Big Sean released his latest album on February 3rd, prior to the formal release, the public was teased with the singles “Moves” and “Halfway Off The Balcony”.

Following the release popular radio stations immediately picked up “Bounce Back” and it has been playing constantly.

Two of my personal favorites from the album are “Jump Out The Window” and “Voices In My Head/Stick To The Plan”.

​I think Big Sean has struck a perfect balance of self reflection, and public appeal/relatable content within this album.

A few weeks ago, Foxing released two remastered classics in their EP “Two.” It includes the reworked versions of Redwoods and Indica, off their album “Dealer.” The first time I listened to it, Two reminded me of the album Hospice (the Antlers, anyone?)

Something about the lyrics and ambient-indie sound that haunts you in the same way Hospice does. From the strong vocals to the melancholy tone, Foxing didn’t cease to amaze their listeners with a Part “Two” that stays true to their sound. Though this was the first time listening to Foxing, I think I’ll be checking out their music more often.
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You can listen to/purchase Foxing’s new EP here and buy tickets from their tour here.

It’s been eight years since Scranton-based band The Menzingers released their first EP, and this generation of pop-punk rockers has grown up together throughout the years. In fact, that’s the theme of their new album After The Party- each song sticks with the idea of growing up, having your heart broken, and figuring it all out.

The album opens up with “Tellin’ Lies,” the one song that best embodies the tone of the album, the main lyrics being, “Where are we gonna go now that our twenties are over?” Another hit off the album is “Midwestern States,” which highlights many young adults’ burden of student debt. My favorite off the record is “Bad Catholics” because it manages to make you feel nostalgic about adventures you haven’t even had yet.

What makes this album so special is that it perfectly sums up the experience that most Menzingers die-hards are going through right now; this generation of the punk scene are all around the same age (mid-twenties to mid-thirties) and all growing up and getting over their first loves, their college years, and everything that comes with the transition from adolescence to adulthood.

Previous to After The Party, I hadn’t given The Menzingers much of a listen, but I have officially started to dig their music. They embody everything great about the PA pop punk scene, and I’m looking forward to hearing whatever they create in the future.

Check out this video essay by Kristian Williams: