Written by Andy Katz

Another round of bands making an impact on the scene that you should know and listen to.

1. Meet Me @ The Altar 

This band is going to absolutely lead pop-punk through the 2020s. Coming from various places along the east coast, MMATA is quickly rising through the ranks of the scene. Every song I’ve heard goes so hard, has so much energy, and ridiculous riffs that show so much potential for future full-length releases. They’ve been on every summer playlist I’ve come up with over the last few weeks, and I honestly can’t wait to hear and see what they are going to do as the band grows, progresses, and gets in front of a larger audience. They aren’t afraid to push the envelope either, bringing serious easy-core vibes that can stand up against some of the best in the scene. 

Recommended song: “Morris Farm Drive”

2. Driving Underwater

Driving Underwater first splashed (see what I did there) on the NJ scene in 2018. Taking influence from Future Teens, Save Face, and Keep Flying, they combine those quirky new-wave emo riffs with playful, emotional indie punk. Honestly, some of the first songs they’ve released give me really strong early Dryjacket vibes, and I’m absolutely loving it. They released their debut EP “Emotional Commitment” earlier this year, and it’s super nostalgic to the days of when I’d be attending super packed house shows in New Brunswick. This record has the potential to propel DU through the NJ underground scene and give them some serious, well-deserved exposure.

Recommended song: “7 Years”

3. Ogbert the Nerd

The only emo band in New Jersey. That’s it. Ogbert is currently signed to Sun Eater Records and is one of the best bands I’ve seen live in the basements of the NJ underground scene. They only have an EP consisting of three songs, but every song is brimming with vitality and carries an authenticity that fires on all cylinders. They absolutely have a post-hardcore vibe reminiscent of the early 2000s, similar to the likes of Thursday and From Autumn to Ashes, sans the harsh vocals. Very stoked to see what they bring to the table next. 

Recommended track: “Enter: Mungus Borgar”

4. Frames

Coming from Richmond, VA, Frames brings some serious nostalgia and introspective vibes. Perfect for waking up on a sunny Sunday morning and going for an early morning drive to the beach, Cursed, their debut EP released on Know Hope Records, is calming and lush with reminiscent progressions that are absolutely wonderful. Every song is carefully curated, and you could hear how delicate each progression shimmers on every track. A very noteworthy and candid EP. 

Recommended track: “Stay”

5. Midfield

Without a doubt, Midfield has been doing some serious work and getting themselves some real notice in the scene. Coming out of the Philadelphia punk scene, Midfield has been on every curated pop-punk playlist on Spotify at one point in time. Just absolutely solid and well-written songs that bring out the best of the genre. Well-crafted hooks scintillate each song, highlighting memorable progressions that ooze with catchiness. I’ve been a big fan of this band since their inception and have high hopes for their trajectory in the scene. 

Recommended song: “Every Little Thing”