. This cross-instrument understanding allows them to craft more dynamic songs, regardless of whether they develop tracking or lyrics first.

It's easy to see that Makyo Star has left the school-age story lines of albums-past behind and moved onto the reflection of relationships that makes this album accessible for many audiences. The younger Landers noted that they stepped away from the trap that many pop-punk bands fall into –a whole album about girls– and explored the life changes that come with friendships, touring, and family upset. The result is as Panek describes an "epic...raw" album. (But for you emo punks out there, the songs about girls are tracks 2, 5 and 8)

From a music development standpoint, it's their commitment and vision that is helping drive Makyo Star forward from a pop-punk band, to a rock band with pop, classic rock and punk influences. True, the guys admit that they're influenced by mainstream pop acts, but they also draw inspiration from grittier, traditional rock bands (Check out Make Believe for its Smashing Pumpkin-like guitar and Hero's Van Halen-esque riffs). Their openness to genre-bending and professional admiration of each other is what created a stellar album.

Makyo Star is available online at Amazon.com, but I recommend buying a hard copy Saturday night at the German House for their official release.

#MusicMonday

2010-01-11T09:16:00.006-05:00

It's a throwback #MusicMonday here in the world of PunkROC:

The Queers, Punk Rock Girls
Buzzcocks, Ever Fallen in Love?
The Cramps, Tear It Up

New Year, New Album – Part 1.

2010-01-10T23:30:00.015-05:00

When the boys of Makyo Star were kids, their big finale song was a cover of Blink's anthem, Dammit. But, years later, it's their new self-titled album that truly embodies the line "I guess this is growing up." Between rehashing growing pains lyrically and the physical toll of commuting to Syracuse to record, it's no wonder that bassist Mike Landers remarks that "the making of the album impacted our lives for the whole time we were recording."

A lot has changed for this group of up-and-comers from Churchville in the last few years including a couple of lineup switches, some creative alterations and notably, their signing with Green Means Go records. However, that growing up process resulted in the core four members, brothers Mike and Tim Landers, Jon Garcia and Mike Panek, coming out on top with a new appreciation for their music development, and an album that reflects that mature outlook.

With fewer cooks in the kitchen, as they lovingly refer to their skinnied lineup, and total commitment from the rockers, came a drive to raise the musical bar from the band as we knew it. Backed by the GMG management team's vision for the future, and the members' persistent goal to always improve their musicianship, Makyo Star is the ROC local band to keep an eye on.

Stay tuned later this week for a first look at their latest album as we prepare for the CD release party at the German House on Saturday the 16th:

Time-Doors at 5:30
All Ages
Cash money- $10 presale through the bands or Ticketmaster

Mid-January Madness

2010-01-07T08:55:00.010-05:00

Just because it's snowing and icy out, doesn't mean we can't heat up the first month of the new decade with some great shows. Get your blood pumping and thaw your toes out in the pit with these four upcoming local and international showcases:

Saturday the 9th
Battle of the Bands- round 1 at Waterstreet
Check out some up-and-coming talent for a cheap price ($8 adv, $10 dos). Likely to have a younger crowd, so if you can't tolerate punk kids, stay home. But, usually a great chance to check out what's hot in the ROC's next generation.

Friday the 15th
Winter Sucks 2010, Sirens and Sailors & Ice Nine Kills at Waterstreet
If you need a more hardcore genre to keep you toasty, this is the show for you. SAS may be youthful, but their soaring guitars and metal undertones speak of experience on stage. Future Warped Tour band, INK, takes a more screamo-metal edge, but definitely pit-worthy.

Saturday the 16th
Makyo Star CD release party at the German House
Joining out hometown crush, Makyo Star, is an eclectic lineup of rockers including My Arcadia, The Lions Hive and This AM Static. Come early and stay late because you're in for a energetic group of musicians and lots of band hotties to keep you warm.

Sunday the 17th
Down With Webster at Mohawk Place in Buffalo
Totally worth braving the lake effect snow driving to see these Canadian hip hop/rock dudes. The winners of our first Warped Tour Best of Awards 2009 spot of Next Big Thing/Best of Show, DWW is the band to see if you want to sing along and get rowdy off stage. Play Whoa is Me or Time to Win on the drive in, and you'll be ready to go by the time you hit the Buff.

Cheers!

100 Resolutions

2009-12-31T10:17:00.002-05:00

This time of year, The Lawrence Arms hit 100 Resolutions reemerges frequently among my friends as our perennial New Years anthem (Take that, Auld Lang Syne). Enjoy our favorite as we toast to 2009 being done and very much over with:

This year I'll try not to drink so much.
This year I'll try to stand up straight.
This year let's live liked we've never lived before,
this is our year for sure.

Holiday Havoc - Saturday Scrutiny

2009-12-30T23:22:00.007-05:00

The much awaited Holiday Havoc IV show at Harro East came and went last Saturday with a lot of anticipation, and a fair return on investment. My partner-in-crime, a former ROC local drummer, and I arrived early, amped up to see the line-up that ranged from pop-rock to metal. Sets flew by (around 20 minutes apiece) and tunes were shredded. All in all, the show was worth the 10 bucks, but could have used a little diversity in the sounds, and a lot of help with the equipment and technical difficulties.

Rock quartet, Avenue You, is always a crowd-pleaser, and didn't let us down. However, the boys were suffering the wrath of a crapped-out amp. Technical difficulties aside, we love their genuine rock foundation and pop-punk roots

Drawing Infinity had a lot of flash, but need to work on the substance behind the scenes. Song Pirates on Parade was a whimsical rock-metal journey. But, their most innovative sound came from their cover of Girls Just Wanna Have Fun, which either shows their ability to rock an iconic/ironic oldie, or reveals cracks in their own creativity.

Loved the brand new tune Upstate Confidential with its heavy bass sound. Storm the Bay, was this you? On a related note, bands, set lists change, always enunciate your band name in the mic, eh?

Finally caught up with A Scene Unseen, the veritable wet-dream of the local metal/rock/hardcore scene. We really wanted to love them too, but they came at the end of a block of acts with the same rock-metal sound. But, their potential- mainly in the guitar crescendos- makes us want another shot. Keeping an eye out for their next ROC show.

Just as band after band was lulling us to sleep with their cookie-cutter hardcore, Lights of Autumn blew up a pop bomb and rescued us from monotony. Playing such favorites such as Business Men, we were glad they closed with the most lyrically developed and mature song of their repertoire, Anything.

We tried to bear the rest of the night, catching ATSOC as our last act (Thumbs up, I-town represent with singer, Jake Gissen), but when our only main draw was so my concert companion could see Thom of Young Bloods play, we called it quits.

Cheers to the holidays, and a Happy New Year filled with shows....

Roc Local Holiday Show

2009-12-22T00:01:00.009-05:00

Every season in the Roc welcomes concerts that mash the local bands we love into a venue for one night of our enjoyment. This Saturday the 26th brings Holiday Havoc 4 to do just that. The bill is filled with some we've seen before, and some we've been dying to see and slacking on (cough, A Scene Unseen, cough). Be sure to get front and center for these highlights:

-Storm the Bay's power guitars and pit-worthy tunes. Watch out for this girl throwing some 'bows.
-The never-ending girl power and newish lineup of Lights of Autumn (fingers crossed that they play Anything)
-A Thousand Shades of Cold's speed-metal guitars. Aggressive backing + powerful vocals = must see.
-The boys of Avenue You, playing their pop-rock complete with lyrics that will break your heart and make you fall in love in 3 minutes or less.

Presale tickets are suggested, and must be purchased through a band. But, if you need 'em, shoot me a DM @PunkROC on Twitter or an email at Punkrochester@yahoo.com.

Where: Harro East Ballroom, 16+
Time: Doors at 6

Christmas come early

2009-12-17T21:40:00.011-05:00

As if preparing this girl's Christmas list early, Warped Tour pit reporter, Tiffany Mink, dropped a vlog post today that brings the official announcement of the Warped Tour acts for 2010. This year, the tour is coming to Darien Lake July 14th, and here's a breakdown of what and who we're looking forward to this summer:

The Casualties
Eyes Set to Kill
Polar Bear Club (Roc City WHAT?)
Sum 41
Set Your Goals
Reel Big Fish (Ska love)
Motion City Soundtrack
You Me at Six
Andrew W.K. (Classically trained)
Fight Fair
Bring Me the Horizon (UK amazing)
Call the Cops

King Me

2009-12-11T20:55:00.003-05:00

Retro jams are reigning blows down on the ROC this weekend. The Chesterfield Kings, Rochester's own throwback rock band of crazies, is shredding the German House Saturday night. They are a misfit group of musicians that easily have one of the best stage shows this chick has seen. Come on out if you have a genuine appreciation of rock music's past taking shape today.

Location: The German house
Time: 8PM
Cash: $25 at the door or the Bop Shop

Full Metal Set List

2009-12-10T20:53:00.007-05:00

Back in August we happened upon metal rockers Call Me The Patriot at Ragefest while dashing back and forth between the sides of Water Street. We were struck by their stage presence, enthusiasm, and powerful vocals. But, they admitted that they were pretty fresh out on the scene, and their set showed it: lots of heart, needed some elbow grease.

Now, after a couple months, a lineup change, and some time in the studio, they're back headlining a night of metal bands from the Rochester area. We're excited to see what CMTP has been up to since the summer, and also for some rock solid openers. Our pre-show favorites are looking like Sky Davis and Heavy Lies the Crown.

When: Friday the 11th
Time: Doors at 6
Damage: $10 presale, $12 at the door

#MusicMonday

2009-12-07T13:29:00.007-05:00

I woke up today with this song in my head–don't you love when dreams have great soundtracks–and had to share it for Twitter's #MusicMonday.

Aside from being a big fan of this song, Finch is the textbook example I use of how a band that features screaming should also balance it with strong, melodic vocals. A band that only showcases screaming limits accessibility to audiences other than their core. I am a firm believer that the bands with the best innovation and musical foundation in the generes of screamo, metalcore, hardcore, and rock etc are the ones that blend different vocal stylizations into one bitchin' result.

More Finch: What it is to Burn
Bitemarks and Bloodstains
Stay with Me

Saturday Concert Series

2009-12-04T08:47:00.008-05:00

This weekend's concert options offer two great choices. And, both shows are totally varied so you can pick your level of motivation and price, and still see a badass performer. Check it out:

Weezer in Toronto
Effort level- 8 out of 10
Cost-6

Our loves, Weezer, will be playing at Toronto's Air Canada Center tomorrow. Show starts at 8, so there's plenty of time to gas up your ride and cross the border. Best of all, they are headlining radio station The Edge's Jingle Bell Rock and the openers include Motion City Soundtrack and Jack's Mannequin. Though it takes a little cash and commitment, this show is sure to rock.

MC Lars at Water Street Music Hall
Effort Level- 2
Cost-2

So I'm a little biased in that I've seen Lars 2 or 3 times in the last year and a half. But, his brand of nerd-rock combined with the fact that he's playing at the Club at Water Street make this the ultimate Roc concert this weekend. He is headlining WBER's Holiday show, along with Lovedrug, K. Flay and Hyperbole Caboose. On the cheaper end of the spectrum, but Lars always puts on a performance when he comes to the Flower City.

Punky Xmas to You

2009-11-30T08:59:00.005-05:00

Stumbled upon this beauty early Monday morning. Just like the advent calendars than count down to Christmas with a daily piece of somewhat gross candy, click on the daily links and receive your tasty bit of punk.

Sing me some drunken lullabies!

2009-11-29T10:39:00.003-05:00

Word on the street is that Flogging Molly will be returning to our fair city for 2010's Green 17 tour (After two sold out shows this past March, can you blame them for putting us on the bus route?). Luckily, this time they're switching venues from Waterstreet to the larger-capacity Main Street Armory.
Mark your calendars for February 28th. They bring a powerful stage show that is best celebrated by hoisting a pint with friends and kin.

#MusicMonday

2009-11-23T10:14:00.004-05:00

She's a dove, she's an f-ing nightmare.

Roc City Sunday Soundtrack

2009-11-22T09:54:00.000-05:00

ROC city music

At 6:00 We Go Live

2009-11-20T15:46:00.000-05:00

Pop-punk rockers, Hit the Lights, are coming to Mohawk Place in Buffalo this Sunday, SUNDAY, Sunday. Ordinarily, we love a good 'ol pop punk show, but this band earns one better because two of HTL's members are none other than Rochester natives.

The ROC kids, guitarist Kevin Mahoney and drummer Nate Van Dame, helped bring the noise this summer at Warped Tour in Darien Lake. Even though the temperature was rising and that lovely Western New York humidity was making the day predictably unbearable, seeing Kevin bust out his KKBB shorts made the show.

We love their enthusiasm and showmanship, while turning out tracks that are lyrically relatable and laid over poppy, upbeat guitars and rock-solid drums. Even though the weather is getting cold in this section of the world, their tunes are pure summer.

Time: 6:30 PM at Mohawk Place (featuring There For Tomorrow, Vinnie Caruana, Sparks the Rescue, & Oh No Not Stereo)
Damage: $13

Calling all ska kids

2009-11-19T12:49:00.000-05:00

Summer's over, but that's no reason to stop the party. Dust off your checkered pants and get ready to bust a move this weekend. This is the perfect excuse to pretend it's not raining in western NY and enjoy some seriously fun music.

Thursday the 19th: Get out to Buffalo to see Big D and the Kids table. Caught them last year with Less than Jake and this summer at Warped Tour, and their infectiously fun music gets you off your ass and showin' the crowd your moves. Be prepared for some serious brass and sing-along excitement.

The Sandwich Crackers were supposed to play tomorrow, but had to cancel (FOR SHAME, Sandwich Crackers). For now, we'll just have to enjoy their reggae/ska tunes instead.

#MusicMonday

2009-11-16T12:35:00.000-05:00

Our favorites for today's Twitter #MusicMonday is all about homegrown Rochester hardcore.

Enjoy our picks:

Dawn of War, Better Days '08
Achilles, The Cold Floor
Polar Bear Club, Parked in the Parking Lot of Your Heart

Back to Back Local Shows

2009-11-13T12:54:00.000-05:00

Two of Rochester's rising star local bands are rocking out Waterstreet on back to back nights this weekend. Here's your chance to get out and support our local boys as they take a pause from touring the US to come home and tear up the stage.

Friday- The Hoodies (Greece natives) featuring The Graduate and The Morning Off
$12 tonight, doors at 6.

Saturday- The Sunstreak (Irondequoit natives) opening for Anberlin with Nocturnal Me
$15 tomorrow, doors at 7
Both shows are 16+, but that's just a great opportunity for you kids to bring out your impressionable parents for a couple nights of great live music.

Hurts & Skirts II

2009-11-12T08:50:00.000-05:00

The roller derby season is coming to a close for 2009, and with that is the Roc City Roller Derby's final bout of the year. This Saturday, these ladies, better classified as hell-on-wheels, will be facing off against two teams:

Roc City Roller Girls vs. Charm City Rollergirls' Mobtown Mods
Roc City Roller Girls B-team vs. Ithaca SufferJets fresh meat

Come on down to the Dome Arena and watch these girls duke it out for one last time this season. Doors are at 5, first whistle at 6. Tickets are $10.

#MusicMonday

2009-11-09T18:30:00.000-05:00

In the world of Twitter, today is #MusicMonday. Our suggestion for your playlist?

Raditude = Shittastic

2009-11-08T12:37:00.000-05:00

Perennial nerd-rockers, Weezer released their seventh studio album last week to a base of eagerly waiting fans. With bated-breath and swift fingers, we downloaded Raditude as soon as it dropped and eagerly gave it our first listen. Single (If You're Wondering If I Want You To) I Want You To was our first taste back a few months ago, and immediately I was thinking that this sugary-sweet Buddy Holly-esque anthem would mark the reemergence of Weezer as a rock staple.

And then, the rest of Raditude dropped.

This CD plays like Rivers Cuomo's absurd adolescent fantasy to branch out as a musician turned sour. A rock collaboration gone seriously overboard, much to the consternation of the listener.

Yes, there are some sweet, irreverant ditties, much like the old Weezer, but this album is mired with tracks that insert drum, vocal and guitar parts into the Weezer machine and squeeze out facsimiles of songs past. On the other hand, when not weighed down by cookie-cutter tunes, Raditude goes over the top to bring in outside collaborators and producers, creating a sound so unique and mish-mash that the resulting songs are completely incongruous to the Weezer of our past. All the irony of featuring Little Wayne is overlooked by the sheer awful sound of songs such as Can't Stop Partying. Too far, or not far enough, Weezer missed the mark on most of the album.

