State Champs @ Agora (11/24/24)
Cleveland kicked off the week with an energetic pop punk showcase this past Sunday night. The atmosphere was electric as four bands took to the stage, each offering their unique sound and style. The evening began with Daisy Grenade, an exciting band featuring not just one, but two talented female vocalists. Their performance was a breath of fresh air, delivering relatable lyrics that resonated with the challenges young women face in today’s society. It was impressive to see how engaged the audience was; rather than the typical scenario where openers often struggle to connect with the crowd, Daisy Grenade had the audience singing along right from the start.
Next up was Meet Me @ the Altar, a fully female band that brought an infectious energy to the stage. I discovered an intriguing piece of their backstory: they originally formed in different states, coming together in 2015 to create music remotely. It wasn’t until 2018 that they embarked on their first tour, which clearly demonstrates their dedication and passion for music. Their upbeat performance infected the crowd, and it was impossible not to vibe along with them as they played.
Following these dynamic openers was the co-headliner, Knuckle Puck, a name that would resonate with anyone who grew up in the early 2010s. Their music was a staple in many high school playlists, and while I hadn't followed them extensively myself, I was eager to finally experience their sound live. Their powerful, angsty anthems struck a chord with the audience, evoking memories of navigating teenage struggles and self-discovery. It's remarkable how their music continues to hold meaning, echoing the sentiments of growing up and adapting into adulthood.
Finally, the headliner took the stage, and the excitement was palpable as State Champs entered. Their sound is reminiscent of Knuckle Puck, marking them as key players in the pop punk scene forming during the same era. Watching them perform was a joy; you could see the band members genuinely enjoying themselves, feeding off the crowd’s enthusiasm as fans surged towards the stage, singing along to every word. It was a night filled with old and new of the pop punk genre, leaving everyone in attendance buzzing long after the last note faded away.
Photos by Sami Butler
Daisy Grenade
Meet Me @ The Altar
Knuckle Puck
State Champs