Yet, to those of us who are made completely confused and uncomfortable by this release, fear not. There are a few redeeming tracks that are worth skipping the wannabe-crunk tunes. My favorite by far is The Prettiest Girl In The Whole Wide World, and it's likely because the guitars remind me so much of those used in Maladroit's Dope Nose. Here's the breakdown by track:

Popped out of the Weezer mold- same rock guitar and drum beats and repeat the title/chorus over again.
(If You're Wondering If I Want You To) I Want You To
The Girl Got Hot
Trippin' Down The Freeway
Let It All Hang Out
Turn Me Round- Cuomo is waaay off key

Awful- Nonsensical guest spots, excessive producing
Can't Stop Partying
Love is the Answer- Bollywood WTF
In the Mall
Get Me Some- same awful production, easier to swallow
I'm Your Daddy

Best of the Worst
Put Me Back Together
I Don't Want To Let You Go
Run Over By A Truck- cool jazzy piano, picks up after the 35-second mark
Underdogs- when you get past the R. Kelly I believe I can fly beat
The Prettiest Girl In The Whole Wide World- Dope nose guitars rule

This is Halloween!

2009-10-31T11:15:00.000-04:00

Tonight is Halloween, and the streets of downtown Rochester will be teeming with people to see and things to do. Many bars are hosting bands of all genres, but our recommendation for a punky good time is Halloween Havoc at Montage:

Bands include:

Our favorites, Lights of Autumn and Storm the Bay

Doors open at 6pm and costs only $10. Costume contest starts at 9pm. Happy Halloween!

AFI & Gallows pics

2009-10-27T23:09:00.000-04:00

Took a little while, but uploaded our pics from AFI & Gallows on 10/16. The night was an awesome mix of traditional punk tunes with the accessibility of modern rock.

We love the Penny

2009-10-15T16:55:00.001-04:00

Badass show coming to the Penny Arcade this Saturday. Pull on your tightest black jeans, comb your emo-mullet and rock out to:
Youngbloods (headlining)
T13C
A love like Pi
A scene unseen
Avenue You
Storm the Bay

Fall ROC albums, EPs and new tunes

2009-10-14T22:15:00.001-04:00

This fall has welcomed a wave of new albums to the Rochester punk scene that spans a few flavors of rock and totally different sounds across the board. CD release shows have played, albums dropped both locally and nationally, and in the end, here is the good, bad and ugly:

Polar Bear Club- Chasing Hamburg. Genre- hardcore
What teases PBC must have working behind the scenes. Prior to Chasing Hamburg's official release, a few tracks were leaked via their awesomely titled 7 inch The Summer of George. After waiting patiently for the rest of the album, we welcomed it at Dubland Underground for their release. Verdict: The rest was totally worth waiting for. Every little rough-vocaled number is tasty. Living Saints is getting the most buzz, but we were drawn to the softer side of Take Me and catchy opening track, See the Wind.

Avenue You- Where to Start. Genre- Pop punk/rock
True story- we first laid eyes on lead singer Kevin O'Brien years ago when he was fronting a lovely little Webster outfit named Marius. Years pass, his vocal range matures, and Avenue You takes Rochester by storm. A former Metromix Battle of the Bands winner, AY dropped their album this past weekend at Rock for Food, and we were immediately struck by the variety from track to track. Some pull in bits of synth, others more pop-punk beats. Our fave is the collaboration Here with Lauren of LOA- the lyric I'm not the girl you knew at sixteen pulled approximately 1,593 of our heartstrings at first listen.

The Sunstreak- Once Upon a Lie. Genre- Pop punk/rock
Released nationally this past Tuesday, hardcore Sunstreak fans, or Streakers as they are monikered, around the nation snapped up this Roc native band's new album. After being inundated with their single Until I Met You's sickly sweet lyrics for the past month or so, we're totally skipping that track on the album. But, title track Once Upon a Lie makes us want to cringe a little less. Overall, the tonality and sound of the album is a little flat and over-produced. Check them out November 14th at Waterstreet for a real taste of The Sunstreak's live sound.

Sakes Alive!!- Act II. Genre- hardcore/screamer
When I get down on the Rochester music scene for being full of emo haircuts and neon tee shirts, I turn on a little Sakes Alive!! and all that is wrong with the world melts away in a fit of screaming punk. Their album Act I garnered quite a bit of notice, and fans were dying for Act II. Last Sunday they released the follow up to a raging crowd at Dubland Underground. The tunes are raw, gritty, emotional. The Open Maw is our favorite, partly because of the rocking beat under the razor-sharp vocals that is absolutley perfect to pump your fist to. But, three songs, seriously? We vote that this release should have gone back in the oven until a few more songs could have been cooked up.

RIP Vice Grip

2009-10-06T10:47:00.000-04:00

Said goodbye to our favorite local band on Sunday at Waterstreet's Rock for Food concert. Vice Grip, with your absurd sets, smoke machine, monopoly on day-glo skinny jeans and sing-along anthems of ridiculousness, you will be sorely missed. To remember how you singled out the one non-singing audience member and made him feel like a loser, please enjoy Mr. Robot, below.

Halloween punx

2009-10-01T09:50:00.000-04:00

It is October 1, time to kick the Halloween costume plans into high gear. Currently searching for a Sid for my Nancy.

Old vs. New

2009-09-25T20:28:00.000-04:00

This weekend, it's all about honoring the old and exploring the new. Here's what's on tap for the music scene:

New- Battle of the bands at Montage- Approximately 10 bands, duking it out for the top spot. Added bonus? Two members of Lights of Autumn are judging. Doors are at five, come support your local musicians.

Old- KMFDM at Waterstreet- Europe's industrial trailblazers are on tour and gracing our fair city with their mix of metal, electronic and rock. Get ready to rock the pit and declare no pity for the majority. Doors at 7.

2001 was a hell of a year

2009-09-19T20:49:00.000-04:00

Found this old ass, scratched CD I made in high school. It is a wicked mix of pop punk and alternative. Enjoy!

High School Mix 2001

Where have all the good hardcore bands gone?

2009-09-14T23:21:00.000-04:00

A while back, fellow blogger and local music enthusiast, Rich, wrote a piece about the hardcore scene in Rochester in the 90s. After reading it, he and I traded notes about the scene and how, over time, it has devolved into a place where electric drum kits and neon tees rule.

So where have all the good hardcore bands gone?

The answer emerged Sunday evening in the dingy Dub Land Underground basement with Mayflower, Title Fight, Like Wolves and especially with headliner, Polar Bear Club.

Mayflower blew us away with their Millencolin-like speed guitar parts and a surprisingly mature sound for a young band. Even though their songs are a bit on the melodramatic side, we were impressed with their sound. By the end, we too were chanting along with In it to win it.

If the boys of Mayflower looked high school age, Title Fight is pushing middle school. Their musicality was solid, but the lead vocals left us underwhelmed. We think they have the pieces to work, but just need more polish.

Like Wolves came screaming on stage, easily the hardest of the openers. Lead singer Ben turned up the intensity level, crawling over the crowd and nicking the overhead pipes, while never ceasing the battle-cries. Amazing passion.

Splitting time between Syracuse and Rochester, Polar Bear Club strikes a perfect chord of boyish good looks, solid musical background and the emotional, crowd-engaging vocals that harks back to Rochester hardcore of yesteryear. The concert at Dub Land was to commemorate the release of their album Chasing Hamburg and recent signing with Bridge Nine records. Track Living Saints has gained much notoriety in the industry as the jam to focus on.

But, to us, though this was a concert to showcase the new, nothing says Rochester hardcore like the crowd interaction and participation that older songs brought. And, PBC sure did bring the love from the hardcore community that still thrives on.

In memory....

2009-09-11T10:08:00.000-04:00

Following 9/11, Clear Channel issued a notice banning some excellent songs from the radio, in fear of their "questionable lyrics." On this day of solace and remembrance, we're rocking some of the banned tunes:

Drowning Pool- Bodies

Green Day- Brain Stew

Mudvayne- Death Blooms

P.O.D.- Boom

Rage- Guerrilla Radio

Labor Day playlist

2009-09-01T23:27:00.000-04:00

Because the last long weekend of summer demands a playlist that can keep up with us.

Anything4afriend- Standfast

Shade of Red- Makyo Star

DJ DJ- The Transplants

Noise Complaint- Big D & the Kids Table